Indian Motorcycle becomes independent company after separation from Polaris
Indian Motorcycle has officially transitioned into an independent company following the completion of its acquisition by Carolwood LP. The deal, which was first announced in October last year, has now been formally concluded, ending the brand’s association with Polaris.
With the transaction complete, Indian Motorcycle will now function as a standalone entity. Approximately 900 employees have moved to the new organisation as part of the transition. The company’s manufacturing operations will continue at its existing facilities in Spirit Lake, Iowa and Monticello, Minnesota, while research and development activities will remain based in Burgdorf, Switzerland and Wyoming, Minnesota.
Leadership of the newly independent brand will be taken over by Mike Kennedy, who has previously held senior roles at Harley-Davidson, Vance & Hines and RumbleOn. His appointment comes at a significant time for the company, as Indian Motorcycle approaches its 125th anniversary in 2026.
In official statements, Kennedy highlighted the opportunity to steer the brand forward with a sharper strategic focus as a standalone company. He also underlined the importance of product differentiation and reaffirmed the company’s intent to work closely with its dealer network across markets.
While operations in the United States and Europe appear to continue without disruption, there is currently no clarity on how the transition will impact the brand’s presence in India. Indian Motorcycle had been retailing its motorcycles in the country through the Polaris India network, and no formal update has been provided regarding the future structure of its Indian business.
The separation marks a significant structural shift for one of the oldest motorcycle brands in the world, with the coming years expected to define its independent trajectory.
