All About the Indian Motorcycle® Company
If you are interested in owning a little bit of history, consider an Indian motorcycle. Indian Motorcycle® had a long history as a quality manufacturer of motorcycles before it went out of business in the 1950s. Thankfully, it has there have been efforts to restore it to its former glory. Learn more about the Indian Motorcycle Company when you visit your local dealership. Come to Sky Powersports Lakeland in Lakeland, Florida, and you can see our entire inventory of powersports vehicles. We are excited to welcome customers from Tampa and Orlando, Florida.
Oldest U.S. Motorcycle Company
The Indian Motorcycle Company has a long history in the United States. George M. Hendee and Carl Oscar Hedstrom founded this company at the turn of the century. By 1902, they were creating the fastest motorcycle models the world had ever seen. Indian motorcycle was the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world in its heyday. In the early days, Indian made a name for itself with its Chief and Scout models.
World War II
Although not the most widespread motorcycle to be used in World War II, Indian stepped up to help during this time of crisis. Scouts, Chiefs, and Junior Scouts were used by the U.S. Army during the war. Indian also designed a special motorcycle for use in desert combat. The 841 was a high-powered bike but was never actually used by the Army.
Downfall of Indian Motorcycles
The end of the Indian Motorcycle Company as we knew it came in 1945 when Ralph B. Rogers took control of it. He began manufacturing cheaper and lighter motorcycle models, including the 149 Arrow, the Super Scout 249, and the Warrior 250. Customers were disappointed in the poor quality and construction of these lightweight models.
The name Indian was bought in the 1960s and used for imported minibikes and other motorcycle models. While these motorcycle models had some success, they could not hold their own next to more consistent brands.
Resurgence
The legacy of Indian has never died in the United States. In 2006, the Indian Motorcycle Company moved to Kings Mountain, North Carolina. New efforts to put Indian back on top focus on quality, performance, and craftsmanship above anything else. For example, the new Chief motorcycle models feature the classic look and design of the original with some modern updates.
An Indian motorcycle is a classic option that combines the best elements of the past with the innovations of the modern age. If you are ready to purchase a new powersports vehicle, visit Sky Powersports Lakeland. Our dealership, located in Lakeland, Florida, offers our services to Orlando and Tampa, Florida.