The metal work and paint were performed by Matt Blake of Iron Horse Corral, who is quite well-known to Indian collectors. The engine was rebuilt by Doug Burnett, an equally talented Indian engine rebuilder. He has literally rebuilt hundreds of Indian engines and his engines have raced on the Bonneville Salt Flats. The transmission was also rebuilt by Doug.

This bike is equipped with a steering vibration dampener on the handlebar/headlight area which, I believe, is a factory option. The speedometer is original and reads 10,892 miles. The exterior of this engine is original. Many internal parts have been upgraded to newer metals, valves, valve seats, pistons, etc. During the rebuild the engine was re-stroked to 80 cubic inches. An 80 cubic inch style kicker was installed to accommodate the extra cubic inches.

This ‘48 Chief has approximately 2/3 hours of engine run time with zero road miles and will need to be broken in on the road. The current owner had the greatest intention of riding and enjoying this bike for years but due to a medical condition that appeared shortly after he purchased this bike he was unable to do so and has now chosen to sell.

All controls are in factory configuration with the throttle on the left hand, right hand spark retard. Left foot clutch and right tank shifter complete the original design. All chrome is in new and in excellent condition with the only flaw to the kicker surface and exhaust area where contact took place.

The frame was painted black and the sheet metal was done in Kashan Green. There are three blems in this paint which are represented in the photos: a small nick on left tank, paint retouch on rear fender, and a mark on front fender under the steering assembly. The saddle is handmade from a custom leather shop. This seat is done with the Indian logo embossed into it. A new battery was purchased this year.<br><br>

Mileage

10892 on the odometer from prior build status. Zero miles on the rebuild.

Paint

Kashan Green paint recently applied during the restoration, correct option for the year.

Sheet Metal

Sheet metal is excellently fit. Tanks may be new built by Iron Horse Corral.

Chrome

Good condition, all rechromed during the restoration.

Mechanical

Power plant is a fresh build by a quality Indian engine builder. Perfectly tuned 80-inch. Minimal run time and ready for correct break-in miles.

Wheels & Tires

Rims: Chrome steel rims with chromed spokes and nipples, rims and spokes.
Front Tire: Shinko E270’s 5.0 X 16MC 69s
Rear Tire: Shinko E270’s 5.0 X 16MC 69s

Title

Clear Minnesota Title
Engine # CDH3811
Frame # 348 3811

Valuation Resources:

NADA: “https://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1948/Indian/CHIEF-74ci/Values”

Excellent : $40,785
Very Good : $21,740
Good: $15,140

Hagerty Value Guide: “https://www.hagerty.com/apps/valuationtools/1948-Indian-Chief”
• #1 Concours $32,400
• #2 Excellent $25,200
• #3 Good $17,900