Cruisers
2021Indian Chieftain
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The 2021 Indian Chieftain is a heavyweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. Powered by the Thunder Stroke 111 V-twin engine delivering substantial torque, it excels in comfortable highway cruising and commanding presence. Known for its authentic Indian motorcycle heritage, premium build quality, and spacious ergonomics, the Chieftain appeals to experienced cruiser enthusiasts seeking a full-featured touring platform.
- Capacity
- 1811.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 358.0 kg
- Seat height
- 650 mm
- Power
- 91.5 HP (68.2 kW) @ 4500 RPM
What’s new for the 2021 Indian Chieftain
vs the 2020| Spec | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 92.0 HP (67.7 kW) | 91.5 HP (68.2 kW) @ 4500 RPM |
| Wet weight | 373.0 kg (822.3 pounds) | 372.0 kg (820.1 pounds) |
| Rear suspension | Single shock | Single Shock with air adjust |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's built for long-distance highway touring in style, with strong torque, weather protection, and integrated luggage for two-up travel.
- Built for
- It has the character of a big, torque-rich American cruiser: relaxed, commanding, and effortless at speed rather than eager to be flicked around corners.
- Not ideal for
- It's not for riders seeking a light, nimble machine for tight cornering, off-road use, or quick urban commuting.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 1811.0 ccm
- Power
- 91.5 HP (68.2 kW) @ 4500 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 112 CO2 g/km
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 4.77 L/100km (1122.0 mpg)
- EPA CO Emissions
- 2.7 CO g/km
- Torque
- 161.6 Nm (16.5 kgf-m) @ 3000 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2556 HP/kg
- Bore x stroke
- 101.0 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 multi-plate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1668 mm
- Overall length
- 2506 mm
- Overall width
- 1000 mm
- Overall height
- 1385 mm
- Seat height
- 650 mm
- Dry weight
- 358.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 372.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 20.80 litres
- Ground clearance
- 130 mm
- Carrying capacity
- Hard saddle bags.
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Cast aluminium
- Front suspension
- Telescopic forks with air adjustment
- Rear suspension
- Single Shock with air adjust
- Front wheel travel
- 119 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
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. 2-piston caliper.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 130/90-B16
- Rear tyre
- 180/60-R16
Other
- Color options
- Thunder Black
- Warranty
- 24
- 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 | 2014 | 2017 | 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1811 cc | 1811 cc | 1811 cc | 1811 cc | 1811 cc | 1890 cc |
| Dry weight | 370 kg | 376 kg | 376 kg | 358 kg | 359 kg | 359 kg |
| Seat height | 660 mm | 660 mm | 650 mm | 650 mm | 650 mm | 650 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 20.8 L | 20.8 L | 20.8 L | 20.8 L | 20.8 L | 20.8 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 2 open recallsSUSPENSION:REARJul 2024 · 24V550000
Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2024 Chieftain, Challenger, Pursuit, Roadmaster, and Springfield motorcycles. Please refer to the recall report for a complete list of model names. The rear suspension pushrod may buckle under load.
Risk: A rear suspension pushrod that buckles may pinch the main chassis harness, damage the coolant reservoir, damage the rear tire, or cause the motorcycle to bottom out under load. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear suspension pushrod, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 22, 2024. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-24-07.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSORDec 2023 · 23V829000
Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2023 Chieftain Elite, 2023-2024 Chieftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Dark Horse Icon, Chieftain Limited, Chieftain, Roadmaster Limited, Roadmaster Dark Horse, Roadmaster, Springfield, Springfield Dark Horse, and 2024 Roadmaster Elite motorcycles. The crankshaft position sensor may have been routed improperly, which can result in an engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reroute, or replace the crankshaft position sensor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2023. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-23-07.
Source: NHTSA. View all Indian recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Indian Chieftain?
The 2021 Indian Chieftain has a Capacity of 1811.0 ccm (110.51 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Indian Chieftain have?
The 2021 Indian Chieftain has a Power of 91.5 HP (68.2 kW) @ 4500 RPM.
How many gears does the Indian Chieftain have?
The 2021 Indian Chieftain has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Indian Chieftain?
The 2021 Indian Chieftain has a Torque of 161.6 Nm (16.5 kgf-m or 119.2 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM.
How much does the Indian Chieftain weigh?
The 2021 Indian Chieftain has a Dry weight of 358.0 kg (789.3 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2021 Indian Chieftain motorcycle is a powerful and stylish cruiser that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. With its classic Indian design and modern technology, this bike is perfect for long-distance cruising. The Chieftain features a Thunderstroke 116 engine that delivers impressive power and torque, making it a great choice for riders who enjoy a strong performance. Additionally, the bike comes with advanced features such as ride modes, adjustable rear suspension, and a customizable ride command system, providing a personalized riding experience. Overall, the 2021 Indian Chieftain is a top-of-the-line motorcycle that combines classic style with cutting-edge technology.
If you're in the market for a premium cruising motorcycle, the 2021 Indian Chieftain is worth considering. With its powerful Thunderstroke 116 engine and advanced ride command system, this bike offers a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. The classic Indian design combined with modern features makes the Chieftain an attractive option for riders who value both style and performance. Whether you're cruising on the highway or exploring back roads, the 2021 Indian Chieftain is a reliable and impressive motorcycle that is sure to turn heads.
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