2020 Indian Challenger launched

American muscle meets premium components with the release of the 2020 Indian Challenger.

Indian describes the Challenger as a "modern bagger" that redefines the concept of "fully loaded".

A new 1.8-litre V-twin "PowerPlus" engine has been built to power the Indian Challenger and with 122hp (91kW) and 187Nm, is Indian's most powerful engine to date.

That engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and three riding modes, which alters throttle mapping and traction control thresholds depending on whether you're in rain, standard or sport.

The Indian Challenger packs a top-end list of touring components, including electronic cruise control, weatherproof saddlebags with more than 68 litres of space, LED lighting, a long-haul seat, ABS brakes and keyless start.

A chassis-mounted fairing with an adjustable windscreen sits over the Indian Challenger’s inverted front suspension and Indian says this, combined with the bike’s lightweight cast alloy frame and hydraulically adjustable Fox rear shock, "delivers unrivaled handling and rock-solid stability".

Stopping power comes from radially mounted Brembo brakes, while Metzeler Cruisetec tyres provide traction in the wet or dry.

Limited and Dark Horse variants of the Indian Challenger are equipped with the company's "Smart Lean Technology", which uses a Bosch inertial measurement unit to add corner-entry control of the traction control, ABS and torque outputs.

The Challenger employs a seven-inch Ride Command infotainment system displaying key vehicle information, Bluetooth and USB mobile pairing.

Indian has also launched collection kits to personalise the Challenger, ranging from the Rogue Collection, which adds blacked-out styling and power with a black stage 1 slip-on muffler and black PowerPlus stage one air intake. Gloss black mid-rise handlebar, a tinted curved windshield and gloss black front highway bars add a premium finish.

The Tour Collection includes a bigger 16-inch windshield, quick-release passenger sissy bar, passenger backrest and floorboards, an extended reach seat, rider backrest pad, infinite highway pegs and pinnacle heel shifter.

Riders can also upgrade the Indian Challenger’s audio with the PowerBand Audio Plus system, which delivers exceptional sound and clarity using high-output fairing and saddlebag speakers that are 50 per cent louder than the stock audio system.

The Challenger will go on sale in Australia in early 2020, with colours and pricing as follows:

Challenger Limited
$39,995 ride away

• Thunder Black Pearl
• Ruby Metallic
• Deep Water Metallic

Challenger Dark Horse
$39,595 ride away

• Thunder Black Smoke
• Smoke White
• Sandstone Smoke