Indian Motorcycle adds Apple CarPlay to tourers

First it was the Honda Gold Wing, then it was Harley-Davidson touring bikes. Now, Indian Motorcycles will also get Apple CarPlay technology on some of its machines, making it easier to enjoy music while you’re riding.

Apple CarPlay, as the name suggests, is Apple’s proprietary technology originally designed to integrate iPhones with in-car infotainment systems.

Now, the tech is moving to the motorcycle world. Most motorists are using it to use the Apple Music app, but it can also handle navigation through the Maps app, and send messages via the Siri personal assistant AI.

At this point, Indian is building Apple CarPlay into the 2020 Chieftain, Roadmaster and Challenger models, integrating it with the Ride Command system, complete with 7-inch touchscreen. Indian also improved Ride Command’s nav system for 2020, re-worked it to boot up faster, made some tweaks to the audio controls, and added a new fuel economy widget. See more details in the press release below, or at Indian’s website.

Press release

Indian Motorcycle Announces Integration Of Apple CarPlay

Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, announced today the integration of Apple CarPlay® to its model year 2020 lineup of bikes equipped with the 7” Ride Command system. Continuing its mission to further enhance the riding experience, this latest update continues to deliver industry-leading technology which provides riders with a way to stay connected while out on the road.

Apple CarPlay® is now supported on 2020 Chieftain, Roadmaster and Challenger models with navigation. iPhone® users can easily access Apple Music, Maps, send messages with Siri and more through the Ride Command 7” screen and a supported Bluetooth headset (not included) – all on a user-friendly interface that iPhone users will instantly recognize. This integration also increases global accessibility to navigation.

Apple CarPlay is just one of several improvements made to Indian Motorcycle’s leading Ride Command system. Riders can now expect improved navigation location management, improved boot time, audio muting and control improvements (including navigation audio), widget fixes and a new fuel economy widget, and improved search functionality within navigation.