2020 Indian Challenger debuts with new PowerPlus heart
Indian Motorcycle has launched the 2020 Challenger with upgraded tech & its most powerful engine, the 1,769cc PowerPlus V-twin. The motor is capable of generating a class-leading 121bhp and 178Nm of torque.
By Divyank K. Bansal
The 2020 Indian Challenger goes on sale in three versions: Standard, Dark Horse, & Limited.
Indian Motorcycle seems to be in the mood for an image overhaul for its bagger series of motorcycles, which are known for their long-distance hauling capabilities. To accomplish the same, the American marque has launched the 2020 Challenger with upgraded tech, and its most powerful engine, the 1,769cc PowerPlus V-twin. For those not aware, the recently-unveiled PowerPlus V-twin is the brand's first liquid-cooled large-displacement motor and also its most powerful, capable of generating a class-leading 121bhp and 178Nm of torque. The engine comes mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and a multi-plate assist clutch.
As for riding aids, the 2020 Challenger is loaded to the gills with features like electronic cruise control, full LED lighting, ABS, and keyless ignition. The Challenger also makes use of Indian's Smart Lean Technology (not available on the base Standard version), which works via a six-axis Bosch IMU and adds cornering pre-control to the Dynamic Traction Control, ABS, and Drag Torque Control. All these features, along with the three riding modes (Rain, Standard, and Sport), can be controlled using the 7-inch RideCommand touchscreen system. The system, in addition, can even display weather and traffic updates and manage the Bluetooth & USB connectivity.
Coming to the underpinnings, the 2020 Challenger sits on a hydraulically-adjustable Fox rear monoshock and 43mm inverted telescopic front forks. For better handling & ride stability, the Challenger comes with a chassis-mounted front fairing and touring-spec Metzeler Cruisetec tyres. To manage the PowerPlus motor's power, braking duties are taken care of by race-spec Brembo callipers mounted on twin 320mm front discs & a single 298mm floating rear disc. Other standard bits include weatherproof saddlebags with over 68 litres of storage and an adjustable windscreen with about three inches of travel & adjustable air vents.
Expect this power-packed bagger to arrive in India sometime in mid-2020.
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