Riders looking for a new cruiser will no doubt be keeping an eye out for the release of the 2016 Chief Dark Horse in showrooms. Another model in the Chief series, the Dark Horse is the lightest and quickest on the Chief platform.
A super cool machine
A full size cruiser, the Dark Horse shares similar engine, chassis and suspension with the Chief Classic. However, it loses the oil cooler, analogue fuel gauge and driving lights. Compared to the Classic, the Dark Horse is much more streamlined, bold and aggressive. It takes styling of Indian Motorcycles to a whole new level.
Iconic and standard features
This new Chief model won’t come cheap, and you can expect it to set you back around £16,499 (On road including 20 per cent VAT). For your money, you will get a bike with fantastic technology and iconic features like Indian Motorcycle badging, Warbonnet, valenced fenders, brake caliper covers and unpolished styling. Unlike other Chief models, the Dark Horse has little chrome on its body but is awash with matt-black paint instead. Its minimalist profile oozes attitude and aggression – perfect for solo riders looking to travel in style.
Powered by Thunder Stroke® 111 engine, its standard features include blacked out styling with a touch of chrome, ABS, keyless ignition, electronic cruise control, true dual exhaust and gauges.
Abundance of optional accessories
Although the Dark Horse is designed for a solo ride, you can get a passenger seat as well as either passenger foot-pegs or floor boards as part of the Genuine Indian Motorcycle Accessory line-up. Of course, this means your ride can be more social and fun.
Riders who long to customise their bike and their ride will appreciate the range of accessories that will be rolled out for the Dark Horse. Ape hanger handlebars, accessory air cleaners, fender struts, slip-on exhaust with black heat shields and exhaust tips, and black fender trim are just some of the items available. In fact, there will be 40 accessories for you to choose from.
The verdict
Overall, the Chief Dark Horse is a quality machine that delivers well on power and style. It strikes a fantastic balance between looks and features.
Owned by Polaris Industries who took over in 2011, Indian Motorcycle has undergone an incredible resurgence and is now enjoying thriving sales in the motorcycle market. Apart from the Dark Horse, the current line-up in the Chief family includes the Scout, Chief Classic, Chief Vintage, Chieftain and Roadmaster.
Insuring your new bike
If you are planning to buy a new machine this year, don’t forget to cover it with adequate insurance. For experts in motorcycle insurance, you need to contact Devitt. Trusted by Britain’s bikers since 1936, Devitt will compare prices of their insurers to provide you with a cover that represents the best value for money. They have a range of covers and optional extras to ensure you find a policy that suits you.
More than just the risk of damage in an accident, you need adequate insurance to cover eventualities such as theft and breakdown. Unfortunately, new motorbikes are often targeted by unscrupulous thieves and vandals, so don’t take any risks and insure your new bike as soon as you can.