2019 Indian Scout Bobber

The Indian Scout Bobber is the cut-down, solo-only brother of the successful Scout. With attractive but subdued paint schemes, a flatter handlebar bend, and a third less rear suspension travel, it is more of an urban brawler than a midsized highway cruiser. The blacked-out chassis is a mix of cast aluminum and tubular steel, using the engine—a 69ci liquid-cooled V-twin pumping out a Cycle World dyno-verified 82 hp at the rear wheel—as a load-bearing component to reduce weight and add stiffness. Given the Bobber’s overall size and weight, engine performance is excellent, with peak torque coming at 3,300 rpm, which is right where you need it for quick getaways amid heavy urban traffic.

The Bobber is smaller than most traditional full-sized cruisers so the standard ergonomics are best suited to riders under 6 feet tall, but long-legged types who love the look and feel of this machine can easily customize it to fit their personal preferences using Indian’s extensive range of accessory handlebars, seats, and foot controls. Various luggage options, including a gas-tank pouch, saddlebags, and a solo rack bag, are also available.

Likes: Strong, smooth engine; sweet-handling chassis

Dislikes: Fatiguing ergonomics and shallow lean angles

Verdict: A bike for newer riders to grow into and experienced riders to customize

The Indian Scout Bobber stands out among its competition in part because of its strong V-twin engine and more affordable price point. It’s also reasonably comfortable. “The Indian’s seat has much more padding," Morgan Gales wrote, "and I was able to ride a bit longer on the Scout before getting saddle sore.”

2018 Indian Scout Bobber vs. Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black

2018 Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black Review

The Indian Scout Bobber is often compared with various Harley-Davidson Sportsters and Triumph Bonnevilles. With its mock-hardtail lines, the Bonneville Bobber Black really looks the part, but you arguably get more bike for your buck—and a greater number of aftermarket parts and accessories to boot—with the Indian Scout Bobber.

2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883

2019 Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black

The 2019 Indian Scout Bobber is available with antilock brakes in four color options—Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, or Bronze Smoke—or for $800 less without ABS in Thunder Black. Round bar-end-mounted rearview mirrors—position them either above or below the grips—are standard equipment.