Indian Motorcycle’s new Chief Vintage – a modern interpretation of a historic icon

With design influences drawn from the 1940s, the 2026 Chief Vintage recalls the look and feel of the golden age of American motorcycling.

Following the launch of its 125th anniversary celebrations, Indian Motorcycle presents the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage – a tribute to the brand’s heritage that reshapes a timeless classic into a modern-day icon. With deeply valanced, sweeping fenders and a distinctive silhouette that traces back to Indian Motorcycle’s early years, the model is clearly inspired by the 1940s Chief, while the Thunderstroke engine delivers the power and presence expected by today’s standards.

“The 1940s Indian Chief remains one of the most recognisable motorcycles in American history,” says Ola Stenegärd, Design Director at Indian Motorcycle.

With its deeply valanced fenders, iconic V-twin engine and unrivalled reliability, the Chief set a benchmark for both performance and design that still resonates today. The model embodies the spirit of Indian Motorcycle by being bold, timeless and always at the forefront of development.

Beneath its classically styled exterior, the Chief Vintage is built on Indian Motorcycle’s modern platform. The model is powered by the air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-twin engine, delivering a maximum torque output of 156 Nm. The engine is paired with three selectable ride modes – Tour, Standard and Sport – allowing the rider to tailor throttle response and character to riding style and conditions.

The Chief Vintage is also equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s round 4-inch Ride Command touchscreen, which brings together ride information, settings and connected features in a discreet digital interface. The system can be operated via handlebar controls or touch input and is designed to blend seamlessly into the motorcycle’s classic visual expression.

The result is a motorcycle whose design language clearly looks back, while its technology and performance propel the model into a new era.

At the MC fair in Jönköping, the new Chief Vintage was unveiled by a relative of Oscar Hedström, one of the founders of Indian Motorcycle. Read more about the Swedish connection in a previous issue of All about Bikes.