1949 Indian Scout

1949 Indian Scout

standard40sUnited States

Introduced in 1949, the 1949 Indian Scout features a 440cc SV V-twin engine producing 15hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SV V-twin
Displacement
440 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
15 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque
28.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
64.0 × 69.0 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
3-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
105 km/h (65 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
190 kg (419 lbs)
Wet Weight
205 kg (452 lbs)
Seat Height
680 mm
Wheelbase
1400 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
11.0 L

History & Story

The 1949 1949 Indian 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.

Powering the 1949 Indian Scout is a 440cc SV V-twin producing 15hp. 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.

Built around a steel double loop frame, the 1949 Indian Scout suspends its 190 kg (419 lbs) on girder fork forks and plunger rear units. Braking relies on drum at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1400 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1949 Indian Scout achieves a claimed top speed of 105 km/h (65 mph). With a fuel capacity of 11.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 680 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1949 Indian Scout 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

  • Indian Motorcycle ceased production in 1953, making all original Indians finite in number
  • The 1949 Indian Scout was produced in Indian's United States facilities
  • The 1949 Indian Scout featured a steel double loop frame typical of 1940s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts