MEDINA, Minn., May 15 (UPI) -- Polaris Industries said Wednesday it would launch its inaugural model Indian Motorcycle at the Sturgis, S.D., Motorcycle Rally in August.
Polaris acquired Indian Motorcycles in April 2011 and set out to "leverage our engineering, manufacturing and operational prowess ... to design and build a truly exceptional motorcycle that represents the perfect balance of legendary heritage and brilliant, state-of-the-art engineering and technology," Polaris Motorcycles Vice President Steve Menneto said in a statement.
The launch purports to be a blending of traditions. Indian Motorcycle is the oldest U.S. motorcycle brand, established 122 years ago. The Indian Chief, the model Polaris will debut in August, was first produced in 1922.
This year, meanwhile, marks the 73rd annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, one of the community's premier events.
"We are honored to make today's important announcements at this time, as it was roughly 112 years ago that the very first Indian Motorcycle prototype was demonstrated to the press on the streets in Springfield, Mass.," Menneto said.
Polaris also announced the recommended sticker price of the 2014 model Indian Chief Motorcycle, which is to be sold for $18,999.
"We set out to make the power and heritage of this beautiful new bike available at a price point that is competitive and more accessible to people who are looking for authenticity and choice in American motorcycles," Menneto said.
The price is $7,000 lower than previous models, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported.
