INDIAN: Ground-up redesign for the Scout range

Revving into the future, Indian is making a bold move in 2024 with a complete revamp of their Scout cruiser models. Rolling out to dealers starting May, this fresh lineup replaces the previous 1133cc Scout series, which has received minimal updates since its debut at the 2014 Sturgis Rally.

The Scout brand has become a significant player for Indian, with over 100,000 units sold in the last ten years. These sales make up 40% of their total numbers and interestingly, almost 30% of these riders are new to the Scout experience.

As per Mike Dougherty, President of the company, Scout is the ultimate American cruiser and has become inseparable from the Indian Motorcycle brand.

For years, Scout has been a trusted fixture in the line-up. With its popularity among riders worldwide, Indian are eager to elevate it even further and advance its development by expanding the range of models to cater to the unique preferences of the international riding community.

As expected, the redesign has been thorough. It includes a 60-degree 1250cc DOHC liquid-cooled V-twin engine and tubular steel chassis, creating five new model variants: the 101 Scout, Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, Super Scout, and Scout Classic.

Similar to their previous announcement, Indian has verified that a beginner-level Scout Sixty is currently being developed. However, no specific timeline or specifications have been released at this time. The previous model features a 999cc twin engine with approximately 78bhp, leading us to believe that the upcoming range may follow a similar design.

Now, turning our attention back to the facts we have, all versions of Scout come equipped with the ‘SpeedPlus 1250’ – a Euro5+ compliant 1250cc V-twin engine. While four of the bikes boast an output of 105.9bhp at 7250rpm, the priciest model, the 101 Scout, generates 110bhp due to a subtle variation in its tuning.

Similarly, the torque outputs for the incoming Scout are at 79.7lb.ft on all models except for the 101, which has a slightly higher output of 80.4lb.ft at 6300rpm. These figures make the Scout a direct rival to popular motorcycles such as the parallel twin Triumph Bonneville Bobber priced at £13,195 and Harley-Davidson’s Sportster S costing £15,145.

This model accommodates an engine that does not fall under A2 licence restrictions and features a new tubular steel frame and subframe. The design is achieved by situating a smaller radiator between the front stanchions.

Drawing inspiration from the original Scouts from over a century ago, the frame of this model gracefully slopes downward from the headstock towards the rear axle. Its sleek and simplistic design is concealed by the 13-litre tank and updated bodywork, providing ample room for personal customization by owners.

One way to achieve this is through the use of the three trim levels: Standard, Limited, and Limited + Tech. The lowest level, Standard, includes features such as ABS, LED lighting, and analogue clocks. Moving up to Limited adds improved badging as well as cruise and traction control. Additionally, riders can access three different riding modes and a USB charging port at this level.

For those looking to take things up a notch, the Limited + Tech option includes a 101mm circular touchscreen with navigation, mobile connectivity, and keyless ignition. Furthermore, Indian offers over 100 accessories categorized into four collections: Commuter, Open Roads, Stealth, and Overnighter.

In addition to customisation options, Indian has also considered the needs of less experienced riders in terms of ergonomics. The Bobber model, for instance, features a seat height that is significantly lower at just 649mm.

The remaining models boast a comfortable 654mm height, perfect for providing a stable footing. Additionally, the 41mm standard forks and adjustable piggyback shocks are only excluded from the 101 model.

The priciest 101 model offers 43mm upside-down forks that are adjustable, along with fully adjustable piggybacks at the rear. Check out indianmotorcycle.com or pay a visit to your nearby dealer.