The Immersive Indian Scout 101 is more than a Cruiser.
The Iconic Scout model by Indian Motorcycle has several configurations, and the 101 model is considered the sports version of the range. It is a Cruiser at heart, but as Jeremy Webb discovered, it is far more than a laid-back mile muncher. The 110bhp engine gives the rider a turn of speed that propels the bike along at quite a lick of pace, and the Road Tests and Reviews staff had a blast over the two weeks they had the Scout 101.
You sit in the Indian Motorcycle Scout 101 rather than on it, with the saddle feeling like a grand armchair. The seat is low to the ground, adding to the sense of sitting down rather than climbing on the bike. The ride is luxurious thanks to fully adjustable suspension, but I don’t think it won’t handle twisties because the Indian Scout 101 performs like a sportsbike when you increase the speed and tackle the bends. The bike is agile, and you can fling it around when required. Superb grip comes from the Metzeler Cruisetec tyres (16in rear, 19in front).
The Indian Scout 101 feels low to the ground and has a seat height of 654mm so it is a breeze to mount and dismount and have both feet flat on the ground. The bike is well-balanced and never heavy, providing a confidence-inducing ride. The ride is impeccable, but the limited rear wheel travel of 76mm means you get a bumpy ride if the road surface is rough.
The size of the fuel tank has increased marginally to 12.9 litres, and the bike now has a fuel gauge, which eases things for the rider. Twin 320mm discs and four-piston Brembos at the front stop, the Scout 101 work well in all conditions.
The Indian Scout 101 has no direct rivals because it is a Sports Cruiser producing 110bhp from the SpeedPlus 1250 V-twin engine. It gives an adrenaline-fueled ride when you twist the throttle full-on. You can also bimble along on a relaxed ride and enjoy the admiring looks the bike gets from passersby.
The Indian Motorcycle Scout 101 is a Cruiser in style, but you don’t have to ride it like one. Its design and looks are classic but thoroughly modern, with a lovely engine and the latest technology. The motorbike is highly desirable, well-equipped and fitted with excellent kit. You get a fully adjustable suspension, hand-stitched seat, Brembo brakes, USB charger, and LED lights.
Indian Motorcycles offers a host of Scout accessories, 70 new and 30 from the previous generation.
Three categories are available: Commuter, Stealth, Open Roads, and Overnighter packs. There are over 30 riding position possibilities. You can mix and match accessories, and it is feasible to create a two-seater 101 Scout with a backrest, luggage, and footboards or add traction control and a colour dash to the Classic.
Three trim levels are available
Standard: LEDs, keyed ignition, ABS, analogue display and black paint. Limited: Cruise control, ride modes (Standard, Sport), TC, USB charger and solid paint options.
Limited +Tech package: 4in TFT display, keyless ignition, connected ride, solid and premium paint options.
The Indian Motorcycle Scout 101 is a tribute to the late 1920s original, highly respected and desirable in that era. The newest version is equally acclaimed and has plenty of power combined with performance. There is more to it than its Cruiser looks and instantly recognisable Scout design.
The Indian Motorcycle 101 Scout is a superb, well-thought-out machine that can be ridden fast, keeping up with sportier machines on club rides or being as happy chugging along with the journey more important than the destination. You can even use it as a daily bike, and what a commuter it would be.
Prices from,
New £16,095
