This is a review for guys like myself who love all motorcycles... To the tune of I usually keep a bike no longer than six months, just because I like trying different things. This is my third summer on my c14 now. I can't understate how big of a deal that is for me. It is based completely on the fact that with my SISF EVO flash and slip-on no bike that I've ridden in the last couple years has come close to the fricken ridiculous all around/every time I twist the throttle from any rpm power making me giggle like it's my first time on a bike. To me, the c14 is alllllllll about that motor! It needs the flash though, Kawi did a terrible job stock. If it wasn't for SISF, I wouldn't have had this bike more than a year. Anyways, on to my review. Most references in my review are in comparison to my c14. My personal specs(lots of times this helps when reading someone's review) are 37 yrs old, 6'1" tall, 285lbs with a long torso.
Comfort- Outstanding! Big deal for me, as I got bad wrists and an achy back. Obviously you can change bars, seats, floorboards etc. but stock fit me so well! This really stood out to me, as my c14 I'm only good for about an hour then I'm squirming. My knees and butt just don't agree with the c14. The Indian is really really comfy.
Motor- No contest here, and by far the only disappointment. Definitely enough torque to haul my wife and I around and cruise on the highway. Much more smooth and refined than Harleys 103(I haven't got to try the new 107 yet). There's no getting around the fact that there's probably 50 less HP to the wheel here. Deal breaker? Absolutely not, there's enough to be enjoyable. Just not close to a SISF EVO c14!
Transmission- Best I've tried in a big bore cruiser. Pretty simple, it shifts smooth and light. Surprised me even.
Chassis- Best cruiser I've been on. Harley's Rushmore models were kinda my standard, and Indian in my opinion has outdone them here. It's stable, rolls over fine for a big girl, and cruises at well over the speed limit with ease. Compared to my c14??? Obviously it's not that good, but all things considered it was great for the weight and length. Let's just say I was impressed. Knee draggers on sportbikes would be disappointed though.
Gauges/Infotainment- Best I've ever used period. Even better than vehicles. I can't say enough how awesome it is and how much I liked it. GPS, information, gauges, radio, etc. all looked awesome! Pure winner here, even better than Harley's Boom Audio.
Convenience features/extras- Loved everything from the cruise control, powered windshield, central locking bags, to keyless ignition. The only thing I regret not looking for was the heated grips. Maybe someone can clue me in on if they have them standard?
Summary- I really did enjoy these bikes. It's been a while since I've hopped on something and been surprised. I would have no problem having one of these in my garage. In fact, my wheels are already turning on how to make it happen. Is it a replacement for my c14??? Heck no... It is a great motorcycle though. Like I mentioned earlier, I never keep bikes long. Too many good ones out there that I want to try! While the Indian is not even in the ballpark motorwise compared to an EVO Flashed c14, everything else is great. I had a deal in place to buy a wing last year, and when it fell through it didn't bother me much. Great bikes too, but no soul in my opinion. The Indian's have that extra "thing" that's easy to become attached to. I feel a change a comin'
