Indian Introduces Challenger Line For 2020

MINNEAPOLIS – Indian Motorcycle today introduced a new Challenger line of bagger models for 2020. The new muscle-bound line joins the Scout, FTR 1200, Chief, Chieftain, Springfield and Roadmaster models.

In addition to the basic Challenger model, starting at $21,999, there will also be a pricier Challenger Dark Horse and Challenger Limited (shown above). The Challenger Dark Horse will have a base MSRP of $27,499, while the Challenger Limited will start at $27,999.

Challenger Dark Horse, Challenger Limited and Challenger

The Challenger series will be powered by the recently-announced 108-cubic-inch PowerPlus engine, Indian’s first liquid-cooled large displacement motor. It offers 122 horsepower and 128 foot-pounds of torque, which Indian says is “best-in-class.”

The Challenger models have a six-speed transmission and three riding modes – rain, standard and sport.

“The Indian Challenger delivers a new level of performance for riders who understand that the seemingly small details make a huge difference,” Indian Motorcycle Vice President Reid Wilson in a press release.

“Our mindset was to leave no stone unturned and deliver a bagger that exceeds the standards in categories like power, handling, comfort, and technology.”

2020 Indian Challenger

Visually, the Challenger targets Harley-Davidson’s Road Glide line and is dominated by a front fairing with a distinctive LED headlight. Even the base model has premium touring amenities such as electronic cruise control, ABS, keyless ignition, weatherproof saddlebags, Brembo brakes and a hydraulically adjustable Fox rear shock.

The Challenger will be available in Titanium Metallic Paint; the Challenger Dark Horse will come in Thunder Black Smoke, Sandstone Smoke and White Smoke; while the Challenger Limited will be offered in Thunder Black Pearl, Deepwater Metallic and Ruby Metallic.

2020 Challenger Limited
2020 Challenger Dark Horse

The Dark Horse and Limited versions of the Challenger will be equipped with Indian Ride Command, the company’s touchscreen infotainment system.

The Challenger models will be assembled at Indian’s production facility in Spirit Lake, IA.

About Bud Wilkinson

Bud Wilkinson writes the "RIDE-CT" motorcycle column and the "My Ride" classic car feature in the "Republican-American" newspaper in Waterbury, CT. A graduate of Vermont Academy, he received a B.A. degree journalism from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1975. He is the recipient of a Scripps Howard Foundation National Journalism Award in 1992 and a 1991-92 regional Emmy Award for commentary. He currently rides a 1987 BMW R 80 RT and a 2014 Triumph Bonneville and drives a 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2008 Ford Ranger pickup.