Ups
- Extra punch with the 69ci V-twin
- USB port for charging smartphones
- Looking to customize this bobber further? OEM accessories are available.
Downs
- Not necessarily a highway hopper
Verdict
Not only does the Scout Bobber have the higher-displacement V-twin engine, it also has a slightly different look from other Scouts in Indian’s lineup.
Overview
The Indian Scout Bobber brings additional power to the Scout table, specifically with its 69ci (1,133cc) liquid-cooled V-twin. It brings the “bobbed” look in its stock form so that means riders will be cruising the town solo on a low-profile, two-toned seat with street tracker handlebars, bar-end mirrors, and chopped fenders completing the look. Its core riding environment is city streets, not necessarily highways.
Updates for 2021
New colors like the Maroon Metallic Smoke make an appearance for 2021. There are also a few new accessories for this year.
Pricing and Variants
Purchasers of the 2021 Indian Scout Bobber will see the price tag start at $10,999 (for non-ABS) and depending on color could go up to $12,899 or $13,399 for the Icon package.
Competition
The Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black and Harley-Davidson’s Sportster Iron 1200 can go handlebar-to-handlebar with this Indian.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A 69ci (1,133cc) liquid-cooled V-twin is at the heart of the Scout Bobber and produces a claimed 100 hp and 72 pound-feet of torque. Previously, we found that the Scout Bobber can wind up better than the competition and has more to give at the higher revs. Also differentiating it from the Scouts with the 61ci engine, the Scout Bobber has a six-speed transmission instead of five.
Handling
A 41mm telescopic fork and dual shocks mitigate any roadway imperfections, and in past testing, the front held up well under hard braking. Full of fuel, Indian claims a 555-pound weight. When it comes to handling though, this bike is not meant to tackle tight twisties and offers more resistance when dropping into turns than the Bobber Black, for example.
Brakes
As is common on the Scout line, single 298mm discs with dual-piston and single-piston calipers (front/rear) bring this bobber to a stop. With a firm grab at the lever, we found the single disc was plenty adequate compared to the Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black in our 2018 test.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy is currently not available.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The seat height is at an approachable 25.6 inches (claimed). Street tracker handlebars, a “purposeful” forward peg position, and a two-tone leather seat make up the rider’s throne. The seat is small compared to other cruisers, but it does have more padding than its direct UK competition.
Electronics
A round gauge keeps the dash simple, but there is a USB charging port for when the phone needs a boost. ABS is available as a rider aid.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
This Indian is covered for two years, unlimited miles.
Quality
The Scout Bobber provides a slammed stance for those looking for a V-twin-powered city rider.
2021 Indian Scout Bobber Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $10,999–$13,399 |
| Engine: | 69ci (1,133cc) liquid-cooled V-twin |
| Bore x Stroke: | 99.0 x 73.6mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 60mm bore |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | N/A |
| Frame: | N/A |
| Front Suspension: | 41mm telescopic fork; 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Dual shocks; 2.0 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 2-piston caliper, 298mm disc w/ optional ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston caliper, 298mm disc w/ optional ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast black; 16 x 3.5 in. / 16 x 3.5 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Pirelli MT60RS; 130/90-16 / 150/80-16 |
| Rake/Trail: | 29.0°/4.7 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 62.0 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.1 in. |
| Seat Height: | 25.6 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 3.3 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 555 lb. |
| Contact: | indianmotorcycle.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com