1940 Indian Four

Indian's 1940 Indian Four arrived in 1940 as a touring motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in United States, it quickly earned recognition as a capable touring motorcycle from the 1940s.

At the heart of the 1940 Indian Four sits a 1265cc IOE inline-4 engine producing 40 horsepower at 4800 rpm. The four-cylinder powerplant features a four-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Linkert carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 3-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Built around a steel double loop frame, the 1940 Indian Four suspends its 255 kg (562 lbs) on girder fork forks and plunger rear units. Braking relies on drum at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1520 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1940 Indian Four achieves a claimed top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). With a fuel capacity of 15.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 680 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1940 Indian Four is considered an extremely rare and highly prized collector piece, commanding premium prices at auction. Parts availability is rated as very difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Indian motorcycling from 1940s.