In January of this year, Polaris Industries made a heartbreaking decision for many by retiring their Victory motorcycle line after 18 years. The much-loved brand was an attempt to be competitive in the American big bike market, and featured popular models like the “Cross Country” bagger and the Roland Sands-inspired “Octane.”
However, the end of Victory doesn’t necessarily equate the end of their styling. Though absorbed back into parent company, Polaris, bits of the brand have been shining through Indian Motorcycle’s most recent models -- the Indian Chief Limited and Chieftain Elite. Both are 2017 baggers, bringing Indian’s new releases number up to 12 for the year so far. The bikes’ foundations are built from classic Indian notes, like their 111-cubic-inch Thunder Stroke engines and “infotainment” navigation systems. They also feature inspired flairs from Victory, like open design front fenders that reveal new 19-inch contrast cut cast-aluminum wheels and a lower profile, echoing that of the Victory Cross Country.
There’s no telling what the future might hold for any motorcycle manufacturer. But for now, one thing is clear, Victory styling lives on in the Spirit of Indian Motorcycles.
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