Taking its name from the Massachusetts town where Indian motorcycles were founded in 1901, the Springfield is all about combining the brand’s 117-year-old past with the present. The second most affordable Indian bagger (after the Chief Vintage), the Springfield provides just what’s essential for touring—and nothing more. A large detachable fork-mounted windshield reduces wind blast to the torso and helmet, remote-locking and quick-release hard side bags provide ample weatherproof storage, dual seats add versatility, and stout 16-inch wheels and tires have a high load-carrying capacity.
Like other Indians, the Springfield marries its retro styling with modern tech such as an aluminum frame with a quick 25-degree steering-head angle, a six-speed gearbox to go with its torquey fuel-injected 111ci V-twin engine, and low-maintenance belt final drive. All fueled up, the Springfield weighs a claimed even 850 pounds, so the 1,385-pound GVWR means you can add 535 pounds’ worth of rider, passenger, and luggage. Safety features include triple front lights—the headlight and a pair of “driving” lights—plus crash bars and triple disc brakes with ABS.
Likes: Maximum torque is produced at a low 3,000 rpm—just right for relaxed touring.
Dislikes: Like so many cruisers, the Springfield could afford to lose some weight.
Verdict: Easily convertible from tourer to cruiser, the Springfield is two bikes in one.
