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Cruisers

2021Indian Challenger Dark Horse

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The 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse is a modern cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with contemporary performance. Powered by the 1770cc PowerPlus V-twin engine producing 122 horsepower and 173.6 Nm of torque, it delivers authoritative low-end grunt characteristic of the cruiser category. Best known for its blacked-out aesthetic, comfortable riding position, and affordable entry point into the Indian motorcycle lineup, it appeals to cruiser enthusiasts prioritizing style and accessibility.

Capacity: 1769.9 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 361.0 kg
Seat height: 672 mm
Power: 122.0 HP (89.1 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Rear suspension	Single shock	Single shock with hydraulic adjust

Other years 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering45%

City riding40%

Daily riding65%

Touring92%

Two-up85%

Track15%

Best for: Built for confident highway cruising and long-distance touring with strong torque for effortless overtaking rather than aggressive cornering.
Built for: Suits a rider who wants bold V-twin presence, blacked-out styling, and premium touring tech without sacrificing an aggressive Dark Horse attitude.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for new riders, off-road enthusiasts, or anyone prioritizing lightweight agility and tight cornering ability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 672mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1769.9 ccm
Power: 122.0 HP (89.1 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 126 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 5.37 L/100km (43.8 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 1.6 CO g/km
Torque: 173.6 Nm (17.7 kgf-m) @ 3800 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3380 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 108.0 x 96.5 mm
Compression: 11.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Clutch: Wet, Multi-Plate, Assist. Gear Drive Wet Clutch.

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1668 mm
Overall length: 2500 mm
Overall width: 990 mm
Overall height: 1428 mm
Seat height: 672 mm
Dry weight: 361.0 kg
Wet weight: 377.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 22.70 litres
Ground clearance: 137 mm
Carrying capacity: Hard saddle bags. 18+ Gallons of storage.

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic forks with air adjustment
Rear suspension: Single shock with hydraulic adjust
Front wheel travel: 130 mm
Rear wheel travel: 114 mm
Rake (fork angle): 25.0°
Trail: 150 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Floating discs. 4 piston caliper.
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. 2-piston caliper.
Rear brakes diameter: 298 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 130/60-B19
Rear tyre: 180/60-R16

Other

Color options: Thunder Black Smoke, Bronze Smoke, White Smoke
Warranty: 24
Comments: Navigation and Apple CarPlay® integration. Keyless Ignition. Power Windshield: Adjustable Air Vents; 12V Charging Port.
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
Capacity	1770 cc	1770 cc	1768 cc	1768 cc	1768 cc
Dry weight	361 kg	361 kg	361 kg	365 kg	365 kg
Seat height	672 mm	672 mm	672 mm	672 mm	672 mm
Fuel capacity	22.7 L	22.7 L	22.7 L	22.7 L	22.7 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse is a stunning and powerful motorcycle that's sure to turn heads wherever you go. With its sleek black design and powerful V-twin engine, this bike is a force to be reckoned with on the road. The comfortable and spacious seating makes long rides a breeze, while the advanced technology and features keep you safe and in control. Whether you're cruising through the city or hitting the open road, the Indian Challenger Dark Horse offers a thrilling and smooth ride that's sure to impress.

If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line motorcycle, the 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse should be at the top of your list. With its incredible performance, striking design, and impressive features, it's a bike that's well worth the investment. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Challenger Dark Horse offers an exhilarating experience that's hard to beat. So why settle for anything less when you can have the best? Experience the thrill and power of the 2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse for yourself.