Indian has announced its 2017 lineup, with all 2016 models returning, and a new infotainment system available.
Aside from new paint and graphics options, nothing has really changed for Indian’s cruisers. What they’re building already is selling very well, so why mess with success? However, they have added an infotainment system as standard for next year’s Chieftain and Roadmaster models
The new Ride Command system combines rider aids like weather radio, fuel level, air temperature and GPS navigation with an audio entertainment system. It has a seven-inch display, with 100-watt output for the Chieftain models and 200-watt output for the Roadmaster models, so if your pipes aren’t loud enough to get you noticed, maybe your mix tape will do the trick (the system takes USB key input). The new system also has Bluetooth integration to alert you of incoming calls and texts, and can be controlled from a handlebar switch or the touchscreen.
None of this is earth-shattering, of course. Harley-Davidson’s BoomBox system, debuted last year, does basically the same thing. However, it shows Indian, while not necessarily on the cutting edge of motorcycle development, is nonetheless keeping pace with its competitors, which appears to be working out very well for them in the sales department.
