Indian Motorcycle is one of the most iconic names in the two-wheeled world. Founded in 1901, it’s older than Harley-Davidson and has long been associated with American motorcycling heritage. But for all its imagery of feathered headdresses, warbonnets, and tribal motifs, there’s a lingering misconception worth clearing up: Indian Motorcycle has never been Native American–owned.
The brand was founded by engineers in Massachusetts and is now owned by Polaris Industries. Yes, that Polaris. And for decades, Indian has used Native-inspired design language in its logos and styling sometimes reverently, sometimes controversially. Whether that’s a celebration of heritage or a case of cultural appropriation is still debated. But one thing’s clear: this legacy is complex.
Now, Indian is attempting something different, a direct collaboration with a Native American artist, one rooted not in appropriation but in partnership, purpose, and storytelling.
Jeremy Arviso is a Phoenix-based creative force with Navajo, Hopi, Akimel O’odham, and Tohono O’odham lineage. Known for his vivid, layered aesthetic that merges traditional Native symbolism with modern streetwear, Arviso has worked with big names like Nike, the NFL, and the Phoenix Suns. But this latest project might be his most culturally resonant yet.
The Indian Motorcycle x RVSO Collection is a limited-edition capsule featuring nine pieces: men’s and women’s tees, a tank top, sweatshirt, and hats. Each design is infused with meaning. The Sacred Hoop and four sacred colors—white, red, black, and yellow—represent the four directions, the seasons, and the cycles of life. Arviso’s signature arrow motifs symbolize movement, purpose, and spiritual direction.
“For this collection, I drew inspiration from the brand DNA of Indian Motorcycle, while carefully integrating vibrant color and Indigenous visual elements,” said Arviso. “Each piece embodies a deep connection to land, community, and heritage.”
Proceeds from the collection go to Change Labs, a Native-led nonprofit that supports Indigenous entrepreneurs in the Navajo and Hopi Nations. It’s not just a fashion line, it’s a statement of intent. And it begs a bigger question: Could this mark a turning point?
In a world where brands often get called out for surface-level representation, this feels like something more. Indian handed the reins to a Native artist and backed it with real investment in Native communities. It’s a refreshing move, one that expands Indian’s cultural footprint beyond cruisers and roaring V-twins. More importantly, it’s a chance for the motorcycle industry to rethink how it engages with art, identity, and the communities it references.
After all, at its core, motorcycling has always been more than just getting from A to B. It’s about freedom. It’s about expression. And yes, it’s about art.
Source: Indian Motorcycle
