Let’s start with a bit of a history lesson here. Indian originally built the Scout from 1920 to 1949 and it went on to rival the Chief as Indian’s most important model back in the day. A few years ago, Indian decided to re-image their most famous, innovative and versatile bikes with timeless craftsmanship plus performance, handling and pricing to appeal to riders of many experience levels
Weighing in at about 244 kilograms, the Indian Scout is the lightest in its class and having been derived from a clean sheet design, Indian has created a potent and precise middleweight cruiser that carries forward the spirit of innovation that made it one of the most storied bikes of all time. Boasting advanced technologies, design and engineering innovations; it offers a breakthrough chassis design featuring a lightweight and rigid cast aluminium frame coupled with a low 25.3-inch (640mm) seat height for exceptional comfort, balance and maneuverability.
This nifty little machine is powered by a liquid-cooled, 1133cc, 100 horsepower V-twin engine that has enough grunt to plant a grin on your face. This 60-degree V-Twin isn’t just about innovative styling. It also delivers a soul-stirring exhaust note and amazing throttle response. Plus, reliable, efficient liquid-cooling means outstanding performance in all riding conditions, even on the longest of rides. With its lightweight aluminium chassis, the Indian Scout delivers sporty, responsive handling. The engine is solid-mounted in the frame to increase stiffness and ensure smooth, predictable handling at all speeds. The Scout delivers a confidence-inspiring lean angle that both new and experienced riders will appreciate. This, combined with its lower centre of gravity, gives you exceptional maneuverability. The 16-inch tyres look chunky and work great in combination of its well-balanced suspension.
Its low seat height, maneuverability and lightweight design makes the Scout appealing to riders of all sizes and experience levels while relatively high horsepower and superior handling make it a bike that will thrill even the most experienced riders who are looking for an easy, lightweight, around town machine.
The thing I like the most about the Scout is its look. With its fleet-sided fenders, a styling cue inspired by the original Scout, the cast aluminium frame which was again inspired by the geometry of the original 1920s Scout. It’s minimalistic and that’s what I love about it. Somehow, such designs resonate better with me. Today’s Scout remains true to its rich legacy by featuring a headlight design inspired by the original. Styled after the original Scout, this solo seat gives you the ideal mix of cushion and support. And it’s covered in Desert Tan leather designed to withstand the elements.
The Indian Scout is one of the best-balanced shapes of any cruiser-type motorcycle that I’ve laid my eyes on. To give Indian full credit on this, it has successfully carried forward the lines and proportions of the 1920s Scout to work in the modern world.
For 2017, the Indian Scout is available in seven colour schemes and for the very first time, is available in two-tones. One is Indian Motorcycle Red over Black and one is Brilliant Blue over Pearl White with Fireball Red Pinstripe (a nod to the colours of the United States flag).
It has a great platform for customisation and is priced very, very competitively. For those looking to get an entry level cruiser and customise it to become a truly unique machine, the Scout promises everything you need, and more. Yes, most of you might think, what about the Harley-Davidson Sportster? Well, there is no denying that the Sportster is a very capable and customisable machine in itself but the Scout somehow manages to find that edge if it’s look is something that works for you.
Photography: Laura Huntley
