Indian 1951 Chief Roadmaster 1340 cc 2 cyl sv 3501

Indian 1951 Chief  “Roadmaster” 1340 cc side valve V-twin Frame & Engine # C2115 

In 1940, 39 years after the company’s founding, Indian goes all-in on the skirted fender design, outfitting Scouts, Chief and Fours with the new tinware. After World War 2 only the Chief makes a return; supposedly a stop-gap measure until lighter, more advanced models come online. But a series of financial and engineering missteps doom the company and Chiefs are still being sold when the Springfield, Massachusetts factory shuts its doors in 1953. However, the postwar Chief keeps its ground as a luxury touring motorcycle; in 1950 telescopic front forks are introduced and the 1951 brochure proudly states “America’s fashion motorcycle! Newly designed, metered-action “aerodraulic fork” tuned with rear suspension gives smooth “cloud ride” comfort – 83% of weight sprung for greater steadiness, control and safety. New cushion drive “torque evener” sprocket, new 40 horsepower 80 cubic inch Blackhawk engine! The 25th great Indian Chief model – a king on and off the highway!”
The well-restored specimen we present here is fitted with a windscreen and studded leather pannier bags. An impressive machine indeed!