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Reviews/ Indian/ Roadmaster Dark Horse
WATCH REVIEW
8.2/10 Touring

Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse Review

"A genuinely compelling Harley alternative that rewards experienced, patient riders."

Experienced tourers wanting premium quality over badge $18,000-$28,000 used 2017-2023
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Key Specs

speed
Top Speed
Approximately 185 km/h (estimated; Indian does not publish official top speed)
bolt
Power
108 hp
@ 5,000 rpm (Thunder Stroke 116 engine, 2020+; earlier 111 engine rated ~83 hp)
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Torque
161 Nm
@ 3,000 rpm (Thunder Stroke 116, 2020+)
local_gas_station
Fuel Economy
15.4 km/L
36 mpg ยท Approximately 6.5โ€“7.5 L/100km (13โ€“15 km/L typical real-world average)
build
Service Every
16,000 km
scale
Weight
430 kg
(curb/wet weight)
settings
Engine
1,890cc Thunderstroke 116 V-twin
height
Seat Height
673 mm
cog
Transmission
6-speed
favorite
Engine Lifespan
100,000+ km with proper maintenance
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Used Buyer Review

The 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 โ€” 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 โ€” 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.

Pros

+Thunder Stroke 116 bulletproof reliability
+Ride quality crushes competition
+Excellent factory infotainment system
+Strong resale value retention
+Premium fit and finish throughout

Cons

-Punishing weight below 5mph
-Limited independent dealer network
-Aftermarket parts selection thin
-Air suspension failures get expensive
warning
Avoid if

New riders or those near no Indian dealers

description View full specs, facts & rivals for Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse โ†’

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