2018 Indian Scout Bobber in showrooms by December

First of the Indian Motorcycle model range for 2018 is the Indian Scout Bobber, a factory-built “custom” that cashes in on the current trend for chopped and bobbed retro-styled bikes, something arguably started by the Triumph Bonneville Bobber in modern times. Taking the 1,133 cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin from the Indian Scout, the Bobber is a stripped-down machine from America’s post-war past.

Carrying a sportier riding position, the Scout Bobber has its foot pegs moved 38 mm to the rear, and “flat tracker” style handlebars for a slightly leaned forward riding position. Rounding out the bobber look is knobby tyres and blacked-out wheels. The 60-degree V-twin pumps out a claimed 94 hp and 97 Nm of torque, with power getting to the ground via a six-speed gearbox and belt final drive.

In keeping with the bobber-style school, the Scout Bobber is lowered by 25 mm, and new forks round out the suspension package. The blackout treatment continues on to the headlight nacelle, exhaust and instrument panel, eschewing the traditional Indian Motorcycle red and cream instrument face, while chopped fenders complete the look.

Weighing in at 255 kg wet, the Indian Scout Bobber carries its fuel in a 12.5-litre tank that comes emblazoned with a new Indian tank badge. “Scout Bobber focuses on style with its low profile, chopped fenders and blacked out components; it performs really well too. We’ve fitted new cartridge forks up front, the new riding position makes you feel more connected and the engine produces a meaty 94hp making this a great bike to blast around on,” said Ben Lindaman, Indian Motorcycle’s international product manager.

The Indian Scout Bobber comes in five colours – Indian Motorcycle Red, Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Star Silver Smoke and new for 2018 is Bronze Smoke – and a two-tone genuine leather seat. It should be noted that the photos in this article depict the US version of the Scout Bobber, while the international version will come with handlebar mirrors and fender mounted number plate and is expected to be in Indian Motorcycle dealer showrooms by the end of 2017.

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