Description
Indian 1915 “Little twin” IOE 988 cc 1913 engine # 85E473
Indian’s first, 38.61ci (633cc) v-twin appeared in 1907 with an engine clearly derived from that of the single, though mechanical inlet valves – introduced for 1908 – were an early improvement.
The twin’s rear cylinder continued to form part of the frame until 1909 when a loop frame of the type favoured by rivals Harley-Davidson was adopted.
The Springfield Company’s first ‘Big Twin’ debuted that same year displacing 61 ci (988cc).
By 1913 Indian was the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world; the 1913 production was almost 32,000 machines.
There were 2,000 dealers all over the world and Indian controlled some 42% of the domestic motorcycle market in the USA, according to a company claim.
For 1915 some 10 models were offered, among which some lighter twins that were designated “Little Twin”. Some of the new features for 1915 were the use of chrome-vanadium steel tubing and the option of a three speed gearbox.
This Little Twin is an interesting machine: it was discovered some time ago under a lot of rubbish in a deceased collector’s garage.
With it comes a Pioneer certificate issued in January 1977, dating it as a 1913 model.
We presume it’s a 1915 Little Twin that has been fitted with the more powerful 988 cc engine.
The machine has been restored in the 1960s or 70s and has been a sleeping beauty for many years, so she would benefit from some tender love & care.