Indian vs. Harley-Davidson! Am I Switching?
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- Опубликовано: 30 сен 2024
- I compare an Indian Challenger to a Harley Road Glide in this video and tell you what you need to know if you are considering purchasing either. We were fortunate to have this Indian Challenger for a few weeks and filmed a complete 12" handlebar and heated grips install on it. A detailed tutorial video will release eventually, so you can save money and do this project yourself.
I ride a 2018 police Harley Electra Glide with the Milwaukee-Eight 107 ci air-cooled V-Twin engine for my day job so I can loosely compare it to the new Powerplus 108 ci liquid-cooled engine coming in the Indian Challenger. I also ride my Harley Street Glide Special with the 103 ci engine off-duty many thousands of miles a year along with other bikes. I am also a police motorcycle instructor and I hope all of this qualifies me to review and compare the Indian to the Harley-Davidson.
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This is not a review, this is a comparison between the Indian Challenger and the Harley Road Glide. I think it sounded very bias towards the Harley, sorry Ryan.
Agreed, the challenger is a better bike for the price in my opinion.
I 100% agree.
Correct. When you're downplaying obvious benefits of one versus the other it no longer is a comparison.
Polaris is in the same league as are all the japanese brands. Harleys are precious metals 😂😂
Yeah... He said "this is my opinion".
How tf did Indian copy the RG with the Challenger. It looks nothing like it. One big cyclops headlight vs two smaller ones. Much bigger fairing on the Indian.
By the way, this is a performance bagger, not a touring bike.
In my opinion, the Road Glide is the best looking bike ever made, hands down. But other than that, the Challenger beats it in every way possible, ESPECIALLY performance.
You must be blind
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 Maybe Nick. Maybe. Happy Memorial Day😁
Hey Ryan, I'm a Challenger owner, former Street Glide owner. The Challenger is hands down the better bike for performance, handling and value. The GPS works without paying for it. What you have to pay for is the weather overlay and traffic if you want it.
I own a 19 Street Glide. If I had to chose between a Road Glide and a Challenger, I'd chose the Challenger. For big guys the ergonomics on Indians is better. The Indian feels more balanced.
Not to mention price' and POWER!
And features like key fob for saddle bags, windshield that goes up and down etc.
@@renatooi88If you want an up down windshield on a harley. That will be 5k please.
@@Kashmirknight Exactly 😂
Nice to have enough power to pass too.
You are wrong. You can control the complete functions of the ride command without touch screen. You have the trigger buttons as well.
Ryan. The challenger comes with CarPlay. Why bother using the baked in gps when you can use Apple maps or Google maps?
Because Google Maps and Apple Maps do not have some of the route filters that are needed for motorcycles like avoid unpaved roads.
@@jam471975 You can use Google Map Maker and filter out unpaved roads.
Plus, there are other map apps available that have more options than either Indian or Harley, like TomTom - which you can use with Apple Car Play or Android Auto.
Plus using CarPlay uses your phone for service not gps. So if you don’t have cell service you don’t have gps. With gps you will never lose service no matter where you are. I use my phone for gps and connect to my helmet headset and there are lots of times I don’t have cell signal so I have no gps. Dedicated gps is always better.
@@joedangelo5640 you do realize that Google map maker went end-of-life in 2017 right? And it would be pretty difficult to use Google map maker when you're on the bike. Most of the time I uses maps is randomly when I'm already on the bike. As much as I hate Harley Maps there is just somethings it does better than other mapping app.
@@jam471975 sorry... "My Maps" by Google. And, you can import gpx files. Plus, like I said before - TomTom app works with carplay.
Beyond that, the navigation on an Indian is free for life, you pay (after 2 years) for the weather and traffic updates.
Harley has great bikes, they are not as good as the challenger. I own a Harley, rode plenty of them but the challenger is just a better bike for the price and is also more updated. 2021 stock challenger will smoke that crate 131 Harley has. I witnessed it on more than one occasion with more than one 131 lol. The bike is meant to run higher rpms, it’s not working harder just where it should be. Harley is on the lower side of rpms and if that’s what you are used to I can see why you would say that.
Both Iconic brand names - yeah - I know the story! But I’ve had 5 Harleys - enjoyed ‘em…..but I’m giving Indian a shot because I like their approach, attitude and styling so far 😎
Did you get your Indian yet? I got a Springfield Vintage Dark Horse and it’s my favorite bike I’ve had…by far.
This was very well made great job!! You missed many things tho..
The triggers on the bars to help navigate the ride command.
There is a ton of aftermarket windshields and other stuff
Crash bars only come on limited
The extra cost on navigation is for live weather and live traffic use..
To get the limited in HD (power, locking bags, rdrs ext) you would have to buy the CVO..
GREAT JOB THOUGHT I WOULD CLEAR SOME OF THAT UP..
Exactly. Hope his audience reads comments to get the facts straight.
I own an Indian and a Harley. The Indian has had 1 malfunction in four years, and the Harley has had 5 malfunctions in six months. In addition, despite the longer operating history, Harley service techs. are clueless, and Harley HQ could care less about their customer's. What I'm saying is not news to anyone, it's just that I now have experienced it first hand.
Indian/Polaris is definitely testing my loyalty to Harley! Each bike they come out with gets better and better! The Challenger, the 22 Chief ... I think Indian is winning the non-Harley purchaser that Harley, because of their aging base, needs to capture!
problem is how long before they go bye bye like victory?
@@AC16 they won't Polaris has deep pockets n Indian is a marquee name that they can build on..good luck Harley ..😀
@@AC16 Victory was never really successful. Unlike HD, Indian is turning a profit and increasing market share every year.
How do you know this? Polaris never reveals their profit with the Indian. They list all of their products as Powersports.
@@alfonsodennis8450 They release their profits in every 10-k, they just don't release unit sales numbers.
Ryan, I like your content and follow all of your videos but you never mentioned any of the features on the bike that Harley does not have. It's supposed to be a side by side comparison. Performance, technology, and features like being liquid cooled, having locking saddle bags, adjustable windshield, inverted front shocks, mono shock in the rear, LED lights front and rear, and bluetooth headset capable that does not require another harley purchase or installation part.
I came from years of riding Harley bikes, especially their baggers, having owned multiple Street Glide Specials and Road Glides. I have never owned or even looked at an Indian until the Challenger came out. After one demo ride I was sold, and traded by new SGS for the Challenger that day. It is hands down the best bagger on the market. The 108 engine competes and outperforms the Harley's 114 and the 117 CVO models. I wouldn't dismiss it so quickly. It's getting awesome reviews and increasing sales. The throttle response issue you described can easily be fixed with a tune. These bikes are not cable driven.. New technology, it's all ride by wire software driven. Aftermarket items have also caught up to the point there are tons of options for bars, seats, windshields, floor board, pegs, lights, and anything else a rider needs. And this bike needs very little to make it nicer. All the things you would change on a Harley have already been improved in this bike. I'm sold. Haven't looked back. Like Harleys but love the Indian.
Now that is complete honesty. Well said.
Love the channel. Thanks.
Lots and lots of cons in your review. Frankly, the electronic screen, ride modes and suspension are far superior. I was also surprised with your assessment of the brakes. I don’t think there is a comparison between the two and hope Harley upgrades and invests further.
Lastly, I’m 6’5” and the Indian seat is so superior. Also love their tank. The tear drop is a tired, tired design.
hmm my factory Brembos havent give me any negatives yet, hope they dont. 19 Ultra Limited....as far as performance the Goldwing will spank both.
@@waynephillips5741 Happy with factory Brembos too
-------------------- a tired tired tired design is having only 2 cylinders.....a Indian of 1940 or a Henderson of 1930 were american motorcycles that a HD could NEVER measure up to ....to this day.... hey Ryan ....V- twin .... two too few....period.
@@waynephillips5741 They spank hard too 😂. I've been looking at those F6Bs. Man, good looking long azz bikes. I didn't like the style change in 18 as much but they're still really beautiful machines.
U mention no crashbar etc, but u don't mention how much it costs to get the same HP comparison to the Challeger!
The cost is comparable within $10-$20 if you’re adding front and rear. But my friend waited 3 months for his. Mine were here in 3 days. He also waited months for a tour pack. Mine was here in 3 weeks. He has had his bike back in the shop twice already for issues running correctly. Apparently had something to do with the tune they did. The dealer network and parts availability is very slim in his experience. Also had to go to two different dealers before he got any decent service while shopping and to get a test ride. Obviously that will vary wildly dealer to dealer. Polaris makes a good bike, but has a long way to go on the back end in my eyes. For me, Paint, fit and finish, cheap feeling plastic, resale value, gimmicky BS, and let’s not forget the god-awful looks. Yeah. I’m happy here I’m at.
@@DOHC91GLI Well, I got rid of my Harleys becuase I got tired of them breaking down all the time.I would travel a 100 miles pass many dealers due to how bad the service department were on the dealer near me. Got tire of the my brakes and clutch giving out on hot summer days. I live in South Florida and commute everyday. The stock suspension is garbage. Harley run hot and like shit in stock configuration. I never heard of a company that makes a product and pitches you to buy the extended warranty with the fear that it will break down, thus Dealer support network. By the way, have you heard about the M8 Oil sumping issue that Harley will never fix becuase they know their fan boy customers will upgrade it to the S&S part. Does this sound familiar -"Yes, This part failed, we can install the same part back in but it will most likely fail again down the road, but if you install the stage 2 or CVO version it will be golden. That's why my 15 plus years of Harley ownership will be no more.
The Challenger fairing is closer to a Kawasaki Vaquero
FYI you mentioned you had a problem muting the sound system if you press the volume button straight in once it mutes and unmutes the system. I purchased this exact bike last September and some of my input goes as follows. The throttle is terrible for low speed maneuvers and most will be holding the throttle a little high and using the clutch to modulate a little more but once on the highway the throttle is good. I give the edge to Harley on that on definitely. This bike because of the power and suspension components pushes into a sport tourer category I feel the Chieftain line is more comparable to the Harley touring bikes. There is definitely more feedback from the engine especially at speed but that is because the engine is rigid mounted where as the Harley is balanced and rubber mounted definitely a smoother ride on the Harley. The infotainment center on the base model Challenger whether or not its a software issue or processor is slow and glitchy. As far as the windshield goes totally not glitchy, I use it constantly its awesome, I too had my doubts live with it for more than one ride and you will be a believer. One final note the biggest draw to this bike for me was suspension and handling, there is absolutely no comparison between a stock Harley touring bike and Indian the suspension, ride and handling are just superior I came off a 2017 Road Glide and until I invested in some Ohlins which made it better but no where near as good as a stock Indian.
With having deep respect of your great channel and your big professional experience I am nevertheless a bit disappointed of that review (pretty HD biased). From someone like you I expect more detailed research. As someone below already stated, the extra cost for navigation is just the weather overlay application. The Fake unit at the bike can be replaced with a real Stage one air filter. You can much better reach the ride command of the Indian than the display of the road glide. The Power of the" power plus" engine, that is btw its name you did not know, is much more useable over the power band, you should have comparing that much more in detail. Also you did not mention really the advantages of the inverted forks, which many HD-rider upgrade with huge costs in order letting the Road Glide performing better. Many tests proved that the ride command is superior to the older HD System, how can you say it's pretty equal? The Road Glide is a beautiful bike, no doubt, but if you are looking for a real performance bagger, both bikes are in my opinion not comparable. The Road Glide is in my opinion not a Performance Bagger out of Stock and maybe also does not want to be one. The Indian outperformance the Harley in almost every performance aspect and has on top of that at least the same comfort qualities. I guess even a bit better. So for me it is clear, if you go into a bike shop and you want out of the box a fully loaded great performance bagger with cross country comfort properties, currently the Challenger is the only way to go. Design and looks is personal preference. I ride a Springfield since 2016 and traded in for that a almost brand new K 1600 GT for that Springfield. Everybody knows, that the K 1600 is the absolute most powerful sport touring rocket, but lacks in many emotional aspects. In my opinion the Challenger is the perfect mix of a Springfield and K 1600 :-).....All the best and Regards from Germany.
If the guy likes the Harley better, in his opinion, why is that "wrong"? You are disappointed because you wanted him to like the Indian better... And he didn't.
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 Non, je crois qu'il souligne simplement les "oublis" de ce comparatifs et ses incohérences. Quand on compare deux vélos, il faut TOUT comparer et être parfaitement neutre !
@@nickpapagiorgio8038 because it likes a parent having a favorite child who is constantly a f up but you love him over the well behaved child with good grades and good manners who doesn’t steal. The only reason I’d buy a Harley is for the larger dealer network and if Eaglerider still allowed fair competition and offered Indian rentals, I’d rent an Indian
@@gfunk63901 that doesn't answer a single bit about what I wrote. If you are going to reply, at least have a point. It makes it so much more interesting for the reader.
Indians are nice but I'm Harley all day. Love my cvo streetglide and ultra limited.
I change the windshield height on my Roadmaster almost every ride. I can look over it or through it depending on conditions. It's like you have 6 windshields in one so why would you need aftermarket ?
I'll never go back to a fixed shield.
Virtually every manufacturer that offers a touring line puts power shield on as standard. HONDA, BMW, KAWASAKI, YAMAHA, INDIAN, VICTORY.
Agreed , its about knees in the breeze no matter the make. Also agree HD has a much more established dealer network.
I used the power window on every ride on my Roadmaster, and I use the power window on my Challenger every ride. It's only a "gimmick" until you ride with one through a thunderstorm on a highway, and then go back into stop and go traffic in a city.
@@danielstewart7732 agreed! My passenger loves it too. at full up, Causes the air to go over her helmet instead of punching her in the face. Another scenario , go through a pressure/temp change and fog collects on the shield. The ONLY people that I EVER heard dismiss the power shield, ride a brand that doesn't offer them. Yeah, it's a big deal. Btw, there is only one brand that makes a touring line that doesn't offer it. Ride modes are also a big deal. I never thought I would say that before I had ride modes. (again, only one brand dragging their feet on this feature)
I actually had one on an older Honda. Never used it. Just left it up. I prefer to get a more precise windshield with proper flow for me. Just my opinion and experience as stated.
@@RyanUrlacher you're entitled to that brother
Well said, Long Live Harley Davidson....👍👍👍🇦🇺
Love those Indian motorcycles!
They just keep getting better and better!!
@@GiancarloBenzina , Can’t agree, I’ve owned and ridden Harleys since 1972. Both for pleasure and work.
Made it through the time when AMF had their foot on Harley-Davidson, until they got away from AMF with the help of then President Regan.
I’m glad to see both Indian and Harley-Davidson both on American roads. It’s good for the country that they are.
I ride a 2017 Indian road master now and have 41 thousand trouble free seasonal miles on it so far and I’m pretty sure 50 thousand miles will be on the odometer by this fall.
Polaris/Indian has only been in existence for 7 model years.
They are doing a terrific job with their line up of bikes.
I get questionnaires from Indian every year asking what they can do to improve their line of motorcycles.
I like that. It’s good business.
It’s been a tough year for HD.
They dropped their CVO line this year and didn’t come out with their 2021 model line until January/February of this year.
However, I don’t want Harley-Davidson to go under! On the contrary, I want them to do well and thrive even.
Like is said, it’s good for America that two historical and well known iconic American names are back on American roads together again👍
Why do you compare a water cooled, new technology, OHC bike versus air cooled,?pushrod technology? Because the fairings are similar? Compare a 117 Streetglide to a 116?Chieftain. Air cooled versus air cooled pushrod touring bikes. Maybe if HD stroked the PanAm motor and stuffed that motor in the RG?...much closer comparison that will never happen
Because it's a real world review of what many riders out there will be choosing between. And Indian Challenger or Harley Road Glide. Answering questions from our community here. Ride safe.
@@RyanUrlacher Thank you for replying. The way I see it is that the Challenger versus Road Glide are so different mechanically that any potential buyer of either bike will have made their decision based on the technology differences. I see the 117 SG versus the 116 Chieftain as where the true purchasing dilemma might occur. Similar looking, but more importantly, similar mechanically.
I don’t have a challenger or road glide but I traded my ultra for a Road Master. The Indian has a so much better ride I had to trade. Glad I did!!
have heard the same from many harley riders who have moved to indian they all rave about the ride is so much better than their harley
I rode the new roadmaster limited today at a demo ride. It did feel and ride nice. It felt tiny compared to my ultra limited. The infotainment screen was moving up and down during the ride which was concerning to me. Grabbed it with my hand but it felt tight? It did ride well a little bit stiff. The power was good but not as smooth as my ultra limited. Not enough of a difference for me to trade.
I test rode the challenger last week to look at whether I would buy one. Even though it was well balance and the power was there, I felt the bike felt kinda cheapy. The harley felt alot better but of course not as performance of the challenger. If I would spend that much money, for me, I would buy the Harley.
Indian has gone the way of Honda using plastic with paint and chrome parts
Forgot to mention that Indian Challenger has top of the line front investors suspensions , a mono rear suspension which help the geometry of the bike when taking corners, plus top of the line brembo break, oilcooler so that engine won't cook your legs on a long trip, and yes I want power on my Touring bike because when I'm riding with my wife and our bags I definitely need power to move that weight .
Exactly, he completely skipped everything that makes the Challenger perform better than the RG in every way. I care more about the engine, suspension, brakes, chassis, more so than navigation. This guy is clearly a HD fan and that's fine, but lay all the facts on the table.
Dang that indian is badass. Sorry but I'd take that over any harley.
I had a victory and they abandoned their customers . I won’t be buying another Polaris product again.
Good thing you didn't buy a Buell..
I have to laugh a couple of yoootooober Motorcycle channles said the Indian Challenger was a Dog. They didn't even know enough to down shift and get the RPM
s up to take advanate of them overhead cams.. Same with the Indian FTR-1200 they never even got the engine up to 6,000 RPM where it pulls hard to 9,000 RPM's
If i wanted to rev the piss out of a bike i wouldnt be riding a bagger. Ill just jump on one of my other bikes. There is no happy medium and there is not one bike that has it all....period. buy different bikes for the occasion. You'll be a lot happier
Ryan your video title said am I switching? I’m guessing no. Lol
i’m thinking, Indian will have to come out with a badass police bike to get Ryan interested! 🤣
I think you review is not objective, HD oriented....
Is that a 2020? If so do the firmware update and the gps will work better. My honest opinion... hands down the challenger is better then the roadglide and streetglide. There's no comparison unless confirmation bias is influencing the buyers decision. I was in the market for a new bike. Tried both Harley street glide and road glide and the cheiftain dark horse. All 3 felt small but the Cheiftain was a better motorcycle then the harleys. I'm 6 feet. When i rode the challenger it was amazing. The challenger does have room for improvement. I agree with your take on the throttle response. It can be improved. Lloydz has that solved with the Ecu flash but that's an extra $600. On the flip side Harleys have bigger issues with crank runout, sump issues, etc. Not to mention harley changed their crank runout specs as to minimize warranty claims. Harley doesn't value their riders. By the time you reach their runout specs for warranty your out of warranty. Misinformation or confirmation bias is the name of the game if someone buys a harley. It is the lesser bike in 2021...by a longshot. Harlys do have beautiful paint jobs. I'll give them that.
Had several bikes in the past like Yamaha 1900, Stratoliner. than I tested HD Road glide and street glide, but after I tested Indian Chieftain limited I falling in love with Indian. Very nice handling and smooth driving 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🤘🏼
And you have power to pass more than one car at a time.
Great video! I respect what Indian is putting on the road but there will never be a replacement for a Harley!
your maintenance costs will always be way higher then the Indian , Guaranteed .
Brad, that's been proven to be bunk. Cost of maintenance and repair of the baggers, Indian to Harley, is higher for Indian.
Wow. I like a lot of your videos but this was definitely anti-Indian with a heavy Harley bias and not a lot of realism. Didn't hear any Harley negatives. A lot of people bailing on Harley right now.
They just don't want to admit it. Indian is kicking butt!
At the end of the day, I still prefer Harley. On a preference issue, I'm in the Niagara Falls, Ont area and I believe the closest Indian is 2 hours away... that's a turn off for me..
And that’s the only reason I’d buy a Harley. Bad enough that there’s only one triumph service center near me
The boombox is not only touch screen. There are manual controls as well. I went back and forth between the two bikes as well before I made my decision to go with a 2019 Road Glide Special. The 114 with a Stage II torque cam and a suspension upgrade to Legends (front and rear) performs just as well. I couldn't get away from the HD community, the waaaaaay bigger support system in terms of dealerships on long hauls. Finally, the style (personal preference) just "did it for me" with the HD. I was/am a big fan of the Challenger and think Indian has a great product. But I just love my Road Glide. Stay safe, brother.
The new Boom Box GTS (2019 and newer) is all touch screen. As mentioned, there are toggles on each handlebar. The older Boom Box had touch screen and soft buttons.
@@RyanUrlacher yeah man, I made that comment just before you mentioned the toggles, to which is what I was referring. My bad. Safe safe brother.
But…as you say, had to add aftermarket cams and suspension to “perform just as well”. For the price Harley wants, shouldn’t have to shell out potentially thousands to rise to Indian’s bar. And this is coming from an Ultra Limited owner.
pretty sure their is 2 more triggers on the backside of the controls you missed for navigating and using the stuff on the screen as well!
Sounds like your a bit biased, Now don't get me wrong...I own a Harley currently but you seem to down play the benefits...the suspension is better on the Challenger than the Road-glide, the power output is much greater on the Challenger...and that's in stock condition. Remember to get those similar power numbers your gonna have to invest thousands into the Glide to do it. The computer controls are easier to follow...if you got to do three videos for the Road-glide then something is definitely wrong. This being a new bike, I wouldn't expect there to be a lot of aftermarket items for it...but THEY are coming. I think Indian has hit a home run with this bike and it will get better remember this is only the first/second model year for this bike...What has Harley done to improve the Road-glide? Yes, they did just have that redesign on the fairing and it does have the M8 motor but your still using old technology for suspension and brakes, and still using an air cooled motor...really?!
Harley's been top dog for a long long time...but Indian is coming and if Harley doesn't wake up soon...Indian's gonna eat there lunch. Just my opinion and hey I could be wrong.
3 words. Dealer support network. I can always find a HD dealer around the next corner, not so much with Indian. Also, check out the part cost difference$$$$$.
@@joevsfood your funny! Obviously, LOL you are the CFO, for both Harley and Indian. Oh wait, that's right your the CEO and have full disclosure access to their business plans. LOL what a stupid and unqualified comment.
@@joevsfood your a waste of skin, time and rations.
HD needs more dealerships!!!!
That is correct sir!!!!
Over priced and break down!
The Indian is also overpriced!
@@rico5395 ya hard to believe a motor that makes so little power could break down so much. Great womans bike though.
The radio mute is WAY easier than my Harley. Just press the left toggle that has the music note. And you can access the entire command system with all the toggles. There are 2 in front and 2 behind. I’ve had 3 Harleys oil sump and ruin all 3 engines. Until that is completely fixed I’m not buying another. Oh and I LOVE that my windshield is motorized. Not “gimmicky” in the least........
Outstanding video angles! I owned a 2020 Harley Electra standard and after installing three different sets of performance mufflers, stage one download, stage on air filter assembly, and after test riding a stock Indian Challenger my Harley 107 engine felt anemic in comparison. I traded my 2020 Electra Glide Standard in at the Harley dealership for a used 2019, Road Glide Ultra with a 114-inch engine in it. Even after a Woods cam, dyno-tuned Power Vision, fuel tuner, Fuel Moto, RTX two into one exhaust, Ventilator air filter, the stock Challenger felt ' SO MUCH FASTER ' from 3,500-4,000 RPMs. , gains RPM's much faster than my 114-inch Harley, easier to pick up off of the side stand, and I can take a curve much faster than I can on my 2019 Road Glide Ultra. The mono-shock on the Challenger is made by Fox and has more travel and rides over rough roads much better than a 2020 Harley Road Glide. The inverted forks on the Challenger take fast curves much better than the 2020 Road Glide.
better bike for less money. My Harley wobbles when I go 70 mph and I hit a sharp bump. Its little scary.
@@mrsvetly On my Dyna, yours might be the same, the rear Swingarm is bolted to the engin/transmission. Not the Frame. Thats INSANE. I wish i noticed that before i bought or i never would have. When the engine mounts wear out the rear wheel moves around like crazy and becomes DANGEROUS. Check your motor mounts...
Sorry, this is totally biased. Ive rode many harleys and indians. Indian is doing way more with innovation on their bikes in the past 5 years than harley has done in decades. Rising windshield, gimmicky? Handling, harley rg not even close with challenger, brembo brakes as well. Most of us like power, the base challenger engine is putting out 105hp to the wheel, u would have to buy the hd 131 to beat it which is another $6500. I can go on and on. Listen, clearly your channel is heavy on hd, which is fine, no hate, but call it what it is.....biased.
I have owned both. 2015 Road Glide then the 2020 Challenger and this year went back to 2021 Road Glide. For me it was style more than anything. I felt like the Challenger was a great performing bike just lacked style (my opinion before everyone tires to jump on my back) you have your's I'm entitled to mine). Both great bikes in different ways. I grew up in the HD family so I suppose for me there is some degree of brand loyalty. Oh and BTW there is resale to consider!
Polaris has ruined Indian. It’s nothing more than than a victory (that they shut down to save Indian) rebranded as an Indian. Every part, fenders, tank, saddle bags, lower fairings and upper fairing is nothing more than repurposed victory parts. Aftermarket support is slim and dealerships are few and far between. There’s only 2 actual Indian dealerships near me and only one Polaris dealership and all of them are over 2 hrs one direction. The Polaris dealership is closest of the three and they won’t work on the Indians even though Polaris owns them. Seems everyone is blind to this.
Great review, couple comments
1. Nav will always work even after 2 years. The two year limit you spoke about is for the Weather and Traffic overlay on the nav.
2. You can run the touch screen from the bars there are toggles on the back side of the controls on your trigger fingers.
3. You can Bluetooth & WiFi sync nav maps.
Look forward to hearing what you think after a long time review.
The standard does not come with navigation. It throws a screen asking you to contact the dealer.
@@RyanUrlacher Yeah, the nav on the base is an upgrade...$500 I think. Admittedly, I have 2018 Chieftain with Nav and after 3 years I have yet to even use it other than to watch for hard curves on unknown roads.
@@RyanUrlacher You can purchase the GPS for additional $500 on the base model. The subscription you are referring to is for Live weather overlay and Live traffic after 2 yrs.
I'm glad someone mentioned this. Pay-to-play premium services are pretty standard, two years to decide if you like it and want to pay for it. I love my RM, but I really wish Indian would give a Satellite Radio option, I think that is my biggest gripe with the setup.
Funny my Indian Roadmaster I don't have to pay for GPS and that's a 2018. I found if you need apple car play on any system it's not worth having. I have used I phone and Android on my roadmaster and all the music and texts and calls.
I couldn't decide between the HD or Challenger. So I bought a Victory cross country.
Nice!
Good choice
You absolutely can't go wrong with a Victory. By the way the Challenger was designed and patented by Victory Motorcycle. But then they developed the original Chief / Chieftain line as well, right down to the art deco R2D2 fairing on the old tube steel framed Victory Touring Cruiser platform which was discontinued in 2006, so they've been around for a minute.
Awesome!!! I have a Victory Vision, virtually indestructible. I Love My Bike. I'm a left leg amputee and I can't stay off it... Ride Safe...
@@gregoryjohnson4319 you're not a left-leg amputee, you're a gosh dang beast. Keep it up bro
The bottom line we have two american made motorcycles to choose from and thats a good thing .
True that.
Switched from a 2015 harley street glide special to a 2019 Indian chieftain limited and no regrets.
A 2019 street glide would be a big upgrade too lol
Lots of cons i owed a street glide. A chief classic and a now a Challenger limited. I will never own another bike. Simply far more superior ride. Someone who has had 3 lumbar injuries the Harley beats the hell out of your tail.
You do a bike evaluation like I do! Great job. Great bike too. Just, well, not a Harley. I came from many, many years on a gold wing. Oddly the Indian touring bikes remind me a lot of what the wings used to be. The Harley has some huge disappointments (suspension etc) but there are numerous aftermarket fixes.
I appreciate a lot of what you’re doing but this video missed the mark… your bias was worse than a political channel. If you like the Harley more that’s cool but you dismissed all of the positives and made a big deal out of the cons. You tried to reel it in at the end there but for me the damage was done. Not trying to hate just giving honest feedback.
Thanks for the review, the Indian never had a chance. Definitely a biased opinion, but hey you like what you like.
@14:42 you can't tell me you don't look like a badass haha. I respect the review, but this is NOT a copy. All fairings resemble something from another. However, the performance, braking and suspension on the Challenger are so insanely good the HD feels like a caveman's toy. It's a bummer you didn't notice the lever-side toggles, that you mentioned the HD having, but didn't notice on the Indian!
I ride dozens of both more frequently than I expected. The Challenger balances like a 500lb sport touring bike, and has the power to match. Impressively mannered at low speeds. Insanely refined and will rip the throat out of any bagger you can throw at it! The only downfall you seem to have in this review is you're riding it like you're limited, as you are on an HD. You're not limited! This is a true "Performance Bagger". It's hard to leave your 140+ HP sportbike behind for an HD, due to its piss poor high speed power. The Indian is a punch to the face that we all wished we could find. Here it is.
"King of the Baggers" Champion 2 years straight.
Good review Ryan. As for the Harley audio system id rather have an aftermarket system installed than the boom box. I have friends with both and the boom box guys would get aftermarket if they had to do it again. Myself, I was in a toss-up between buying a Harley heritage classic V107 or the Indian super chief limited. I test rode them both & I ended up getting a 2020 harley heritage classic V107 in vivid black. The Indian is beautiful and rode nicely. I don't have anything bad to say about the bike but my dream bike was a harley and finally got a brand new one. If i thought the Indian all around rode better it would have been a very tough decision but it didn't ride better. My issue with Indian itself is the lack of dealerships.
In one of your documentaries Big Daddy rides a Chieftain and says he wants to compare it to his Harley, is there a video of his thoughts after that trip?
I personally would not want any of the technology you're talking about. None of it. Give me a bare bones bike like a softail or a road king or an Indian springfield darkhorse.
I could have bought either bike last summer. I chose the Roadglide. That Polaris is butt ugly.
Harley=going China, Indian = 🇺🇸!
I ride both an Indian and a Harley, both are terrific bikes, but the ownership experience of Harley is much better. Not only are there more dealers, if you have an issue on the road, there are a lot more independent mechanics who will work on Harley as well. Indian dealerships also seem to have less corporate oversight than Harley, so there is less consistency among them. H.O.G. is a large and active group, IMRG gets no corporate and little dealer support, and doesn't really do much in most areas. Bike for bike, both are great. Company for company, I think Indian still has a lot of work to do.
Sounds pretty quiet. I like my 114 engine 🤪🤪🤪
114 with Stage 2 torque cam is all we need for everyday riding.
You might like the way it sounds, but you'll get destroyed by a Challenger
@@joevsfoodAnd we'd all get destroyed by some kid on a 650 crotch rocket :-)
@@sportyonetaubert5923 yes sir we would.
@@joevsfood not mine 🤪🤪
i'll stick with my Harley !!
Great review been years since been on that canyon road. 🤓😎 nice. Harley does need to step up there game with things. 😎🏍💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦
Keeping my harley
It’s a personal thing with what you want to ride , I will stay with my HD thanks Ryan
U betcha
@@RyanUrlacher obviously you are VERY BIASED and like the harley wobbleson better who cares . same old PROBLEMS , SUMPING ISSUES, BAD CAM PLATE cheaply made cast design . so you have to spend thousands of dollars to fix harleys mistakes cause they know you will . poor in denial H.D . guy's
I don’t know where brad gets his information from but I definitely haven’t had the issues he’s referring to , I guess he’s a H-D hater
Wow they stole the industrial denim grey on black from H-D ... looks good though, real similar to the road glide
I agree, Indian should put crash bars on it from the Factory.
I agree with some of the other comments that you were very biased and quick to point out a lot of cons on the Indian. You had more bad than good to say about it. Missed the mark on some of the infotainment information on the Indian. Also not a single mention of the Fox Mono Shock in the rear. Which is light years, literally light years ahead of the twin shock stock Harley rear suspension on their Touring bikes. And yes the Fox shock comes on the standard AND the Limited/Darkhorse. I know you said a lot of the cons and nitpicks were your opinions, but without having all of the information and knowledge on the Indian it was too easy to see your bias. IMO, the suspension, the brakes, and the motor are far superior to the Harley. Most people would agree with that. It’s just difficult for some people to get past the aesthetics and the plastic covers and such you mentioned.
You are correct sir. I think he should have gotten more information before comparing.
Any words on support?
One of the best things about touring on a Harley is pulling into the nearest dealership for tires and oil change. No appointment needed.
I talk about it in the video. Check it out
No appt needed? Idk what Harley dealers you go to but I’ve never seen one that doesn’t need an appt for service lmao.
@@coop4274 all over the country. I've never made an appointment.
Have you noticed how many Harley Davidson dealerships have close this past year?
@@RoadKing05FLHR I’ve never seen a dealership that would take you in for service without having an appt. it just doesn’t work that way. If that was how they did it they’d be swamped and never get anything done. Or your bike would sit there all day waiting for them to get a time slot open to do it lol. They don’t have 50 techs just sitting around waiting for people to drive in for service. Lol
No matter how you cut it a Harley is a Harley Davidson & an Indian is a Indian.
I am a Harley rider but Indian is a more maintenance free motor/bike, weather air cooled or liquid cooled Indian is a smoother , faster, and high technology machine.
The oil changes are so dam easy a 8 year old can do it especially on the Challenger and the single oil fill and single oil drain make it that way.
Then there is the maintenance free gear drive primary side in lieu of the chain drive system and full LED lights all around.
Will I switch to an Indian next time? Maybe if Harley doesn’t step up more like Indian did, but for now my M8 107 street glide special does me good and why? Harley Davidson is a legacy brand that most people have with style with Indian closing the gap every dam day.
This is what people don't understand. It's like the Victory cross country. One hole oil. Maintenance is so easy on my bike .
I have a 2020 Roadmaster. There is no charge ever for GPS. There is charge after 2 years only if want to keep the live traffic and live weather overlay which I believe HD also does not even offer.
I like HD Breakout a lot. So, I went to visit a local HD dealership and they wanted to charge me a lot over MSRP. So, I eventually bought a 1/12 scale model and I have become a happy owner now ever since.
The Polaris “Indian” bikes are great in that they push Harley to up their game. The 2021 Harley lineup is really solid in large part due to the competition.
Harley has changed relatively nothing in their 2021 Lineup other than taking away from the bikes. Cable clutch for example.
Opinions vary and I thought going to a cable is a step backwards
@@talkingrock7011 I have always preferred the cable clutch. For some reason it’s smoother for me than the hydraulic one. Also, I like the retro feeling
@@frank118 I’ve ridden with a cable clutch since 1970 and changed to a hydraulic in 2009 and perfectly happy and would never go back to a cable but that’s just me
This wasn't a review at all, I understand you prefer HD over Indian and that's fine, but there was so much information and features that was missed during this video. For instance, there was no mention of the front/rear Brembo brakes, hydraulically adjustable Fox mono rear shock, the full aluminum frame, inverted forks, adjustable electronic windshield, and read cylinder deactivation to keep your legs cool while sitting in that hot summer traffic (can be deactivated if wanted).
I agree. I couldn't even watch it anymore. I'm surprised cause Ryan makes good videos. Very bias in my opinion.
absolutely love the challenger!!
Sold my batwing and got my first Road Glide. Love that 2021 114. Love the ride on a shark nose.
How are you enjoying the masive 75 hp?
@@darrinburnet1477 it's as eligible for a speeding ticket as everyone else...
I test rode the Challenger and loved it. I owned Road Glides for 10 years but I really liked the Challenger a lot. It was much better in some ways but HD still has a few pros in its corner too. There isn't a clear winner, it all comes down to what the riders priorities are IMHO.
👍
“8668”....HarleyforeverforeverHarley....!!!💪😎👍
That scenery is amazing!😎
Amazing indeed. Where did you shoot the video? Thanks.
To me it sounds like you are indeed biased toward Harley Davidson. The Indian makes so much more power than the Harley. This alone is a serious advantage over HD. People pay big money to get their HD power output to match what the Indian comes with stock.
True dat.
From my experience I've owned both Harleys n Indians n I can tell u the Indian was a better built product from engine to trans to suspension overall..not like the M8 oil trans migration n multiple issues on my former 17' RGU..complete disappointment for sure n expensive mistake!!..Ride Safe!!
THE HARLEY PEOPLE NEVER WILL ADMITT THEY ARE BEING SCREWED BUT IT'S INDEED LAUGHABLE .
@@bradhardy2629 I need the number so that I can call cause I want to buy a Harley but I want one of these 10 that you're testing out my number is 218-969-0029 my name is Michael Mize and I just want a nice roll grain or super glad wrong name wrong getting out on the road and old style you're on my team there are 2007 2006 looked at 60 transmission that's what I'm looking for a mate
i agree. I walk past 2 harleys to get on my indian. i never regret taking the indian.
however when i do ride the harleys i always miss the indian
Great review. No one can do a better review on the pros/cons and differences of the two brands than you. Hate the sound of the engine and way too much plastic for me.
Thanks so much! Very nice 👍
So Squirt converted you 😄
Nice
Love both brands, but at the moment I‘d also choose an Indian
Not sure about "converted". I did ride and review it.
He didn't sound converted to me...
@@3dee106 yeah you‘re both right, but I made this comment before watching the video, would be pretty darft :D
Sounds like a paint shaker with a marble in it. disappointing. Road Glide! Shark Nayshun! lol
IF HAVE AN M8 MAKE SURE YOU GET AN EXTENDED WARRENTY YOU'LL NEED IT
I am a french biker and I can tell you that I will never buy an other bike than Harley, I'll love it since twenty years now, I am 62 years old, I own three Harleys and I hope they will drive me till the end of my life...
Harley for ever... for ever Harley...
Thank you Ryan for your videos .
Yeah, Harley Davidson preys on people like you lol
@@joevsfood 👍
@@carolinarider5237 no disrespect brother. I have four Harleys. But I just switched to Indian and I am not looking back.
@@joevsfood none taken. I'm agreeing with you. If I ever buy other bike it will a Indian.
@@joevsfood and @Carolina Rider, no disrespect too, I prefer Hraley for the look, the rumble, the tradition and the customisation possibilities...
Greetings from Russia! Cool! But we consider it the best Harley Davidson motorcycle in the world, especially on the evolution engine. Indian is certainly a beautiful motorcycle, but this is completely different, more so that a new model. I dream of buying a Roed King, I hope soon I will be able to order a motorcycle from an auction from the USA.
Привет из России! Круто! Но у нас считается лучшим в мире мотоциклом Harley Davidson особенно на двигателе эволюшен. Индиан конечно красивый мотоцикл, но это совсем другое, темболее что новодел. Я мечтаю купить Роэд Кинг, надеюсь в скором времени смогу заказать мотоцикл с аукциона из США.
Awesome! The Road King is a iconic classic bike.
Ride safe & Ride Often!
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Ryan nice review, the Dark Horse in matt grey looks better 😜👍🏻
The base model challenger comes in black and that matte grey this year....that matte grey looks awesome
I’ve had both but I prefer one button signal switch.
until you forget to turn it off and get slammed by a car.
It shuts off automatically after you turn.
Nice overview and comparison. I'm still leaning towards the Indian Challenger myself, mainly for the little nit-picks and personal preferences that you didn't like ( Turn signal switch, Water cooled, Windshield). To each their own, stay safe!
Challenger is a great bike.
@@RyanUrlacher You dont look like a young Guy...So i can talk real with you...Ive owned Metrics...a Victory...and 2 HD's...I am not impressed with electronic gadgets...I only look at the Basics of what Motorcycles are...If Indian makes a Bike with A plain windshield Leatherhard Bags with the Challenger Engine....Comprable to the Hertiage Classic Softail for under 20K...I would consider switching...
water cooled... no thanks
Seems like the Indian would be closer to the Gold Wing as far as aftermarket and support.
He hasn’t ridden a Triumph Rocket yet....
I'm kind of waiting for Indian to bring back the inline four.
Nice review, the Indian motor won’t have motor issues like the HD ALWAYS does. The Victory bikes were the same, put gas in change the oil and go.
That's the dumbest comment.
True story bro
Not sure but I think that charge after 2 years is for the weather over lay, no charge for GPS
You are correct. They don’t charge for navigation.
Correct. Traffic, weather etc you'll be charged. And the standard model doesn't some with GPS.
Test rode the Challenger and then the RGS after meeting with you in Sturgis last year. Stayed with Harley but traded in 2 of my bikes to get the Road Glide Limited. Bumped up to the 131 kit before taking delivery and it’s a beast.
I bet! My dad has a '12 Ultra Classic with the 120R. Dyno'd at 141 hp and 140 ft-lbs, which moves that bike really well. Most fun bagger I've ridden.
Is it still together?
@@rickseibel5904 my dad's 120R is, still running great.
Better get use to seeing water cooled, un Harley looking bikes. Emissions going kick air cooled bikes into the dirt. Thats one reason Polaris quit production of Victory, because of Euro 5 and you now are in the end dayz of sportster. And as for Harley-Davidson shops, I got news for ya, you get north of wenatchee, hd dealership almost over 150 miles away there in Yakima, Seattle or Spokane.
My #1 complaint on my '19 H-D RoadGlide Special is the factory speakers. For the price point of this bike, the speaker volume are total crap. Volume / power is woefully inadequate if you are moving past 45 mph. At highway speeds I just turn it off. The speakers are too far forward for the set up and output. With a 3/4 or full face helmet, don't bother turning it on. This bike should come standard with an updated Boom amp and speakers and 4 of them. I am running the Stage 1 kit with SE slip ons so that is not the cause of the speaker quality.
Now this I can agree on. I had to upgrade my system to a HogTunes kit that has 2 front speakers and a 2x200 amp (which also powers the rear speakers but you lose the fader) and I separately purchased rear speakers for the Tour Pak and installed myself (easy). All in all I had to fork out $900 and $200 for a total of $1100 out-of-pocket to upgrade the useless stock audio.
That was a fair review. I must agree with your points Ryan. Either-or. your getting wind on the knee's. PS....I don't want to be looking at a screen while riding. Some are getting to busy for my needs. Eyes on the road.
I really enjoy my 2019 Springfield Dark Horse but never have ridden an HD so I can’t say one is better. Just comes down to personal preference.
Not a chance I’d spend my money on a Polaris. Just wait for the neck to snap, Polaris has a horrible reputation for standing behind their products. Just wait, you will see, lol
kinda like all the issues with just about every Harley on the road has CAM PLATE .. a pressed together CRANKSHAFT , REALLY .... how about oil SUMPING Issues . this just the beginning .. you want more ???
Not even close to the same. Harley has stood by me since my first Harley a 1982 Anniversary Sporty. We have 3 Polaris ATVs in the family as my experience with corporate Has not even been close to the same. Enjoy your Polaris and I wish you all the luck I never got. I’ll
Never buy another one again, that I assure you, regardless if they want to pay for the rights to use another name.