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LOT 224 *N

1928 Indian 750cc Scout 'Short Frame' Registration no. not registered Frame no. n/a Engine no. CGP1719

Sold for £16,100 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 224*,N

1928 Indian 750cc Scout 'Short Frame'

1928 Indian 750cc Scout 'Short Frame'
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. n/a
Engine no. CGP1719

This Lot has arrived in the UK from overseas under Temporary Admission. 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.

A marque at the very forefront of motorcycle design and technology in the opening decades of the 20th Century, Indian nowadays is remembered mainly for its powerful, large-capacity v-twins, the first of which appeared in 1907. The Springfield firm's first twin was based on its highly successful 'F-head' (inlet-over-exhaust) single-cylinder model, and this type of engine would continue to power the road-going 'Iron Redskins' until a new 61ci (1,000cc) 'flat head' (sidevalve) v-twin - the Powerplus - was introduced for 1916.

A smaller Indian v-twin model, the 37ci (600cc) Scout, joined the Powerplus in 1920, soon gaining a deserved reputation for durability; so much so that 'You can't wear out an Indian Scout' became its advertising slogan. Contributing to this longevity was the use of gears for the primary drive rather than the customary chain, and this unusual feature would endure until 1933. A 45ci (750cc) variant was first offered in 1927 and then in April 1928 the 101 Scout appeared featuring a revised 750cc 'flat head' engine in a new longer-wheelbase frame. This sporting machine would prove an immense success for the Springfield firm, so much so that its replacement in 1931 by a heavier Chief-framed model was greeted with dismay.

This 'short-frame' Scout is offered from an overseas collection. The private vendor advises that the motorcycle is in running condition, as demonstrated in the video available on the Bonhams website, and was last ridden on a short test ride in June 2026.

The vendor further advises that the motorcycle has been rebuilt, including an engine rebuild completed in 2026, incorporating new valves and pistons throughout. Additional notable work includes a rebuilt Splitdorf magneto and re-laced wheels fitted with new tyres. Offered without documents.

Following a short 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.
Key not required

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  • 11 October 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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*Import low rate
VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.
NNOVA declaration
This machine is subject to post-sale customs administration and, for UK Buyers, a NOVA declaration. Whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice, as follows: for Live Public Sales: £350 + VAT; for Timed, Online-only Sales: £195 + VAT.

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