Custom
Since his return, Indian has not been content with offering top-of-the-range cruisers. He also wants to shake up, push his lifelong rival, Harley-Davidson, to its limits. And it works. Both quickly draw evolutions to mark their territory.
In Milwaukee, the wind blew seriously with the birth of the Muilwaukee Eight engine. Indian has since responded with the 116 ci – 1890 cc version of the big air twin. The Springfield (model) finally appropriates it.
In Springfield (city), the Thunderstroke engine had already been entitled to more power in 2018; and the installation of Driving Modes in 2019. The force is there, electronics make it malleable:
– The ‘Tour’ mode offers gradual acceleration for optimum driving smoothness.
– The ‘Standard’ mode is characterized by a still reactive throttle control and a power delivered in a balanced and progressive manner.
– Finally, the ‘Sport’ mode offers instantaneous throttle response and more aggressive power distribution for even more pronounced acceleration.
That’s not all. There is a rear cylinder deactivation mode in the engine management. When stationary, the twin can become mono to limit heat emissions. A function that is interrupted gently when you restart the machine. And what a machine …
Indian completes its bagger offer with a machine full of charisma. Any good manufacturer of American motorcycles (or related) must present one or more in its range. Here is the role assigned to Springfield. It leaves the classic side to the Chief Vintage with its leather suitcases. For her, the game will be two-fold, because the machine knows how to transform according to moods. Will you taste it Cruising or Touring style?
She goes from one to the other. A dual identity that allows you to ride completely relaxed during Sunday trips or to establish a route plan for 4-digit mileage. With all its majesty, the Springfield is as ready for highways as it is for undressing. The windshield is large, predicting good protection. A desire for fresh air before leaving or for a more custom style? It can be removed in less than a minute without tools. Similar findings for rigid suitcases, which can be dismantled without a screwdriver or 12-gauge wrench and without revealing an unsightly securing system. It’s clean, practical, and of high quality. While being technological. The cargo holds can be locked remotely, by remote control or from the dashboard.
Could the 1890 Springfield be stripped down only a discoverable Indian Chief? Certainly not. The brand has gone a little further in the process. This large coaster benefits from a reinforced rear loop for additional luggage as well as an optional trunk (up to 242 kilos of transport in all). If the mixed steel / aluminum frame is common to the other models in the range, its front axle should become more lively because the caster and caster angle have been tightened. A relative notion, partly conditioned by the fairly generous weight of the machine. 388 kilos all full, half a dozen refrigerators under the handlebars, it requires a certain equanimity in the conduct.
Drive far, the 20.8 liters of the tank allow it. When it comes to equipment, the Indian has ABS, cruise control, front and rear crash bars, the tire pressure monitoring system, keyless starting, chrome manual controls, a double saddle in studded leather, a remarkable level of finish and a fairly ‘select’ entry ticket. There is no shortage of accessories for accessories, with 180 references intended for the Springfield.
By offering a quick and easy disassembly of its Touring equipment, the Springfield directly shakes up the ex Harley Switchback and the Sport Glide; in a more premium, more luxurious register. Much more expensive too. What offer the modularity of the average Tourer Davidson with the presence of a Road King. And prestige of another caliber. Indian has recreated a very staid identity bordering on elitism. The Springfield is thus asserting itself as a bagger of high lineage.
MB – Manufacturer pictures
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