Indian Motorcycles has revealed three new Chief models using the firm’s new Thunder Stroke 111 engine.

photos_large_3Polaris Industries, owners of Polaris brand ATVs and snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles, purchased Indian Motorcycles in 2011.

Under the new management the company promptly began redesigning a new engine to replace the existing 45-degree V-twin that was based on an aftermarket Harley design.

Introduced in March of this year the new engine, called the Thunder Stroke 111, was designed from the ground up and is a unit-construction design that incorporates a six-speed transmission instead using a separate gearbox and primary case.

photos_large_5It is an air-cooled, 49-degree V-twin with three cams, two pushrod-actuated valves per cylinder, and displaces 1,811 cc (111 cu. in.). Claimed peak torque is more than 115 lb-ft.

Indian teased with images of a silhouette of a new machine following the introduction of the new engine. and released all information and pricing of three new machines last Friday, during the Sturgis Rally in South Dakota.

The base model is the Indian Chief Classic. Starting at $20,999 it features an cast aluminum frame with a wheelbase of 1,730 mm (68.1 in.) and uses a conventional telescopic fork and single rear shock.

photos_large_1Styling is unmistakably Indian, with large, valanced fenders, lots of chrome and the trademark Indian bonnet on the front fender.

There are also two touring bikes in the lineup. The Chief Vintage touring cruiser, starting at $23,399, adds a windshield and  fringed leather seat and saddlebags for longer-distance riding.

The $25,599 Chieftain is a full-on bagger, with a handlebar-mounted fairing with a power-adjustable windshield, remotely locking hard saddlebags, air-adjustable rear suspension and a 100-watt sound system with Bluetooth capability.

All new Indian models include keyless pushbutton start, three disc brakes with standard ABS.

You can find out more at indianmotorcycles.com.