024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse vs. 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special – The Ultimate Blacked-Out Bagger Battle
Looking for a blacked-out touring cruiser that blends power, performance, and classic style? The 2024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse and the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special are two of the most aggressive baggers on the market. But when it comes to power, handling, technology, and overall value, only one delivers more—right from the factory.

👇 See why the Indian Springfield Dark Horse is the better choice.

🔥 Engine & Performance – More Torque, More Control
Feature 2024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
Engine Thunderstroke 116 (1890cc) Air-Cooled V-Twin Milwaukee-Eight 114 (1868cc) Air-Cooled V-Twin
Horsepower 92 HP 95 HP
Torque 126 lb-ft @ 2,900 RPM 120 lb-ft @ 3,250 RPM
Cooling System Air/Oil-Cooled with Rear Cylinder Deactivation Air-Cooled
Transmission 6-Speed with Assist Clutch 6-Speed
✅ Why Springfield Dark Horse Wins:

Higher torque at lower RPM means stronger acceleration and smoother power delivery.
Rear Cylinder Deactivation helps reduce heat in traffic, making it more comfortable for long rides, while Harley’s air-cooled engine tends to run hotter in stop-and-go conditions.
More torque out of the box, meaning riders don’t have to spend extra on upgrades for power.
🏁 Suspension & Handling – More Stability, More Comfort
Feature 2024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
Front Suspension 46mm Telescopic Forks 49mm Dual Bending Valve Forks
Rear Suspension Fox® Adjustable Rear Shock Emulsion Rear Shocks (Non-adjustable)
Front Brakes Dual 300mm Brembo® Brakes Dual 300mm Brakes
Frame Cast Aluminum Frame Steel Frame
Weight (Wet) 862 lbs 807 lbs
✅ Why Springfield Dark Horse Wins:

Fox® adjustable rear suspension allows riders to fine-tune their comfort and handling, while Harley’s rear shocks are non-adjustable.
A lightweight aluminum frame makes the Springfield Dark Horse feel more nimble, especially in corners and at low speeds.
Dual front Brembo brakes provide stronger and more responsive stopping power, giving riders more confidence on the road.
🛠️ Technology & Features – More Advanced Features for Touring
Feature 2024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
Gauge/Display Analog + Digital Readout Analog + Digital Readout
Ride Modes 3 Modes: Sport, Standard, Tour No Ride Modes
Keyless Ignition Yes Yes
Cruise Control Yes (Standard) Yes (Standard)
Windshield Quick-Release None (No Windshield)
✅ Why Springfield Dark Horse Wins:

Three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Tour) allow riders to adjust performance based on road conditions and riding style—Harley does not offer ride modes.
Standard cruise control makes long-distance rides more comfortable.
Quick-release windshield included, giving the rider the flexibility of a touring or stripped-down cruiser look—Harley does not include a windshield at all.
💰 Price & Value – More Performance for the Price
Feature 2024 Indian Springfield Dark Horse 2024 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
Starting MSRP (CAD) $31,999 $34,499
What You Get Thunderstroke 116, ride modes, dual Brembo brakes, adjustable rear suspension, quick-release windshield Milwaukee-Eight 114, standard suspension, non-adjustable rear shocks, no windshield
✅ Why Springfield Dark Horse Wins:

For $2,500 LESS than the Road King Special, you get a more powerful engine, better brakes, ride modes, and a quick-release windshield.
The Springfield Dark Horse is ready for touring right out of the box, while the Harley requires additional accessories and upgrades to match its capabilities.
🏆 The Verdict – Indian Springfield Dark Horse Wins!
✅ More Torque & Power – Stronger acceleration and better highway passing ability with the Thunderstroke 116.
✅ Better Handling & Braking – Lighter aluminum frame, adjustable suspension, and dual Brembo brakes improve control.
✅ More Standard Features – Ride modes, cruise control, and a quick-release windshield come included.
✅ Best Value for Riders – Lower price, better performance, and more rider-focused features.

🚀 Want to experience the difference? Test ride the Indian Springfield Dark Horse today!