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Cruisers

2018Indian Chief Dark Horse

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The 2018 Indian Chief Dark Horse is a cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic American motorcycle styling with modern convenience features like keyless starting and cruise control. Its 1811cc engine and low 660mm seat height make it accessible to a wide range of riders while delivering classic cruiser character. Known for its minimalist Dark Horse aesthetic with teardrop headlamp and spot lights, this heavyweight cruiser excels for long-distance touring and highway riding.

Capacity: 1811.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 341.0 kg
Seat height: 660 mm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2018 Indian Chief Dark Horse

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Engine capacity	1815.0 ccm (110.76 cubic inches)	1811.0 ccm (110.51 cubic inches)
Torque	139.0 Nm (14.2 kgf-m or 102.5 ft.lbs) @ 2600 RPM	150.0 Nm (15.3 kgf-m or 110.6 ft.lbs) @ 2100 RPM
Wet weight	356.0 kg (784.8 pounds)	357.0 kg (787.0 pounds)
Seat height	692 mm (27.2 inches)	660 mm (26.0 inches)
Wheelbase	1646 mm (64.8 inches)	1730 mm (68.1 inches)

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering45%

City riding50%

Daily riding65%

Touring68%

Two-up60%

Track15%

Best for: Built for relaxed open-road cruising and boulevard presence rather than outright speed or sharp handling.
Built for: A stripped-down, blacked-out muscle cruiser that trades on brawny low-end torque, classic V-twin rumble, and imposing style over agility.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking nimble cornering, off-road capability, or lightweight commuter practicality.

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 660mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Indian Chief 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: 1811.0 ccm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 146 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 6.22 L/100km (1463.0 mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 1.9 CO g/km
Torque: 150.0 Nm (15.3 kgf-m) @ 2100 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2698 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 101.6 x 113.0 mm
Compression: 9.5:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Wet, multiplate

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1730 mm
Overall length: 2630 mm
Overall width: 1000 mm
Overall height: 1176 mm
Seat height: 660 mm
Dry weight: 341.0 kg
Wet weight: 357.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.80 litres
Ground clearance: 140 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Cast Aluminum Frame with Integrated Air-Box
Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Single shock
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 94 mm
Rake (fork angle): 29.0°
Trail: 155 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Floating discs.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Floating disc.
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 130/90-B16
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Thunder Black Smoke
Warranty: 24
Comments: Keyless starting. Cruise Control.
Fuel Tank Material: M

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	2013	2016	2018	2020	2023	2026
Capacity	1721 cc	1721 cc	1811 cc	1819 cc	1890 cc	1890 cc
Dry weight	338 kg	338 kg	341 kg	334 kg	294 kg	294 kg
Seat height	692 mm	692 mm	660 mm	660 mm	662 mm	662 mm
Fuel capacity	—	—	20.8 L	20.8 L	15 L	15 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 2018 Indian Chief Dark Horse is a sleek and powerful motorcycle that offers a unique riding experience. With its matte black finish and minimalist design, this bike exudes a sense of modernity and sophistication. The 111 cubic inch Thunder Stroke engine delivers impressive performance, while the comfortable riding position and smooth handling make this motorcycle a joy to ride. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the Indian Chief Dark Horse offers a smooth and responsive ride that will leave you feeling exhilarated.

Overall, the 2018 Indian Chief Dark Horse is a standout motorcycle that combines style, performance, and comfort. Its distinctive design and powerful engine make it a top choice for riders who want a bike that stands out from the crowd. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the motorcycle world, the Indian Chief Dark Horse is sure to impress with its impressive performance and striking appearance.