Indian Motorcycle has expanded its product portfolio
with the addition of the new 2020 Challenger bagger-style motorcycle. The new
Indian Challenger is available in three variants – Standard, Dark Horse and
Limited. The new Challenger is designed to combine the American muscle with
next-level technology and premium comfort.
One of the biggest highlights of the new Indian
Challenger is its motor. The 2020 Indian Challenger comes equipped an all-new
PowerPlus engine, the company’s first liquid-cooled large-displacement motor.
The 108 cubic-inch or 1,769 cc 60-degree V-twin, liquid-cooled motor with four
valves per cylinder pumps out a best-in-class 122 hp of maximum power and a
peak torque of 178 Nm. The new motor is linked to a six-speed transmission with
assist clutch.
The motorcycle features three ride modes – Rain,
Standard and Sport – all of which can be customized as per rider’s preference.
Each ride mode comes with its own distinct traction control setting and
throttle mapping. The safety net also includes ABS while the convenience
features comprises electronic cruise control and keyless ignition.
Key features of the 2020 Indian Challenger include
full LED lighting (headlight, taillight and blinkers), a long-haul seat, and
weatherproof saddlebags that boast over 68 litres of storage capacity. Styling
cues include chassis-mounted semi-fairing, modernised Indian Motorcycle
headdress on the front fender, flat sides for the fuel tank and a backward
sweeping handlebar. The adjustable windscreen boasts nearly three inches of
travel. The air vents at the front, too, are adjustable.
Shock absorption tasks are handled by inverted front
forks and hydraulically adjustable FOX rear shock. Anchoring hardware comprises
radially-mounted Brembo brakes. The alloy wheels are wrapped in new performance
touring Metzeler Cruisetec tyres.
The Challenger Limited and Challenger Dark Horse
benefit from additional features such as Indian Motorcycle’s intuitive Smart
Lean Technology that works with a Bosch IMU. The system adds cornering
pre-control to the dynamic traction control and ABS, as well as Drag Torque
Control. The premium variant of the Challenger series also features Indian
RideCommand, which is claimed to be the largest, most-customisable touchscreen
infotainment system on two wheels. The seven-inch Ride Command system packs
feature such as an all-new quad-core processor, key vehicle information,
Bluetooth and USB mobile pairing and weather and traffic overlays.
The American brand will offer a variety of ‘Indian
Motorcycle Authentic Accessories’ for the Challenger range to further customize
the vehicles. The Indian Challenger can be equipped with the optional PowerBand
Audio Plus system that is claimed to deliver exceptional sound and clarity from
the high-output fairing and saddlebag speakers. The PowerBand Audio Plus system
is said to be 50% louder than the motorcycle’s stock audio system.
The 2020 Indian Challenger Dark Horse is available
in three colour options – Thunder Black Smoke, Sandstone Smoke and White Smoke.
The Indian Challenger Limited, too, is available in three paint options –
Thunder Black Pearl, Deepwater Metallic, and Ruby Metallic.