In early 2021, Indian Motorcycle marked the 100th anniversary of its Chief model with an all-new 1,811cc modern-retro interpretation of the iconic American cruiser. In a bid to demonstrate the new Chief’s conduciveness to customization, America’s oldest moto marque tapped a trio of heavy-hitters in the bespoke bike building world to transform the Chief into stunning one-off works. And after previously unveiling a custom Chief build from Paul Cox and Keino Sasaki, and another from Go Takamine, Indian has now revealed the final of the three builds, this time calling on motocross and FMX legend (and brand ambassador) Carey hart to customize a Chief for actor Jon Bernthal.
Representing the first custom build Hart has completed for someone other than himself, the build’s directive was to deliver something that Bernthal described as understated and “humble but elegant,” though the project would also take influence from Hart’s unrelenting passion for speed and performance. Riding on a set of San Diego Customs cast seven-arm wheels, the build has been treated to an adjustable GP suspension front-end, FOX piggybacks rear shocks with a 1” lift, a custom Hart-designed seat courtesy of Saddlemen, a one-off lower frame cover, a custom-machined inspection cover, and a two-into-one FAB28 Industries stainless steel exhaust system — all pieced together using Pro-Bolt titanium hardware throughout. The custom Indian motorcycle model also includes a smattering of more minor additions such as SDC foot controls, Rizoma mirrors, indicators, and brake/taillight, top-shelf Berringer brakes chomping down on Galfer rotors, a Rokform phone mount, and chumps-style ODI handlebars that are set in Kraus risers and clamps and wrapped in Hartluck lock-on grips. The final element of the build would be laying down its livery: a multi-tone black and gray scheme with red accents outlining carried out by Airtrix.
Unlike many one-off builds produced for celebrities, Bernthal’s bike is destined for being far more than just a garage queen, with the Punisher star planning on putting ample miles on the machine over the coming years.
