Cruisers

2021Indian Chief

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The 2021 Indian Chief is a classic cruiser designed for riders seeking low-slung comfort and authentic American styling. Its Thunder Stroke 111 engine delivers substantial torque across the rev range, making it ideal for leisurely highway cruising and city riding. Known for its iconic design heritage and manageable power delivery, the Chief appeals to both experienced cruiser enthusiasts and those new to the category.

Capacity: 1811.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 294.0 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 2021 Indian Chief

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Torque	161.6 Nm (16.5 kgf-m or 119.2 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM	146.0 Nm (14.9 kgf-m or 107.7 ft.lbs) @ 3200 RPM
Top speed	170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)	not listed
Dry weight	344.0 kg (758.4 pounds)	294.0 kg (648.2 pounds)
Wet weight	358.0 kg (789.3 pounds)	not listed
Fuel capacity	20.80 litres (5.49 US gallons)	15.10 litres (3.99 US gallons)
Front brakes	Single disc	Double disc. Optional ABS. Floating discs.
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Optional ABS
Wheelbase	1730 mm (68.1 inches)	1626 mm (64.0 inches)

Other years 2001 2002 2003 2009 2010 2011 2012 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 & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding40%

Daily riding55%

Touring65%

Two-up60%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed cruising and boulevard riding rather than outright speed or sport performance.
Built for: Delivers classic American V-twin charm with strong low-end torque, a commanding presence, and unhurried, rumbling power delivery.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or lightweight nimble handling.

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 2021 Indian Chief, 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: 1811.0 ccm
Power: 92.0 HP (67.7 kW)
Torque: 146.0 Nm (14.9 kgf-m) @ 3200 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3129 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 101.0 x 113.0 mm
Compression: 9.5:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Spark plugs: NGK DCPR8E, NGK DCPR8EIX

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Wet Multiplate
Sprockets: 30/66 (front/rear)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1626 mm
Overall length: 2286 mm
Overall width: 922 mm
Overall height: 1253 mm
Seat height: 660 mm
Dry weight: 294.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.10 litres
Ground clearance: 125 mm
Oil capacity: 5.20 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Cast Aluminum Frame with Integrated Air-Box
Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Dual Shocks w/adjustable preload
Front wheel travel: 132 mm
Rear wheel travel: 75 mm
Rake (fork angle): 29.0°
Trail: 155 mm
Fork tube size: 46 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Optional ABS. Floating discs.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: 130/60-19
Rear tyre: 180/65-16
Brake fluid: DOT 4
Tire pressure front: 36 PSI (2.5 Bar or 250 kPa)
Tire pressure rear: 41 PSI (2.8 Bar or 280 kPa)

Other

Color options: Black Metallic, Ruby Smoke, White Smoke
Warranty: 24
Comments: Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation

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	2001	2011	2016	2021	2026
Capacity	1442 cc	1720 cc	1811 cc	1811 cc	1811 cc
Dry weight	295 kg	330 kg	344 kg	294 kg	294 kg
Seat height	600 mm	708 mm	660 mm	660 mm	662 mm
Fuel capacity	18.9 L	20.8 L	20.8 L	15.1 L	15.1 L

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

Rider Reviews

5.0

★★★★★

Rider rating

MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Indian Chief motorcycle is a stunningly powerful and stylish bike that pays homage to the brand's iconic heritage. The Chief boasts a beautiful design that seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern performance, making it a standout option for riders looking for a classic yet advanced motorcycle. With its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features, the 2021 Indian Chief delivers an exceptional riding experience that's sure to satisfy motorcycle enthusiasts.

Overall, the 2021 Indian Chief motorcycle is an impressive offering from the renowned brand, catering to riders who appreciate both style and performance. Its striking design, powerful engine, and advanced technology make it a standout choice in the competitive motorcycle market. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, the 2021 Indian Chief delivers an exhilarating and satisfying ride that's sure to impress.

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