The Indian Motorcycle Company, in business since 1901, launched their Scout model in 1920. Considered by some to be the best motorcycle ever made, the Scout name has been summoned once again as the namesake of this 2021 Bobber.

The term “bobber” refers to a style of custom motorcycles with a stripped-down look made by removing excess metal and non-essential parts. Every time you sing Jingle Bells you sing about how “bells on bob-tail ring.” The bob-tail is the horse’s tail, folded over and wrapped up neatly for the sleigh ride. On a motorcycle it means the rear fender is chopped off short. That’s how we get the term “bobber.” It’s quite simply a bobbed tail.

Don’t be surprised when people ask if you built this bike yourself. The designers at Indian absolutely nailed the custom look. Nevermind that the technology and tuning are both state-of-the-art… The Scout Bobber looks like it just rolled out of an industrial motorcycle warehouse from 80 years ago. Call the style “badass throwback.” If Captain America showed up today and broke bad, this is what he’d ride.

When it comes to motorcycles, low is the name of the game. The seat is just 25.6 inches off the ground, give the rider a nice, low center of gravity and a laid-back look. If you love chrome you’ve come to the wrong place. This bike is in blackout mode. From handlebars to mufflers to headlight can to the mirrors, it’s a little scary looking. A little sinister, even. And very aggressive. Bullet-style turn signal housings complete the look.

Keep an eye on your speed with the large, single, analog speedometer. Then let the world know it’s time to slow things down with an LED taillight. Hi-tech distractions are kept to a minimum on the Scout Bobber, freeing you up to watch the road, take in the sights, and throw a quick s’up nod to the good citizens of the town as they watch you cruise on by. Remember: They’re only staring at you because they want to be you.