The Indian Super Chief Limited is a quintessential representation of American cruiser motorcycle heritage, blending timeless design with modern engineering. Manufactured by Indian Motorcycle, a brand with over a century of legacy, this bike is crafted for riders who seek a balance between classic aesthetics and contemporary performance. Launched as part of the 2022 Chief lineup to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the iconic Indian Chief, the Super Chief Limited stands out with its bold styling, premium features, and robust powertrain. It caters to enthusiasts who crave long-distance comfort, torque-rich performance, and a commanding presence on the road. Available in a single variant with three striking color options, this cruiser is designed to turn heads while delivering a smooth, enjoyable ride. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and how it stacks up against its competitors, offering an in-depth look at what makes the Indian Super Chief Limited a standout in the premium cruiser segment.
The Indian Motorcycle Company, revitalized under Polaris Industries since 2011, has a storied history dating back to 1901. Known for its engineering innovations and racing pedigree, the brand has consistently delivered motorcycles that resonate with riders worldwide. The Super Chief Limited builds on this legacy, incorporating modern technologies like the Ride Command system, keyless ignition, and advanced ride modes, while retaining the classic cruiser ethos with its steel-tube frame and low-slung stance. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or embarking on a cross-country journey, this bike promises a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is comfortable.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of the Indian Super Chief Limited, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale. These specs highlight the bike’s engineering prowess and design considerations.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Thunderstroke 116, Air-cooled, V-Twin |
| Displacement | 1890 cc |
| Max Torque | 162 Nm @ 3200 rpm |
| Power | 88 PS (approx.) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with wet, multi-plate clutch |
| Fuel System | Closed-loop fuel injection |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 14 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.1 liters |
| Range | Approximately 211 km (based on ARAI mileage) |
| Length | 2286 mm |
| Width | 1079 mm |
| Height | 1342 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1626 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 125 mm |
| Seat Height | 665 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 335 kg (with fuel) |
| Dry Weight | 324 kg |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic Fork, 46 mm, 132 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Dual Shocks with adjustable preload, 75 mm travel |
| Front Brake | Single 300 mm disc, 4-piston caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 300 mm disc, 2-piston caliper, ABS |
| Tire Front | Pirelli Night Dragon 130/90B16 67H |
| Tire Rear | Pirelli Night Dragon 180/65B16 81H |
| Emission Type | BS6 Phase 2 compliant |
Variants
The Indian Super Chief Limited is offered in a single variant with three distinct color options, each exuding a premium and sophisticated appeal. Below is a table summarizing the variants and their color schemes.
| Variant | Color Options |
|---|---|
| Indian Super Chief Limited | Black Metallic |
| Maroon Metallic | |
| Blue Slate Metallic |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Indian Super Chief Limited varies across metro cities in India due to differences in ex-showroom costs, taxes, insurance, and RTO charges. Below is a table showcasing the on-road prices in key metropolitan areas, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho as of April 2025.
| City | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 25,61,402 |
| Mumbai | ₹ 25,84,224 |
| Chennai | ₹ 25,38,581 |
| Kolkata | ₹ 26,09,129 |
| Bangalore | ₹ 26,54,773 |
Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on dealership offers, taxes, and additional accessories. Always consult an authorized Indian Motorcycle dealer for the latest pricing.
About the Indian Super Chief Limited
Design and Exteriors
The Indian Super Chief Limited embodies the classic cruiser aesthetic with a modern twist. Its design pays homage to the original Indian Chief introduced in 1921, featuring a low seat height of 665 mm, a bobbed rear fender, and a steel-tube frame that exudes strength and simplicity. The bike’s exterior is adorned with premium chrome accents, including the iconic Indian Motorcycle badge on the fuel tank and dual exhausts that enhance its muscular profile. The LED lighting—headlight, taillight, and turn signals—offers both style and functionality, ensuring visibility in all conditions. The Pirelli Night Dragon tires, mounted on 16-inch wire-spoke wheels, provide a rugged yet refined look, complementing the bike’s retro-inspired design.
The Super Chief Limited’s dimensions—2286 mm in length, 1079 mm in width, and 1342 mm in height—give it a commanding road presence without compromising maneuverability. The 15.1-liter fuel tank is sculpted to blend seamlessly with the frame, offering a balance of form and function. Available in Black Metallic, Maroon Metallic, and Blue Slate Metallic, each color option enhances the bike’s premium appeal, with the metallic finishes reflecting light for a striking visual effect. The low ground clearance of 125 mm ensures stability, though riders must exercise caution on uneven terrain or during aggressive cornering.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Indian Super Chief Limited lies the Thunderstroke 116 engine, a 1890 cc air-cooled V-Twin that delivers a formidable 162 Nm of torque at just 3200 rpm. This engine, compliant with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms, is designed for low-end grunt, making it ideal for relaxed cruising and effortless acceleration. While exact power figures hover around 88 PS, the focus here is on torque delivery rather than top-end speed, aligning with the cruiser’s laid-back riding philosophy. The 6-speed transmission, paired with a wet multi-plate clutch, ensures smooth gear shifts, while the belt drive system offers quiet operation and low maintenance compared to chain-driven alternatives.
A standout feature of the engine is the rear cylinder deactivation function, which cuts power to the rear cylinder during idle to reduce heat buildup—a boon for riders in stop-and-go traffic or warmer climates. Despite its impressive torque, the bike’s ARAI mileage of 14 kmpl reflects its hefty 335 kg kerb weight and large displacement, prioritizing performance over fuel efficiency. With a range of approximately 211 km on a full tank, it’s well-suited for long rides, though frequent refueling may be necessary on extended journeys.
Interiors and Comfort
While motorcycles don’t have traditional interiors, the Indian Super Chief Limited offers a rider-centric cockpit that prioritizes comfort and control. The low 665 mm seat height makes it accessible to a wide range of riders, providing a relaxed, feet-forward riding position typical of cruisers. The saddle is plush and well-padded, designed for hours of fatigue-free riding, while the mid-rise handlebars are positioned for natural ergonomics, reducing strain on the shoulders and wrists. The footpegs are strategically placed to complement the laid-back posture, enhancing comfort on long hauls.
The instrumentation is a blend of analog and digital sophistication. A circular analog speedometer sits prominently on the tank-mounted console, flanked by a 4-inch Ride Command touchscreen display. This digital interface offers two gauge configurations, ride data, bike status, and turn-by-turn navigation, making it a practical tool for touring. The system also supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity, allowing riders to access phone calls, music, and contacts seamlessly. The absence of a windshield (standard on some touring models) keeps the design minimalistic, though it can be added as an accessory for wind protection.
Advanced Features
The Indian Super Chief Limited is packed with cutting-edge features that elevate its appeal in the premium cruiser segment. The Ride Command system is a highlight, offering intuitive controls via the touchscreen or handlebar switchgear. Riders can select from three ride modes—Sport, Standard, and Tour—to tailor the throttle response and power delivery to their preferences. Sport mode sharpens acceleration for spirited rides, Standard mode balances performance and comfort, and Tour mode optimizes efficiency for long-distance cruising.
Safety is bolstered by the anti-lock braking system (ABS), which ensures confident stopping power across varied conditions. The front brake, a 300 mm disc with a 4-piston caliper, and the rear, a 300 mm disc with a 2-piston caliper, provide reliable deceleration despite the bike’s substantial weight. Additional conveniences include keyless ignition, which simplifies starting the bike, and cruise control, a must-have for highway riding. The LED lighting package enhances visibility, while the Pirelli Night Dragon tires offer superior grip and durability, making this cruiser as practical as it is stylish.
Ride and Handling
The Indian Super Chief Limited excels in delivering a smooth, composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and low center of gravity. The front 46 mm telescopic forks with 132 mm of travel soak up road imperfections effectively, while the rear dual shocks with adjustable preload (75 mm travel) allow riders to fine-tune the setup based on load or preference. At 335 kg, the bike is undeniably heavy, but its 1626 mm wheelbase and low seat height make it surprisingly manageable at low speeds and during parking maneuvers.
On the open road, the Super Chief Limited shines with its torque-rich engine and stable handling. The wide Pirelli Night Dragon tires (130/90 front, 180/65 rear) provide ample grip, though the limited 125 mm ground clearance requires caution during sharp turns to avoid scraping the underbelly. The cruiser’s laid-back ergonomics and cruise control make it a joy for highway cruising, while the selectable ride modes add versatility for different riding scenarios. However, its weight and size can feel cumbersome in tight urban environments, making it less ideal for daily commuting.
Close Competitors
The Indian Super Chief Limited competes in the premium cruiser segment, where it faces off against formidable rivals from brands like Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and Triumph. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest competitors:
- Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114
- Engine: 1868 cc Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin, air-cooled
- Torque: 155 Nm @ 3000 rpm
- Weight: 306 kg (kerb)
- Price: ₹ 23.94 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Comparison: The Fat Bob 114 offers a similar torque-heavy experience with a slightly lighter frame, making it more agile in urban settings. Its aggressive styling contrasts with the Super Chief’s classic look, and it lacks the Ride Command system, relying on a simpler digital display. Priced lower, it’s a strong alternative for riders prioritizing raw performance over tech features.
- Indian Scout
- Engine: 1133 cc liquid-cooled V-Twin
- Torque: 97 Nm @ 5600 rpm
- Weight: 256 kg (kerb)
- Price: ₹ 20.17 – 20.73 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Comparison: The Indian Scout, a sibling in the Indian lineup, is lighter and more affordable, appealing to riders seeking a nimble cruiser. Its smaller engine sacrifices torque for higher revs, and it lacks the Super Chief’s premium features like Ride Command and cruise control. It’s ideal for shorter rides or those new to the cruiser category.
- Triumph Rocket 3 R
- Engine: 2458 cc inline 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled
- Torque: 221 Nm @ 4000 rpm
- Weight: 294 kg (dry)
- Price: ₹ 24.49 – 25.16 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Comparison: The Rocket 3 R outclasses the Super Chief in power and torque, thanks to its massive engine, but it’s a different beast with a muscular roadster vibe rather than a classic cruiser feel. It’s lighter despite its size and offers advanced electronics, though its higher price and unconventional design may not appeal to traditionalists.
- Ducati Diavel 1260
- Engine: 1262 cc Testastretta DVT L-Twin, liquid-cooled
- Torque: 129 Nm @ 7500 rpm
- Weight: 249 kg (kerb)
- Price: ₹ 21.49 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Comparison: The Diavel 1260 blends cruiser and sportbike traits, offering superior agility and a lighter frame. Its engine prioritizes higher-rpm performance over low-end torque, and its tech suite rivals the Super Chief’s. However, its avant-garde styling and higher price point cater to a different audience.
Market Positioning and Appeal
The Indian Super Chief Limited occupies a niche in the premium cruiser market, blending heritage with modern convenience. Priced between ₹ 25.38 Lakh and ₹ 26.54 Lakh (on-road) in metro cities, it’s positioned as a luxury offering, competing with Harley-Davidson’s higher-end models and Triumph’s powerhouses. Its appeal lies in its timeless design, torque-rich performance, and advanced features, making it a favorite among riders who value comfort and prestige over outright speed or agility. However, its limited sales and service network in India, compared to Harley-Davidson, can be a drawback for prospective buyers.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Premium build quality, powerful torque, Ride Command system, comfortable ergonomics, classic styling with modern tech.
- Cons: Heavy weight, modest mileage, limited ground clearance, premium pricing, sparse dealership network.
Final Thoughts!
The Indian Super Chief Limited is a masterclass in blending tradition with innovation, offering a ride that’s as visually captivating as it is mechanically impressive. Its Thunderstroke 116 engine, Ride Command technology, and classic cruiser design make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a premium touring experience. While it faces stiff competition from the likes of Harley-Davidson and Triumph, its unique combination of heritage and modernity sets it apart. Whether you’re drawn to its commanding presence, torque-laden performance, or luxurious features, the Super Chief Limited delivers a ride that’s both nostalgic and forward-thinking—an American icon reimagined for the modern era. For riders willing to invest in its premium price tag, this bike promises a journey that’s as rewarding as the destination itself.
