Indian Chief Bobber
Indian Chief Bobber Old-School Cool Meets Modern Muscle.
The Indian Chief Bobber is a motorcycle that speaks to the soul of purist riders—those who believe in simplicity, raw character, and an unfiltered connection between man and machine. Rooted in American heritage yet refined with modern performance and safety, the Chief Bobber is a throwback to the post-war bobber era, where less was more, and attitude was everything.
Stripped down, blacked out, and powered by a mighty Thunderstroke engine, the Indian Chief Bobber is a celebration of classic cruiser design—but with 21st-century enhancements that make it ride-ready for modern highways and city streets alike.
Design: Retro Bobber, Reimagined for Today
The Chief Bobber wears its history proudly. With its fat tires, low stance, chopped fenders, and blacked-out finishes, it captures the minimalist look of traditional bobbers that originated after World War II.
Key design elements:
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16-inch fat wire-spoke wheels front and rear
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Chunky tires for a grounded, muscular stance
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Single circular LED headlamp with old-school charm
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Chopped front and rear fenders
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Mid-mounted foot controls for an upright riding posture
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Tear-drop fuel tank with Indian’s iconic war bonnet logo
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Solo saddle seat (optional pillion accessories available)
Whether parked or in motion, the Chief Bobber oozes attitude. It’s a head-turner—bold, clean, and built with premium materials that blend form with function.
Engine: Thunderstroke Muscle with Vintage Rumble
At the heart of the Chief Bobber is the tried-and-tested Thunderstroke 116 engine, Indian Motorcycle’s signature air-cooled V-twin that delivers both torque and character in equal measure.
Performance specs:
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Engine: Thunderstroke 116 (1,890cc)
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Torque: 162 Nm @ 3,200 rpm
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Transmission: 6-speed
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Cooling: Air-cooled
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Fuel System: Closed-loop EFI
With its deep, thundering exhaust note and strong low-end torque, the Chief Bobber pulls effortlessly from any gear, making it ideal for relaxed cruising or confident overtaking. It’s not about high revs—it’s about torque-rich, visceral performance.
Ride & Handling: Balanced and Intuitive
Despite its retro looks, the Chief Bobber rides like a modern machine. The frame is an all-new tubular steel construction, designed for a low center of gravity and improved stability.
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Wheelbase: 1,626 mm
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Seat Height: 662 mm (low and manageable)
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Suspension: Telescopic front forks, preload-adjustable dual rear shocks
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Brakes: ABS-equipped dual disc front and single disc rear
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Tyres: 130mm front, 150mm rear—offering both grip and style
The riding posture is relaxed but assertive, with wide handlebars and mid controls offering a commanding feel. It’s not a corner carver, but it’s predictable, stable, and engaging—exactly what a cruiser should be.
Technology: Subtle but Smart
Unlike Indian’s more tour-focused models, the Chief Bobber keeps the tech minimalist—but purposeful. Its key feature is the 4-inch circular touchscreen integrated seamlessly into the instrument cluster, preserving the retro feel while offering smart capabilities.
🧠 Tech Features Include:
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Ride Command system (touchscreen + buttons)
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Bluetooth connectivity
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Turn-by-turn navigation
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Caller ID and message alert display
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Three ride modes: Tour, Standard, Sport
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Cruise control
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Keyless ignition
This mix of analog aesthetics and digital convenience ensures that riders enjoy both heritage charm and modern usability.
Customization & Accessories
The Chief Bobber is built to be personalized. Indian offers a full range of accessories to suit solo riders, long-haulers, or those who want to bring a passenger along.
Some popular add-ons include:
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Pillion seat and footpegs
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Mini-ape or beach handlebars
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Bobber-style exhausts
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Custom mirrors, grips, and tank trims
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Luggage options like swingarm bags or rear racks
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LED lighting upgrades
This bike isn’t just meant to ride—it’s meant to reflect your style and individuality.
Price in India (2025)
As of 2025, the Indian Chief Bobber is priced at:
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Rs 22.82 Lakh (Ex-showroom India)
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Rs 26–27.5 Lakh (On-road, depending on location)
The pricing places it in competition with Harley-Davidson’s Softail models, especially the Street Bob and Fat Bob, as well as premium Triumph cruisers.
Who Should Buy the Indian Chief Bobber?
The Chief Bobber is ideal for:
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Riders who value classic cruiser aesthetics with modern power
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Custom motorcycle enthusiasts
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Solo riders looking for a visceral, connected experience
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Fans of low-slung, torque-rich cruisers
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Harley-Davidson fans looking for an alternative with distinctive design and superior tech integration
It’s not a touring bike—it’s a ride-for-the-thrill bike, ideal for city rides, Sunday cruises, and showcasing your style.
Verdict: A Masterclass in Minimalism and Muscle
The Indian Chief Bobber is the kind of motorcycle that doesn’t need to prove itself. It doesn’t chase trends—it creates one. With its thunderous V-twin, bold stance, and pure riding DNA, it’s a throwback in spirit and a powerhouse in performance.
For those who believe that motorcycles should stir your soul, not just serve your schedule—the Chief Bobber is more than a ride. It’s a raw, real, and rebellious experience on two wheels.
Last Updated on 7 July 2025.
See also this: Indian Springfield Heritage Unleashed on the Open Road .
