Indian Chieftain vs Harley-davidson Nightster
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Indian Chieftain vs Harley-davidson Nightster. Indian Chieftain: 78 hp @ 4,600 rpm (Thunder Stroke 111; note: Indian rates torque over peak hp) hp, 379 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 185 km/h, Motoryk rating 8.0/10. Harley-davidson Nightster: 89 hp @ 7,500 rpm hp, 220 kg (wet/curb weight) weight, top speed 185 km/h (estimated), Motoryk rating 7.8/10.
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Indian Chieftain
Harley-davidson Nightster
Horsepower (hp)
78 hp
89 hp
Torque (Nm)
139 Nm
95 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
185 km/h
185 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
379 kg
220 kg
Type
Cruiser
Cruiser
Horsepower
78 hp @ 4,600 rpm (Thunder Stroke 111; note: Indian rates torque over peak hp)
89 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque
139 Nm @ 2,900 rpm (Thunder Stroke 111)
95 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Top Speed
185 km/h
185 km/h (estimated)
Weight
379 kg (wet/curb weight)
220 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L, typical real-world average)
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fairing
Yes
No
Individual Reviews
Indian Chieftain
8.0/10
"A genuine Harley alternative that rewards buyers who do their homework."
Pros
+Thunderstroke engine genuinely reliable
+Fairing comfort class-leading
+Strong resale value holds
Cons
−Dealer network still patchy
−Heavy below 5mph maneuvering
−Early models had electrical issues
Harley-davidson Nightster
7.8/10
"A genuinely good motorcycle that earns respect beyond the badge."
Pros
+Revolution Max engine is excellent
+Actually corners with confidence
+Low, manageable seat height
Cons
−Stock seat is punishment
−Cramped for tall riders
−Limited wind protection
Top 10 Accessories
Picks that work on either bike.
