Ex-MotoGP Rider Joins Indian Factory Team in King of the Baggers Series
Loris Baz is the newest member of the factory Indian King of the Baggers team, forming a three-rider line-up alongside two series champions
As part of its historic ‘Wrecking Crew’ image which began after World War II when it began successfully racing in the 1950s, the new-look factory Indian S&S team is the latest chapter in the brand’s Wrecking Crew story, as former MotoGP rider Loris Baz joins 2024 King of the Baggers champion Troy Herfoss and Tyler O’Hara.
Using the overhead-cam, liquid-cooled PowerPlus motor in its full factory Indian challenger, Baz brings a wide range of racing experience to the table after having competed in WorldSBK, road racing and MotoAmerica, so the King of the Baggers series will be familiar to him.
Set to make his official debut in the cruiser class, Baz joins Herfoss who won the 2024 title with the American manufacturer and O’Hara, who is a two-time King of the Baggers champion.
Speaking about his debut in the class, Baz said: “The King of the Baggers series has had my attention since it began, and to be a part of it as a member of the legendary Indian Motorcycle Wrecking Crew is truly an honour.
“Racing Superbike, I’ve seen first-hand what Troy and Tyler have accomplished aboard the S&S Indian Challenger, and I’m thrilled to be joining this championship team as we chase another title together in 2025.”
The bike used by all three riders will be the 2025 Indian Challenger which features a four-cylinder 60-degree V-Twin engine. Baz is a former race winner in WorldSBK and MotoAmerica, while Herfoss is also a three-time Australian Superbike champion, to go along with the impressive O’Hara.
“The Wrecking Crew has long been a cornerstone of our brand, synonymous with the racing DNA that has been a part of our company since it was founded by two racers back in 1901, and we’re thrilled to continue that historic legacy with our factory team in the King of the Baggers series,” said Gary Gray, Vice President of Product Technology, Racing, and Service for Indian Motorcycle.
“Loris Baz is a proven winner, with experience at the highest levels of global road racing, but with critical experience in MotoAmerica and the tracks we run throughout the season. He’s been impressive on the Indian Challenger in our early testing sessions, and we’re excited by the notion of now having three amazing riders aboard the Indian Challenger at every race this season as we collectively chase another championship.”
Indian’s factory efforts are substantial for 2025 as it looks to retain its title, but Indian Motorcycles is also supporting two satellite teams with Cameron Peterson at SDI Racing, while Kyle Ohnsorg will compete on the TAB Performance Racing Indian Challenger.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
