Post Sale Update: This Indian Chief sold for a Best Offer of $24,000.
The Indian Chief was the most famous of the motorcycles produced by Indian, a company founded in 1901 in Springfield, Massachusetts. Founded even before Triumph and Harley, Indian has been in and out of business since the 50’s, though they’ve recently announced a revised Chief for 2014.
The Chief was one of Indian’s most popular models, and was built for over 31 years in the first run. Over this 30+ year run, the Chief evolved to gain several innovations, including OHV and 4 valves per cylinder, though it seems most innovations never made it past the racing bikes. Still, the Chief was capable of 85 miles per hour, and this 1940 model year got the plunger rear frame and the distinctive skirted front fenders.
This specific Indian Chief has a beautiful amount of patina, which comes with its share of nicks and scratches. This numbers-matching bike starts and cruises on the freeway just fine. The seller doesn’t claim to be an expert on this bike, so you’ll need to take his claim that most parts ‘appear to be original’ at face value. Note that the seat is definitely a reproduction item. We’re absolutely in love with the emblems on the gas tank.
Find this Indian Chief for sale here on eBay with bidding at $15,100 and a Buy-It-Now price of $26,000 in Lumsden, Saskatchewan, Canada.
