Indian Roadmaster 2021 — Specifications

Who, in 2021, can still claim to rival the Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited on the grand touring American-style playing field? Indian, obviously. And the Roadmaster remains its sharpest weapon. Born from a lineage dating back to 1947, this blue-blooded tourer has crossed the decades before being reborn on the Chieftain platform, inheriting its chassis but pushing the luxury slider much further. In 2021, the Indian Roadmaster displays a technical maturity that commands respect, the result of constant improvements since its return to the lineup. The ThunderStroke 116 V-twin, with its 1,901 cc and 11:1 compression ratio, produces 90 hp and, more importantly, 126 lb-ft of torque from just 2,900 rpm. This is not an engine that screams. It's an engine that shoves, like a locomotive, without ever rushing.

Against Milwaukee Eight from Harley offered in 107, 114, and 117 ci depending on the version, Indian chose the path of massive torque rather than raw power. The result is felt from the very first wheel rotations: the Roadmaster hauls its 926 lbs wet weight with disconcerting ease. The six-speed belt drive filters out jerks, the telescopic fork and pneumatically adjustable mono-shock absorb the tarmac without flinching. Three riding modes — Tour, Standard, and Sport — let you adjust throttle response to the rider's mood or the road profile. In Tour mode, acceleration becomes cushioned, perfect for devouring highway miles. In Sport, the twin responds instantly, which is surprising on a machine of this size. The rear cylinder deactivation system at idle limits heat buildup, a welcome detail in the city when the 65.6-inch wheelbase already makes maneuvering tricky.

The 7-inch Ride Command touchscreen, introduced back in 2017, has gained responsiveness with a faster processor since 2020. GPS, audio, phone, vehicle info — everything runs through this interface, which also controls the 200-watt audio system. Separate tweeters from the speakers and a dynamic equalizer adjust the sound based on speed, compensating for wind and mechanical noise. On the highway, the music stays clear and present. The side fairings integrate adjustable vents to ventilate the legs when temperatures climb, a solution Harley already offered on its Glide models but that Indian had the good taste to adopt. The power windshield, heated leather seat with independent rider and passenger adjustment, ten-level heated grips, adjustable passenger floorboards — the list of standard equipment is simply massive for an Indian Roadmaster price of €32,690.

On the luggage front, the leather-lined trunk complements the saddlebags for a total lockable volume of 143 liters, operable by remote. That's practically Gold Wing territory. The generous chrome work, from the fork to the highway bars to the trunk rails, is a reminder that this machine cultivates an unapologetically classic aesthetic. Tire pressure sensors, keyless ignition, ABS with dual floating front discs and four-piston calipers, cruise control, full LED lighting — nothing is missing. The low 26.5-inch seat height and 5.5-gallon tank allow for long legs without worry, even if the 112 mph top speed is a reminder that this ocean liner's calling is not pure performance.

Whether you're looking for a new 2021 Indian Roadmaster or a used Indian Roadmaster, the verdict remains the same: this machine is built for long-haul riders who want to travel in absolute comfort without sacrificing the character of a big American V-twin. It doesn't claim to be light or sporty. It claims to be the best possible travel companion, and on that front, it delivers. The Indian Roadmaster Elite versions push refinement even further with exclusive paint schemes, but the standard version already packs everything you need to cross a continent with no regrets. Hard to find a real flaw, other than requiring a wallet as thick as its torque.