The performance bagger phenomenon is experiencing unstoppable growth, driven by the spectacle of the King of the Baggers championship. What were once bikes designed for long road trips are now transformed into aggressive beasts packed with power, attitude, and technology. And if there is one brand that knows how to capitalize on this trend, it is Indian Motorcycle, which with its ‘Forged’ initiative is taking high-end custom bikes to new heights.
In this edition of the series, three 2025 Indian Chieftain PowerPlus models were delivered to some of the most influential workshops in the American custom scene. Among them, Kraus Motor Co., based in Utah, stands out—a firm specializing in high-performance V-twin motorcycles with an extensive catalog of exclusive parts for Indian models.
A purely radical approach
The Kraus team received a completely stock Chieftain PowerPlus, powered by the imposing 112 ci PowerPlus engine, delivering 126 horsepower and 180 Nm of torque. At first glance, the modifications may seem subtle, but behind the elegant matte black finish lies deep and brutally technical work.
This bike is a pure street machine. No frills, no glossy paint, no embellishments. It is sleek yet aggressive, built to get straight to the point.
Comments Satya Kraus, founder of the brand.
High-performance technology
First of all, the modifications begin at the front end, where the Kraus KR8 system has been installed, featuring Öhlins inverted forks, custom triple clamps, radial brake mounts, and fork guards. At the rear, an Öhlins shock with easy adjustment from the left side ensures precise handling.
The forged carbon BST wheels are shod with Metzeler Cruisetec tires. The braking system consists of Kraus CNC aluminum calipers and hardware, combined with OEM discs and Spiegler brake lines.
Ergonomics with character
On the handlebars, there is a stainless steel piece finished in a stunning champagne gold, mounted on Kraus risers and an offset base co-designed with Hart-Luck. The cockpit is completed with Kraus controls, Rizoma mirrors, and ODI x Hart-Luck components.
Further down, there are wide footpegs, brake and shift pedals, and a conversion from belt to chain drive with a modified front cover. Everything is finished with a handcrafted stainless steel exhaust made by Fab28 Industries.
Details that make a difference
The bodywork has also been tastefully modified. The original fairing now integrates Denali LED lights and a smoked Klock Werks windscreen. Fenders and instrument panel trim in carbon fiber come from DTF Performance.
The rear fender has been trimmed and finished with a CNC-machined edge, while the side panels were modified and the tank features custom-designed Indian badges. Created in collaboration with Saddlemen, the seat also bears the Kraus signature.
One of the most impressive modifications is in the saddlebags: they were narrowed through cutting, 3D scanning, and reprinting of new panels, adding Ciro3D LED taillights, Kraus mounts, and custom hinge covers.
A bike for a fighter
This Kraus Chieftain PowerPlus is an imposing and refined bagger. It has matte black finishes, gold details, carbon fiber, and a metallic touch on the polished swingarm that enhances its visual muscle. As a final touch, the clutch cover is engraved with the name “No Love,” the nickname of the bike’s new owner: UFC professional fighter Cody Garbrandt.
As the result, a powerful bagger, custom-built for a champion. Because when art, engineering, and attitude come together, the result is more than a motorcycle: it is a statement of intent on two wheels.
