Description
Indian 1929 Scout “101” 596cc side valve V-twin engine # DG 2189
In 1928, Charles Franklin, the Indian engineer and former racer responsible for the original Scout, tweaked the very successful design to create the 101 Scout. It incorporated a number of changes prompted by real-world racetrack experience with the original Scout, including a stronger frame, better suspension and steering, a 3-inch increase in wheelbase, increased fork rake, a low, 26¼-inch seat height, and a front brake. The 101 was available in 600cc and 750cc versions, the latter being the most popular because of its extra power and stamina.
Unfortunately, though, the 101 Scout had a relatively short production run. The model lasted less than four years in the Indian line-up until the Depression forced the company to find ways to cut production costs. One way Indian did that was by putting the Scout engine into the larger Chief frame beginning in 1932. The result was a bike that was bigger, heavier, and, many would argue, not as capable as the 101 was; many Indian enthusiast consider the 101 as the best Indian ever built. Stability is such that the machine can easily be steered into a side street by applying knee pressure only, hands in your lap. No wonder wall of death riders chose the 101 as their favourite mount.
The 101 we present here was first registered in Denmark on April 4, 1929. She is an older restoration that is a bit weathered and has the pleasant patina that suits an almost 100-year old machine. Magneto and dynamo are high quality Bosch products; many (if not all?) 101 Scouts meant for export to Europe were equipped with Bosch instead of Splitdorf equipment. The toolbox is not fitted but because of its popularity the 101 has an excellent spares situation; many parts are readily available as reproduction items. There’s a practical jiffy stand on board and she is road-registered, so ready for countless pleasant miles or kilometres.