What started off as Hendee Manufacturing Company in 1901 - becoming the world's largest motorcycle manufacturing company in the 1910s - is today one of the most trusted automobile names around the globe. Of course, the company's had its share of ups and downs over the years but today, it stands firm in the global market.

If you're not an automobile nerd and if we didn't make it obvious enough, the company we're talking about is the Indian Motorcycle Company. The year 2011 was a revival of sorts for the company and since then, the Indian brand has been churning out one blockbuster motorcycle after another. One such beast of a motorcycle is the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse. Not only is the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse one of the most successful Indian two-wheelers, we believe it's an incredibly cool "first motorcycle", contrary to the popular notion.

Here's what makes the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse a good first motorcycle.

The Ultimate Package

The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse 2021

First things first, The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is an incredible choice for a first motorcycle owing to its effortless performance and impeccable user-support attributes. With the Chieftain Dark Horse, you don't have to worry about performance issues, nor stress over your ability to control this untamed beast - as the bike will do that for you! That's right - the latest Indian Chieftain Dark Horse comes with a host of ride-enhancing features, including the "Cruise Control" mode, which allows the rider to ease up a bit, as the special drive mode assumes control of the motorcycle and automatically regulates the motorcycle's speed. The cruise control knob is located on the right side of the controls. It can only be set at gears 3 to 6, and the motorcycle must be at a speed greater than 20 miles per hour to engage in cruise control.

The ThunderStroke 116 V-Twin engine is placed at the heart of this monster to ensure smooth rides and maximum performance. It can produce 126 lb-ft of torque at relatively low RPM, and can still provide a responsive ride. The Indian Dark Horse boasts a unique keyless ignition system, which means you don’t have to reach out to your pocket for your keys every time you want to start off your bike. The road monster is one of the faster big boys out there with the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in just about 4.5 seconds. Finding your destination is a lot easier with the turn-by-turn navigation system pre-installed to guide you to your destinations.

Related: 10 Bolt-On Kits That Will Completely Transform Your Motorcycle

Extraordinary Features

Via circlerider.com

Rides on the Chieftain Dark Horse are anything but ordinary, thanks to some exclusive infotainment and entertainment features and options. While weather information is available on the go, the latest 2021 Chieftain Dark Horse comes with the ultimate solution to tackle all kinds of weather. The Clima-Command seats are non-perforated and water-resistant, to begin with. You can also adjust heating and cooling for your bike seat through the Ride Command infotainment system which has a brilliant upgrade in the form of integrated thermoelectric technology. You are also provided with scout touring accessories and a pathfinder, adaptive LED headlight to help fulfill all your adventure rides.

The latest Chieftain Dark Horse comes loaded with the integrated Apple CarPlay system as well as an integrated Bluetooth connection system that supports music and phone compatibility on the go. If you are a music-head, this bike is the perfect companion for your rides thanks to this Indian monster's premium audio system that boasts high output speakers of 1090W. The premium music system also comes loaded with dynamic equalizers which adjust the sound quality as per road terrain and conditions. Safety is optimized with the "Tire Pressure Monitoring System", which keeps a check on tire health, and the integrated Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) that ensures the bike's safety. The Chieftain Dark Horse also focuses on variable issues that its rivals fail to address. For instance, the bike saves fuel by switching off its rear cylinder at traffic signals. The electronic fuel gauge on the monster is beautiful and unique.

Related: Frankenstein Trike Blends Kawasaki Front End With A Chevette Rear And Harley Wheels

Robust Yet Stylish

via Ultimate Motorcycling

While the Chieftain Dark Horse's performance prowess is second-to-none, it also has looks to kill for. One glance and you’re sure to fall in love with the aura of this bike. The chassis is smooth and sleek with cutting edge finishing and dashing looks. The fenders look dazzling, and the cast aluminum frame is light and beautiful. It also aids in cornering while riding. Metzeler Cruisetec tires have been employed on the latest versions to provide grip and add to the glamour of this roadrunner. The power-locking saddlebags are large in size as well as weatherproof. You can take the amateur riders to school with the button push windshield aiding your ride quality, comfort, and style. We well and truly believe that the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is a great "first motorcycle" and there isn't enough evidence that suggests otherwise.

Next: EXCLUSIVE: Indian Motorcycle Adds Roadmaster Limited And Indian Vintage Dark Horse To 2021 Lineup