2004 Indian Chief Vintage
HIGHLIGHTS
- 1 of only 40 2004 model year Indians
- The only 2004 model produced in black with tan leather
- Never before offered for public sale
- Stored from new, less than 10 miles
- An important piece of Indian Motorcycle history
SPECIFICATIONS
- 100 cubic inch 1638 cc twin-cylinder Powerplus engine
- Black paint with tan leather seat and saddlebags
- 5-speed transmission
- Buddy seat with backrest
- Black leather saddle bags with fringe
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
Indian Motorcycle was founded in 1901 and produced some of America’s finest machines from the factory in Springfield, Massachsetts. During the 1910s, Indian Motorcycle became the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. Well-known models created during this time were the Scout, the Indian Four, and the Indian Chief. Sadly the Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company was forced into bankruptcy and ceased operation in 1953. Today, these early Indian motorcycles are among the most collectible bikes in the world.
In 1999, the Indian brand re-emerged as the Indian Motorcycle Company of America. With the Indian trademark in hand, production began at their factory in Gilroy, California recreate the iconic Indian motorcycles. The first new Chief, Scout and Spirit models were produced in 1999, using the 88 cubic inch S&S engine. By 2002 Indian had introduced their own 100 cubic inch / 1600 cc Powerplus motor, which was used from 2002 forward. Production of the second generation of Indian motorcycles came to an end on September 19, 2003 when the company was again forced into bankruptcy.
THIS MOTORCYCLE
When Indian Motorcycle was ceased production in September, 2003 they had already built 40 new bikes for the 2004 model year. These bikes were never released to their dealer network, and instead were included with all the other Indian Motorcycle assets that were sold off at action by NREL – National Retail Equipment Liquidators. This motorcycle was one of the ultra-rare 2004 model bikes, and is the only Indian Vintage model produced for 2004 in the beautiful combination of black paint with tan leather seats and saddlebags.
This bike was purchased from the NREL auction and shipped directly to a private collection in Southern California. It has been ridden less than 10 miles and has been carefully stored and preserved as-new. A beautiful motorcycle in its own right, and as a one-of-one bike, it would make a great addition to any collection of motorcycles.