Indian Motorcycle goes solo after Polaris sale
After 14 successful years, Polaris is selling its majority ownership of Indian MotorcycleIndian Motorcycle will become a standalone company, with parent group Polaris selling its majority stake to a private equity firm.
The deal, expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, will see Los Angeles–based Carolwood LP take majority ownership of Indian.
Under the new arrangement, Mike Kennedy will serve as CEO, while around 900 existing employees will transition to the new company along with manufacturing and design facilities in Iowa, Minnesota, and Switzerland.
Polaris will retain a small equity position in the business, though further details of the deal have not been disclosed.
According to Polaris CEO Mike Speetzen, the transaction will benefit both parties, enabling “each business to move faster, deliver industry-leading innovation, and lean further into respective market strengths.”
Carolwood executive Andrew Shandfeld was equally positive, saying: “Indian Motorcycle is an iconic brand built on American heritage, craftsmanship, and most importantly, a community of riders. We’re honoured to help usher in its next chapter as an independent company.”
The historic American motorcycle brand was founded in 1901 and competed strongly with Harley-Davidson and leading British marques in its early years. It declined after World War II but was revived in 2006 as a new company.
Off-road vehicle manufacturer Polaris Industries acquired Indian in 2011, re-establishing its position as a major player in the global motorcycle market.
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