First of the Indian Motorcycle model range for 2018
is the Indian Scout Bobber, a factory-built “custom” that cashes in on the
current trend for chopped and bobbed retro-styled bikes, something arguably
started by the Triumph Bonneville Bobber in modern times. Taking the 1,133 cc
liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin from the Indian Scout, the Bobber is a
stripped-down machine from America’s post-war past.
Carrying a sportier riding position, the Scout
Bobber has its foot pegs moved 38 mm to the rear, and “flat tracker” style
handlebars for a slightly leaned forward riding position. Rounding out the
bobber look is knobby tyres and blacked-out wheels. The 60-degree V-twin pumps
out a claimed 94 hp and 97 Nm of torque, with power getting to the ground via a
six-speed gearbox and belt final drive.
The Scout
Bobber is lowered by 25 mm, and new forks round out the suspension package. The
blackout treatment continues on to the headlight nacelle, exhaust and
instrument panel, eschewing the traditional Indian Motorcycle red and cream
instrument face, while chopped fenders complete the look.
Weighing in at 255 kg wet, the Indian Scout Bobber
carries its fuel in a 12.5-litre tank that comes emblazoned with a new Indian
tank badge.
The Indian Scout Bobber comes in five colours –
Indian Motorcycle Red, Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Star Silver Smoke
and new for 2018 is Bronze Smoke – and a two-tone genuine leather seat. It
should be noted that the photos in this article depict the US version of the
Scout Bobber, while the international version will come with handlebar mirrors
and fender mounted number plate and is expected to be in Indian Motorcycle
dealer showrooms by the end of 2017.
