Unveiling the American Heritage of Indian Motorcycle and Its Presence in India

The ‘Indian Motorcycle’ brand has introduced its latest Scout series in India, a mid-weight cruiser bike with a bobber style, set to compete with established brands like Harley-Davidson and Triumph. While already present in the Indian market, this recent launch signifies the brand’s most budget-friendly offering. The brand, though carrying an ‘Indian’ name, is, in fact, American. The company specializes in crafting premium cruiser motorcycles. The Indian brand was acquired by Polaris Industries in 2011, leading to the production of new Indian motorcycles. Indian Motorcycle has earned its place among America’s most celebrated and historically significant brands, recognized for its racing legacy, innovative engineering, and industry-leading achievements. The Indian Motorcycle Company’s origins trace back to 1897, when former bicycle racer George M. Hendee initiated the business by producing bicycles. In 1900, Oscar Hedstrom, another former bicycle racer, joined him. Hendee and Hedstrom collaborated to develop a motorcycle featuring a 1.75 bhp single-cylinder engine. The American manufacturer manufactured motorcycles in Massachusetts from 1901 to 1953. Production was later halted due to decreasing demand, only to be revived by Polaris in 2011. In 2014, Polaris India introduced the Indian Motorcycle brand to the Indian market. Polaris currently imports and sells the complete range of Indian motorcycles in India, which are entirely manufactured elsewhere. The portfolio includes models such as the Chief series, Springfield, Roadmaster, and Scout series. The name ‘Indian Motorcycle’ does not relate to India. The name originates from George M. Hendee’s ‘American Indian’ bicycle brand, which he launched in 1898 to boost product recognition, especially in international markets. The brand name and its renowned logo, which features a Native American, were designed to pay respect to America’s indigenous peoples.