The collaboration between METZELER and Indian Motorcycle has been strengthened with the German tyre brand chosen as a development partner and supplier for the latest and most powerful bagger of the U.S. motorcycle manufacturer. The METZELER CRUISETEC tyres were selected, after a long process of joint development between the Research & Development and Testing departments of the two brands, resulting in exclusive original equipment designation for the new 2020 Indian Challenger. CRUISETEC tyres, installed with the 130 / 60B19 66H front and 180 / 60R16 80H rear sizes, are equipping all versions of the new Indian Challenger, including the Dark Horse and Limited models. METZELER has been involved with Indian Motorcycle since the start of the project, actively participating in the development of the motorcycle by offering its contribution to refining and improving the riding experience.
All this has been possible thanks to the collaborative work between the technicians of METZELER and those of Indian Motorcycle, who have succeeded in establishing a perfect harmony between the CRUISETEC tyres and the new Challenger, ultimately creating an inseparable combination. The new Challenger was developed to fit and perform at its best with CRUISETEC tyres. The Indian Challenger dramatically redefines American baggers and represents the highest expression of Indian Motorcycle technology with its die-cast aluminum frame, radially-mounted Brembo 4-piston caliper brakes, a chassis equipped with inverted front suspension, and mono shock suspension with hydraulic preload. A refined electronics package offers three riding modes and assistance systems with a 6-axis inertial platform and the most powerful engine ever produced by the U.S. company. The all-new liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin PowerPlus engine is 108 cubic-inches (or 1769cc) and produces122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque.
Taming such power can be challenging, but the Indian Challenger found an excellent ally in METZELER CRUISETEC tyres. CRUISETEC was developed to take advantage of the full performance potential of power cruisers, custom, and tourers thanks to the high level of grip, even in wet conditions. As a result, CRUISETEC tires give the bike revolutionary handling in its segment, constant performance for the entire tyre life, and structural characteristics that provide a comfortable, stable ride. Like the Indian Challenger in its segment, CRUISETEC™also presents revolutionary solutions in the tire sector in terms of tread design, compounds, profiles, and carcass.
Salvatore Pennisi, METZELER Testing Department Director who followed this fascinating and challenging project from the beginning said: “The design of the new 2020 Indian Challenger, flagship model of the U.S. company, has been followed since its inception by the METZELER Testing Department which for almost two years worked closely with the Research and Development Center of Indian Motorcycle in an exciting series of technical advances. This bike, equipped with the new CRUISETEC tyres – the latest product from our brand in the custom cruiser segment, is going to place itself at the top of the category, setting new performance standards. The innovations that make the Challenger a true generational turning point in its segment are in some ways thanks to METZELER, with its design and technological innovation of motorcycles and tyres that unite the offering with a riding pleasure unimaginable up to now for this type of motorcycle. The partnership between our companies has never been so strong, and I am sure it will continue also in the future”.
