All About Indian Motorcycle®
Indian Motorcycle® is an iconic American motorcycle company today, but it has endured a challenging history full of obstacles. Through grit, determination, and ingenuity, the company's leaders have built it up as the brand we know and love today. If you've ever been curious how Indian Motorcycle® came to be, read on! We cover key parts of the company's history below. If you want to explore Indian® motorcycles for sale, check out the selection at North County Indian Motorcycle. Our dealership is based in San Marcos, but we proudly serve those in San Diego and Oceanside, California.
The Start of the Story
In 1897, George M. Hendee launched the Hendee Manufacturing Company. The business made motorcycles such as the Silver King and the Silver Queen. The name later changed to American Indian, which got shortened to Indian. The re-branding was focused on increasing product recognition among export markets.
In 1900, Hendee decided to collaborate with Oscar Hedstrom. Together, they crafted three prototype models. They made a 1.75 BHP single-cylinder engine, which became successful in a short period of time.
Gaining Popularity
Indian Motorcycle® continued expanding over the years, keeping innovation at the forefront of the efforts. In 1902, the models being sold offered chain drives and streamlined styling. The goal was to gain the attention of customers by making motorcycles with impressive style alongside impressive performance.
In 1903, Hedstrom made headlines when he broke the world motorcycle speed record of 56 miles per hour. In 1904, Indian Motorcycle® debuted the striking red color that later became a key part of company branding. Then the company made its first V-Twin factory racer, which earned plenty of victories. Many elements of this racing motorcycle were included in future street and roadster models, giving customers a thrilling riding experience off the track.
World War I
Indian Motorcycle® assisted the war efforts by selling several units of its 1917-18 Powerplus line to the military. This did mean that those models were not available to customers, which led to a drastic decline in sales. Eventually, many Indian Motorcycle® dealerships were forced to shut down and the company lost its status as the number one motorcycle brand in the country.
World War II
When a global war arrived a second time, Indian Motorcycle® yet again delivered its models to support the war effort. Models such as the Chief®, Scout®, and Junior Scout® were used by the United States Army as well as the British Forces. The most popular model was the 841, which was designed to help in battles taking place in North African deserts.
Rebirth of Indian® Motorcycles
In 1945, Ralph B. Rogers led a holding group to purchase a controlling interest in Indian Motorcycle®. The company then discontinued many of its lines, turning its focus to lightweight models. Many features were added to the models, such as the Indian head fender light and chrome components. Unfortunately, all product manufacturing stopped in 1953. The company was moved around between multiple interests and underwent various name and design changes.
In 2011, Polaris® Industries announced their official plan to acquire Indian Motorcycle®. The production facilities for Indian Motorcycle® were moved to Spirit Lake, Iowa and production resumed. A few years later, the company released ten models. Many of these new motorcycles ran off of the Thunder Stroke® 111 1.82 liter engine while some used the smaller displacement liquid-cooled Scout engines. New and experienced riders alike turn to Indian Motorcycle® when they want a high performing model with classic American style.
Ready to explore Indian Motorcycle® models for sale? Head over to North County Indian Motorcycle. Our expert staff can answer questions and help you find the best model for your lifestyle, so stop by and visit our dealership today! We proudly serve those in San Diego and Oceanside, CA.