2026 Indian Sport Scout RT - First Look
The Sport Scout receives saddlebags
by Nic de Sena Courtesy Motorcycle.com
Indian Motorcycle unveiled its revised Scout lineup for the 2025 season, rolling out numerous updates to its entire cruiser range. Aside from enjoying a new frame across the entire Scout family, the platform also debuted the wholly modern SpeedPlus 1250 V-Twin engine. The current Indian cruiser roster includes the Scout Classic, Super Scout, Scout Bobber, Sport Scout, and 101 Scout. The 2026 model year is set to bring a new addition to the lineup: the 2026 Indian Sport Scout RT, an offshoot of the existing Sport Scout that adds locking saddlebags.
The Indian revised Sport Scout came to us last year, leaning into a West Coast performance cruiser vibe that has swept the segment. Repping club-style cues, the Sport Scout features a quarter fairing, riser handlebars, and a 19-inch front wheel to help complete its more aggressive look. Now, the Sport Scout RT runs with the aesthetic first seen in the Indian camp with the Sport Chief RT.
The engineers and designers in St. Paul, Minnesota, didn’t stray far from the Sport Scout with the Sport Scout RT. The same 3.4-gallon fuel tank is in play once again, as are the same fenders, along with the 5.5-inch moto-style risers and handlebars, all featuring the same machined finishing touches. Also returning is the 26.8-inch-tall (unladen) solo seat, said to offer improved back support. Powering the RT is the 1250cc SpeedPlus V-Twin, armed with a claimed 105 hp at 7,250 rpm and 82 lb-ft. at 6,300 rpm. Likewise, the 19-/16-inch alloy wheel combination is back for another tour of duty, as are the Metzeler Cruisetec tires.
Aside from colors and graphics, the only other differentiator is the inclusion of locking rigid saddlebags, said to provide 10 gallons of waterproof storage. These saddlebags appear to be the same stubby bags featured on the Sport Chief RT, which will not fit a full-face helmet within them. Indian reps did note that the saddlebags are compatible with 2025–2026 Scout models as an accessory option.
As the Sport Scout RT is the range-topper within its mid-sized cruiser lineup, it comes equipped with all the accessory electronic fixings available as standard. The Sport Scout RT is exclusively offered with the Limited +Tech package, which enables three ride modes as well as traction control, cruise control, and ABS, though these systems do not utilize an IMU. In addition, the RT features Indian’s Ride Command system, displayed on its 4-inch touchscreen TFT display. Additional features include all-around LED lighting, keyless ignition, and a USB charging port.
The 2025 Indian Sport Scout RT has an MSRP of $16,999 and is available in three color choices: Black Smoke, Chalk, and Sunset Red Metallic.
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2026 Indian Sport Scout RT Specifications |
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MSRP |
$16,999 |
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Engine Type |
1,250cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves per cylinder, 60° V-Twin SpeedPlus engine |
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Bore and Stroke |
104 mm x 73.6 mm |
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Compression Ratio |
12.5:1 |
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Horsepower |
105 hp at 7,250 rpm (claimed) |
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Torque |
82 lb-ft. at 6,300 rpm (claimed |
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Clutch |
Wet, multiplate clutch |
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Transmission |
6-speed |
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 Final Drive |
Belt, 146 tooth |
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Front Suspension |
41mm telescopic fork, 4.7 inches of travel |
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Rear Suspension |
Dual preload-adjustable shocks, 3.0 inches of travel |
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Front Brake |
Single 298mm semi-floating rotor with two-piston caliper |
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Rear Brake |
Single 298mm semi-floating rotor with single-piston caliper |
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Front Wheel |
19-inch cast 8-spoke wheel |
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Rear Wheel |
16-inch cast 8-spoke wheel |
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Front Tire |
Metzeler Cruisetec 130/60B19 61H |
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Rear Tire |
Metzeler Cruisetec 150/80B16 77H |
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Rake/Trail |
29°/4.8 inches |
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Wheelbase |
61.5 inches |
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Seat Height |
25.7 inches |
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Weight (As Shipped, Claimed) |
568 pounds (claimed) |
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Fuel Capacity |
3.4 gallons |
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