When Indian rolled its PowerPlus 112 engine across the finish line for its third MotoAmerica King of the Baggers championship, it wasn’t just a victory lap—it was a statement. That 112ci powerhouse, battle-tested on the track, is now rolling into dealerships as an option for select models.
Among them are two head-turning additions: the all-new Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus. These models pack the punch of performance and the finesse of fine engineering, serving up something truly special for bagger and touring enthusiasts alike.
A New Breed of Bagger: Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Indian isn’t ditching its Thunderstroke line. Instead, they’re playing a game of addition, not subtraction. The Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus bring a fresh, muscle-car-inspired fork-mounted fairing to the table. It’s aggressive, sleek, and houses an LED headlight nestled within twin NACA ducts. Yes, it borrows cues from the Challenger and Pursuit, but it stands proudly on its own.
Underneath the bold exterior is what’s essentially the Challenger’s chassis, complete with an aluminum frame, monoshock suspension, upside-down fork, and Brembo radial-mounted brakes. It’s a setup designed to handle the liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 engine with all the precision and control a rider could ask for.
Meet the PowerPlus
Ah, the PowerPlus engine. A name that now carries weight on the street and the track. The 108ci variant churns out a claimed 122 hp and 128 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s plenty of muscle for most, but for those who want more, Indian offers the PowerPlus 112. For an extra $3,000, you get 126 hp and 133 lb.-ft. of torque—a nod to Indian’s racing pedigree.
And here’s where it gets interesting: Gary Gray, Indian’s VP of Racing and Technology, summed it up best: “There’s a replacement for displacement, and it’s rpm.” This engine doesn’t just punch hard—it keeps swinging as the tach needle climbs, delivering a broad and satisfying power curve.
Tech That Works for Riders
For 2025, the PowerPlus lineup introduces a suite of tech that balances convenience, safety, and control. Bike Hold Control is perfect for hill starts, holding brake pressure until you’re ready to roll. Meanwhile, an electronic combined braking system optimizes front and rear brake pressure, ensuring smoother stops.
But the radar-based features are where Indian gets clever. Blind-spot detection keeps an eye on what you can’t see, while a tailgate warning system lets you know when someone’s riding your bumper. And if things get dicey, a rear-collision warning system flashes your taillights to alert approaching drivers. It’s smart tech wrapped in simplicity—just what a rider needs without feeling overburdened by gadgets.
Touring in Style
For those eyeing the Roadmaster PowerPlus, the touring credentials don’t disappoint. The electronically adjustable rear preload is a game-changer for riders juggling varying loads or passengers. Add in the heated and cooled ClimaCommand seat, heated grips, and 36 gallons of storage with a remote-locking top trunk, and you’ve got a bike that’s ready for cross-country adventures or weekend getaways.
Dollars and Cents
The Chieftain PowerPlus starts at $26,499 for the base model, with Limited and Dark Horse trims adding a touch more flair—and price, starting at $27,499 and $28,499, respectively. The Roadmaster PowerPlus ups the ante, with pricing starting at $31,499 for the Limited and $33,499 for the Dark Horse. And if you’re craving that PowerPlus 112 upgrade? Tack on another $3,000. These machines will hit dealer floors in February 2025.
The Big Picture
Indian Motorcycle has done more than just slot a bigger engine into its lineup. The Chieftain and Roadmaster PowerPlus models mark a bold step forward, blending innovation and heritage into a package that’s as thrilling to ride as it is to admire. For riders who crave American V-twin character with modern performance and tech, these PowerPlus models may just be the perfect match.
Learn more at the Indian Motorcycle website.
