Indian celebrates 125th anniversary

In 1897, industrial pioneer George M. Hendee founded a bicycle manufacturing company: the Hendee Manufacturing Company. Together with co-founder and chief engineer Oscar Hedstrom, Hendee opened the company’s first motorcycle factory in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1901. With one of their first creations, they immediately attracted attention. Hedstrom set a record of 56 miles per hour in 1903 on a ride from New York City to Springfield and back.

Indian Motorcycle Company

Around 1923, the name changed from The Hendee Manufacturing Company to The Indian Motorcycle Company. In 1913, the first production model rolled off the line with full front and rear suspension. Indian was also the first to offer an electric starter a year later, while other brands still worked with kickstarters.

Growth and sporting success Indian

What followed was a half century of unparalleled growth in motorcycle production, achieving sporting successes and innovation, Not only that, but the brand supplied motorcycles to American and French ground troops in World War I and II.

Limited collection for 125 years

Indian Motorcycle is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with an exclusive, limited-edition collection of motorcycles. The American manufacturer recently introduced three hand-finished anniversary models, each featuring unique 125th anniversary badging, special paint and high-quality components.

Hand-sprayed paintwork

Each motorcycle in the collection is hand-painted in a special 125th Anniversary Red with Black Crystal finish. The paint contains metallic particles that add depth and shine. In addition, the models carry subtle anniversary details, including special pin striping that reads “ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY.” Each one also receives a unique serial number due to the limited edition.

Classic look, modern technology

All anniversary models are equipped with the RIDE COMMAND+ touchscreen system, ranging from 4 to 7 inches depending on the model. This system offers navigation, vehicle data, maintenance reminders and connectivity to smartphones and helmet-mounted communication systems, among other features.

Indian Chief Vintage

The Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition is a classic cruiser with modern technology. Production is limited to 250 units. It features the air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 engine with 156 Nm of torque.

Indian Scout Bobber

The Scout Bobber 125th Anniversary Edition has a sportier, minimalist design and delivers 111 horsepower from a 1250cc liquid-cooled engine. 450 units are available worldwide.

Indian Challenger

The Indian Challenger 125th Anniversary Edition is a powerful bagger with the PowerPlus 112 engine. Again, the edition of this is limited to 250 units. This model is fully equipped with premium audio, numerous comfort features and modern electronics.

Celebrating 125 years of Indian

Indian Motorcycles is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2026 in numerous countries worldwide. Also in the Netherlands and on May 31 at Hotel New York in Rotterdam. A feast with numerous performances and a BBQ, for which you can sign up. You must do so before April 30. More information can be found at the Indian dealers. Indian Motorcycles is also celebrating its 125th anniversary on June 16 with a Riders Fest for fans from all over Europe in the Czech Republic. This will be a spectacular event full of history, motorcycles, experience and passion.