Cruisers
2018Indian Chieftain Dark Horse
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The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is a heavyweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic American styling with modern technology. Known for its blacked-out aesthetic, low seat height, and powerful V-twin engine, it excels for long-distance touring with contemporary features like touchscreen controls and premium audio. Best suited for experienced cruiser enthusiasts who value comfortable ergonomics and heritage-inspired design.
- Capacity
- 1811.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 370.0 kg
- Seat height
- 660 mm
- Power
- 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
What’s new for the 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse
vs the 2017| Spec | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine capacity | 1890.0 ccm (115.33 cubic inches) | 1811.0 ccm (110.51 cubic inches) |
| Torque | 161.6 Nm (16.5 kgf-m or 119.2 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM | 150.0 Nm (15.3 kgf-m or 110.6 ft.lbs) @ 2100 RPM |
| Dry weight | 362.0 kg (798.1 pounds) | 370.0 kg (815.7 pounds) |
| Wet weight | 377.0 kg (831.1 pounds) | 381.0 kg (840.0 pounds) |
| Front suspension | Telescopic forks with air adjust | Telescopic forks with air adjustment |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for open-road cruising and long-distance touring rather than quick acceleration or sport riding.
- Built for
- A bold, blacked-out American cruiser with a big-inch V-twin rumble that rewards relaxed, torque-driven riding over aggressive throttle inputs.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for new riders, off-road enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a light, nimble bike for tight city streets.
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
- 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
- CO2 Emissions
- 146 CO2 g/km
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 6.22 L/100km (37.8 US 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
- 0.2486 HP/kg (dry)
- 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
- 2571 mm
- Overall width
- 1000 mm
- Overall height
- 1388 mm
- Seat height
- 660 mm
- Dry weight
- 370.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 381.0 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
- 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
- 130/60-B19
- Rear tyre
- 180/60-R16
Other
- Color options
- Thunder Black Smoke
- Warranty
- 24
- Comments
- Small windscreen. 7'Touchscreen. Tire Pressure Monitoring. 100 Watt Stereo with AM/FM Bluetooth and Smartphone Compatible Input.
- 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 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2022 | 2024 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1890 cc | 1811 cc | 1811 cc | 1890 cc | 1890 cc | 1890 cc |
| Dry weight | 362 kg | 370 kg | 361 kg | 359 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
⚠ 4 recalls may applyEXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWAREAug 2022 · 22V635000
Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2014 Chief, 2015 Chief Classic, 2014-2018 Chieftain, 2015-2020 Chief Vintage, 2016-2018 Chieftain Darkhorse, 2016-2020 Springfield, 2017-2018 Chieftain Limited, and 2018-2019 Chieftain Classic motorcycles. The electrical connection for the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) may fail, causing a loss of the front lights, including the headlight.
Risk: The loss of lighting can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the electrical connection and VCM, as necessary. Dealers will update the VCM software, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2022. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-19-02. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 19V-339.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMOct 2019 · 19V776000
Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Chief, Chieftain, Roadmaster, and Springfield motorcycles. The gear position switch contacts may oxidize, causing the gear position display to inaccurately show that the motorcycle is in neutral when it is actually in gear.
Risk: If the transmission is not in neutral when the motorcycle is started, the motorcycle may move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the switch free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2020. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-19-03.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMApr 2018 · 18V228000
Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2018 Indian Chief, Chief Classic, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Vintage, Chieftain, Chieftain Classic, Chieftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Elite, Chieftain Limited, Springfield, Springfield Dark Horse, Roadmaster, Roadmaster Elite, Roadmaster Icon, and Roadmaster Classic motorcycles. Corrosion may develop within the right combination switch, potentially resulting in the motorcycle starting without the user's intent if the key fob is near the motorcycle and the required safety interlock conditions are met.
Risk: If the motorcycle starts unintentionally and is parked in an enclosed space, exposure to carbon monoxide may increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Indian will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right hand combination switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-18-04.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTSOct 2017 · 17V682000
Indian Motorcycles Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Chief, Chief Classic, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Vintage, Chieftain, Chieftain Classic, Cheiftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Elite, Chieftain Limited, Springfield, and Springfield Dark Horse motorcycles. These motorcycles may be equipped with a European-market, not US-market, halogen headlight assembly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: The light output from the incorrect headlight can affect the motorcycle's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Indian will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and replace any incorrect headlight assembly, free of charge. The recall began on December 6, 2017. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-17-03.
These recalls cover some 2018 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.
Source: NHTSA. View all Indian recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse?
The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has a Capacity of 1811.0 ccm (110.51 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse have?
The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has a Power of 92.0 HP (67.7 kW).
How many gears does the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse have?
The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse?
The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has a Torque of 150.0 Nm (15.3 kgf-m or 110.6 ft.lbs) @ 2100 RPM.
How much does the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse weigh?
The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has a Dry weight of 370.0 kg (815.7 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse motorcycle is a stunning and powerful bike that is sure to turn heads on the road. With its sleek blacked-out design and impressive performance capabilities, this bike is a true standout in the world of motorcycles. The 111 cubic inch Thunder Stroke V-twin engine delivers a thrilling ride every time, while features such as electronic cruise control and a 7-inch touchscreen display add a modern touch to the classic design. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of motorcycles, the 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is a top choice for those seeking a combination of style and performance.
If you're in the market for a premium motorcycle with a bold and stylish look, the 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is an excellent choice. With its blacked-out design and powerful engine, this bike offers a truly unforgettable riding experience. From its impressive performance capabilities to its modern technological features, the 2018 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is a standout in its class. Whether you're cruising down the highway or taking on winding roads, this bike is sure to deliver a thrilling and exhilarating ride every time.
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