Cruisers

2023Indian Chieftain Elite

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The 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite is a premium cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. Its 1890cc Thunderstroke 116 V-twin engine delivers substantial low-end torque of 170.9 Nm, making it ideal for highway cruising and commanding presence. Known for its heritage design, advanced fuel injection, and smooth six-speed transmission, this bike appeals to experienced riders valuing comfort and American custom motorcycle tradition.

Capacity: 1890.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 362.0 kg
Seat height: 650 mm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

What’s new for the 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite

vs the 2022

Spec	2022	2023
Front suspension	Telescopic	Telescopic fork, 46 mm

Other years 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding35%

Daily riding60%

Touring95%

Two-up85%

Track5%

Best for: Built for long-distance highway touring in comfort and style rather than for quick, nimble riding.
Built for: A stately, torque-rich American cruiser that rewards relaxed, deliberate riding with strong low-end pull and plush long-haul comfort.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or a lightweight 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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 650mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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: 1890.0 ccm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 112 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 4.77 L/100km (1122.0 mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 4.6 CO g/km
Torque: 170.9 Nm (17.4 kgf-m) @ 2900 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2541 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 103.2 x 113.0 mm
Compression: 11.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1668 mm
Overall length: 2506 mm
Overall width: 1023 mm
Overall height: 1272 mm
Seat height: 650 mm
Dry weight: 362.0 kg
Wet weight: 376.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 20.80 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Carrying capacity: Hard saddle bags.

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Cast aluminium
Front suspension: Telescopic fork, 46 mm
Rear suspension: Single Shock w/ith 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.
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 130/60-B19
Rear tyre: 180/60-R16

Other

Color options: Heavy Metal Smoke with Polished Bronze Accents
Warranty: 24
Comments: Selectable Ride Modes. Small windscreen. Tire Pressure Monitoring. 400 Watt Stereo with AM/FM Bluetooth and Smartphone Compatible Input. Cruise Control. Keyless Ignition.
Fuel Tank Material: M
Comments: Selectable Ride Modes. Small windscreen. Tire Pressure Monitoring. 400 Watt Stereo with AM/FM Bluetooth and Smartphone Compatible Input. Cruise Control. Keyless Ignition.

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	1901 cc	1890 cc	1890 cc	1890 cc	1890 cc
Dry weight	365 kg	365 kg	362 kg	362 kg	362 kg
Seat height	650 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

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

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 open recall

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

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite is a stunning motorcycle that offers a combination of power, comfort, and style. With its sleek design and premium features, this bike is sure to turn heads on the road. The Elite's powerful engine delivers smooth and effortless performance, making it a joy to ride. Additionally, the bike's comfortable seating and advanced suspension system ensure a smooth and enjoyable riding experience, even on long journeys. Overall, the 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite is a top-of-the-line motorcycle that offers both style and substance for riders looking for a premium touring experience.

The 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite is a standout motorcycle that offers a combination of power, comfort, and style. Its powerful engine and advanced suspension system provide a smooth and enjoyable riding experience, while its sleek design and premium features make it a head-turner on the road. For riders in search of a top-of-the-line touring motorcycle, the Elite is a compelling option that delivers both style and substance. With its combination of premium features and powerful performance, the 2023 Indian Chieftain Elite is a motorcycle that is sure to impress even the most discerning riders.