1944 Indian 841

1944 Indian 841

standard40sUnited States

The 1944 1944 Indian 841 is a 745cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Indian's most memorable motorcycles of the 1940s.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SV V-twin transverse
Displacement
745 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
25 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque
42.0 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
Plunger
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
115 km/h (71 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
225 kg (496 lbs)
Wet Weight
242 kg (534 lbs)
Seat Height
720 mm
Wheelbase
1460 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
13.0 L

History & Story

Indian's 1944 Indian 841 arrived in 1944 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in United States, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1940s.

At the heart of the 1944 Indian 841 sits a 745cc SV V-twin transverse engine producing 25 horsepower at 4800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Linkert carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and shaft final drive.

The chassis employs a steel double loop frame with girder fork up front and plunger at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 225 kg (496 lbs) dry, the 1944 Indian 841 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1460 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1944 Indian 841 achieves a claimed top speed of 115 km/h (71 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 720 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1944 Indian 841 is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as very 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 1944 Indian 841 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
Very difficult
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts