- Indian Motorcycle to stand alone
- Will operate under new leadership in 2026
Polaris Inc has announced a major restructuring decision by confirming that, going forward, Indian Motorcycle will become an independent company. The American powersports major has entered into a definitive agreement to sell a majority stake in the century-old motorcycle brand to Carolwood LP, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.
Indian Motorcycle, which contributed roughly 478 million USD or 7 per cent of Polaris’ total revenue for the year ending June 2025, will now be positioned for standalone growth. While Polaris will retain a minor equity share in the company, full operational control will transfer to Carolwood.
Mike Speetzen, CEO of Polaris, stated that the separation will allow both entities to pursue sharper and faster innovation. Indian Motorcycle, backed by Carolwood’s investment, will have the flexibility to build on its momentum in the premium motorcycle space.
Andrew Shanfeld, Principal at Carolwood, noted the firm’s intention to support Indian Motorcycle’s next growth phase. He further added that the legacy brand deserves its share of independent focus and leadership to further strengthen its presence in global markets.
Indian Motorcycle will continue to operate from its existing facilities in Spirit Lake, Iowa, and Monticello, Minnesota, along with its design and technology centre in Burgdorf, Switzerland. Sales, service, and dealer operations to remain unaffected during and after the transition. But this would definitely open doors for the company to innovate and enhance itself under new bosses.
