The Lot is from outside the UK. Shippio Ltd must automatically uplift this Lot after the auction, complete all post sale import or export customs administration, and store this Lot until it is customs cleared. A compulsory fee of £350 + VAT will be added to the buyer's invoice for this. This Lot cannot be collected from the auction venue by the purchaser or any alternative transporter.

If the Lot is to stay in the UK or is not exported within 90 days of sale, Import VAT at 5% on the hammer price is payable.

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 and chromework and finished in drab olive green. Indian's first significant post-war development was a change to girder forks for the 74ci (1,200cc) Chief, by then Indian's only model. In 1950 the Chief's engine was stretched to 80ci (1,320cc) and a telescopic front fork and right-hand throttle twist-grip adopted, the latter for the first time on a production Indian.

One of approximately 3,000 built in 1948, the machine offered here is a superlative example of the 'skirted fender' Chief, considered by many aficionados of the Springfield marque to be its ultimate expression. Formerly titled in Wisconsin, this Chief was purchased by our vendor from a United States auction in August 2000 (see related paperwork on file). According to the 2000 sale catalogue: "A close inspection reveals that it was restored to a high standard by a well-known Indian restoration specialist. Never judged by the AMCA, it was suggested (in 2000) that with a few minor, easily made modifications the machine would score a high rating." Notable features include tubular protection bars front and rear; extended footboards; and a Montana licence plate. The current odometer reading is 550 miles, which may well be the distance travelled since the restoration.

Offered with the aforementioned 2000 auction extract, 2000 bill of sale; and 1995 photocopy Wisconsin Certificate of Title for a Vehicle.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding. The engine turns over.
Offered with key