1929 Indian 101 Scout #96 was in the 2014 Motorcycle Cannonball and it finished with a perfect score and 9th overall. The route consisted of almost 4,000 miles from Daytona, Fl to Tacoma, Wa.
The desirable 101 Scout was the crowning achievement of the Indian head engineer Charles Franklin and considered the best Indian ever made. Known for its rock solid handling it is also the choice bike for the “Wall of Death, they were produced from 1928 to 1931.
Overview
- Production Year: 1929
- Manufacturer: Indian Motorcycle Company
- Class: Standard / Cruiser motorcycle
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 101 Scout was powered by a 45-cubic inch (750cc) V-twin engine.
- The engine produced approximately 22 horsepower, which was quite impressive for its time.
- It featured a side-valve configuration (flathead), known for its simplicity and durability.
- Transmission:
- The motorcycle came with a 3-speed manual transmission.
- The transmission was operated by a hand shift and foot clutch, typical of motorcycles from this era.
- Frame:
- The 101 Scout featured a lightweight, rigid frame that contributed to its excellent handling characteristics.
- The frame design was low and narrow, providing a lower center of gravity and better balance.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension used a trailing-link fork with a leaf spring, offering a balance between ride comfort and handling.
- The rear suspension was rigid, typical of motorcycles of this period.
- Brakes:
- The motorcycle was equipped with drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels, providing adequate stopping power for its performance.
Performance
- Top Speed: The Indian 101 Scout could reach a top speed of around 75 mph (121 km/h), making it one of the faster motorcycles of its time.
- Acceleration: It was known for its brisk acceleration, thanks to its lightweight frame and powerful engine.
- Handling: The 101 Scout was praised for its excellent handling, making it a popular choice for both road riding and racing.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The 101 Scout had a classic, streamlined design with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, which became a signature design element for Indian motorcycles.
- The motorcycle featured full fenders and a sprung solo seat for the rider.
- Seating:
- The solo seat was mounted on springs, providing a reasonable level of comfort for the rider.
- The seating position was designed for a comfortable and upright riding posture.
- Instrumentation:
- Instrumentation was minimal, typically including just a speedometer and basic controls.
- The design focused on simplicity and functionality.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The Indian 101 Scout is often considered one of the best motorcycles ever built by Indian and is highly regarded for its engineering and performance.
- It was popular among both civilian riders and law enforcement agencies due to its reliability and handling.
- Cultural Impact:
- The 101 Scout was used in various racing events and stunt riding, further cementing its reputation as a versatile and capable motorcycle.
- It appeared in various media and became a symbol of the adventurous spirit of motorcycling during the early 20th century.
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Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1929 Indian 101 Scout in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.