Summary

Magnificent restoration on original matching-numbers motorcycle with Goulding sidecar. Iconic American classic motorcycle is rolling piece of artwork. 1210cc engine with 3-speed manual transmission. From the MS Classic Cars Collection.

Details

Indian motorcycles were manufactured from 1901-53 by a company in Springfield, MA, initially known as the Hendee Manufacturing Company. In 1928, it was renamed the Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company. The Indian factory team took the first three places in the 1911 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy. During the 1910s, Indian became the largest manufacturer in the world. Indian's most popular models were the Scout, made from 1920-46, and the Chief, made from 1922-53. The Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company went bankrupt in 1953. A number of successor organizations have perpetuated the name in subsequent years. This 1947 Indian Chief was purchased by a gentleman from Massachusetts in 2003 as a complete motorcycle that needed a restoration. He spent tons of time and money having it restored to a high level of quality. Every single piece was restored or replaced. Many original parts were used throughout. It was painted a custom teal color that is truly stunning. Dressed with a brown seat and bags, it's powered by the rebuilt original matching-numbers 1210cc 2-cylinder engine. The engine #CDG-2378 decodes as 1947 Chief and matches the frame number #3472378. It's been converted to electric start for simplicity. During the restoration, a Goulding sidecar was purchased and shipped from Poland. The Goulding sidecars are commended for their high-quality, strict regard to original but seemingly unimportant details, nicely pressed steel gondola bodies and precise cast-steel fittings made with the lost-wax technique. With the improved quality of materials used today, significantly better than in the 1940s, pressed-steel gondola construction, frames from quality seamless tubing, correctly tempered springs and strong mountings they offer even higher safety then the original counterparts. Although the sidecar was basically new, it still needed to be finished with body, paint and trim. It was painted to match the Indian and was also dressed with brown leather. Since completion it's been trailered to shows and virtually hasn't been driven. In fact, it's not even broken in yet. Some additional parts are included such as a new front faring and original starting components. This motorcycle has recently been completely serviced and detailed, which is fully documented with invoice. From the MS Classic Cars Collection.