While vehicle manufacturers look for ways to attract younger drivers less inclined to buy a new set of wheels, Indian Motorcycle introduced on Thursday its 2020 Scout Bobber Sixty, totally designed with rider-friendliness in mind. It's a blacked out special edition that is sure to please and deserves a look. Let's check it out.
Still With A 999CC Engine
The rollout of the new Scout Bobber has more downsized features than its predecessors aimed at budget-conscious neophytes to get behind a set of handlebars. The 999cc motor is the same size as the 2019 model, but at 472 pounds, the bike is 22 pounds lighter than its predecessor making the two-wheeler much easier to handle. Also easier to handle is the sticker price of $8,999, a couple of grand cheaper than the more conventional Scout Bobber.
Ever since Indian, arguably the oldest motorcycle company in the U.S., was taken over by off-road vehicle manufacturer Polaris in 2014, company brass has been left to wonder why motorcycles have recently fallen out of favor with millennials. Much of the feedback has pointed fingers at price and to that end, Indian has been bent on creating a more affordable bike without sacrificing the look of its cycle fleet.
A Blacked Out, Low Riding Machine
The Scout Bobber Sixty still retains that low-riding appearance with the malevolent black paint job. Almost everything's blacked out on this model, from the exhaust and frame to the wheels and liquid-cooled, V-twin engine that was first introduced to the Scout in 2015.
The motor, which generates 78 horsepower and 68 pounds of torque, still promises plenty of power for a gripping highway ride, but a more forward-leaning handlebar position and lower rear-wheel suspension make for a lower center of gravity and better bike control.
A More Pared Down Look
Other differences are more cosmetic and understated, such as the five-spoked wheels, readjusted footpegs and an integrated rear LED lighting system on a less cluttered aluminum frame all add up to a sleeker appearance. Pared down and yet still pretty powerful, this latest addition to the Scout family just might attract neophytes without disappointing diehard fans.
Sources: Autoblog, Cycle News
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