By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Cruiser
Indian Chief (MY2014) vs Chief (MY2022)
2014 Indian Chief vs 2022 Indian Chief: which one to buy once you're past the looks.
Roll the throttle open on the 2014 Indian Chief and there's a heavy shove right off idle, with no buzz in the bars. On the 2022 Indian Chief, the same twist gets an instant, eager snap. It's still pulling as the revs climb.
So which one do you buy?
The 2014 Chief has the edge if…
Character, looks and sound
Inches ahead: 2014 Chief
For presence, the 2014 Chief noses ahead. That comes from more retro style and more distinctive styling. Taste is personal, so don't let a small gap decide for you.
The 2022 Chief has the edge if…
Sporty riding on twisty roads
Edges it: 2022 Chief
The 2022 Chief nudges ahead once the pavement starts to wiggle. Don't expect a night-and-day difference.
What makes each one tick
2014 Chief
Highway speed doesn't ask much of the 2014 Chief, whose big twin hauls on low-rpm torque and leaves the mirrors still. The bike turns in without wallowing at corner entry, even carrying 831 lb (377 kg). The aluminum frame holds its line. Each shift clicks home behind a light clutch.
2022 Chief
A low center of gravity lets the 2022 Chief flick from bend to bend on Iron Mountain Road, and it doesn't get unsettled at higher speed. A bump doesn't jar the bike, since the plush suspension soaks it up before it reaches the solo seat. Mid pegs keep the stance neutral. The exhaust's note resonates like a traditional American V-twin.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The 2022 Chief has the lower wet weight: 670 lb (304 kg) vs 831 lb (377 kg).
- The 2014 Chief makes more peak torque: 119 lb-ft (161 Nm) vs 108 lb-ft (146 Nm).
- The 2014 Chief has the larger fuel tank: 5.5 US gal (20.8 L) vs 4.0 US gal (15.1 L).
Which one for the way you ride
Daily commuting & city riding
Off its turf: 2014 Chief
Commuting is off the table for the 2014 Chief, so it sits this one out.
Comfortable long-distance riding
Not built for this
Long days aren't what these two do best. Plan shorter legs and plenty of stops.
They come out level on running costs. The better-kept used example is the smarter money.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
2014 Chief
What owners say
Strengths
- Mighty Thunder Stroke 111 engine
- Surprisingly agile handling
- Outstanding fit and finish
- Smooth, positive transmission
2022 Chief
What owners say
Strengths
- Powerful and responsive engine
- Nimble handling with a low center of gravity
Known problems to check before you buy
2014 Chief
- VCM connector failure causing loss of forward lighting Recall 22V635000 The electrical connection for the Vehicle Control Module may fail, which can cause loss of forward lighting. The high beam indicator will flash if this occurs. A recall (22V635) was issued for 2014-2020 models to inspect the VCM connector and update software.
2022 Chief
- Side stand may not fold rearward (Recall 22V-957) Recall 22V957000 The sidestand may not retract fully when it contacts the ground, posing a crash hazard. A recall has been issued for free repair by authorized dealers.
- Fuel pump failure (Recall I-22-06) Recall 22V837000 The fuel pump may fail during operation, causing the engine to stall. A recall covers replacement at no cost to the owner.
What they share
- Displacement
- 1811 cc
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Final drive
- Belt
- Rear tire
- 180/65-16
Where the spec sheets split
| 2014 Chief | 2022 Chief | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 26.0 in (660 mm) | 26.2 in (665 mm) |
| Wet weight | 831 lb (377 kg) | 670 lb (304 kg) |
| 2014 Chief | 2022 Chief | |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 119 lb-ft (161 Nm) | 108 lb-ft (146 Nm) |
| 2014 Chief | 2022 Chief | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 5.5 US gal (20.8 L) | 4.0 US gal (15.1 L) |
| 2014 Chief | 2022 Chief | |
|---|---|---|
| Front tire | 130/90-16 | 130/60-19 |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
