Discover the Legendary Story of Indian Motorcycle

For over a century, Indian Motorcycle® has stood as a symbol of American grit, craftsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. As the first motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S., its story is woven into the very fabric of motorcycling history. 

Indian Motorcycle didn’t just build bikes—it built a legacy of adventure, innovation, and a bold spirit that still fuels the open road today. From breaking speed records in the early 1900s to charging through battlefields in two world wars and roaring back into the modern era with power and style, Indian Motorcycle’s story is one of resilience, ingenuity, and passion. 

Whether you're a lifelong rider or just getting your boots dusty, this journey through time is sure to stir your soul.

It all started in 1901 with two trailblazers: George M. Hendee, a former bicycle racer and savvy businessman, and Carl Oscar Hedstrom, a brilliant engineer with a love for speed and precision.

Their shared vision gave birth to the first Indian Motorcycle prototype, hand-built in Springfield, Massachusetts. Little did they know, they were launching what would become one of the most influential motorcycle brands in American history.

By 1902, Indian Motorcycle became the first American motorcycle company to roll into full-scale production. In just a year, they were rewriting the rules of the road. Hedstrom’s game-changing carburetor design gave Indian Motorcycle a performance edge that made foreign competitors eat dust.

Speed records soon followed. In 1903, Hedstrom himself clocked 56 mph, a world record at the time. The bikes weren’t just fast; they were reliable, rugged, and built to last. Indian Motorcycle's blend of engineering and artistry set the gold standard and inspired the rise of a motorcycling culture in America.

Indian Motorcycle became more than machines—it was a movement. From the garage to the racetrack, Indian Motorcycle’s legacy of excellence and innovation laid the foundation for a century of riding passion.

When duty called, Indian Motorcycle didn’t flinch. In both World Wars, the brand proved it had the heart and horsepower to serve.

During WWI, Indian Motorcycle shifted much of its production to the U.S. Army. Bikes like the rugged Powerplus, equipped with sidecars and built to haul gear, became battlefield workhorses. Indian Motorcycle supplied tens of thousands of motorcycles, sacrificing civilian sales to answer the country's call.

Fast forward to WWII, and Indian Motorcycle was at it again. Models like the 741 and 640 were engineered to handle the toughest terrain imaginable. Soldiers relied on them for their durability, simplicity, and toughness in rough terrain.

Sure, the focus on military production took a toll on the company post-war. Still, Indian Motorcycle’s wartime contributions left a mark not just in history books but in the DNA of motorcycle design for generations. Their innovations helped redefine what a motorcycle could be—tough, versatile, and dependable, no matter the mission.

After years of post-war ups and downs, the Indian Motorcycle name thundered back to life in 2011 when Polaris® Industries took the reins. With respect for the past and a vision for the future, Polaris rolled up its sleeves and rebuilt the Indian Motorcycle from the ground up.

Staying true to Indian Motorcycle's heritage while injecting modern performance and innovation, Polaris launched a new era with iconic models like the Chief, Chieftain, and Scout. These bikes weren’t just machines; they were love letters to the golden age of motorcycling, reimagined for today's roads.

Classic design? Check. Throaty V-twins and cutting-edge engineering? Absolutely. Touchscreen infotainment systems, smooth handling, and high-performance builds turned heads while winning hearts.

But it wasn’t just about the bikes. Indian Motorcycle's rebirth sparked a revival in motorcycle culture. The brand embraced the community, rallies, rides, and all, helping to reconnect riders with a piece of American motorcycling history that still lives and breathes.

Indian Motorcycle’s story is one of grit, glory, and timeless style. From its birth at the dawn of the 20th century to its fearless wartime service and its thrilling 21st-century comeback, Indian Motorcycle remains a true American original.

It’s more than metal and horsepower. It’s about the spirit of the ride—the call of the horizon, the bond between riders, and the moments that become memories somewhere out on the road.

If Indian Motorcycle speaks to your soul, Steel Horse Jewelry invites you to carry a piece of that legacy with you. As an officially licensed Indian Motorcycle jewelry brand, we craft pieces that honor the heritage, craftsmanship, and freedom that define Indian Motorcycle.

Wear your story. Live your legend.