1918 Indian Model B Factory TT Racer — SOLD!!
Price Range: $45,500 to $49,750
Overview
This original motorcycle was located in Victoria, NSW, Australia and brought back to the US in 2010. Though largely intact, it required a complete restoration, check the “as-found” pictures included. This motorcycle had a good life in Australia, and it is lucky to have survived this intact. There are currently four known 1916-18 Model Bs in the US. This is the only 1918 model and only race version of this rare model in the US. As the Model C was discontinued completely after 1915, this motorcycle represents the last year that a production Hedstrom-engine motorcycle was offered by Indian.
Pre-Restoration Photos:
Factory Model Information:
Indian introduced the Model B, or “Little Twin,” in 1915 for worldwide sale. It was an F-head design based on the Indian Model C Hedstrom 61 cubic inch engine (Big Twin), but smaller, at 42 cubic inches, factory rated at 10 horsepower. According to the Indian sales catalog for that year, the Model B, when equipped with the three-speed transmission, was the second highest priced model ($260) offered, after the Model C with 3-speed transmission ($275). Indian introduced the 61 c.i. Powerplus model in 1916 to replace the Model C, and did not, thereafter, offer the Model B for sale in the US. In fact, production of the Model B was moved to Toronto, Canada and marketed primarily to UK and other European countries from 1916 through 1918.
Current Restoration Information:
Antique Motorcycle Works restored the frame and provided many of the hard-to-find parts needed to bring the bike back to life. The engine, transmission and magneto were rebuilt by Johnny Eagles of Orange, CA, who also fitted the drive gear, which includes a NOS Powerplus clutch and a ¾ inch Schebler carburetor, Paint is by Jimmy Rader of Bradley, CA. The wheel rims are replacements of the original 27” x 2-1/2” racing rims used by Indian during this period. It uses the original oil bag and Bates seat frame, both restored by Jethro Smith. Braking is provided by an inner expanding drum and exterior band brake at the rear wheel. The sale will include the original fuel tank and handlebars.
Mileage
Zero miles on the restoration.
Paint
The paint is of excellent quality and application. Paint was completed in 2016.
Sheet Metal
Sheet metal is in excellent condition and well fit. Perfect reproduction items.
Chrome
Correct nickle plating.
Mechanical
This is a complete mechanical rebuild by Johnny Eagles. The rebuild was completed in late 2018. The bike is correctly tuned and is a strong runner.
Wheels & Tires
Rims are correct replacements of the original 27” X 2-1/2 race rims.
Front Tire is 28 X 2 ½ G & J
Rear Tire is 28 X 2 ½ G & J
Title
Sold on a Bill of Sale
Engine # 50 K 136
Frame # None
Valuation Resource Guides
NADA:
This year and model are not listed.
Hagerty Value Guide:
This year and model are not listed
Accessories
N/A