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Indian Challenger: a sporty touring motorcycle, engine and what to know when buying
Indian Challenger — produced since 2020, this is a large-displacement touring motorcycle with a liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine. We look at the versions, engine, and what to check when buying used.
Challenger in brief
The Challenger is a sportier touring motorcycle from Indian, featuring saddlebags, saddlebag mounts, and a modern engine. It's designed for both long journeys and dynamic riding.
This is the first Indian model with a liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine, setting it apart from the traditional Thunder Stroke motorcycles.
Versions
Most commonly found are the Challenger, Challenger Dark Horse (black paint), Challenger Limited, and Challenger Elite. They differ in paint, colours, and equipment.
Since the equipment varies by year, when buying, check the specific motorcycle's trim level.
Engine and transmission
Fitted with the PowerPlus 108 — a liquid-cooled V-twin engine (around 1768 cc), producing approximately 120 hp. The transmission is a six-speed manual.
The motorcycle features ABS, traction control, cruise control, several riding modes, and a large touchscreen display with navigation.
What to check when buying a used Challenger
Check the service history, oil changes, and cooling system. A liquid-cooled engine requires coolant changes according to the schedule.
Test all electronic functions: the screen, navigation, riding modes. Check for any error messages.
Check the side panels, mounts, tyres, brakes and suspension for signs of damage.
Versions and trims
Trims vary by market and year; here we outline the main versions.
Challenger
From 2020The base version with chrome accents.
- PowerPlus 108 engine
- Roof rails
- Side panels
Challenger Dark Horse
From 2020Black trim and a sportier look.
- Dark trim
- Often — black wheels and details
- Often — additional electronics
Challenger Limited / Elite
Later yearsHigher-spec versions with more kit.
- Often — more comfort and electronics
- Often — special colours
- Often — distinctive trim
Challenger versions compared
| Challenger | Dark Horse | Limited / Elite | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For daily driving | For style enthusiasts | For maximum comfort |
| Engine | PowerPlus 108 | PowerPlus 108 | PowerPlus 108 |
| Trim | Chrome | Black | Distinctive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€€ |
If performance and a modern engine are important to you, go for the base version; if you want more comfort and features, opt for the Limited or Elite.
Pros
- A powerful and modern engine
- Sporty driving
- Comfortable for long journeys
- Packed with electronics
Cons
- Heavy weight
- Expensive in the used market and to maintain
- The cooling system is more complex than air-cooled models
Frequently asked questions
How does the Challenger differ from the Chieftain?
The Challenger features a liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine and a sportier chassis, while the Chieftain has an air-cooled Thunder Stroke and a classic style.
What category is required?
The Challenger is a high-power motorcycle that requires an A category license.
Is the Challenger suitable for long journeys?
Yes, it has a windshield, saddlebags, and plenty of electronics, but lacks a rear trunk — so there's less storage space than the Pursuit or Roadmaster.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
