This is a 1944 Indian Chief that was found in disrepair in Norco CA about 2001. That owner was an engineer and car collector/builder. He had this project for many years and decided to move it off to the current owner in 2001. There are pictures of the find and the subsequent restoration. The bike was restored by an Indian hobbyist with help and directions from locals in the Indian community including Smokey and Bibbens. This 1944 Indian Chief is mostly original 1944 Indian parts except for the power plant. The engine and transmission are 1948. The engine has been rebuilt as has the transmission. The motorcycle is nicely painted but not professionally done. This Indian motorcycle runs great and shifts great. The bike has a clean California Title and current registration.
MILEAGE: 270 miles showing on the working odometer, put on new during restoration.
PAINT: Paint shows well and takes a good shine. There are a few flaws noted around the tanks. Paint was applied by the builder and is not a professional application but well done.
SHEET METAL: Sheet metal is original Indian and well fit. No dings or dents noted. Leakage noted at the bottom of the left gas tank.
CHROME: Other than the headlight there is no chrome on this bike.
MECHANICAL: This motorcycle is in excellent mechanical condition. The engine fires on the first ignition kick if you know the drill and it idles right out. Smooth and clean through the gears. The engine was rebuilt prior to acquisition by the current owner. When the heads were taken off the pistons were bright and shiny and the bottom end felt tight so the heads were remounted and the assembly fired right up! Break in miles complete and the drive train is in great shape. This bike starts right up with good compression, and it sounds great!
WHEELS & TIRES: Rims are painted factory steel with painted nipples and spokes.
Front tire is a Firestone Non Skid, 400 X 18 new with minimal miles, very serviceable
Rear tire is a Firestone Non-Skid 400 X 18 new with minimal miles and very serviceable.
TITLE: Clear California Title and current registration
Engine # CDH 3841
Frame # 334 1155
VALUE GUIDE VALUATIONS
NADA: 1944-48 Indian Chief NADA Values
Excellent: $60,570
Very Good: $33,395
Good: $21,430
Fair: $16,795
Hagerty Value Guide: Hagerty 1944 Indian Chief Values
Concours: $64,800
Excellent : $46,600
Good: $35,700
Fair: $
ACCESSORIES: None
