VS
The 1947 Indian Bonneville and 1949 Indian Scout represent two chapters in Indian's storied history.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville from United States was powered by a 1200cc SV V-twin producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 248.0kg (547 lbs) and with a seat height of 670mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1949 Indian Scout by contrast offered 440cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 15hp at 4500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 105km/h (65 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
The 1947 Indian Bonneville from United States was powered by a 1200cc SV V-twin producing 40hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 248.0kg (547 lbs) and with a seat height of 670mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1949 Indian Scout by contrast offered 440cc of SV V-twin power, delivering 15hp at 4500rpm. Tipping the scales at 190.0kg (419 lbs) with a top speed of 105km/h (65 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1940s motorcycles, especially military-era models, hold strong collector interest with values reflecting their historical significance.
Specifications Comparison
| 1947 Indian Bonneville | 1949 Indian Scout | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1200 cc | 440 cc |
| Power | 40 hp | 15 hp |
| Torque | 70.0 Nm | 28.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 105 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 248.0 kg | 190.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 268.0 kg | 205.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 670 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 11.0 L |
| Gears | 3 -speed | 3 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Indian machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1947 Indian Bonneville laid the groundwork with 40hp, while the later 1949 Indian Scout pushed output to 15hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 7/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Indian collection.
About the 1947 Indian Bonneville
Indian released the 1947 Indian Bonneville in 1947 with a 1200cc SV V-twin powerplant making 40hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1947 Indian Bonneville Profile →About the 1949 Indian Scout
Introduced in 1949, the 1949 Indian Scout features a 440cc SV V-twin engine producing 15hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1949 Indian Scout Profile →