Living Off the Slab: 2015 Indian Scout Review

[@hanapaapinales]

Its 2020 and I watched this review because I recently picked up a 2015 Scout. Its good to hear confirmation that I gotta great bike for way under 1/2 the price and in great condition!!! Thank you

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you and enjoy!

[@erlegreer]

Craig Ripley I have been watching several videos while trying to decide what to get for my first bike. I found your video extremely better format than the others I've seen. You were perfectly easy to hear and you obviously have experience and knowledge.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

erlegreer Thank you sir, I appreciate your feedback.

[@erextrum]

Best review I've seen on the Scout and bikes in general. Look forward to checking out your other videos. Keep making them, we'll keep watching them!

[@blairguinea1337]

Top review Craig.................its about time the v twin had a different name 'Indian Scout' sounds perfect ! Thanks man

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Blair Guinea Your welcome, and the Scout is a great little bike.

[@SpudsMcHaggis]

Thanks for the review Craig. I like your layed back style and your unbiased point of view which, is very refreshing. Oh and I love the Scout too!

[@sqd8r]

Just wanted to say how refreshing it is to see a cruiser reviewer rate the Japanese models and include them as viable alternatives. Thx.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! The Japanese manufactures make some great bikes and usually at price points that are more affordable than the US or European OEMs, and often they offer more features... I think you should always evaluate all of your options before making a purchase decision.

[@GregHuston]

Nice review and high quality. So many vloggers say um often and have difficulty stringing together sentences. The production quality of this channel is higher than some of the "shows" I watch on MAVtv lately...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Greg Huston Thank you sir, I appreciate that!

[@DoesMamaKnow]

Excellent video and review of the Indian Scout. In particular, I like that the reviewer compared the Scout to other brands fairly, regardless of price point, displacement, or (especially) brand. I love that this video didn't turn out to be just another Harley enthusiast comparing nothing but HD against the new bike on the block. I also like that we got to hear and see the Scout running and being ridden. This is an exceptionally honest and fair evaluation. Many thanks, Craig. Great job.

[@josezerpa8177]

Hey Craig, Awesome review man! I ride a 500 Ninja (first bike) and I've browsing around for a serious upgrade. Im not a very tall guy and honestly never thought about getting a cruiser until I came across the new Scout Sixty at the Calgary Motorcycle Show a couple weeks ago. I set eyes on the Yamaha FZ07 last year, and thats the bike I intended to buy this summer. I sat on the Sixty and found it so comfortable and light, that it made change my mind, at least until I can test ride them both. I like the Sixty because of its smaller engine and lower price, without compromising in quality. I also think about the fact that roads in Alberta are perfect for longer rides, most surely the Sixty will be more comfortable than the FZ07 for that purpose. I also sat on the Gunner, sick looking bike but a bit too large for me. Something tells me that I will end up getting the Scout. Keep those great reviews coming! Cheers

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Jose Zerpa Thank you sir! You ;have two great choices in the Scout or the FZ07. I think it will get down to the style of bike you are interested in and the kind of riding you want to do. As you said, you will have to ride them both to make the final decision. Ride safe and have fun!

[@andrewtitus885]

hey there craig nice review ..a few of the bikes you reviewed I took for a ride before I looked at the scout. as soon a I got on the scout I knew that the scout was for me. man I love this bike. I just got it yesterday and my first ride I took it on a 75 mile ride. this thing rides like a dream. anyways keep up the good reviews And Ride safe

[@m1lkman1974]

Hey Craig...Just found your KZbin channel. Really enjoy your bike reviews. Keep them coming!! Cheers

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Keith Charette Thank you sir, appreciate it!

[@stevevasaturo4083]

I've read a few reviews about the Indian Scout. Many seem to talk about it's position in the market as an entry level bike, mainly because of its low weight and short wheelbase. The articles and videos tend to lean toward implying that once you become a more accomplished rider, you'll probably be better with a bigger bike. I'd like to offer a reason why a bike this size might be just right - even for an accomplished rider. I live on a small, but very hilly and very congested island in the Caribbean called St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. There isn't a straight piece of road here more than about a mile long, so any issues with long distance riding don't apply. Also, you are often put in situations where you are stopping on steep hills, sometimes with the road tilted to one side or the other to facilitate rain run-off. A light smaller bike like the Scout, which still has good power at low RPM's, is a real plus in this environment. I have many friends with larger Harley's, Yamahas, etc that tell me that they are just too much bike for the narrow, twisting roads, often dragging a pedal in a low speed, tight turn. One more benefit of a light bike here is that the police don't frown on a motorcycle moving up in congested traffic as long as you're not being an idiot. So, being able to easily maneuver between a couple of lanes of idling cars can be a real time saver. The Scout has a place at the top of the food chain in a small hill environment like St. Thomas.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks I appreciate your insight. The Scout definitely could be an entry level bike for some people, but I agree with you that it provides enough value--particularly with that engine and its performance--that makes it a great bike for many situations.

[@theodorebundy5310]

***** Well said...

[@forkstrip1554]

Not me. You don't get more upmarket than a big BMW touring bike. Or more top heavy and miserable to maneuver. I've done "huge", and I've had enough. I want a Scout.

[@darodarecki7030]

I've seen a lot of test indian scout but this is one of the best,

[@peterc7327]

Hi Craig, excellent review, many journalist either did not mention or just skimmed over the harsh ride of the back suspension. I went to the dealer with the full intention of purchasing the Scout but after riding it I decided it's not for me. At this time here in Australia the Victory Octane has not arrived. I must be gullible because the salesperson said the rear suspension of the Octane will be infinitely better then the Scout. For some reason I believed him and put a deposit down and then found out I was the first person to put down a deposits. I hoping you may consider test riding one to get your opinion about them. Cheers

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you sir, I appreciate the kind words. I will ride an Octane as soon as I can get my hands on one. As with the Scout I am sure it will be a fun bike, but from what I have read the suspension is basically the same. There is an upgraded set of shocks available that supposedly make a big difference, but they run about 700 US, again from my reading. Hopefully my dealer will get one for their demo fleet soon.

[@brjoseph001]

Superb review Craig - thanks! keep up the great work!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Benjamin Joseph Thank you!

[@davem4011]

Thanks Craig I like your refreshing review style and have just subscribed so please do more. Indian must be selling allot of scouts as the delivery date for Australia has been moved from Jan to maybe April and they cannot give a firm date on when they will arrive on our shores. Last week i cancelled my order for the scout when i was called and told January delivery wasnt happening. Will maybe look at a Victory or Harley for now. Oh thanks for pointing me to Sam fish's music great voice.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks David! Sorry to hear that the Scouts are delayed. I know they are just starting to dribble in back here in the states--dealers don't even have floor models. I guess that means they have sold a lot of them...? Yeah, Samantha Fish is great. You might also check out Sena Ehrhardt. She does not play guitar like Ms. Fish, but she has an amazing voice.

[@davem4011]

Craig Ripley Thanks Craig

[@AllenJeter20]

You hit the nail on the head it seems to me the target for this bike was the HD Sportster 1200C and in that regard it compares very well to that bike.

[@exexpat11]

Allen Jeter It is better than a Sportster and comes close to a V-Rod in performance. Front tire is thick like a 48. It is not a copy of anything or a retread of Victory bikes.

[@timcazes8523]

Great review my friend! Thanks alot. Will buy one to ride in France!

[@natedgomez]

Great review, I look forward to more reviews.

[@solsticequeen]

This is my first bike, and let me tell you, I am never letting it go. There is something nostalgic about owning an Indian.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I agree, thanks!

[@jebu181]

Hi Craig, thank you for the informative review. I know it is an old review, I was viewing this video and noticed what looked like a crack on the top of the rear shock (3:05 time slot), just wondering , thanks.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I see what you are talking about, but didn't notice a crack at the time. I think it is just something about the machining of the shock...but there is no way to tell for sure.

[@dry509]

Thanks..just what I was looking for. Very informative.

[@lucmercierqc]

Tank you buddy! Nice presentation. The motor!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Luc Mercier Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks!

[@TheHenry4]

Nice review. I went on a demo ride and took the. Scout and I want one but I do not have a garage and it deserves the living room but wife would frown on that. I have to stick with my DR650 in a shed...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

TheHenry4 I think we all have that problem...too many cool bikes out there and not enough room in the garage.

[@ArjunRathoreSingh]

Must say, even though i am sitting in India and the bike has just recently been launched here, this was a very good informative review and i thoroughly enjoyed it. Though i would like to request you comparing this bike with the Harley Davidson Street Bob. Do let me know your views on both the bike or if you have time on your hands please do make a video comparing the two. Thank you so much. :)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks Arjun. If I get a chance to ride a Street Bob I will definitely do so.

[@forkstrip1554]

I'm 6' 3" and I was comfortable on the Scout. It felt light, for a cruiser, and tossable. A lot like my old 2010 Thunderbird.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for the input!

[@rento1973]

Really great review Craig! The kind of info that helps real riders make an informed choice. Can I ask; what is the first piece of music at the beginning of the video?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, glad the review was helpful. The into music is called Gas House Gracie. It is part of royalty free compilation from Getty Images.

[@brianreynolds188]

Thou I would never buy this bike I thought your review was great and full info! Good job!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you!

[@laylabono4035]

Craig thank's for the video I will go buy one this summer...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for watching, I am sure you will love your Scout.

[@_Tom_B]

I found your section on comparable bikes interesting. Speaking for myself, the Scout gives me more for the price than those other bikes. I'm making the switch from sportbikes to cruisers, but I'm picky. I like standing out in a parking lot. Going with a more retro-styled bike is what catches my eye. So, that narrowed it down to the Harley 48, Iron 883, Nightster; the Yamaha Bolt; or the Triumph Bonneville. The 48 doesn't have a big enough tank for distance riding, which is a real shame, the 883 doesn't have the oomph to do highway and felt like it was going to rattle apart at highway speeds, and the Bolt and Bonneville also have similar issues with power for distance cruising. The Nightster is out of commission and you can really only find them in gloss black. The Scout is beautiful. It doesn't have the biggest tank, but big enough that I won't have to stop every 100 miles like on the 48. It also has plenty of get-up-and-go. Coming from a Triumph Daytona 675, I was really impressed with the pep. Another one of my search criteria that none of the other cruisers on the market fulfilled was handling. Again, coming from the sportbike world, I needed something that I didn't have to ride like a Cadillac around elbow turns. Just my 2-cents on another demographic of rider that would be looking at this bike and it's price point.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks Tom I appreciate you sharing your perspective. The Scout is definitely a great bike. Personally I would like to see Indian come out with a "Sport" and "Adventure" versions of the Scout. That engine has a lot of potential to create some really cool derivations.

[@_Tom_B]

Craig Ripley hey you bet, it was a great review. I really enjoyed it. You obviously did more research and put more thought into this than riding the bike and giving us your opinion.

[@rbt1234567]

Just threw a leg over one at the dealer yesterday. I'm 5' 6" and the fit was very nice. Didn't have to tip toe it to keep it upright as I have to do on most every other bike.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Ron Trepton Very nice!

[@dry509]

Hello..Nice review. However, I am interested in demo of a used Victory Vision for touring. What model years would you suggest I look at or avoid? Thanks.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I thought I would answer your question through a video. I just posted a long term review of my 2009 Victory Vision and the Vision line in general. Hope it helps and I did not get too long winded.

[@Roadghost88]

Sat on the new Scout this weekend at a show. It's a beautiful motorcycle, but you'll be replacing the hard seat just as soon as you can. It also feels lightweight and easy to handle. I don't consider anything 500cc or over to be an entry level bike, so there is no way I would recommend one for a first time buyer. The Scout is a serious bike and as more people get to know them that truth is going to come out. The local dealer has sold over 30 of them since they came out a couple of months ago, so this is going to be the bike that makes Indian, or their bread and butter motorcycle.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

The Scout does have a leather seat, so it will be hard at first. I did not find it uncomfortable, but I would agree that it would not be my first choice for a long day in the saddle. I have a friend who just upgraded to the Indian from her starter bike. It is perfect for her given its size and weight--she loves it. Yes the Scout is selling very well from what I hear from my local dealer. Polaris is definitely on the right track with the Indians.

[@rippin187]

Roadghost88 I agree, 250cc-500cc is the best starter bike anyone can learn on.

[@exexpat11]

Craig Ripley Aftermarket jumped right in with a few springer seats on the way to increase comfort of the short travel slant/laydown shocks.

[@funsieshelper5879]

I got the 2003 Indian and love it so much I got rid of my harley for it, much more fun to ride

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

FUNSIES Helper Awesome, glad you are enjoying it.

[@mntnbkr2002]

I'm looking for my first bike and I'm considering the Scout as a long-term investment, I just came back from the dealership and loved how the bike looks, your review was extremely helpful but I do have one question; you said it's catering to "smaller" riders, I'm 5'11" 235 lbs, would this be too small? I'm also considering the Victory Gunner, Victory Vegas and the Star Stryker; thoughts? I would consider myself an intermediate rider. Great review and thanks in advance!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

The only way to figure that out is to go ride all of the bikes you are interested in, everyone is different. All of the bikes you mentioned are excellent options but each will have a different character. I don't think any of them will be too much bike if you ride smartly; they do however have the power to get you in trouble if don't. But hey, that is true of every motorcycle. Weigh all the options that are important to you; looks, ride quality, price, dealer service, acessories, etc... then get the one that you like best.

[@tomyoung3087]

Thanks for review Craig I have been looking at scout lately, my bike getting bit old and tired so looking around. Was wondering about what it would be like as a tourer s I prefer smaller size bikes. Have a V Star 950 which has served me well touring all over North America , thinking it just might do th3 trick with few additions

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Hey Tom, the Scout is worth taking a look at. I know several women who have toured on the Scout. Not that it is a girls bike, it just tends to fit people of smaller stature. Most larger people find the ride harsh as the rear suspension has limited travel. Ultimately, only you can tell if it will work for you.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Hey Tom, the Scout is worth taking a look at. I know several women who have toured on the Scout. Not that it is a girls bike, it just tends to fit people of smaller stature. Most larger people find the ride harsh as the rear suspension has limited travel. Ultimately, only you can tell if it will work for you.

[@tomyoung3087]

@@LivingOffTheSlab true enough buddy, I’ll need to test ride one next spring , winter just settling in here in the Maritimes.

[@haydenjones6499]

Craig in regards to the roughness of the ride. After watching quite a few reviews on the Scout multiple have said this. Cant the suspensions be modified to make for a smoother ride? Im just in love with this bike & expect to make obvious modifications but is this one I can make?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Kelsey Jones Sorry took a few days to get back to you, I just got back from my club's rally in VT. There are aftermarket shocks available for the Scout. I have not ridden on any of them so I cannot give you any recommendations, but if you get on Google I am sure you can find them. One company is K-Tech Suspension, I believe they are out of the UK.

[@rento1973]

Thanks a lot Man. Ride safe! Peace..

[@needs2know1]

Thanks Craig! Great info!

[@rgvtv193]

Have you ridden any of the new triumphs at all?? You should try doing a demo ride on the new rocket iii roadster. I'd love to see a review on that. I ride one myself.....but it'd be nice to hear someone else's opinion.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Robert Vinson II No, however I would love to do so.

[@rgvtv193]

Maybe I could bring mine down to you......you could do a review video of it. I'm in Salem ma. Lemme know.

[@yoshit9819]

Great review. Yes it is a very fun bike.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, ride safe!

[@JojoCrazyCat]

One of the main things i like about it is, its no made with a bunch of plastic on it. My Honda VTXr has a bunch of plastic on it. I still love my bike, but would be better if it was not so much plastic. But im betting the price would go way up if it was not plastic.

[@schwartzkm]

The 3 gallon gas tank is ridiculous. The bolt has one but gets really good mpg. My son was getting mid 50's plus on our trip to Eureka Springs and back. This one gets much worse. 4 gallons I would be very interested.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yeah it not really setup to me a touring bike, although I know folks who have ridden them across the county. Thanks!

[@danieldowling8082]

Fully loaded with camping gear I get 54mpg on my Scout 60. Their gas mileage changes dramatically after about 4000 miles when things loosen up. I do long road tours and 150 mile range with a little margin seems fine, even in the west.

[@ams914]

Do you think the Scout could be modified for long distance travel fairly easily?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

ams914 A windshield and bags are available, however for me the lack of rear suspension travel is the limiting factor. A younger, lighter rider may not have any issue with the Scout for long distances, but for me it would be limited to a fun, around town bike.

[@ams914]

Craig Ripley Thanks. Maybe I swap out the suspension and upgrade the seat? Love this bike. But the dream is a multi-week tour of the country.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

ams914 That is a great dream. People ride across the county on all kinds of bikes, so if the Scout is the bike that appeals to you, don't let me discourage you. Take one for a test ride and see how it feels.

[@brianzaborowski2724]

I don't get why they didn't go with liquid cooling on the Thunder Strokes?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Brian Zaborowski They are competing with the Harley's for the "heritage" market in which most buyers are still looking for the clean air-cooled engine. Harley has taken the first step toward water cooling by hiding the radiators in the lowers and cooling the heads. At some point EPA requirements may force everyone to water cooling.

[@exexpat11]

Craig Ripley I don't mind water cooling as long as they make it look better than the 500 and 750 Streets. Way too much plastic on those. The Japanese have done them forever and improved the looks of those radiators.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

***** I think Polaris has done a good job incorporating the radiator into the Scout. We'll see what they do with the new water cooled Victories due out in the next year or so.

[@exexpat11]

Woo Hoo! I love tech advances!

[@boreragnarok]

I'm torn between the Harley iron 883 and the Indian Scout. Any advice ?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Filip Czuk My advice is to ride them both and get the one that you like best. You would also have to consider price and the dealership(s) that you would purchasing from.

[@boreragnarok]

Thanks, will do.

[@exexpat11]

Filip Czuk One dealer will not let new riders test ride on the Scout as they have had lots of lay downs. The power of the Scout is surprising to some. If you twist the throttle it is going to take off like a rocket.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

***** It does have a lot of power for a small bike. I thought it was very well mannered it you kept your right wrist under control. It is definitely a bike that inexperienced riders need to be careful on.

[@patrickjoseph9566]

No one ever mentions RESALE value -- what's any bike going to be worth a few years on down the road?? Which bike holds its price best?

[@tigerbalm666]

1100-1200 cc is midweight, not entry bike. 750-800 cc is an entry bike. Scout is my choice for me for best styling in class and value with just enough power for long hauls.

[@patrickjoseph9566]

Can the idle speed be set down? It idles too fast!

[@vonwalter8727]

As much as I like Harley Davidson Sportster, the Harley is missing a lot of the technology that the Indian Scout has, namely one very important one, liquid cooling that is really needed on hot summer days if you get stuck in a traffic jam.

[@rogersgjuk2]

excellent review..thanks

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Gareth Rogers Thank you!

[@tomking8433]

How would it handle in cities with a 55-65kg person?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Tom King The Scout would work well in city traffic. It is very nimble and responsive.

[@tomking8433]

thank you Craig Ripley

[@TheRealMichelleElynHogan]

Have to disagree with your feeling that the Scout is not a comfortable distance bike. It is fantastic. If I can do an Iron Butt ride and step off after a day's ride and still feel great, most will agree, not much else need be said.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I stand corrected. You are a much tougher rider than I.

[@BeaverPelt66]

i'm 6' 265 lbs- bike suits me just fine :)

[@buckminsterbuckworth408]

thank christ, im 6'3 225 and i was worried about being too large for this beauty. ride safe buddy.

[@fatharold1788]

how would she be on a 200 mile trip?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Fat Harold I think the answer depends on your personal tolerances. I know a women who is riding her's across country. She did change the seat out for a Mustang and has set the bike up for her size and reach. For me, I would prefer something larger and more comfortable, but that is just me. I am probably 80 to 100 pounds heavier that she is.

[@zacheryellis2352]

Love this bike

[@zacheryellis2352]

If I had to get a bike it would be the Indan scout

[@Dialysisforever]

I am short, so I like the idea of a smaller bike with a more powerful engine. What irritates me is, if I want to get the reduced reach seat, bars and lower controls, it will cost me extra. Why ? Just switch one seat, one bar and controls for the others. I would not mind paying a minimal charge but I dont see paying full price. Just my rant. Still like the bike. Nice review.

[@johnhudson9047]

Dialysisforever see if you can work those things in as part of the deal. You will still have to pay extra but you might be able to negotiate where you don't pay full price for them

[@Dialysisforever]

Thanks.

[@si1lentwarfare]

Looks to me like this motor is very closely modeled after harley's vrod motor. If this is true I'm sure this bike will have good acceleration and power

[@exexpat11]

si1lentwarfare Surprised at the power loss between motor and drive train. Still plenty juice to make it fun. Wonder what the V-Rod's loss is between the two. V-Rod engine was designed by porsche. Indian looks very mechanical like the V-Rod.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

***** I think the typical difference in HP between crank and rear wheel is about 15 percent (give or take). So if the Scout puts out 100 at the crank that would be 85 at the rear wheel. From the dynos I have seen the Scout is putting out about 88 to the rear wheel, so it is right about where you would expect. The stock Revolution engine puts out about 120 at the crank, so that would be around 102-105 at the crank.

[@mikewyatt8789]

Why not compare Triumph Bonneville?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Mike Wyatt The Bonneville is a nice bike, but I was looking for cruisers as comparisons for this video. I think of the Bonneville as a standard or scrambler.

[@mikewyatt8789]

Triumph has several cruisers in their lineup. www.triumphmotorcycles.com/bikes/bike-categories/cruisers

[@mikewyatt8789]

www.cycleworld.com/2010/07/19/best-cruiser-triumph-thunderbird-1600-2/

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Mike Wyatt The Thunderbird is a 1600 cc bike, I think It would be a better comparison to the Chief Classic than the Scout. In fact that would be a fun comparison...hmmm. Now I just have to get my hands on one.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Mike Wyatt The America or the Speedmaster would have indeed been good comparisons to the Scout.But in fairness, you did ask me about the Bonneville.

[@robertcook2572]

I like this chap.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Robert Cook Thanks!

[@lucasdelaguila1202]

I need to know the song on the intro

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

lucasdelaguila1202 It is a piece of royalty free music that I purchased for my videos called Gas House Gracie.

[@lucasdelaguila1202]

Thanks dude , and btw, i recently made a test drive with a Harley Davidson 1200 Custom and i really liked it. What do you think of that one compared with the Indian Scout. Im an Indian fan and i really loved the 52 Indian Scout. But i want a new bike comfortable to use in my hometown and drive to work and to uni.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I have not ridden the 1200 Custom so I cannot really do a fair comparison for you. I would just ride them both and get the one that works best for you.

[@p5tom]

Didn't you know about the victory OCTANE!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Of course I do. This is 2015 video. The Octane was released as a 2017 model.

[@RollingArtDesigns]

I'm just getting started into the bike business of buying and selling bikes, parts, customization, etc. although I've been riding bikes for over 30 years! I was stoked when I heard about the return of the Indian Chief by Polaris and I loved the looks of the new Chiefs, and when I heard the news that Indian would be bringing the Scout back I had to find out more! I love the performance of the bike but... I hate the looks of it, especially the engine!!! I can live with the chassis and the tank and fenders, etc. but that engine is just so f'ing ugly to me! I really was hoping that Indian was going to introduce the 111 Thunderstroke engine in a smaller, lighter, better handling chassis and call it a Scout! As someone who has studied the styling and aesthetics of bikes especially Harley-Davidsons and British Cafe Racers for most of my life! I want to be able to customize bike like this Scout and make some unique custom bikes based on it but I don't really know what could be done to this engine to make it look better, other than making some sort of covers to hide it under! I think the 111 Thunderstroke engine is a beautiful engine and I could put that engine on my coffee table in my man-cave and stare at it all day long like a work of art! But not this new Scout engine, it may have power but the looks are killing it for me! I think the Harley Sportster 1200 may lack in power compared to the Scouts but they definitely look better in my opinion! Just my personal opinion don't take it to heart but if anyone else feels the same way I do please comment!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I definitely agree with you about the Thunderstroke engine, it is a beautiful piece of machinery. The Scout engine is not the jewel that the 111 is but it is also a very different bike. The Scout is a simple, no frills, functional kind if ride, so I think the engine kind of fits with the overall look. If they are going to put a water cooled engine in a bike, I would prefer that it not pretend it is air cooled with fake fins etc... But each to his/her own. It is good that we have have so many choices.

[@RollingArtDesigns]

Craig Ripley I agree with you but they could've made it look a lot better than they did! I mean look at the H-D V-Rod it came out around 2000 and it's a water-cooled V-twin but it's still a great looking engine! I wanted to see the scout be more classy looking and have the timeless style that the original Scouts had! I wanted to see a modern interpretation of a board track racer or a race bike like a lot of the original Scouts were transformed into! Look at Burt Monroe's Indian!!! You can compare the new Scout to the H-D Sportster 1200 which is a pretty great bike and yet it's still very great looking! I don't care for the cast frames that Indian is now using which is a Polaris Victory rip-off (I know it's the same parent company) they could've spent a little more time on the styling aesthetics of the frame and engine! Personally it's just me but I think it's ugly and I'd rather throw my money at a H-D Sportster 1200, just like my 2008 H-D 1200N Nightster!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

wolfattack402000 A stripped down Chieftain--it has better handling that the Chief--would be cool.

[@RollingArtDesigns]

wolfattack402000 I really love that Indian Chief Dark Horse! It's a totally sick bike that looks really wicked all blacked out the only thing I would change about it would be to install some 18" Performance Machine wheels and brakes/calipers on it and change the exhaust pipes to a set of custom duals like Vance and Hines, etc.

[@billpumarejo699]

You did not convince me you really liked it. I feel that when you really like it your willing to buy it. And I don’t think you are. Sorry no sale. Does look nice for all those that like to ride and profile. Review bikes the you have your heart in them.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Seems like you have a misconception of what review is. I am not trying to talk you any buying anything, but rather just providing information and my honest opinion. I have yet to find any motorcycle for which I do not find things I like and also dislike. What good is it for a reviewer to only review bikes they absolutely love. That does not provide anything objective.

[@karigreyd2808]

I don't know why people hate plastic on bikes its light and doesn't rust.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Both of my bikes have a good amount of plastic on them, so I don't mind it, but if you are buying an Indian you don't want plastic fenders, etc. It is kinda like buying a Mercedes and getting a plastic-leather, dash.

[@drifterawh]

Im leaning toward Scout.Its up against Gunner.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Both are nice bikes. The Gunner is larger than the Scout. Ride them both before you decide.

[@drifterawh]

Craig Ripley Thank you.Their really different class of bikes. Road a ridged frame most of time. Now my back cant take it anymore.

[@vonwalter8727]

Dude, you are comparing an Indian Scout 1100 cc bike to much lesser bikes. You need to compare similar displacements.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I thought I addressed that in the video. Indian was touting the Scout as a bike for entry level riders, women and rides of smaller stature. I purposefully picked smaller bikes as my initial comparison to make the point that the Scout really is not an entry level bike. I then compared it to other bikes that were in the same price point and displacement as the Scout.

[@DV-cm3tb]

Umm no plastic parts? The hand controls are plastic and so are the turn signals... they look cheap.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Primarily I was referring to no plastic side covers, fenders or other body parts. Of course there are some plastic parts on the bike. I even mentioned that Indian cut corners on the hand, foot controls. And you forgot to mention the air cleaner cover, that is plastic well...

[@DV-cm3tb]

Thanks for the response. I agree with you. I love the bike. Just wish they didn't cut corners where they did.

[@XKSS]

I just cant look away from that radiator...totally ruins the design...what about going with oil cooling or a radical idea: air cooling! Sorry, but how wrong am I?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

If you don't like it, that's cool. There are several other air cooled models from other manufacturers. You may find that in the future those choices go away as EPA regulations force manufacturers to move towards smaller water cooled engines.

[@ALA-uv7jq]

Yeh good ol EPA. So where does that leave the Chief? I reckon Polaris should have put liquid cooled motor in Chief and smaller entry level air cooled motor in scout. OH WELL! This would allow Chief power plant to progress and scout would still be awesome with down sized version of 111. Also Chief could hide that radiator better, it ruins the scout lines and is a reason not to buy.

[@rockerbiker2445]

Without fins, the water cooled thing looks like a big water pump.

[@zipper978]

Well it kind of is lol

[@MrSTOUT73]

Indian? Victory? Isn't is all Polaris?? lol I think it's hilarious that a 1200cc cruiser is now considered an "entry level" bike. Back when I was in HS (late 60's) it was small Honda's, Yamaha's, and Suzuki's. I had a 305 Super Hawk and thought I was the cats ass. LOL

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Wayne Novotny Yes, times sure have changed...

[@crocostimpy]

I'm 56. Entry level bikes back then? Yamy DT250, used Honda CB360, CB550 fours, Kawi 400 twin, two-stroke Suzukis...AMF Harleys were considered a joke. The older guys (in their twenties) had KZ900's...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I hear you, if my wife wanted to start riding I would suggest something in the 250 to 400cc range. But in today's world we have guys in their 40s and 50s as either returning or new riders. Right or wrong, they don't want to start with small bikes. The Scout is the entry level bike to the Indian brand...

[@ALA-uv7jq]

The scout was the entry level bike back in 1920 at 600cc. Indian back then tried all the small capacities and they didnt sell. Now Polaris try to rewrite history with a w/cooled 1100 crusier. Ok they have done well to get Indian back on the road, but there is no need to rush this. If they bring out something that is a lemon it will ruin the whole game.

[@mackm3875]

Interesting, but it doesn't seem like there are any American bikes that can compare at that price point. You knew that was coming, though. Fat Bob? Gunner? That's more like it, IMHO.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I think the Scout was designed to compete directly with the Sportster line. There are several Sportster models that are within the same price point. I did not include the Gunner because while it is priced within $1000 or so of the Scout, it is a larger bike both in CC and in physical size. The Fat Bob is similar in style, but it is again larger and is priced a just under $16K.

[@mackm3875]

Appreciated. It seems the Scout is a lot more bike than the Sporty, though. The Scout seems closer size-wise to the larger twins. I wonder too with the weight discrepancy, if it will keep up with the Gunner or big-twin HDs. Either way, great video.

[@SolorideryR6CX650C]

what a slab?????

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Check out what the name means on my website. Thanks! www.livingofftheslab.com/about.html

[@sakkhonkaen871]

อยากได้จัง

[@curtiszwilling1844]

it seems everyones going liquid cooled..I just dont like the looks of those radiators..to each their own..pretty soon? there will be no choice.

[@raystrtryt5414]

no mamen yo tengo dos indian roja blanca soy de zac

[@bertagriese8282]

Stop talking about Victory, dude...!

[@Stimpy77]

It's all Polaris, dude.

[@bertagriese8282]

+Jon Davis of course - still no reason to mention Victory a thousand times when introducing an Indian

[@Stimpy77]

+Berta Griese oh and btw the Indian Scout and Victory Octane are literally the same bike, but for some hooligan tunings on the Octane.

[@sjcea0512]

The new scout is an overpriced and quite ugly bike !! That the ugliest looking v twin I've ever seen !! Epic failure