Indian Roadmaster 2020 — Specifications

Who remembers that the first Indian Roadmaster was already rolling back in 1947? At the time, its 1212 cc V-twin turned heads wherever it went. Seventy years later, the 2020 Indian Roadmaster picks up the torch with a 1901 cc ThunderStroke 116, an 11.0:1 compression ratio, and 126.0 lb-ft of torque available from just 2900 rpm. Against Harley-Davidson's Milwaukee Eight, which comes in 107, 114, and 117 ci versions depending on the trim, Indian chose to hit hard with a single engine across most of its heavyweight lineup. The result? 90 hp — nothing to set any stopwatch racing, but a fat, linear surge of power that perfectly matches the calling of this 926-lb ocean liner at full load. This two-valve-per-cylinder V-twin doesn't chase outright performance. It wants to take you far, for a long time, without ever raising its voice.

For those scanning the used Indian Roadmaster market, the 2020 model year marks an interesting turning point. The Ride Command system gains a revised processor, predictive features, and a 7-inch touchscreen that centralizes GPS, audio, phone, and vehicle data. The sound system jumps to 200 watts with separate tweeters and a dynamic equalizer that adjusts frequencies based on speed. In practice, your playlist stays audible at 80 mph without cranking the volume to the max. Indian also introduced three riding modes — Tour, Standard, and Sport — that alter the throttle mapping. Tour mode smooths out responses for effortless mile-munching. Sport makes the throttle more direct, though talking about aggressiveness on a touring bike of this size remains relative. Another mechanical refinement: rear cylinder deactivation at a standstill, which limits heat rising toward the rider. A detail Harley Electra Glide owners know all too well, and one Indian was right to adopt.

Comfort, indeed, is this machine's primary playground. The leather seat is heated with separate rider and passenger controls. The heated grips offer ten temperature levels. The windshield is power-adjustable. The rear footpegs are adjustable. The leather-lined trunk tops two saddlebags for a total cargo volume of 143 liters — nearly as much as a Honda Gold Wing. Luggage locking is handled remotely via the keyless system. At this level of amenities, the Indian Roadmaster's price tag of €32,690 holds its own against Milwaukee's Ultra Limited, even if the bill remains steep for anyone new to the world of American touring.

On the chassis side, the cast aluminum frame integrates the airbox and sits on a 1668 mm wheelbase. The front telescopic fork and rear air-adjustable mono-shock soak up imperfections without flinching, but don't expect nimbleness through tight switchbacks. With a 26.5-inch seat height and 5.5 inches of ground clearance, the Roadmaster hugs the pavement and welcomes riders of the most modest stature. Braking duties up front go to dual floating discs squeezed by four-piston calipers, while the rear gets a single disc with a two-piston caliper, all overseen by ABS. The belt-driven six-speed transmission rounds out a package designed for zero maintenance over long distances. For anyone looking for an Indian Roadmaster test ride before signing on the dotted line, the advice is simple: set aside an entire day. This motorcycle doesn't reveal itself in a dealership parking lot, but over 300 miles of highway with a passenger and the luggage fully loaded. That's where it all clicks, where the 926 pounds melt away and the big twin lulls rather than fatigues.

The lineup has also expanded over the years. The 2020 Indian Roadmaster Elite adds premium two-tone paint and exclusive finishes for purists. The 2019, 2018, and 2017 model years remain solid picks on the used market, each one having added its own contribution to the whole. Still, this 2020 version, with its revised 116 ci engine and modernized electronics, sets a new benchmark for the Spirit Lake brand. Against the Gold Wing and the Ultra Limited, the Indian Roadmaster plays its hand with a blend of raw mechanical character and unapologetic, ostentatious luxury. A recipe that won't appeal to everyone, but one that leaves no one indifferent.