Indian Revises FTR Lineup, Introduces Challenger Elite for 2023
Indian Motorcycle has revealed its plans for its 2023 model year lineup. The company’s offerings include something new and plenty of updated options.
As a highlight of its lineup, Indian touts its new FTR Sport model, replacing the current FTR S bike. FTR Sport is a mid-range motorcycle, positioned below the premium FTR R Carbon and above the FTR and FTR Rally models. The FTR Sport boasts sporty componentry, including a number plate, chin fairing, and seat cowl.
The FTR Sport has a new four-inch round touchscreen display, which also appears as a 2023 upgrade on the FTR R Carbon. The display is powered by Ride Command and offers three ride modes—Standard, Sport, and Rain.
FTR Sport also comes with a new tank panel design. Color options for the new bike include Black Metallic with Indy Red accents and White Lightning with Indy Red and Black Metallic accents.
The FTR and FTR Rally remain mostly unchanged from their 2022 incarnations. That said, the entire FTR range receives a new sport exhaust muffler and re-tuned front brakes for a firmer feel. The speedometer has also moved up slightly for easier viewing and Indian has replaced the clutch with a new version that offers better performance.
The basic FTR model is available in Metallic Black with Lifted Lime branding or Stealth Gray with Orange Burst. FTR Rally comes in a Black Smoke paint scheme with a Desert Earth frame. Prices for the FTR range begin at $13,499.
Indian Challenger Elite
For 2023, Indian also introduced the exclusive Challenger Elite motorcycle. Limited to only 150 motorcycles, the limited edition bagger is available in Sapphire Blue Smoke paint with Black Smoke and Titanium Metallic Smoke accents.
A PowerPlus engine gives the Challenger Elite 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. As such, the Elite is identical in performance to the base Challenger.
Other goodies include three ride modes, electronically adjustable Fox rear suspension, adaptive LED lighting, heated grips, saddlebag speaker, and precision-cut five-spoke wheels.
Rest of the Lineup
Indian hasn’t forgotten the rest of its lineup in 2023. The entire range receives a number of updates for the coming year, with the highlights including:
- New slipper clutch to reduce engine drag and provide smoother shifting for all motorcycles with Thunderstroke and PowerPlus engines.
- Springfield, Chieftain, Challenger, Roadmaster, and Pursuit receive a redesigned LED headlight that provides improved reach and spread for better visibility.
- PowerPlus and heavyweight Thunderstroke bikes now have new integrated buttons on heated and heated/cooled seats that include haptic feedback to make them easier to operate with gloves on.
- The Indian Pursuit Premium Package now offers lower fairing storage compartments as standard.
- Bikes with the round four-inch touchscreen can now connect their Ride Command accounts to the Indian mobile app or website, enabling a number of web features, such as vehicle health and locator services.
Across the line, Indian Motorcycle has introduced an array of new paint colors, including Sagebrush Smoke on Chief Dark Horse and Stryker Red Metallic on Scout Bobber Sixty, Chief Bobber, and Roadmaster Limited models. Spirit Blue Metallic is a new color option on Chieftain Limited and Indian Pursuit models, while Titanium Smoke is introduced to Indian Challenger Dark Horse models.
Accessories
Indian is also rolling out a range of functional accessories for 2023. A partnership with CruzTools has resulted in three accessories, including two tool kits compatible with all models and an axle adapter for FTR models.
To add storage to most models, a new All-Weather Vinyl Tailbag attaches to select passenger seats or luggage racks. In addition, a new Syndicate Heated Seat is available for Indian Challenger models, while a Reduced Reach Kickstand is now available for all Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit models.
For the Chief line, Indian Motorcycle is launching two new bag options. The Chief Fork Bag attaches securely to the front of the handlebar for storing smaller items, like gloves, glasses, phones, or water bottles. The Chief Bobber receives a new water-resistant saddlebag option.
For added comfort, Chief riders can upgrade to an old-school muscle car-inspired Comfort+ Solo Seat and a two-up Syndicate Seat. The top is plusher than the stock seat and contours to hold the rider securely and comfortably.
The new Chief Syndicate Seat complements the Chief’s design while adding comfort and support for both rider and passenger. The Syndicate Seat is made with durable, weather- and wear-resistant black vinyl.
For Chief passengers, Indian introduces the Low Profile Passenger Backrest, cushioned to support the passenger’s posterior. Finally, the new Quick-Release Low Profile Trunk for bagger and touring models will be available in 58 factory colors.
Shipping dates for the 2023 bikes and products vary by model. The new offerings will begin trickling in from December with the 2023 Scout models.