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Indian under new management
06 February 2026
Indian under new management
Renowned for combining heritage styling with 21st century innovation, Indian Motorcycles is one of the US of A’s most iconic motorcycle marques.
So what does the future hold now that the company is in new hands?
Whilst only time will tell, let’s hope a company called Carolwood LP inking a deal to buy Indian Motorcycles from the Polaris group is a new dawn. At first glance, things look positive.
The new venture is being led by an Irish American and industry veteran, Mike Kennedy.
A little known fact is that a dude called Charles Franklin introduced the first Scout and Chieftain models back in the day.
Not only was he Irish, he was from Dublin and not only was he was from Dublin, he was from the Northside, not only was he from the Northside, but he was born ‘between the canals’ in Phibsborough. A true Dub.
So it’s good to see the ‘old country’ getting a look in again.
Good news
Under the ownership of Polaris, the sister company, Victory, was quietly taken outside and given the Last Rites, so having Indian as a standalone company would appear to be very good news for the brand indeed.
Over the last decade the company has delivered a string of new and revised models that have been exceptional, while still honouring what the brand has always been about.
Indeed, heritage is important, but so is modernising the range. Indian have done both.
Born and still made in the USA
The President is going to be happy as the company has committed to staying in the US from a manufacturing point of view, maintaining its Illinois and Minnesota factories.
Continuity is clearly good news for Indian’s 900 employees. In addition, under new ownership the plan is to keep things going onwards and upwards with significant investment in R&D at the company’s Swiss development lab and growing global dealer network.
“It’s an incredible honour to take the helm of Indian Motorcycle as it celebrates its 125th Anniversary, empowered by a sense of gratitude and opportunity, and the support and ambition of a well-resourced, highly motivated ownership team,” said new Indian CEO Kennedy (pictured right).
“2026 will be a special year to honour our history, but more importantly, to drive the brand into the future with a renewed level of commitment, focus and clarity that can only be found as a stand-alone company.
“America’s first motorcycle company will put America first,” he elaborated. “Our brand and business will be grounded in our American identity and more importantly, American manufacturing. ‘Built in America’ is not a slogan.
“It’s a competitive advantage, and we intend to use it.” Yep, he’s definitely an Irish American…
Meanwhile Franklin Motorcycles on the Northside of Dublin are the official Indian store in Ireland. You should call Keith on 01 538 5005 and ask for a test ride. They’re a very impressive bike to ride.
