1941 Indian Chief

Description

The 1941 Indian Chief motorcycle evolved significantly in the two decades since the bike's debut in 1922. Manufactured by the Indian Motocycle Company in Springfield, Massachusetts, the Chief was Indian’s flagship “big twin” model, known for its powerful 74 cubic-inch (1,210cc) V-twin engine and distinctive styling.  

Designed by Charles B. Franklin, the Chief shared engineering roots with the Indian Scout, including a gearbox bolted directly to the engine casing and a gear-driven primary drive. It also featured a plunger rear suspension — introduced in 1940 — for improved ride comfort, and a leaf-sprung trailing-link front fork. The motorcycle’s large, skirted fenders gave it a bold, streamlined look that became iconic. The ’41 model was among the last civilian Chiefs produced before Indian shifted focus to military production during World War II.   

This 1941 Indian Chief was a full rebuilt from the ground up and has a ’41 frame and original wheels, cases (including transmission case), and front fork. All engine and transmission parts are new and have been carefully inspected to ensure they’re in excellent working condition. The bike is considered a bobber, having been stripped down to its bare essentials to reduce weight and create a minimalist, often vintage look. 

Highlights 

• Final model year prior to World War II 

• Restoration/build under current ownership included: 

  • Refinished in black paint with Indian Chief on both sides of fuel tank 

  • Rebuilt 1210cc (74 cu-in) four-stroke V-twin engine with new parts 

  • Rebuilt three-speed manual transmission with new parts 

  • Original 18-inch wheels with new Shinko tires 

  • ’41 frame, cases (including transmission), and front fork 

  • New wheel bearings and seals, axles, brake pads 

  • Replacement handlebars with new controls 

  • New reproduction seat from Heathers leathers 

  • New wiring harness and additional wires 

  • New alternator and battery 

Features 

• Set up as a bobber with minimalist design 

• Enclosed four-row primary chain 

• Foot-operated rocker clutch 

• Floorboards (instead of pegs) 

• 110 mph speedometer and ammeter 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor wrinkling under the clear coat on the top of the fuel tanks (no pealing or flaking), otherwise this 1941 Indian Chief is presented in fully restored condition with no known imperfections 

Included 

• Ignition key 

Ownership History

The Florida seller of this 1941 Indian Chief has owned it since July 2024.

Additional Notes

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.