A Night of Icons at the Petersen Museum
It isn’t every day you get to celebrate a century and a quarter of two-wheeled history, but when America’s first motorcycle company hits the big 125, you know the party is going to be legendary. I hopped on the 2026 BMW R 1300 RT and carved through some typical Los Angeles “liquid sunshine” to reach the hallowed halls of the Petersen Automotive Museum for Indian Motorcycle’s massive anniversary bash.
Riding in Style: The 2026 BMW R 1300 RT
Before we dive into the vintage iron, let’s talk about the trek up. To get from Orange County to LA, I opted for the new R 1300 RT Sport Touring rig. Clad in a striking “police blue,” this boxer-powered beast made short work of the wet weather. Between the Aerostich suit keeping me dry and the bike’s uncanny ability to track true through the rain, the ride was a breeze. Plus, with the Shoei RF-1400 and its Transitions shield handling the changing light, I had the perfect setup for a night in the city.
A Walk Through History
Walking into the Petersen is always a treat, but tonight the lobby was a mix of German precision and American soul. I spotted an OG BMW K1 and a rare Gila CX before moving toward the main event.
The highlight? The “Kiwi Mike” collection. Seeing a 1938 Indian Four—a four-cylinder powerhouse from an era when most bikes were barely sputtering—reminded me why this brand is a cornerstone of moto-culture. We also got a close look at a 1940 Chief and a 1940 Scout, pristine examples of the “Never Finished” spirit Indian is celebrating throughout 2026.
The Reveal: 2026 Indian Chief Vintage
The star of the night was undoubtedly the reveal of the all-new 2026 Indian Chief Vintage. This bike is a masterclass in “heritage meets modern.” Featuring those iconic valanced fenders and the silver-headed Thunderstroke 116 engine, it captures the 1940s silhouette without the headache of 1940s maintenance.
The room was packed with the industry’s best, from pro skater Ryan Sheckler and his custom bagger to my good friend Aaron Colton, who had his incredible custom Indian on display. With its raw aluminum tank and high-performance inverted fork, Colton’s bike was a perfect example of how Indian’s legacy continues to be pushed forward by the next generation of riders.
The Verdict
Indian Motorcycle has weathered many storms over 125 years, but standing in that museum surrounded by enthusiasts and innovators, it’s clear the brand is stronger than ever. Whether you’re a fan of the vintage scouts or the modern baggers, there’s no denying that Indian is a vital part of our American riding tapestry.
