Indian Motorcycle will offer up a few enhancements to its line of Challenger cruisers for 2022, targeting ride performance and convenience with the updates. These changes will affect the base-model Challenger ($23,999), the Challenger Dark Horse ($28,499), and the Challenger Limited ($27,999).
Editor’s note: we test rode the Indian Challenger Dark Horse during its model year debut in the 2020 Indian Motorcycle Challenger Dark Horse Review MC Commute article and video.
The major improvement comes by way of a revised traction control system that Indian Motorcycle says will provide smoother functionality than the previous iteration.
Challenger models also benefit from an update to the Ride Command system, which will now provide a speed-limit overlay on the map or navigation split screens while riding. Other improvements to Ride Command include better Bluetooth pairing and broader compatibility along with faster load time when the display first boots up.
Riders will also be able to improve the wind protection on the bike by adding on the optional Hard Lower Fairings. This accessory will be compatible with 2020–2022 models.
All three bikes utilize a 1,768cc liquid-cooled PowerPlus V-twin engine capable of producing 122 hp and 128 pound-feet torque at 3,800 rpm. The remaining mechanical specs are all nearly identical as well (see spec sheet below). The major differences between the models are found in the features, with the Dark Horse at the top of the heap with systems like Smart Lean Technology, a Ride Command system with navigation and Apple CarPlay integration, blacked-out aesthetic and contrast-cut wheels. That’s not to say that the other two options are lacking, as they also pack a range of amenities including a power-adjustable windscreen, cruise control, tire pressure monitoring systems, standard saddlebags, a 100-watt audio system, keyless ignition, and selectable ride modes.
The standard Challenger will be available in Black Metallic or Titanium Smoke colorways. The Challenger Limited will come in Black Metallic, Maroon Metallic, or Spirit Blue Metallic over Black Metallic colorways. The Challenger Dark Horse will come in Black Smoke, Bronze Smoke, or a new Indy Red over Black Metallic colorway.
2022 Indian Challenger Technical Specs & Price
| Price: | $23,999/$27,999 (Limited)/$28,499 (Dark Horse) |
| Engine: | 1,768cc, liquid-cooled PowerPlus V-twin |
| Bore x Stroke: | 108.0 x 96.5mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Delivery: | EFI |
| Clutch: | Wet, multi-disc w/ assist |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/belt |
| Frame: | Cast aluminum |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm telescopic fork; 5.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Single shock, adjustable damping; 4.5 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 4-piston radial calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 2-piston caliper, 298mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast black (Challenger) / contrast cut (Limited, Dark Horse); 19 x 3.50 in. / 16 x 5.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Metzeler Cruisetec; 130/60-19 / 180/60-16 |
| Rake/Trail: | 25°/5.9 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 65.7 in. |
| Seat Height: | 26.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 6.0 gal. |
| Claimed Dry Weight: | 831 lb (Challenger, Dark Horse), 839 lb (Limited) |
| Available: | TBD |
| Contact: | indianmotorcycle.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com