Indian Scout Test 2025
There are many ways to start an article about testing a motorcycle, but this time I want to do it differently. The model in question allows it. These are the new Indian Scout 2025, which we were able to get to know in depth a week ago and which are now available at the firm’s dealerships. What’s more, the latest member of the family was presented at EICMA: the Indian Scout Sixty in its Boober and Classic versions.
But back to the variants that concern us, I will start by talking about my own lack of knowledge about the model and the expectations I should have about the Indian Scout. In order to justify my ignorance, I will say that they belong to a niche segment, in addition to having the well-known Harley Davidson as rivals on the American game board. My first mistake was comparing them, which ended up being an advantage for the Indian and was a pleasant surprise when I began my first kilometers at the controls of the new Scout Sport.
I usually get my judgments right at first glance, but this time the American DNA hides a new platform that fulfills beyond the “posture” and the rock style. Indian Motorcycle itself, which regained its spirit and projection with the acquisition by Polaris, speaks of an evolution and not a revolution. However, the Scout’s adjustments do seem significant and a source of pride to me, so let’s get to know them as I continue to describe my first Indian experience.
Indian Scout 2025 test: New platform and more technology
The steel chassis of the new platform is made up of three blocks, but its final dimensions have not been modified beyond a tank with greater capacity. In addition, the silhouette continues to recall the 1920 model from which it is inspired and which you can discover under details such as the seat, the teardrop-shaped tank and unmistakable aesthetic nods for the most loyal customers.
The V2 SpeedPlus 1250 engine has also been redesigned and provides 105 HP of power and 109 Nm of torque which, with electronic injection, provides a balanced and smooth power delivery under the demand of the accelerator. The shift response is good, but the stock levers are extremely far away for small hands like mine.
The Indian Scout is available in five versions designed for similar audiences, but not the same. The Indian Scout Bobber is the market favorite and no wonder, its radical style with fenders, lower mirrors at the ends of the handlebars and 16-inch wheels give it a unique style. The suspension is 51 mm and offers the most aggressive stance of the Scout range. The Indian Sport Scout offers a different ride, with raised handlebars, 19-inch wheels and a sporty style with the club screen that is so fashionable in the United States. The Classic brings together the necessary details to conquer the most relaxed customer, the one who prioritizes design and comfort on their trips.
We were also able to test the Indian 101 Scout, a special edition that has 111 HP and, above all, is a pleasure to drive. Indian claims that the double front disc is not that important for its clients, but in my case it has given me the confidence to get the most out of a custom that runs and runs a lot. The inverted fork and the shock absorber with a separate bottle and regulation have also been key in taking the medal for the best bike of the day. Of course, it costs 18,955 euros and the cheapest Indian Scout starts at 15,200 euros (Indian Sport Scout Standard).
Many of you will now think that electronics are not for a motorcycle like this, but the new Indian Scouts do not fall short in this section. All Scout variants are offered in three technology levels: Standard, Limited and Limited +TECH. As standard, these Americans come with ABS, LED lighting and an analog instrument panel. The Limited trim includes traction control, cruise control, USB charger and three driving modes (Sport, Standard and Tour). The most complete equipment, called Limited +Tech, includes Indian Motorcycle’s 101 mm round touch screen with Ride Command.
This detail has left me stunned and would be more than enough reason to pay the difference of 1,000 euros between packages. Its touch operation is really good, even with gloves, and you can access different menus with information about the trip, driving mode, connected services and even navigation. Additionally, this level offers push-button keyless (side) ignition. The 101 Scout and Super Scout variants come standard with this finish.
Indian Scout 2025 test: I think I’ll buy an Indian
I would never have imagined a custom in my garage, but after testing the Indian Scout it is a recurring thought in my head and I came to the test with low expectations or, rather, a certain prejudice about its dynamic capabilities. What’s more, my first corners with the Indian Sport Scout were tense and unconfident, a relationship that soon relaxed until our trip became a calm, effortless and very harmonious dance.
The first positive point for the Indian, any of them, is its ergonomics. At 1.59 meters tall, the distance from the seat to the ground of 680 mm allowed me to maneuver from the motorcycle without having to suffer or reach on tiptoe. It’s the ideal bike for short guys like me! In addition, its weight is very well distributed and the center of gravity is low, so moving the Indian Scout with your legs is a breeze.
Logically, its driving position is not the most comfortable, but you get used to it. In that sense, the Indian Scout Classic is the most recommended and the Sport was the most uncomfortable, while the Bobber and Indian 101 Scout seemed very similar and relatively easy to me. Another obvious point, in my opinion, is how quickly you end up scratching the footpegs on a stretch of curves. Once you have grasped the limit, it is not necessary to lean the bike so much to have a great time “in a relaxed way”.
That doesn’t mean you don’t run, because running… they run a lot. Once again, the absence of a double disc in the “basic” models ends up being a negative point that should be commented on. Its 1,250 cc engine stretches a lot and its weight, more than 240 kilograms on average, is noticeable when stopping the motorcycle in front of a sharp curve. Indian Motorcycles talks about protecting the Scout’s aesthetics, an argument I buy for the Scout Classic, but not for the rest.
