The Indian Roadmaster stands as a pinnacle of luxury touring motorcycles, crafted by Indian Motorcycle, an iconic American brand with a rich legacy dating back to 1901. Known for its commanding presence, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort, the Roadmaster is designed for riders who crave long-distance adventures without compromising on style or performance. Whether cruising through bustling city streets or embarking on cross-country journeys, this bike promises a seamless blend of power, sophistication, and utility. With its robust Thunderstroke 116 engine, plush seating, and an array of modern features like the Ride Command system, the Roadmaster redefines what a touring motorcycle can be. It’s not just a bike; it’s a statement of elegance and engineering prowess, tailored for those who demand the best from their two-wheeled companions.
Since its reintroduction in 2014, the Indian Roadmaster has evolved into a flagship model, catering to riders who value both heritage and innovation. Imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) in markets like India, it occupies a premium segment, competing with heavyweights like the Harley-Davidson Street Glide and Honda Gold Wing. As of April 06, 2025, the Roadmaster continues to captivate enthusiasts with its refined design, advanced features, and a riding experience that feels like “driving on clouds,” as some riders describe it. This detailed exploration dives into its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what makes this motorcycle a standout in the touring category.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of the Indian Roadmaster, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin |
| Displacement | 1890 cc |
| Max Power | 74 PS @ 5075 rpm |
| Max Torque | 171 Nm @ 3000 rpm |
| Cooling System | Air-cooled |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox |
| Fuel System | Closed-loop fuel injection |
| Mileage | 20 kmpl (ARAI claimed) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20.8 liters |
| Length | 2656 mm |
| Width | 1000 mm |
| Height | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1668 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 140 mm |
| Seat Height | 673 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 412 kg |
| Front Suspension | 46mm Telescopic Forks, 119 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Single Shock with Air Adjust, 114 mm travel |
| Front Brake | Dual 300 mm Discs with 4-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 300 mm Disc with 2-piston caliper, ABS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 130/60B19 61H (Metzeler Cruisetec) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 180/60R16 80H (Metzeler Cruisetec) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless |
These specifications highlight the Roadmaster’s robust engineering, tailored for both performance and comfort on extended rides.
Variants
The Indian Roadmaster is available in multiple variants, each offering distinct aesthetics and features to cater to diverse rider preferences. Below is a table of the variants available as of April 2025, based on data from BikeDekho.
| Variant | Key Features | Colours Available |
|---|---|---|
| Roadmaster Dark Horse Black Smoke | Matte finish, blacked-out styling | Black Smoke, Blue Smoke |
| Roadmaster Dark Horse Silver Quartz Metallic | Premium metallic finish | Silver Quartz Metallic |
| Roadmaster Dark Horse Bronze Pearl Metallic | Bronze accents, sleek design | Bronze Pearl Metallic |
| Roadmaster Limited Crimson Metallic | Enhanced touring amenities, vibrant color | Crimson Metallic |
| Roadmaster Black Metallic | Classic black finish, standard features | Black Metallic |
| Roadmaster Limited Black Azure Crystal | Luxury trim, unique crystal finish | Black Azure Crystal |
| Roadmaster Maroon Metallic | Bold maroon shade, premium detailing | Maroon Metallic |
Each variant retains the core mechanical package but differentiates itself through color schemes and subtle design enhancements, appealing to a wide range of aesthetic tastes.
Price in Metro Cities
The Indian Roadmaster, being a premium import, commands a significant price tag that varies slightly across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges and insurance. Below is a table of the ex-showroom prices for the base and top variants in key metro cities, sourced from BikeDekho and ZigWheels as of April 2025.
| City | Base Variant Price (Roadmaster Dark Horse Black Smoke) | Top Variant Price (Roadmaster Maroon Metallic) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 43.49 Lakh | Rs. 46.77 Lakh |
| Mumbai | Rs. 43.65 Lakh | Rs. 46.90 Lakh |
| Bangalore | Rs. 43.60 Lakh | Rs. 46.85 Lakh |
| Chennai | Rs. 43.55 Lakh | Rs. 46.80 Lakh |
| Kolkata | Rs. 43.70 Lakh | Rs. 46.95 Lakh |
Note: On-road prices will be higher, typically adding Rs. 5-6 lakh due to taxes, insurance, and registration fees. For instance, the on-road price in Delhi for the base variant is approximately Rs. 48.79 Lakh.
About the Indian Roadmaster
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Indian Roadmaster lies the Thunderstroke 116, a 1890 cc air-cooled V-Twin engine that’s a marvel of modern engineering wrapped in classic design. Delivering a hefty 171 Nm of torque at just 3000 rpm, this powerplant ensures effortless acceleration and a smooth, commanding ride even at low speeds. The engine’s air-cooling system harkens back to Indian Motorcycle’s heritage, while the closed-loop fuel injection optimizes efficiency and throttle response. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, the Roadmaster offers seamless power delivery, making it ideal for highway cruising or tackling winding roads. Riders often praise its refinement, noting how the torque-rich performance allows for relaxed, long-haul journeys without constant gear shifts.
The bike’s three selectable ride modes—Tour, Standard, and Sport—allow riders to tailor the throttle response to their preferences or riding conditions. The Rear Cylinder Deactivation feature is a standout, automatically shutting off the rear cylinder at stops to reduce heat in traffic, enhancing comfort in urban settings. With a claimed mileage of 20 kmpl, it’s reasonably efficient for a touring bike of this caliber, though real-world figures may vary based on riding style and load.
Dimensions and Ergonomics
The Roadmaster’s imposing dimensions—2656 mm in length, 1000 mm in width, and 1490 mm in height—underscore its status as a heavyweight tourer. Its 1668 mm wheelbase provides stability at high speeds, while the low 673 mm seat height ensures accessibility for a wide range of riders. Weighing in at 412 kg (kerb), it’s no lightweight, but the balanced chassis and low center of gravity make it surprisingly manageable once underway. The 140 mm ground clearance is adequate for most road conditions, though riders should exercise caution on uneven terrain.
Ergonomically, the Roadmaster excels with its plush, heated leather seats offering 10 individual settings for both rider and passenger. Adjustable floorboards and a push-button adjustable windshield further enhance comfort, allowing riders to fine-tune their position and airflow. The bike’s design prioritizes long-distance comfort, with features like heated grips and lower fairings with adjustable vents ensuring all-weather versatility.
Exteriors
The Indian Roadmaster’s exterior is a blend of vintage charm and modern flair. Its skirted fenders, iconic war bonnet headlight, and sleek fairing pay homage to Indian’s storied past, while the LED lighting—including headlights, taillights, and turn signals—brings it firmly into the 21st century. The bike’s robust build is accentuated by chrome accents (or blacked-out finishes in Dark Horse variants), giving it a premium, eye-catching appeal. Available in a range of striking colors like Crimson Metallic, Maroon Metallic, and Black Smoke, each variant exudes a distinct personality.
The Roadmaster’s storage solutions are a highlight, with weatherproof saddlebags and a trunk offering over 140 liters of capacity. Remote locking adds convenience, while the hard lowers provide additional storage and wind protection. The 19-inch front and 16-inch rear alloy wheels, shod with Metzeler Cruisetec tires, not only enhance its stance but also ensure superior grip and durability.
Interiors
While motorcycles don’t have traditional interiors, the Roadmaster’s rider interface and cockpit deserve special mention. The centerpiece is the 7-inch Ride Command touchscreen, a class-leading infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, and vehicle diagnostics. High-output speakers in the fairing and trunk deliver 200 watts of audio, with a dynamic equalizer adjusting sound for road and wind noise. The dashboard is both functional and elegant, with analog gauges complementing the digital display, providing a perfect balance of tradition and technology.
The heated seats and grips, combined with the adjustable windshield, create a cocoon of comfort, making the Roadmaster feel like a luxury lounge on wheels. The keyless ignition and remote locking features add a layer of sophistication, while the tire pressure monitoring system ensures safety and peace of mind.
Advanced Features
The Indian Roadmaster is loaded with advanced features that set it apart in the touring segment. The Ride Command system is a game-changer, offering intuitive controls and connectivity options that keep riders informed and entertained. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety, working seamlessly with the dual front and single rear disc brakes. Cruise control is standard, making highway stretches effortless, while the Pathfinder LED lights provide exceptional visibility in low-light conditions.
The bike’s three ride modes and Rear Cylinder Deactivation showcase its adaptability, catering to both spirited rides and stop-and-go traffic. The adjustable air suspension at the rear allows for a customized ride height and comfort, particularly useful when carrying a passenger or luggage. With features like these, the Roadmaster ensures that every journey is as enjoyable as the destination.
Riding Experience
Riders consistently describe the Indian Roadmaster as a dream to ride, particularly on long stretches of open road. The Thunderstroke 116 delivers a smooth, torquey pull that feels effortless, while the chassis offers stability at highway speeds and agility in tighter turns. The low seat height and well-distributed weight make it approachable despite its size, and the suspension—46mm telescopic forks upfront and an air-adjustable monoshock at the rear—soaks up bumps with ease. The bike’s top speed is around 193 kmph, though it’s built more for cruising than outright speed.
The heated seats and grips, combined with the adjustable windshield and fairings, make it a four-season tourer, shielding riders from wind, rain, and cold. The audio system adds a layer of enjoyment, with crisp sound quality even at high speeds. However, its 412 kg weight can feel cumbersome in tight urban environments, and the maintenance costs are higher than average due to its premium components and imported status.
Close Competitors
The Indian Roadmaster faces stiff competition in the luxury touring segment, with key rivals including the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Honda Gold Wing, and BMW K 1600 GTL. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Harley-Davidson Street Glide: Priced at Rs. 38.79 Lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the Street Glide is lighter (371 kg) and more affordable, with a 1746 cc Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine producing 150 Nm of torque. It offers a similar retro-modern vibe but lacks the Roadmaster’s extensive storage (66 liters vs. 140+ liters) and advanced infotainment. The Harley excels in urban agility but falls short in long-haul comfort compared to the Roadmaster.
- Honda Gold Wing: Starting at Rs. 39.16 Lakh, the Gold Wing features a 1833 cc flat-six engine with 170 Nm of torque and a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) option. It’s lighter (383 kg) and more tech-forward, with a lower center of gravity and superior fuel efficiency (25 kmpl). However, its design is less retro, and it doesn’t match the Roadmaster’s torque or audio output (200W vs. 55W).
- BMW K 1600 GTL: Priced at Rs. 33.33 Lakh, the K 1600 GTL boasts a 1649 cc inline-six engine delivering 175 Nm of torque and a top-tier mileage of 22 kmpl. It’s lighter (358 kg) and more nimble, with advanced electronics like adaptive headlights. However, it lacks the Roadmaster’s classic styling and extensive storage, appealing more to tech-savvy riders than heritage enthusiasts.
The Roadmaster holds its own with superior torque, unmatched storage, and a richer touring experience, though it commands a higher price and weight penalty.
Market Position and Appeal
In India, the Roadmaster occupies a niche in the ultra-premium motorcycle segment, appealing to affluent buyers, long-distance tourers, and brand loyalists. Its ex-showroom price ranging from Rs. 43.49 Lakh to Rs. 46.77 Lakh positions it as one of the most expensive two-wheelers available, reflecting its imported status and luxury features. The bike’s appeal lies in its ability to combine American heritage with modern innovation, making it a status symbol as much as a functional tourer.
While its high maintenance costs and hefty weight may deter some, the Roadmaster’s target audience—seasoned riders with a penchant for luxury—finds these trade-offs worthwhile. The bike’s customization options, including pillion armrests, chrome racks, and performance intakes like the Big Sucker, further enhance its allure for those willing to invest in a personalized riding experience.
Final Thoughts!
The Indian Roadmaster is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a testament to Indian Motorcycle’s commitment to excellence in the touring category. With its Thunderstroke 116 engine, lavish features like the Ride Command system, and a design that blends nostalgia with modernity, it offers an unrivaled experience for long-distance enthusiasts. Its variants cater to diverse tastes, while its pricing reflects its premium positioning in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Against competitors like the Harley-Davidson Street Glide and Honda Gold Wing, it stands out for its torque, storage, and sheer presence, though it demands a premium for its luxuries.
For riders seeking a bike that commands attention, delivers comfort, and embodies a legacy of over a century, the Roadmaster is a compelling choice. It’s not the most practical for city commuting or budget-conscious buyers, but for those who dream of the open road with all the trappings of luxury, it’s a masterpiece on two wheels. As of April 06, 2025, the Indian Roadmaster remains a beacon of what a touring motorcycle can achieve when heritage meets innovation.
