1945 Indian Chief

The Amelia Island Auction|3 March 2022, 10:00 EST|Fernandina Beach Golf Club

1945 Indian Chief
Engine no. CDE 828

*One of the most iconic models to leave the Wigwam
*Very early post-WWII production
*Full fendered fabulousness
*Older restoration

Oscar Hedstrom and Oliver Hendee, both active in the cycle racing world, got together to found the Hendee Manufacturing Company and build the first prototype Indian motorcycle in 1901. That first machine was powered by a single-cylinder, 'F-head' (inlet over exhaust) engine that formed part of the 'diamond' frame, in the Indian's case it sloped rearwards to act as the seat tube. Chain drive, an advanced feature in motorcycling's early, pioneering days was used by Indian right from the start. The Indian single proved immensely successful and provided the basis for the first of the powerful, large-capacity v-twins for which the marque is best remembered.

In 1916 Indian introduced a new 61ci (1,000cc) 'flat head' v-twin - the Powerplus - to replace the original 'F-head' type that had been around since 1907. A smaller model, the 37ci (600cc) Scout, joined the Powerplus in 1920 and then two years later the range was extended to encompass a new, Scout-based 61ci model - the Chief - the first of a famous line that would endure until 1953.

Constantly developed, the Chief had gained a new frame and forks, dry-sump lubrication and coil ignition by 1940, that year's models being notable as the first to have plunger rear suspension and the deeply valanced fenders of the quintessential Chief. With war looming, Indian increasingly turned to the production of military models, the Army version of the Chief emerging stripped of its valanced mudguards, chrome work to end up in drab olive green. Indian's first significant post-war development was a change to girder forks in 1946 for the 74ci (1,200cc) Chief, by then Indian's only model.

In all likelihood, the Indian offered here has been restored to a greater or lesser extent in the past. Although no specific file accompanies the motorcycle, the look it bears today is enough to understand the care with which it was owned and preserved. Having been used for display over the past few years, mechanical recommissioning will be required before undertaking any longer ride.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the title will be in transit.

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