Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse has a top speed of Approximately 185 km/h (estimated; Indian does not publish official top speed), produces 108 hp and weighs 430 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.2/10.
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse was introduced as part of Indian Motorcycle's expanded Roadmaster lineup, building on the Roadmaster's debut in 2015 as a full-dress touring motorcycle. The Dark Horse variant was developed to offer a blacked-out, aggressive aesthetic alternative to the chrome-laden standard Roadmaster, featuring matte finishes, blacked-out engine components, and dark accessories while retaining full touring capability. It became notable for combining premium long-distance touring features — including a fairing, hard saddlebags, and advanced electronics — with a sinister, custom-inspired look that appealed to riders wanting style without sacrificing comfort.
108 hp
Power
161 Nm
Torque
430 kg
Weight
Approximately 185 km/h (estimated; Indian does not publish official top speed)
Top Speed
Approximately 6.5–7.5 L/100km (13–15 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Thunderstroke Engine Durability
The 116ci Thunderstroke engine is known for strong long-term reliability, but early models (2017-2019) had occasional cam tensioner issues — verify service history before buying.
Strong Resale Value
The Dark Horse trim commands a 10-15% resale premium over standard Roadmaster models due to its blacked-out aesthetic and limited color options, making it a smarter long-term investment.
Premium Ride-Ready Tech
It comes factory-equipped with a 200W Rockford Fosgate stage 2 audio system, heated seats, and cruise control — features that would cost $3,000+ as aftermarket additions on competing bikes.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced as blacked-out Roadmaster variant with Thunder Black paint and dark chrome accents.
Thunder Stroke 116 engine introduced, increased torque, updated infotainment with Ride Command system.
Revised chassis, updated suspension, new color options, improved rider assist and audio technology.
Used Buyer Review
"A genuinely compelling Harley alternative that rewards experienced, patient riders."
$18,000-$28,000 usedThe Roadmaster Dark Horse is Indian's bruiser done in murdered-out black, and honestly it's one of the better used buys in the touring segment right now. The Thunder Stroke 116 is a gem — smooth, torquey, and genuinely reliable if the previous owner wasn't an idiot about servicing. Check the oil change history religiously. These motors will run forever with proper maintenance but get neglected and you're looking at expensive fixes fast. The infotainment system on later models is genuinely excellent, not just decent-for-a-motorcycle excellent. Ride quality beats comparable Harleys straight up, no argument. Where it gets complicated is weight management in slow-speed parking lot stuff — this thing is heavy and it will punish you if you're not ready for it. Aftermarket support is growing but still nowhere near Harley levels, so budget accordingly. Watch for fairing stress cracks around the lower mounts on higher-mileage examples, and check that the air ride suspension (if equipped) cycles properly. Dealers aren't everywhere, which matters when you're broken down in Montana.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
Inspect around cylinder base and rocker box gaskets
Test screen response and Bluetooth during test ride
Compress forks, listen for clunks, check for oil weeping
Ride at steady speeds, check for ECU recall updates
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Generally solid, but electronics need close inspection
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
Harley-davidson Ultra Limited
Harley-davidson Road Glide Limited
Indian Roadmaster
Indian Roadmaster Elite
Indian Chieftain Limited
Compare Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse vs Harley-davidson Ultra Limited
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse vs Harley-davidson Road Glide Limited
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse vs Indian Roadmaster
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse vs Indian Roadmaster Elite
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse vs Indian Chieftain Limited
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse? +
Thunderstroke engine oil leaks at gaskets: Inspect around cylinder base and rocker box gaskets (moderate) | Infotainment system freezes or loses pairing: Test screen response and Bluetooth during test ride (minor) | Front suspension clunking or premature wear: Compress forks, listen for clunks, check for oil weeping (moderate)
Is the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse a good motorcycle? +
A genuinely compelling Harley alternative that rewards experienced, patient riders. Rating: 8.2/10. Best for: Experienced tourers wanting premium quality over badge. Avoid if: New riders or those near no Indian dealers.
What is the horsepower of the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse? +
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse produces 108 hp @ 5,000 rpm (Thunder Stroke 116 engine, 2020+; earlier 111 engine rated ~83 hp), with 161 Nm @ 3,000 rpm (Thunder Stroke 116, 2020+) of torque. Top speed: Approximately 185 km/h (estimated; Indian does not publish official top speed).
Is the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse good for beginners? +
Not really — the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse is better for experienced riders (108 hp can be intimidating). Experienced tourers wanting premium quality over badge Avoid if: New riders or those near no Indian dealers
Is the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse reliable? +
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 4 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.
Is the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse good for daily use? +
Experienced tourers wanting premium quality over badge Fuel: Approximately 6.5–7.5 L/100km (13–15 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse? +
The Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse reaches a top speed of Approximately 185 km/h (estimated; Indian does not publish official top speed), producing 108 hp at 430 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/indian/roadmaster-dark-horse/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
