Only ten years after the prototype of the Indian motorcycle first climbed Cross Street Hill in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1901, Indian was on the verge of becoming the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. In the racing world, they dominated most tracks. Wisely, the company marketed race machines that the public could purchase and put even more Indians on the track in front of the potential buyers of motorcycles. Many other race machines were converted from road models, tuned and fitted with racing forks, drop forged handlebars and seat, all parts sourced directly from the factory.

In 1911, race tracks in the United States existed as either horse tracks, of which there was an abundance, or as purpose-built wooden tracks. The high maintenance wooden board tracks allowed higher speeds to be attained and also kept the race spectacle within complete view of the spectator. Fall off your motorcycle on a board track and the least damage to your body would have been numerous slivers of wood to be pulled from your skin. It was during this year that Indian achieved its greatest international victory. Indian co-founder Oscar Hedstrom organized a race team to be entered in the famous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races, a race circuit over public roads that took the competitors from urban streets up through the mountains and back. Indian won first, second, and third place, and at the same time established a new Senior TT course record. By the end of the year, Indian also owned every American speed and distance championship.

This 1911 Indian board track racer is fully restored and would be an incredible addition to any collection. The engine is based upon the 7 horsepower 42° V-twin Hedstrom engine that displaces 1,000cc or 61 cubic inches using standard unported cylinders. As with all Indian competition machines, it is chain driven, and must be push started. A magneto provides ignition and lubrication is through a total loss oiling system. The suspension-less front fork is topped by Indian's board track racing handlebars, and the rider's seat is rigidly mounted to the frame of the motorcycle. It is truly a remarkable piece of our motorcycling history and allows one to step back in time to appreciate the brave men who rode these machines to victory. Offered on a Bill of Sale.

Without reserve