Hands-On! New 2023 Indian Sport Chief Impressions!

[@BrandonBicasso]

In depth video later this week. A lot to unpack since I rebuild these bikes now. 👌🏾

[@gregorykapanowski9540]

There is a cheaper way to get all this. Sell your bike and buy a sport chief. I'm willing to bet it would cost you less.

[@BrandonBicasso]

@@gregorykapanowski9540 Very possible. Depends on what you got the bike for, depreciation with miles, and what you'll get on the trade-in.

[@gregorykapanowski9540]

@@BrandonBicasso I'm leaning more towards if you have a 2022 chief. I see people selling them on the Indian groups for a reasonable amount. If you are more concerned with the performance, you could opt for the sport chief in black. You will get more bang for your buck. Considering the five grand or plus for the front end, the faring is $1000.00 for all the parts. The rear suspension is a minimum of $1000.00 to $1600.00. This is all just parts, not including labor. That's not even including the risers. You are easily looking at $8000.00 or more.

[@gregorykapanowski9540]

@@BrandonBicasso By the way, keep up the excellent work. You have quality content, and your delivery is clean, clear, and crisp. You bring it with the right amount of energy. Not overly annoying and not dull to where you lose people's attention. Keep up the good work, and hope the best for your continued success.

[@morriswhite5151]

cant wait!

[@JasonYergin]

The inverted forks, dual front discs, extra ground clearance, and slipper clutch are really great upgrades. I love how much Indian has stepped it up with the Sport Chief.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

I just wish they had gone with a PowerPlus. that TS116...It's 12 horsepower less than the Lowrider S's 117. 82hp vs 94hp. That means an LRS with a base engine, no aftermarket slip ons or anything, is already gonna be faster than a Stage 1 Chief, and almost as good as a stage2 chief. Where as if you go stage 2 on the LRS, you'll get at least 111hp to 120hp... I really wanted a PowerPlus chief.

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

Big bore n built best I’ve been able to find on the Thunderstroke is 125 HP. Plenty fast for a sport cruiser unless you’re buddy has a 150+ HP softail.

[@KlingonCaptain]

Can't watch now because I am out and about, but I am looking forward to watching when I get home later today, on my new 55-inch LG TV that my boss gave me for free. We were using it as a computer monitor at the pharmacy where I work, but we had too many and needed to free up some space. God blesses me in such interesting ways that I never expect.

[@dapras]

When I see a Brandon Bicasso video I Click

[@BrandonBicasso]

That’s support I love to see.

[@rolandjosef7961]

I clicked too then I lost track of time.

[@GraemeBlore]

Thanks Brandon. You really do know your stuff SO well, and the information you provide is very detailed, AND useful. Outstanding work brother, and trust me, I have watched and read a LOT of reviews over the last 50 years. Keep up the great work, and looking forward greatly to hearing your rider impressions on this new bike. I have a 21 Challenger right now, but as I age something like this, roughly 70 kgs lighter, would be a blast!

[@joevee9390]

Easily the best Sport Chief video on yt right now. Since you know them inside out now your ability the spot the differences and the cost of that difference makes this video stand out. Everyone else is still reading from the press release lol. Bravo broham

[@johntaylor9956]

You have answered all the questions I had on the bike love how thorough you are about the bike. This is going to be my next bike hands down this is everything I was going to do to the chief when I bought one only thing I would have to change now is the exhaust.

[@jeffreyeagen4896]

I wouldn't even try to convert an older model, I'd just get the Sport Chief! That is one good looking bike!!! Can't wait to test ride one!

[@andrewjoseph8544]

I was waiting on YOUR video on the Sport Chief. Always great content!

[@robertemmons2260]

I'm loving this bike, but that quarter fairing is going to take some getting use to. Eventually it'll grow on me. This bike will definitely turn many heads as it's parked or rolling down the highway. Thanks again Brandon for another great video!

[@kenhack5735]

I'm loving the sound of knowledge...you can tell working on your own bikes has a lasting impression...lol ✊🏽✊🏽

[@BrandonBicasso]

Skin in the game or debt 😅

[@akasnack]

Probably makes the most sense to trade in for the bike if you want all of it. Otherwise, the rear suspension and handlebar setup will give you the most bang for your buck

[@bikesandchikn]

9:25 i just purchased those drag specialty shocks myself and swapping in the stock springs using the lawless garage bushing for an added inch, similar to what you'd be getting with those new fox ones, except for a grand total of $470

[@SpudsMcHaggis]

If I had a Sport Chief I would get rid of those risers to drop the bars down to a drag bar height and I would put forward controls on it. Basically make it similar to my Octane.

[@InterdimensionalApe]

I like my bikes lifted, even tho Im 5'8 and can only get one foot down on my harley. Carving canyons without scraping is honestly fun as hell.

[@BrandonBicasso]

It is! I scrape out of fun but that is more on my lack of good cornering ability. Second time on that road. First time was on a Victory Magnum. 😅

[@InterdimensionalApe]

@@BrandonBicasso I used to scrape all the time on my sportster for fun lol. Havent leaned enough on my dyna to scrape yet but I haven't really tried too.

[@MaxJW-ln4xm]

First, in indepth video I've seen from anybody on the Sport Chief . Thank you & Well Done ! I can see piecing out those shocks & that seat. Also, there are aftermarket sources for risers & mini faring for a regular Chief. There is no way in hell to do all of that front end stuff for under the $5000 you said & it would probably cost more.... if I was going to plan to spend that much, I'd just go ahead & buy one off the showroom floor ! Ok, what's next ?????

[@road_king_dude]

Awesome to see Indian making a sexy ass bike with features that just make sense and set it apart. also awesome hearing Brandon's perspective on these bad boys as hands on as he's been with these Indians. Badass vid Bran! 🔥🔥

[@BrandonBicasso]

What can I say.. no one else is foolish enough to buy 5 Indian Chiefs in a year. 🫡

[@soganoflarider]

@@BrandonBicasso well look at the “company” you keep😂😂😂 we all look to you for inspiration and motivation. But seriously It’s awesome what you’re doing! I’d be right in the mix myself if I hadn’t obligated myself to the “trucker life”

[@motojakers]

Man I was really hoping for the front end. Those brembo brakes look awesome!! Guess I'll stick with the single rotor setup for now. Didn't know I wasn't subscribed so I made sure to change that! Great content

[@johnkevinsmith3718]

WELL DONE B VERY WELL DONE!!!

[@dallaswainman3395]

Great video Brandon. Its love listening to you talk about motorcycles lol

[@BrandonBicasso]

Preciate that!

[@_audacerider3838]

The way I see it getting the whole front end from a rear ended and racked Challenger might be an option. But still it ain't going to be cheap. Slipper clutch is a great thing when You like to rip in the twisties.

[@johncallahan3573]

Great job Brandon... in 11 minutes I learned more about the Sport Chief than all the other vids put together. When is the Sport Chief going to hit the dealers?

[@BrandonBicasso]

March 🤘🏾with demos in Daytona.

[@mr.mrs.witowski29]

Thanks for the video! My wife rides an '18 Scout and I ride a '19 Springfield. I'm quite content with my bike but now my wife loves this bike. Eek! Don't get me wrong, I think she would look bad-ass on a 116 but ours are paid for and I don't want a payment. Thanks again, my friend.

[@likeaflash-b2i]

Coming from the M109R And my latest ride the Yamaha Raider this bike is on top of my list.

[@snipsdraper7537]

Nice video, gots to go test ride one. Liking the options with the bars as well

[@retaliaterguitar2]

I had no idea these bikes were this badass. Great video man! Smacked that subscribe button like it owed me money!

[@BrandonBicasso]

Preciate that!

[@haneymoto]

Your rebuilding experience gives you a unique insight into these bikes. Great rundown of the new bike.

[@sew2prosper]

Outstanding Brandon! Those rebuilds come back strong for you in your reviews!!! One

[@fxlrsaz6363]

I need to test ride this motorcycle!

[@BrandonBicasso]

Definitely do so! They will be in dealers in March and a fleet will be at Daytona.

[@bertsbike]

Well, I think if you’re gonna do a front end, you might as well trade/sell your current bike, and just buy the 23 model. For myself I may just do the rear shocks and fairing.

[@508knucklehead]

I appreciate your impression. Finally an Indian owner “ not a Harley guy “ doing the review, that I can appreciate.

[@brandonwiz]

Very nicely done! Now waiting on the more indepth video. I really want one!

[@BrandonBicasso]

Def working on it. Didn’t want to rush it out.

[@codykeegan1848]

Very informative. I LOVE this new Chief sport.. I'm contemplating making one mine

[@tomedwards159]

at first glance not a fan of the fairing, maybe it will grow on me , but for now not a fan. wish they would have upped the motor some but i,m sure it will come in time.

[@BrandonBicasso]

Definitely is better in person once you see the lines matching the rest of the bike. There was some thought that went into it.

[@suzannebernard8894]

Your Snapshot is really great✅

[@randymoreno9345]

Great info, dude!

[@RickyBobber]

Great video, Brandon. Lots of stuff I didn't know

[@BrandonBicasso]

Missed you at the event! Will catch you next time. 🤌🏾

[@RickyBobber]

@Brandon Bicasso thanks, man. Next time.

[@ANONYMOUSBIKERUSA]

look at this guy! acts like he's a bike builder now! my my my how much you have learned sir! great details! gonna need a lot of stuff lol buy the 2023 lol the red looks sweet! nice work sir 💪🏽

[@bernardaddy4580]

Been waiting for this. I mean I’ve been on the rebuild videos for a month, but I’ll take what I get😂😂😂

[@BrandonBicasso]

Lol I got you very soon. I held off to make the engine rebuild one big video.

[@hijinx1812]

It’s really a no brainer to just buy the Chief Sport over the other Chiefs. The suspension is worth the extra $$. I’m for sure going to switch out the rear shocks on my 22 Darkhorse, but the shocks alone are $1k - $1600 depending on which ones you get. For the price of the fully adjustable Fox shocks, you can buy Ohlins shocks. I like the option of quick adjust shocks to accommodate a passenger. Decisions, decisions! Good review!

[@joedunne9492]

Nice job! Great information about this awesome bike!

[@naythanjones2320]

My ohlins rear shocks get bear soon. Really curious how they compare to the fox, ordered them before the new bike was announced.

[@BrandonBicasso]

Your Ohlins will be more comparable to the shocks that have more adjustable pieces. Good there’s options out there. The aftermarket is cooking. 🤘🏾

[@pharoah1200]

Indian is seriously in the game.

[@chrishunter5041]

Plus labour if you can't do it your self 🤔would make trading in to upgrade an option.

[@mendingmotos]

That frosty red is awesome looking, I'm not a cruiser guy but that bike looks good!

[@Davento]

Like how you can give a completely different perspective to these bikes from having worked on them

[@BlackbirdSSR]

I'm looking to add the new riser set-up to my 2022 Chief DH......do I have to change the handle bars too? I'd assume they are the same diameter.

[@BrandonBicasso]

Bars would work fine. May need a new clutch/brake line if you go 10” too.

[@BlackbirdSSR]

@@BrandonBicasso Good to know, now I just need to decide between 6" & 10" ......maybe there's some insight in your full review video 👍

[@BrandonBicasso]

Definitely! Not rushing that one out so it’s taking a wee bit longer.

[@OutbackOutlaw]

🤙🏽Bicasso🤙🏽 on 🔥.

[@darkhorse0079]

I agree. Brandon is a Pro. Thanks for such a great informative video. You Killed it. I'd say just buy the Chief Sport. Especially if you're not mechanically inclined. 😎🇺🇸🤘

[@DakotaDoc]

Other than the rear shocks and seat. It would be best to trade in for the new sport chief. And I do love the new sport chief.

[@amnforge]

I ended up getting the seat which is really nice. I decided against the rest since weighing the cost compared to how little I ride, only 3600 miles in 2 years :( Some did that in their first week with their Chief 😅

[@Wicked_RotF30]

I like the quick release bat wing fairing that is offered on the Scout Rogue. Not sure whybits not offered on the Chief. I would think it would be a direct fit. Am I wrong?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Chief has its own bolt-on accessories.

[@henrysrandomadventures]

This was a good walk through. Now, they’ve actually saved me from buying an FTR front end, and there’s some epic aftermarket parts coming for this, that will be on my bike. I’ll let you review it first and it will give me an excuse to hangout with you again!🤙🏾

[@jkfsu]

I have a 2023 CDH and the price difference is $1000 for the Sport. I'm a shorter dude so the extra inch of travel isn't a big deal to me. I just ordered the fairing.

[@GWGMedium]

I couldn't wait to see reviews of this bike.

[@B702K]

Very nice bike. I like what Indian is doing.

[@onlyhereonce7290]

So so cool. Thank you Brandon.

[@SwagSo7fly7]

I’m really trying to find a Cheif with a solo seat and fender delete, more like the mods done to the scout but I want the chief performance and definitely the ride command screen !! I see all the accessories on the Indian site just no examples before I dive in

[@BrandonBicasso]

Got a friend who did a solo seat fender delete on his. Hit me on Instagram

[@sonnyevansjr]

As far as looks I really dig it. I like the setup out the gate. Im 6 foot so I'd go with a little taller riser maybe but im liking it as is. Havnt rode one yet. How was the seat?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Firm and holds you in well.

[@Heavywall70]

We need that fairing style for the big front end models.

[@robjamescapel8891]

Lovely looking bikes. You explained very well the suspension and clutch. Indian are definitely giving Harley good competition.

[@TRaider66]

Brandon how does the sport chief have brembos, front fairing, fox shocks, AND inverted forks but is still cheaper than the chief bobber?

[@BrandonBicasso]

It’s cheaper to buy assembled than buy manufactured parts separately. That’s a game on mass production which I’m not smart enough to articulate. Indian knows making certain parts interchangeable and others more desirable but less interchangeable, makes it more enticing to trade-in to. They also could have gotten their R&D investment back out of Chief already and making Sport Chief is all profit. So, they can keep prices close and add new components without increasing prices too much. I don’t have that answer but they’re playing their game well.

[@atreyustratula]

Seeing Indian make this bike makes me very happy. Inverted forks, quality suspension, floating disks with brembos… Looks like Indian and Harley are getting into a war for the best sport cruiser! It’s only a matter of time before we start seeing sport bike like fork adjustment, ohlins shocks, and a weight drop right from the factory! I’m excited for what the future brings from Indian

[@DeltaElite121]

Pretty stoked to see all the 2023 Chiefs got the clutch upgrade. Glad I waited to buy one until this year. I'm about 6 weeks in currently, waiting on the Quartz Gray Chief Darkhorse. Sport package is awesome for the very little extra spent, but I don't like the look at all.

[@briannone-ya618]

Already have my dealership sitting on the order button when that fairing and windscreen come available

[@BrandonBicasso]

Hell yeah. You’re gonna love it!

[@tinman3586]

You should be able to upgrade any Chief Dark Horse to this standard fairly easily except maybe the dual-calipers upfront. Not sure how easy it is to get the parts for that and install them. *edit* finished the video, yep that's the hardest part. Basically if you want this setup you're better off just selling your '22 Chief Dark Horse and buying the Sport Chief.

[@vinniemadrox]

So you were saying the fork diameter is thinner by a few mm on the sport chief, as well as both upper and lower triple trees. But also said the fairing would be a direct bolt on. Do the brackets allow for the older front ends, being they are different? Or am I overthinking this?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Yes, brackets will fit the older models. There’s an accessory kit for it.

[@randymoreno9345]

Trade your bike in. Trading in would be cheaper. Just traded in a 2022 Indian scout sixty that I was upside down on. Indian has a deal going on now that they will pay $1500 over book value. Bought this super Chief in stealth grey and I couldn’t be happier !

[@HabitualFixation]

Think the fairing gives it a obviously slightly elongated look that suits the Chief a lot more than without asthetically! Adds to the curves IMP 👌🏽

[@BrandonBicasso]

I agree.

[@upsidedowndog1256]

I think this conversion would only make sense if the bike has been wrecked and you needed to change most of these parts anyway.

[@BrandonBicasso]

Agreed! I’m waiting for one to show up soon 😂

[@upsidedowndog1256]

@@BrandonBicasso It is kind of a bold step for Indian to build what is similar to the now dead Dyna line. Looks similar to the new Sands designed Buell...with a very different type of engine (170hp!).

[@pmtz84]

Good detailed video..... First video out their answering soon to be common questions... I got a question of my own see if you know. Does the bracket for the fairing or fairing itself compatible with the the scout/bobber/rogue? Maybe the windscreen 🤞?

[@BrandonBicasso]

That I don’t know but there’s doubt. It’s worth a try but that’s a $1000 attempt. 🫠

[@mahadkaezan536]

How difficult is it to remove that front fairing? I really like the more naked look the 2022 chiefs have… I might have to cancel my order for the 2022 chief Darkhorse to this, ahh and it supposed to be here in a month too. Whyy Indian lol

[@BrandonBicasso]

I wasn’t allowed to remove anything but it looked pretty simple to do. Maybe 10 minutes.

[@achikuda]

maybe trading in and getting sport would make more sense? based on your easement of labor and cost

[@GLH1213]

Sorry for this interruption but what were you scraping?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Pegs.

[@GLH1213]

@@BrandonBicasso thanks buddy for answer.

[@blackboy355]

Wait I want to get the 6" Risers....They won't work with the stock 23' Chief DH Bars?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Should work. Just make sure your cables and harness are good.

[@johnnycashbenham1192]

Man that's a good looking bike, love that red color! 👌

[@grownsmoke4871]

great vid as usual man! But how does the ride differ? I have a '22 CDH with 600 miles on it, that i waited a year to get after ordering. Had this bike been available at this price, I would have gotten it instead. Wondering if my trade in value is still high enough that swapping out would only cost a few bucks.

[@road_king_dude]

Ahhhh snap!! Look out bebe!

[@GingersKing]

How did you like the control/handing feel of the 10" risers vs the 6"??

[@BrandonBicasso]

Prefer the 6”

[@mark.lb116]

I own a 2022 Chief Bobber DH. I added Indian Stage 1 forward facing intake, Indian Stage 1 slip ons, Stage 2 performance kit and Lloyd’z V1 tune. I have no intention trying to make my Bobber into a Sport Chief. I purchased the Bobber because I liked the look. Laced 16 inch wheels, fat front tire, blacked out shock/fork covers and mini ape bars. My Bobber DH is not a Sport Chief and a Sport Chief is not a Bobber DH. If I want to go real fast and lean, I will ride my FTR-RR.

[@jamo1026]

What exactly are you scrapping @BrandonBicasso

[@BrandonBicasso]

The metal pegs under the foot rest.

[@tomoates8568]

How does that little quarter fairing do? Does it actually function well as a fairing or is it mostly a looks thing?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Definitely has function including the smallest of the 3.

[@tomoates8568]

@@BrandonBicasso Awesome! I'm loving everything I'm seeing and hearing about this bike

[@chiguy_]

sounds like just guying a whole new front end would be about the cost of a used one to a new one.. so might as well get the new one... or know a really good machinist. lol. keep up the fun vids cheers.

[@mikekosar6135]

The Indian club style…. Wheelie bike…!!! Nice bike

[@powamoto]

Good work chief ☺

[@whitebeltchamp1]

I can't believe it's only $1000 more than the dark horse. I wish it would've came out last year. This is the bike I would've got instead of the chief dark horse. It makes zero financial sense to do the upgrades on the chief. It's about in $5000 difference in upgrades. The fairing alone is about $1000. 😫

[@CCc-ve2yj]

Is it a slipper clutch or an auto rev match

[@BrandonBicasso]

Slipper, not an auto blipper.

[@MeatballRebel]

You did not mention the front brake master cyclnder which might need changed to work with dual brakes. Probably cheaper to get a Sport Chief rather than do a full conversion .

[@BrandonBicasso]

True. The rear brake and master cylinder is the same. Fairly confident the front master cylinder is but good point. I didn’t mention it as it didn’t come up in the conversation.

[@jasonshortphd]

Definitely an upgrade from the older Chief, but I don’t think its worth it to apply to an existing bike. I would probably change the seat and rear suspension.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

I want them to do a PowerPlus chief. I dont want the same old TS Engine and dual shocks like a Dyna. PowerPlus with a monoshock, like a big A Scout. That's what I want.

[@7ludig]

Just trade in your Chief & get this damn bike! It's beautiful. Next, they'll come out with clam shell bags & you'll have an HD Low Rider ST. Love my Harley......but LOVE my Indian too! 2018 CVO Stage IV 131 ci, Cat Delete, Pipes 2020 Challenger Stage 2 Cams, Cat Delete, Pipes. The Challenger can run with the 131

[@1luiluilui]

Better brakes and suspensions, this is pretty nice but im a mid-aged low- rider man that still prefers the look, price and simplicity of the 2022 CDH model. Nonetheless I like the 6" risers. What is your opinion?. Better handling and/or ergonomics than previous 4 inch stock risers?. Thank you

[@BrandonBicasso]

Full review in a few days but I think they add value. Should ride one to get the best idea.

[@1luiluilui]

@@BrandonBicasso Unfortunately no Sport Chiefs available in my Country yet.

[@BrandonBicasso]

They just hit the floors here a few days ago so not too much longer. Most haven’t ridden it yet.

[@Moonshot.]

I’m just gonna have to go ride one.

[@BrandonBicasso]

I agree 🤟🏾

[@twistieslayer3592]

Indian Senpai noticed Brandon again. 🎉

[@BrandonBicasso]

🫴🏾🔥

[@bigchief113]

I’m just pissed I have a 2022. Didn’t see this coming.

[@BrandonBicasso]

Felt this. 🥲

[@RanGer-498]

What is the mpg on this one?

[@BrandonBicasso]

Same as the others. Around 40mpg. I’ve gotten 55+ before but that’s riding the speed limit 😂.

[@RanGer-498]

@@BrandonBicasso cool thanks

[@patricksandeberg8184]

Dual disk brakes by Brembo 🫶🏽 How did they feel? So excited that I’m asking before I’ve even seen the whole video 😂

[@BrandonBicasso]

A step up. Easy to grab too much. Will give more info on that in the full review.

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

These are more than just Brembos and dual discs. These are radial mounted calipers instead of a typical fork mounted. That means they can grip the brake disc stronger and cool faster so they can brake harder.

[@aceofspades5786]

'most people want that extra inch' still waitin for mine

[@ronaldwalters9488]

Hi Brandon!!!!

[@BrandonBicasso]

Hey Ronald! 🤟🏾

[@waynec9923]

Yer I think I'd just trade it in probably cheeper to do and a hole lot easier awesome bike just love it 👍

[@TyFromTennessee]

Great review man. The bike looks good but I’m just not a huge fan of this Indian motorcycle. I’ll probably test ride one at some point just to be better informed.

[@BrandonBicasso]

And that’s perfectly okay! At least ride it if you get the opportunity. 🤟🏾

[@TyFromTennessee]

@@BrandonBicasso Yes sir. I most certainly will!!