**The Complete History of Indian Motorcycles**

## **The Birth of a Legend (1897-1901)**

Indian Motorcycle traces its roots back to **1897**, when **George M. Hendee** founded the **Hendee Manufacturing Company** to produce bicycles. Initially, the company sold bicycles under the names **Silver King** and **Silver Queen**, but soon adopted the name **Indian** for better brand recognition.

In **1900**, Hendee partnered with **Oscar Hedstrom**, a skilled engineer and bicycle racer, to develop a motorized bicycle. By **1901**, the first **Indian prototype** was completed, marking the beginning of America's first motorcycle company.

## **Early Success and Racing Dominance (1902-1919)**

Indian quickly gained popularity, selling its first motorcycle to the public in **1902**. The company introduced its signature **deep red color** in **1904**, which became an iconic feature.

Indian also pioneered **V-twin engines**, launching its first **V-twin factory racer** in **1905**. By **1911**, Indian dominated the **Isle of Man TT**, securing **first, second, and third place finishes**. The introduction of the **Powerplus engine** in **1916**, a **1000cc V-twin flathead**, further solidified Indian’s reputation for performance.

## **The Golden Era (1920-1953)**

The **1920s** saw the birth of legendary models like the **Scout** and **Chief**, which became synonymous with Indian Motorcycle. The **Scout 101**, introduced in **1928**, featured a longer wheelbase and lower seat, making it a favorite among riders.

Indian also acquired **Ace Motor Corporation** in **1927**, leading to the development of the **Indian Ace**, later refined into the **Indian 401** and **402**. By the **1930s**, Indian motorcycles prominently displayed the famous **headdress logo** on their gas tanks.

The **Sport Scout**, introduced in **1934**, was a response to the heavier **Standard Scout**, offering a lighter frame and improved performance. However, despite its success, Indian Motorcycle faced financial struggles in the **1950s**, leading to its **shutdown in 1953**.

## **The Brockhouse Era (1953-1960)**

In **1953**, Indian Motorcycle ceased independent production. The brand name was purchased by **Brockhouse Engineering**, which began selling **Royal Enfield motorcycles rebadged as Indian Motorcycles**. However, this strategy failed to capture the essence of the original Indian brand.

By **1960**, Brockhouse sold the remains of Indian Motorcycle to the **Associated Motorcycle Company**, leading to the brand’s near disappearance from the industry.

## **The Floyd Clymer Attempt (1963-1977)**

In **1963**, **Floyd Clymer**, a motorcycle industry leader, acquired the rights to the Indian name and attempted to revive the brand by rebranding **British motorcycles** with the Indian badge.

Unfortunately, after his passing in **1970**, his attorney took control, but sales declined sharply, and operations ceased again in **1977**.

## **The Gilroy Era (1998-2003)**

After decades of dormancy, Indian Motorcycle was revived in **1998** when a merger of **nine companies** formed the **Indian Motorcycle Company of America (IMCA)**. Production resumed in **Gilroy, California**, with modified versions of classic models like the **Chief** and **Scout**.

However, financial struggles led to **bankruptcy in 2003**, ending this brief revival.

## **The Stellican Era (2006-2011)**

In **2006**, **London-based private equity firm Stellican Ltd.** purchased Indian Motorcycle’s assets and established a **manufacturing facility in King’s Mountain, North Carolina**.

The company produced a limited number of motorcycles, focusing on **premium, handcrafted models**, but production remained small-scale. By **2011**, Stellican sold Indian Motorcycle to **Polaris Industries**, ushering in a new era of success.

## **Burt Munro’s Legendary Feat (1967)**

During this period, **Burt Munro**, a **New Zealand native**, made history by setting a **land speed record** of **184.087 mph** (with an unofficial top speed of **205.67 mph**) on his heavily modified **1920 Indian Scout Streamliner**. His achievements were later immortalized in the film *The World's Fastest Indian*.

## **The Polaris Era (2011-Present)**

In **2011**, **Polaris Industries** acquired Indian Motorcycle, breathing new life into the brand. Polaris moved production to **Minnesota and Iowa**, integrating Indian into its existing facilities.

Since **2013**, Polaris has designed and manufactured motorcycles that honor **Indian’s traditional styling while incorporating modern technology**. Today, **Indian Motorcycle continues to thrive**, offering a range of models that blend heritage with innovation.

## **Conclusion**

Indian Motorcycle’s journey is one of **resilience, innovation, and passion**. From its early dominance in racing to its **revival under Polaris**, Indian remains a symbol of **American motorcycling heritage**.

Whether you’re a fan of **classic models or modern designs**, Indian Motorcycle’s legacy is one worth celebrating.