08-03-2014, 10:11 PM
(08-03-2014, 11:40 AM)ThomWill_imp Wrote: I would dispute the claim that the engine is "visually stunning". I think the CB1100 engine is a real fine thing to look at, and the engine on the Indian Chief line is pleasing to the eye. The blocky thing on the scout looks unfinished to me.
Well, it is different at any rate. I want to like it, and kudos to Polaris/Indian for getting this new model out so quickly. But, is it really all that different from any number of Japanese cruisers? If not for the engine styling it'd be hard to differentiate from a Honda, Kawi, etc.
Polaris had an opportunity to do something truly unique here. A clean, injected two-stroke, a " precision cooled” engine that wouldn't need a giant radiator, or even a true air cooled engine (still a viable options in the cruiser market; can you say XL?). The ride and performance will need to be genuinely outstanding if Indian is going to " sell as many as they can make". I hope they do, but this bike is entering an extremely competitive segment, driven by noobs who are very price sensitive.
If nothing else it will be fun to ride one at Biketoberfest or Bike Week.