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Cruisers

2018Indian Chief Classic

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The 2018 Indian Chief Classic is a middleweight cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic retro styling with modern convenience features like keyless starting and cruise control. Its accessible 660mm seat height and manageable 357kg weight make it approachable for various rider sizes, while the iconic teardrop headlamp and compact dimensions define its classic cruiser character. Known for blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary technology, it appeals to riders who value heritage design without sacrificing rideability.

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 ＋ Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2018 Indian Chief Classic

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
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
Fuel capacity	—	20.80 litres (5.49 US gallons)

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding40%

Daily riding55%

Touring68%

Two-up65%

Track5%

Best for: Built for relaxed, torque-driven boulevard cruising and classic American styling rather than outright performance.
Built for: A traditional, big-twin cruiser with deep torque delivery, laid-back ergonomics, and classic Indian styling cues.
Not ideal for: Not a good match for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

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 Classic, 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 →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

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 (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: 0.2698 HP/kg (dry)
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

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: Burgundy Metallic
Warranty: 24
Comments: Keyless starting. Cruise Control.
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	2013	2014	2016	2017	2018
Capacity	1721 cc	1811 cc	1811 cc	1811 cc	1811 cc
Dry weight	330 kg	330 kg	341 kg	341 kg	341 kg
Seat height	692 mm	692 mm	660 mm	660 mm	660 mm
Fuel capacity	—	—	—	—	20.8 L

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

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2018 Indian Chief Classic motorcycle is a beautifully designed and powerful machine. With its classic American cruiser style, comfortable riding position, and powerful Thunder Stroke 111 engine, this bike offers an impressive combination of performance and aesthetics. The chrome accents and vintage-inspired design details make the Chief Classic stand out from the crowd, while the modern technology and reliable engineering make it a top choice for riders looking for a timeless yet capable motorcycle.

Overall, the 2018 Indian Chief Classic motorcycle is a standout in the cruiser category. With its powerful engine, classic styling, and modern features, it offers a fantastic riding experience for motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you're cruising on the highway or taking a leisurely ride through town, the Chief Classic is a great choice for riders who appreciate a blend of classic design and modern performance.

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