2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE – A Premium Touring Trike with Classic American Muscle

---

Introduction to the 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE

The 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE is a head-turning, three-wheeled touring powerhouse that combines vintage cruiser charm with modern features and rock-solid road presence. Though Indian Motorcycle didn’t offer a factory-built trike in 2016, many owners converted their two-wheel Chieftain into a trike using trusted aftermarket kits. The result? A seamless blend of iconic Indian design and the enhanced stability and comfort that trike riders love.

Indian Motorcycles—founded in 1901—is one of America’s most historic bike brands, known for delivering big-displacement cruisers with road-commanding charisma. The Chieftain, introduced in 2014, quickly became a flagship touring model thanks to its high-tech features, deep fenders, and thundering Thunder Stroke® 111 engine.

---

Factory Build vs Custom Conversion

Was There a Factory Indian Chieftain Trike in 2016?

No, Indian did not produce a factory trike in 2016. However, many trike builders like Lehman Trikes, Champion Trikes, and Motor Trike offered high-quality bolt-on conversion kits specifically for the Indian Chieftain.

Popular Trike Kit Options

• Champion Trikes: Independent suspension, color-matched fenders, trunk storage.

• Roadsmith: IRS kits with longer wheelbase for comfort and handling.

• CSC (California Sidecar): Sleek styling and performance enhancements.

Conversion Overview

The trike conversion typically replaces the rear swingarm and wheel with a two-wheel rear axle assembly, a large trunk, and upgraded suspension, turning the standard Chieftain into a touring-ready trike.

---

Design and Styling

A triked-out Chieftain maintains all the dramatic styling cues that define the Indian brand.

• Front Fairing: War bonnet light, batwing fairing with integrated LED indicators.

• Saddlebags: Color-matched hard saddlebags, usually retained from the original model.

• Rear Design: Trike conversions add bold rear fenders, integrated taillights, and dual wheels with automotive-grade tires.

• Limited Edition Touches: Custom paint jobs, chrome detailing, and personalized decals are common among owners.

This trike draws attention wherever it goes.

---

Engine and Performance

The beating heart of the 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE is the Thunder Stroke® 111 V-twin, a powerplant built for smooth yet muscular delivery.

• Displacement: 1,811cc (111 cubic inches)

• Torque: 119 ft-lb at 3,000 RPM

• Horsepower: Approx. 85 HP

While performance may slightly differ post-conversion due to added weight, the engine remains strong, responsive, and built for long-distance comfort with deep, low-end grunt.

---

Ride Comfort and Ergonomics

The trike platform offers excellent comfort for long hauls:

• Rider Triangle: Upright riding position with a wide reach to the bars.

• Seat: Plush, leather touring saddle with optional heating and backrest.

• Passenger Comfort: Generous rear seating and footboards make it perfect for two-up travel.

With enhanced stability, you won’t worry about balancing at stoplights or during slow-speed maneuvers.

---

Transmission and Drivetrain

• Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with overdrive

• Clutch: Wet, multi-plate clutch with light pull

• Drive System: Belt-driven final drive—smooth and low-maintenance

Gear shifting is smooth and deliberate, and the sixth gear allows relaxed cruising even at high speeds.

---

Suspension and Handling

Trike conversions usually come with independent rear suspension, making for a remarkably smooth ride.

• Front Suspension: Telescopic forks with 4.7 inches of travel

• Rear Setup (trike kits): Dual shocks or independent suspension systems

• Turning Radius: Slightly wider than the two-wheeler, but easy to manage with experience

Even with its bulk, the trike holds corners confidently and feels planted, even on rough roads.

---

Brakes and Safety Features

• Braking System: Dual front discs and a single rear disc in the stock setup; trike kits add dual rear calipers

• ABS: Standard on 2016 Chieftain

• Safety Options:

  • Parking brake (via trike kit)

  • Traction-enhancing rear tires

  • Wide stance for rollover resistance

Riders enjoy peace of mind with enhanced stopping power and traction.

---

Touring Features and Tech

Indian loaded the 2016 Chieftain with luxury touring features:

• Windshield: Power-adjustable windscreen

• Infotainment: 7-inch Ride Command system with Bluetooth and GPS

• Speakers: High-quality fairing-mounted speakers

• Other Features: Keyless ignition, cruise control, tire pressure monitor

On the trike, these features shine even more thanks to the additional comfort and storage space.

---

Storage and Utility

• Hard Saddlebags: Lockable, remote-open capable

• Trike Trunk: Most conversions add a spacious trunk between the rear wheels

• Additional Storage: Glove boxes, fairing cubbies, and aftermarket tour packs

Perfect for touring couples who need luggage capacity for days or weeks on the road.

---

Fuel Economy and Tank Size

• Tank Capacity: 5.5 gallons (20.8 liters)

• Real-World Mileage: 33–36 mpg depending on terrain and trike configuration

• Range: ~180–200 miles per tank

Despite the added weight, mileage remains respectable for a trike of this size and power.

---

Customization Options

Owners of the 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE often personalize their rides:

• Paint & Chrome: Custom metallic finishes, chrome forks, and light bezels

• Lighting: LED underglows, passing lamps, and halo headlights

• Accessories: Cup holders, GPS mounts, trike fender bras, and highway pegs

The trike is often a canvas for self-expression.

---

Reliability and Maintenance

• Routine Service: Oil every 5,000 miles, belt check at 15,000 miles

• Common Issues:

  • Speed sensor errors (rare)

  • Infotainment software updates

• Support: Indian has a growing dealer network, and trike kits usually come with their own warranties

This platform is proven to be long-lasting with proper care.

---

Market Comparison and Alternatives

---

Used Market and Value Retention

• 2016 Chieftain Trike Pricing: Around $23,000–$27,000 USD, depending on mileage and kit brand

• Factors Influencing Price:

  • Mileage

  • Trike conversion quality

  • Accessory packages

Well-maintained examples hold value well due to the bike's classic styling and modern features.

---

Owner Reviews and Community Opinions

Owners consistently highlight:

Pros:

• Exceptional comfort

• Unique, vintage design

• Plenty of torque

Cons:

• Wide footprint in tight traffic

• Heavy at slow speeds

Active rider communities can be found on forums like IndianRider.net and TrikeTalk.com.

---

FAQs about the 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE

Q1: Is the 2016 Chieftain available as a factory trike?
No, all 2016 Indian Chieftain trikes are conversions from the two-wheel model.

Q2: Who makes the best trike kit for the Chieftain?
Top brands include Champion, Roadsmith, and CSC—each with their pros and cons.

Q3: Is this trike beginner-friendly?
It’s better suited for experienced riders due to its size and weight.

Q4: Can I ride it with a standard motorcycle license?
In most states, yes—but check local regulations for trike endorsements.

Q5: What’s the top speed?
Around 105–110 mph, depending on the trike configuration.

Q6: Is it good for winter riding?
Yes—with proper gear and heated grips, the trike is stable and enjoyable even in cold months.

---

Final Verdict – Is the 2016 Chieftain Trike Still a Smart Touring Choice?

The 2016 Indian Chieftain TRIKE offers an unmatched combination of classic American cruiser charm, luxury touring features, and the confidence of three wheels. If you're after a stylish, comfortable, and powerful ride with endless customization potential, this trike remains a top-tier choice even in 2025.