1947 Indian Bonneville

1947 Indian Bonneville

standard40sUnited States

Indian released the 1947 Indian Bonneville in 1947 with a 1200cc SV V-twin powerplant making 40hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SV V-twin
Displacement
1200 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
40 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque
70.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
82.5 × 112.7 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
3-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
140 km/h (87 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
248 kg (547 lbs)
Wet Weight
268 kg (591 lbs)
Seat Height
670 mm
Wheelbase
1500 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
13.0 L

History & Story

The 1947 1947 Indian Bonneville 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.

Powering the 1947 Indian Bonneville is a 1200cc SV V-twin producing 40hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Linkert carburetor. A 3-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.

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 248 kg (547 lbs) dry, the 1947 Indian Bonneville offers a manageable riding experience with a 1500 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1947 Indian Bonneville achieves a claimed top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 670 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1947 Indian Bonneville is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. 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 1947 Indian Bonneville was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
  • Indian Motorcycle ceased production in 1953, making all original Indians finite in number

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts