Indian Motorcycle has recently launched its new Scout series in India. This bobber-style middleweight cruiser takes on rivals like Harley-Davidson and Triumph, and is currently the most affordable bike from the brand in India. But despite its name, many are surprised to know that Indian Motorcycle is not an Indian brand—it is American.

Indian Motorcycle is a premium American cruiser bike manufacturer. In 2011, Polaris Industries acquired the brand and revived it with a new generation of motorcycles. Known for its racing heritage, engineering innovation, and multiple industry firsts, Indian Motorcycle is considered one of the most iconic names in American motorcycling history.

• 1897: Founded as a bicycle company by former racer George M. Hendee.

• 1900: Another racer, Oscar Hedstrom, joined, and together they built a motorcycle powered by a 1.75 bhp single-cylinder engine.

• 1901–1953: Indian Motorcycles were produced in Massachusetts, becoming a leading motorcycle manufacturer in the U.S.

• Post-1953: Production halted due to declining demand.

• 2011: Polaris Industries bought the brand and reintroduced Indian Motorcycles globally.

Polaris brought Indian Motorcycles to India in 2014. Today, the company sells its full range here—including the Chief Series, Springfield, Roadmaster, and Scout Series—all imported as completely built units (CBUs).

The brand name often causes confusion, but it is not linked to India. George M. Hendee had earlier launched a bicycle brand in 1898 called “American Indian”, chosen to give the product stronger recognition in international markets. The motorcycle company adopted the same name.

The famous logo of a Native American (Red Indian) pays tribute to the indigenous people of America, not to India.

With over 125 years of history, Indian Motorcycle continues to be America’s pride—yet in India, its name often sparks curiosity and surprise.