Description
Coming to auction at Wilton House for the Concours Des Legendes, 19-21 June, full catalogue now online, search Dore & Rees Motoring for further info.
1937 Indian Sport Scout 750cc
Registration Number: JN1000
Frame Number: 637277
Recorded Mileage: TBA
- Exceptionally rare survivor
- UK-registered example from new, with buff log book
Founded in 1901 by George M. Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, Indian Motorcycle is America’s oldest motorcycle brand. The Scout model, launched in 1920 and designed by Charles B. Franklin, a nimble, middle-weight 610cc V-twin, was an instant hit among newcomers and stunt riders. In 1932 two new lightweight twin cylinder models are introduced, the 750cc “Motoplane” and the 500cc “Pony Scout”, which would later be renamed “Junior Scout”.
The Motoplane was a light and simple low-cost sports machine that can be entered in various types of competition events by an owner-rider. The engine is basically the time-tried 101 engine but with the marked improvements of better designed cylinders and dry sump oiling. However, frame and forks of the Motoplaned prove to be too light for the lively engine so it is decided to design a much stronger rolling chassis around the 750cc engine. This new “Sport Scout” was introduced in 1934, becoming a very successful model for Indian, remaining in production till 1941. The Sport Scout has a distinctly European look with its diamond frame and girder forks, a handsome looking machine with its streamlined mudguards.
First registered in the UK on 14th December 1937 with the current registration number ‘JN 1000’, this Scout Sport is almost unheard of to find in this current unrestored condition. Scouts were frequently used in period for racing; often the speedometers were removed for safety reasons so finding one with the original gauge still fitted is rare in its own right. The current owner has also sensibly moved the throttle to the right hand handlebar to avoid confusion.
Last running well in 2019, the bike has since been stored and will no doubt benefit from some light recommissioning prior to being used once more. The Scout retains all of its original features such as the speedometer mentioned above, horn, lovely patinated saddle and signwriting on the tank. This exceptionally rare survivor is supplied with a duplicate buff log book and current V5C.
