Author Topic: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?  (Read 3662 times)

0 Members and 3 Guests are viewing this topic.

Offline toytuff

  • "watching the pinheads"
  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 4,349
Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« on: August 06, 2013, 07:21:16 AM »
The new Indian models are released. What are your thoughts?

I like them myself but would buy a Moto Guzzi California first.

Yes, in white.

tt

http://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/stories/2014-motorcycle-launch-video?wt.mc_id=7B3D6284-E3FD-E211-B3CE-0050569A00BB&wt.mc_ev=email&WT.mc_id=

Offline 70CB750

  • Labor omnia vincit improbus.
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 14,802
  • Northern Virginia
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #1 on: August 06, 2013, 08:39:18 AM »
I don't like cruisers, no matter who makes them.
Prokop
_______________
Pure Gas - find ethanol free gas station near you

I love it when parts come together.

Dorothy - my CB750
CB750K3F - The Red
Sidecar


CB900C

2006 KLR650

Offline Bankerdanny

  • Eventually I will be old enough in reality to be
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 7,626
  • Endeavor to persevere
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #2 on: August 06, 2013, 09:55:52 AM »
Well, I think of the 3 American brands, that is the one I would choose. I've always prefered the classic Indian over the classic Harley. And while I appreciate the Art Deco style of the full dress Victory, the hard bag Indian really speaks to me.
"The problem with quotes on the Internet is that you never know if they're true" - Abraham Lincoln

Current: '76 CB750F. Previous:  '75 CB550F, 2007 Yamaha Vino 125 Scooter, '75 Harley FXE Superglide, '77 GL1000, '77 CB550k, '68 Suzuki K10 80, '68 Yamaha YR2, '69 BMW R69S, '71 Honda SL175, '02 Royal Enfield Bullet 500, '89 Yamaha FJ1200

Offline toytuff

  • "watching the pinheads"
  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 4,349
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #3 on: August 06, 2013, 12:56:41 PM »
Well, I think of the 3 American brands, that is the one I would choose. I've always prefered the classic Indian over the classic Harley. And while I appreciate the Art Deco style of the full dress Victory, the hard bag Indian really speaks to me.

That's the one I liked also. For less I could buy the Moto Guzzi California Touring.

tt

Offline andy750

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 7,938
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #4 on: August 06, 2013, 01:21:45 PM »
I much prefer the Indian styling  to the Moto Guzzi. While not perfect (what is?) I actually like the Indian line up and hope they are a hit. While I wouldnt buy one myself I hope it gets a few Harley guys interested. Competition is good!
Current bikes
1. CB750K4: Long distance bike, 17 countries and counting...2001 - Trans-USA-Mexico, 2003 - European Tour, 2004 - SOHC Easy Rider Trip , 2008 - Adirondack Tour 2-up , 2013 - Tail of the Dragon Tour , 2017: 836 kit install and bottom end rebuild. And rebirth: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,173213.msg2029836.html#msg2029836
2. CB750/810cc K2  - road racer with JMR worked head 71 hp
3. Yamaha Tenere T700 2022

Where did you go on your bike today? - http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=45183.2350

Offline HotCarl73

  • Enthusiast
  • **
  • Posts: 121
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #5 on: August 06, 2013, 02:18:15 PM »
i suppose i'd buy a new indian over a new harley. but i don't really like cruisers. at least with the indian, i wouldn't necessarily be lumped in with "those types" that ride harleys. you know, dentists and accountants. i'm not that old, but i remember the good old days, when i was riding my jap crap, and if i accidentally waved at a harley i was ignored or, if he was in a good mood, given the finger. now i see the harley guys waving at guys on chinese scooters. what happened?
1973 Honda CB750 Flake Sunrise Orange
1974 Honda CB750 Flake Sunrise Orange (In Pieces)
1995 Ural Tourist
2005 Honda 919

Offline Killer Canary

  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 1,805
  • Typical Bran Muffin
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #6 on: August 06, 2013, 02:41:21 PM »
Alternative went mainstream.
If it's worth doing at all it's worth over-doing.
Honda MT250, CB400F, CB450K, CB550, GL500, CBR929
Kawi GPz900, H1

Offline bjatwood

  • I never claimed to be an
  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 976
  • 1973 CB750-K3
    • Minbikers Proboards
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #7 on: August 06, 2013, 02:42:52 PM »
I think the new Indians will give the HD boys a run at it. As if I would buy one, probably not. If I wanted a bagger I would buy a Honda F6B.  ;)
Brian
#24193

I believe that the Finest things are the most thoughtfully made, not the most expensive!
http://minibikers.proboards.com/

Online Stev-o

  • Ain't no
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 34,320
  • Central Texas
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #8 on: August 06, 2013, 07:27:42 PM »
Thanks, but no thanks.
'74 "Big Bang" Honda 750K [836].....'76 Honda 550F.....K3 Park Racer!......and a Bomber!............plus plus plus.........

Offline seaninc

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 33
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #9 on: August 06, 2013, 07:41:41 PM »
I think the new Indians will give the HD boys a run at it. As if I would buy one, probably not. If I wanted a bagger I would buy a Honda F6B.  ;)

If I wanted a bagger I would ask my grandkids to put me down :P

In all seriousness these are some attractive bikes. I look forward to seeing them on the road.

Offline lone*X

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 1,126
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #10 on: August 06, 2013, 07:54:09 PM »
I like cruiser's.  Its name implies exactly what their intent is.  Cruising, like in eating up 600 or 700 miles a day without much more than gas stops.   Never have found anything with rearsets and clipons that I could ride that way.  I like our Standards as well, mostly for the upright seating and nimbleness.   The new Indians are sharp looking and are being produced by a company I have a lot of trust in so yes, I would consider one.  But I would also give it a year to work the bugs out.   Remember, Polaris is new to the Indian name and producing a brand new bike with a brand new engine.  Nothing about these bikes but the name is the legendary Indian.
« Last Edit: August 06, 2013, 07:57:35 PM by lone*X »
Lone*X  ( Don )

75 CB550K1  
VTX1800C for two up cruisin.
Several others have come and gone but whose keeping track.
52 years on two wheels and counting.....
"The best safety feature of any motorcycle is the one God put between your ears.  It's also the least utilized"

Offline bill440cars

  • Feeling More & More,
  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 12,358
  • Tryin' To Slow Down "Time"!
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #11 on: August 09, 2013, 05:51:57 PM »


        I think they are getting closer to what they should look like, though I'm not all that fond of the "Molded Look" for the headlight. I was glad to see the new engine appear too. They said, when they first started this resurrection, that the first ones would be built for those who could afford them and THAT was to get them OUT THERE. That made SOME folks mad. But, they were being honest and looking to get them started and THEN they planned to work on making more affordable ones. Well, they are doing just that. Of course, even if they introduce some even MORE affordable ones, I STILL couldn't afford one. But, I am happy to see them back OUT THERE! 
Member # 1969
PRAYERS ALWAYS FOR: Bre, Jeff & Virginia, Bear, Trevor & Brianna ( Close Friend's Daughter)
"Because HE lives, I can Face Tomorrow"                  
 You CAN Teach An Old Dog New Tricks, Just Takes A Little Bit Longer & A Lot More Patience!! 
             
Main Rides: '02 Durango, '71 Swinger & Dad's '93
                  Dakota LE 4x4 '66 CB77 & '72 SL350K2
Watch What You Step Into, It Could  End Up A Mess!

Offline MoMo

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 8,275
  • Ride like you're invisible
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #12 on: August 09, 2013, 06:35:01 PM »
I like them, there is something about an Indiam Motorcycle that stirs my soul.  I could afford one but I have never spent more than 2500 for a bike...Larry

Offline Xnavylfr

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 1,102
  • Beers, Babes and bikes since 1965
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #13 on: August 10, 2013, 03:07:34 PM »
I currently have a 2000 Roadstar cruiser. I love the way it handles for an 800lb bike and I'm at 200lb 5'6". IF I were to buy NEW I think I would still stay with something already proven dependable, just like old car , there is a reason there are MORE Japanese still around than American. Even though HD American has been around since 1903, there are MORE OLD Japanese bikes still running and RIDING around than AMERICAN IRON.
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/products/modelhome/600/0/home.aspx

I KNOW I can ride all day on the STAR and not feel beat up when I decide to get off.

Xnavylfr(CHUCK)

Offline bjatwood

  • I never claimed to be an
  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 976
  • 1973 CB750-K3
    • Minbikers Proboards
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #14 on: August 11, 2013, 09:09:42 AM »
I have a test ride scheduled soon. I ill let you all know what kind of impression it leaves on my soul...or show it to you all in my garage!! LOL
Brian
#24193

I believe that the Finest things are the most thoughtfully made, not the most expensive!
http://minibikers.proboards.com/

Offline toytuff

  • "watching the pinheads"
  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 4,349
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #15 on: August 11, 2013, 09:35:31 AM »
I have a test ride scheduled soon. I ill let you all know what kind of impression it leaves on my soul...or show it to you all in my garage!! LOL

 8)

Can't wait. Ride the new FZ09 yamai if you find one.

tt

Offline rb550four

  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 2,472
  • I'm nobody's slave and nobody's master
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #16 on: August 12, 2013, 08:54:13 PM »
I like it. Wouldn't buy one for a year or so  , gives em time to shake the bugs and make improvements. Looked around for pricing, didn't see any of that, don't have a clue what they may cost. Did look into opening an Indian shop... Lotsa rules,mandatory employees,....... for 3 models and limited line of related product.
   Think it'll be a hard sell at a high price and not enough Indian swag to make up the difference for sluggish machine sales.... I mean compared to HD, HD could stay in business on just the licensed products alone.
  I hope it will take off.
A few Honda 500's, a few Honda 550's, a few Honda 650's, '72 cb 450, a couple 500/550/650 hybrids, and 2001 750. 
  550 Snowbike -Somebody had to do it.
  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,101678.0.html             
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137317.msg1550907.html#msg1550907

Offline Xnavylfr

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 1,102
  • Beers, Babes and bikes since 1965
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #17 on: August 13, 2013, 12:06:41 PM »
The HD swag IS what keeps them in business. They have more S%$T with the BIG HD on them than I've ever seen pushed by any other company.


Xnavylfr(CHUCK)

Offline rb550four

  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 2,472
  • I'm nobody's slave and nobody's master
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #18 on: August 13, 2013, 05:41:38 PM »
The other thing that would worry me about investing in  Indian , at this point there is no parts for old Indians so you can't make income from older stock( cause there is no older stock from previous models,cause there is no previous models).
I think  these folks are asking for the moon to  invest in this venture with little opportunity to recoup your investment anytime soon.
 I also believe that if they re manufactured to a T a top selling, collectable model from the past, there would be a parts department presence that could   replenish parts for an original older model for original collectors and new re man 2nd run owners. That may be enough to start a parts department and possibly man it.
  Otherwise I don't believe that this will be much more than a flash in the pan and those who invest will most certainly loose their capital quickly with no chance of return. There just isn't enough product.
 Too bad , the more I look at them the more I could want one.
« Last Edit: August 13, 2013, 07:20:23 PM by rb550four »
A few Honda 500's, a few Honda 550's, a few Honda 650's, '72 cb 450, a couple 500/550/650 hybrids, and 2001 750. 
  550 Snowbike -Somebody had to do it.
  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,101678.0.html             
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137317.msg1550907.html#msg1550907

Offline rb550four

  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 2,472
  • I'm nobody's slave and nobody's master
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #19 on: August 13, 2013, 07:58:50 PM »
With that train of thought...
 If GM reproduced the actual 57 Chevy 2door hardtop exactly as it was produced the first time (no modern day  look alike like the VW Bug) How many people would buy one wouldn't be the question it would be who wouldn't buy one? They were on the right track with the T Bird, Stang ,and Camaro but they were made too modern for some who are old school and too expensive for a sudo piece of history. But I believe if they were exactly as the original with crumple  zone improvements and air bags, both the sales of the new units and the sales of the parts that fit the original units could  have propelled the auto manufactures to the top of the car market, nostalgic design alone without parts compatibility with the original unit is not enough to make the line a success.
  I would like one old 57 and one new one please, with a 48 Indian and a new 48 Indian on the side.
A few Honda 500's, a few Honda 550's, a few Honda 650's, '72 cb 450, a couple 500/550/650 hybrids, and 2001 750. 
  550 Snowbike -Somebody had to do it.
  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,101678.0.html             
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137317.msg1550907.html#msg1550907

Offline Lostboy Steve

  • Old Timer
  • ******
  • Posts: 3,096
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #20 on: August 14, 2013, 07:48:59 AM »
I think that it screams victory cycles, and for that I hate it. I think they should have done a cross plane inline 4 as well.
1968 Honda Z50
1977 Honda CB550K
2018 Indian Scout

Offline rb550four

  • Master
  • *****
  • Posts: 2,472
  • I'm nobody's slave and nobody's master
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #21 on: August 17, 2013, 09:47:02 AM »
Cooper ( had one) Penton (wanted one) , wish they took off but again these companies targeted one area  of motorcycling too, not enough models, no swag,no dealers to speak of unless they carried other machines, minimal to no advertising , but a half way decent product, even though most parts were made by other popular companies to produce the final product they still couldn't make a go of it.
   Yeah it sounds like a flash in the pan. Name alone won't do it. Crap, now I want one.
A few Honda 500's, a few Honda 550's, a few Honda 650's, '72 cb 450, a couple 500/550/650 hybrids, and 2001 750. 
  550 Snowbike -Somebody had to do it.
  http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,101678.0.html             
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,137317.msg1550907.html#msg1550907

Offline MoMo

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 8,275
  • Ride like you're invisible
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #22 on: August 17, 2013, 06:04:19 PM »
Cooper ( had one) Penton (wanted one) , wish they took off but again these companies targeted one area  of motorcycling too, not enough models, no swag,no dealers to speak of unless they carried other machines, minimal to no advertising , but a half way decent product, even though most parts were made by other popular companies to produce the final product they still couldn't make a go of it.
   Yeah it sounds like a flash in the pan. Name alone won't do it. Crap, now I want one.

My friend, Mike, had a 175 Jackpiner-it was a sweet bike back in the day...Larry

Offline Terry in Australia

  • Really Old Timer ...
  • *******
  • Posts: 33,317
  • So, what do ya wanna talk about today?
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #23 on: August 17, 2013, 11:22:13 PM »
I can ride a real Indian Chief whenever I want one (My Cuz has a 1944 Military Chief) and I'm always impressed at how well it goes for a 70 year old bike. It'll do a genuine 100 MPH, and once you get used to the hand shift and foot clutch, throttle on the left and ignition advance on the right twistgrip, it's actually an easy bike to ride, it handles well and is remarkably smooth.

My cuz rides it a couple of thousand miles every year on the Indian owners rally, and apart from this year when he T boned a woman in an uninsured car who didn't give way to him, he's always made it back home again, so it's pretty reliable too.

I like the look of the new Indians, and I can see many similarities with the original bike in the new bike's design. It looks a lot closer than the previous "Indian" that used an S&S engine back in the early 2000's. I particularly like the "Naked" version, it looks like an art deco stylised version of the original bikes, and it'll be my choice when I win the lottery.

I don't like Jap Cruisers, to me they're just a cynical styling exercise to steal a few sales from HD, but no-one except their owners really take them seriously, and this shows in their terrible resale values. They're capable bikes, no argument there, they're just of little interest to me. Victory's are the same, capable bikes, just poorly designed. Does Arlen Ness work for Victory? Cheers, Terry. ;D
I was feeling sorry for myself because I couldn't afford new bike boots, until I met a man with no legs.

So I said, "Hey mate, you haven't got any bike boots you don't need, do you?"

"Crazy is a very misunderstood term, it's a fine line that some of us can lean over and still keep our balance" (thanks RB550Four)

Offline jas67

  • Expert
  • ****
  • Posts: 805
Re: Well, new Indian's released. What ya think?
« Reply #24 on: August 18, 2013, 05:00:35 AM »
Can't wait. Ride the new FZ09 yamai if you find one.

tt

TT -- that FZ09 definitely pushes a lot of buttons for me.   I've been coveting a colleague's Street Triple since he got it, but I would certainly test ride the FZ09 before pulling the trigger on the Street Triple.

Classic Honda:
1976 CB400F
1975 CB400F (project)
1975 GL1000
1968 CL175 (1 nice one, one project)
1967 CB77
1967 CB160 (2 of 'em, both projects)
1967 CL160 project
Triumph: 2017 Thruxton R
BMW: 2016 R1200RS, 1975 R90S, 1973 R75/5, 1980 R100S
Ducati: 2013  Monster 796, 2013 848 Evo Corse SE track beast, 1974 750GT, 1970 Mk3d 450, 1966 Monza 250
Moto Morini: 1975 (titled 1976) 3 1/2 Strada, w/ Sport clipons.
Moto Guzzi: 2017 V7III Special,  1977 Le Mans, 1974 Eldorado