1942 Indian Sport Scout

1942 Indian Sport Scout

standard40sUnited States

Introduced in 1942, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout features a 745cc SV V-twin engine producing 30hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SV V-twin
Displacement
745 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
30 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque
45.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
73.0 × 89.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Linkert carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double loop
Front Suspension
Girder fork
Rear Suspension
Rigid
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
3-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
145 km/h (90 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
195 kg (430 lbs)
Wet Weight
212 kg (467 lbs)
Seat Height
690 mm
Wheelbase
1430 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
12.0 L

History & Story

The 1942 1942 Indian Sport Scout was introduced by Indian as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Indian's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1940s.

The 1942 Indian Sport Scout is motivated by a 745cc SV V-twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 30hp at 5000 rpm. Breathing through Linkert carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 3-speed transmission with chain final drive.

The chassis employs a steel double loop frame with girder fork up front and rigid at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout offers a manageable riding experience with a 1430 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout achieves a claimed top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). With a fuel capacity of 12.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 690 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1942 Indian Sport Scout is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Indian motorcycling from 1940s.

Known Issues

  • Parts extremely scarce — reproduction parts essential
  • Magneto ignition needs rebuilding
  • Leaf-spring fork maintenance (on older models)
  • Generator output limited for modern accessories
  • Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find

Fun Facts

  • The 1942 Indian Sport Scout is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Indian
  • Indian Motorcycle ceased production in 1953, making all original Indians finite in number

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Difficult
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts