1949 Indian Scout
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1949 INDIAN SCOUT 440
MATCHING NUMBERS ORIGINAL RESTORED TO NEW
A STUNNING MUSEUM INVESTMENT QUALITY PIECE
Take a close look at this absolutely stunning 1949 Indian Scout, a fascinating and important piece of postwar American motorcycle history.
This is not the traditional V-twin Scout most enthusiasts picture when they hear the name Indian Scout. For 1949, Indian introduced an entirely different motorcycle: a lightweight overhead-valve parallel-twin designed to compete directly against the increasingly popular British motorcycles from manufacturers such as Triumph and BSA.
Built by Indian in Springfield, Massachusetts, this motorcycle was manufactured only about 23 miles from its present home at the New England Motorcycle Museum. Eight decades later, it has essentially come back home.
This example has been beautifully restored, is matching numbers, runs and rides, and presents at an exceptionally high cosmetic level and runs and rides good.
It is Not Perfect; The Pushrod Tubes Leak Oil and The Carb is Not Tuned Perfectly, it is being sold as is.
MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS
-
1949 Indian Scout
-
440cc OHV parallel-twin engine
-
4-speed transmission
-
Matching-numbers motorcycle
-
Dual exhaust
-
Indian's distinctive postwar plunger-style rear suspension
-
Beautiful older comprehensive restoration
-
Excellent paint and chrome
-
Rechromed wheels
-
Restored engine and transmission exterior
-
Period-style Indian lighting and accessories
-
Triple front running lights
-
Indian-stamped auxiliary lights
-
Original-style rear fender and taillight
-
Original-style chain guard
-
Chrome crash bars
-
Center stand and side stand
-
1949 license plate shown on the motorcycle included
-
Recently serviced and recommissioned
-
Recently completed extensive 14.5-hour detailing
-
Runs and rides
-
Offered from the New England Motorcycle Museum
OWNERSHIP HISTORY
Our friend Perry purchased this motorcycle approximately ten years ago, around 2016.
At 6'6", Perry quickly discovered that an Indian Scout of this size was not exactly built for him. As a result, he rode it very little and primarily kept it as a display motorcycle.
The restoration had already been completed when Perry purchased the bike. He believed it may have been restored many years before his ownership, although the exact date and shop responsible for the restoration are unknown.
What is obvious is the amount of time, money and craftsmanship that went into it.
This was not simply repainted and cleaned up.
It was comprehensively restored.
RESTORATION & COSMETIC CONDITION
Virtually every visible component received attention during the restoration.
The painted surfaces were refinished.
The chrome was restored or rechromed.
The aluminum components were polished.
The engine and transmission were completely restored cosmetically.
The wheels were beautifully rechromed.
The exhaust system is fitted with excellent chrome mufflers.
The rear suspension components were beautifully refinished and rechromed.
The motorcycle also features excellent grips, levers, handlebars, footpeg rubbers, crash bars, horn, battery cover and numerous additional details.
The chains and sprockets were replaced during the restoration, and the brakes were reportedly rebuilt.
Look closely at the photographs and video.
The Indian lettering on the transmission cases, the polished aluminum, chrome engine covers, tank, fenders, wheels and small hardware all demonstrate the level of attention this motorcycle received.
It is one of those motorcycles that becomes more impressive the closer you look.
Replicating this level of restoration today would be extremely expensive.
With professional motorcycle restoration labor now commonly costing well into the triple digits per hour, completely disassembling, refinishing, plating, rebuilding and reassembling an approximately 80-year-old motorcycle can easily consume hundreds of hours.
The expensive cosmetic work has already been completed on this Scout.
RECENT SERVICE
After spending most of the last decade on display, we brought the Scout into our service department to recommission it.
Our technicians performed approximately six hours of mechanical service and inspection, including:
-
Installed a brand-new battery
-
Fabricated new battery leads
-
Inspected the motorcycle's wiring
-
Verified operation of the electrical system
-
Adjusted the drive chain
-
Checked and adjusted tire pressures
-
Checked engine oil level and condition
-
Removed the carburetor
-
Cleaned the carburetor jets and internal passages
-
Reassembled and tested the carburetor
-
Started and ran the motorcycle
-
Adjusted the idle
-
Tuned the carburetor to the best setting achievable during the service
-
Inspected fluid levels
-
Performed a final operational inspection
The mechanical service invoice totaled approximately $1,219 including labor, battery and related materials.
14.5 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL DETAILING
Following the mechanical work, the Scout went through our detail department for an extensive 14.5-hour rotisserie-style detailing process.
The motorcycle was:
-
Steam cleaned
-
Hand washed
-
Chrome polished
-
Painted surfaces machine polished and buffed
-
Tank polished
-
Side panels polished
-
Front and rear fenders polished
-
Aluminum components polished
-
Wheels and rims extensively cleaned
-
Engine and transmission detailed
-
Kickstand refinished
-
Brake lever refinished
-
Center stand touched up
-
Every accessible nook and cranny cleaned and detailed
Between our service and detailing departments, we have invested more than 20 hours of professional shop time (20 x $150 = $3,000) preparing this motorcycle for its next owner.
MECHANICAL CONDITION – PLEASE READ
We want the next owner to know exactly what he or she is purchasing.
The motorcycle runs and rides.
One of our senior technicians, Justin Harris, rode the Scout for our video, and once warmed up the engine runs strongly and sounds absolutely fantastic through the dual exhaust.
However, there are two items that should be addressed if the next owner intends to use the motorcycle regularly.
PUSHROD TUBE OIL LEAKS
After sitting for many years, the seals at the bottom of the pushrod tubes have begun leaking oil.
Interestingly, they were not leaking noticeably during our initial ride, but after subsequent running they began seeping enough oil that it is clearly visible beneath the motorcycle.
The pushrod tubes should therefore be removed and properly resealed.
This motorcycle does leak oil and will require repair.
A buyer wishing to continue riding it before performing the repair will need to monitor the oil level carefully.
CARBURETOR TUNING
We removed and cleaned the carburetor and adjusted it.
The motorcycle starts, runs and rides, but it remains somewhat cold-blooded and the low-RPM carburetor calibration is not perfect.
At higher RPM the engine appears to run very well.
We believe additional carburetor tuning would improve its starting and low-speed operation.
For someone intending to make this a regular rider, our recommendation would be to reseal the pushrod tubes and perform a final carburetor setup at the same time.
TIRES
The tires present very well but show age-related checking on the sidewalls.
Although they have very little apparent use, their age is unknown. Because this is a vintage motorcycle, we recommend replacing the tires before any significant road use.
SPEEDOMETER / MILEAGE
The speedometer presents extremely well.
We cannot confirm whether it is an original unit that was completely restored with a new face or a high-quality reproduction.
Because the motorcycle underwent a restoration and the history of the speedometer is unknown, actual accumulated mileage cannot be verified.
The prior owner reportedly put only a very small number of miles on the motorcycle during approximately ten years of ownership.
A RARE PIECE OF INDIAN HISTORY
The 1949 Scout represents one of the most interesting periods in Indian Motorcycle history.
Rather than continuing exclusively with its famous large American V-twins, Indian attempted to compete directly against the lighter British motorcycles gaining popularity in the United States.
The resulting Scout was an overhead-valve parallel twin with a four-speed transmission, telescopic front fork and distinctive rear plunger suspension.
It is radically different from the prewar Scout and consequently represents an important chapter in the final years of the original Springfield Indian Motorcycle Company.
Surviving examples—particularly restored matching-numbers motorcycles—do not appear for sale every day.
VALUE & COLLECTABILITY
Comparable sales of 1949 Scouts vary considerably depending on restoration quality, originality, mechanical condition, provenance and auction venue. One Sold this Year At Mecum for $38,500!
The more important consideration with this motorcycle is what it would cost to duplicate today.
Paint, chrome plating, wheel restoration, aluminum polishing, engine cosmetics, exhaust, controls, hardware, electrical work and professional assembly can consume an enormous amount of labor and money.
The heavy lifting has already been done here.
This is an exceptionally attractive vintage Indian that can immediately be enjoyed as a museum-quality display piece, while needing relatively straightforward mechanical sorting if the next owner intends to use it regularly.
SUPPORTING THE NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM
This motorcycle is being sold to help support continued improvements and preservation efforts at the New England Motorcycle Museum.
We continue investing heavily in the historic mill complex, including accessibility improvements, bathrooms, fire and security systems, cameras, building restoration and additional museum infrastructure.
Special motorcycles like this help us continue preserving motorcycle history for future generations.
SHIPPING
We ship motorcycles nationwide.
We can assist with arranging licensed, insured, enclosed transportation directly to your door.
International buyers are also welcome to contact us regarding shipping arrangements.
FINANCING
Financing may be available through FreedomRoad Financial, which specializes in motorcycle financing and may finance qualifying classic and collectible motorcycles.
Financing is subject to lender approval and applicable terms.
IMPORTANT SALE TERMS
This is an approximately 80-year-old antique motorcycle.
It is being sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS, with no warranty expressed or implied.
The motorcycle runs and rides, but it presently has oil leakage from the pushrod tube area, requires additional carburetor tuning for optimal operation, and has aged tires that we recommend replacing before regular road use.
We have made every reasonable effort to describe the motorcycle accurately and transparently.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to inspect the motorcycle personally or arrange for a third-party inspection prior to purchase.
The period 1949 plate shown on the motorcycle is included as part of the motorcycle/display package; no representation is made regarding its current registration validity.
Please review all photographs and the accompanying video carefully.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you are looking for a cheap unrestored Indian project, this isn't it.
If you are looking for a matching-numbers, comprehensively restored 1949 Indian Scout that presents beautifully and represents one of the most fascinating chapters in Springfield Indian history, take a serious look at this motorcycle.
The paint is beautiful.
The chrome is beautiful.
The aluminum is polished.
The wheels are stunning.
The engine sounds fantastic through the dual exhaust.
And nearly eight decades after being built in Springfield, Massachusetts, this Indian has found its way back to within a few miles of where its story began.
All of the difficult and expensive cosmetic restoration work has already been done.
Address the pushrod tube seals, spend some additional time dialing in the carburetor, install fresh tires if you intend to ride it regularly, and you'll have an extraordinary piece of American motorcycle history.
Bid with confidence.
Good luck bidding, and God Bless America.
Vin - 2494189
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
Wheels
1949 INDIAN SCOUT 440
MATCHING NUMBERS ORIGINAL RESTORED TO NEW
A STUNNING MUSEUM INVESTMENT QUALITY PIECE
Take a close look at this absolutely stunning 1949 Indian Scout, a fascinating and important piece of postwar American motorcycle history.
This is not the traditional V-twin Scout most enthusiasts picture when they hear the name Indian Scout. For 1949, Indian introduced an entirely different motorcycle: a lightweight overhead-valve parallel-twin designed to compete directly against the increasingly popular British motorcycles from manufacturers such as Triumph and BSA.
Built by Indian in Springfield, Massachusetts, this motorcycle was manufactured only about 23 miles from its present home at the New England Motorcycle Museum. Eight decades later, it has essentially come back home.
This example has been beautifully restored, is matching numbers, runs and rides, and presents at an exceptionally high cosmetic level and runs and rides good.
It is Not Perfect; The Pushrod Tubes Leak Oil and The Carb is Not Tuned Perfectly, it is being sold as is.
MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS
-
1949 Indian Scout
-
440cc OHV parallel-twin engine
-
4-speed transmission
-
Matching-numbers motorcycle
-
Dual exhaust
-
Indian's distinctive postwar plunger-style rear suspension
-
Beautiful older comprehensive restoration
-
Excellent paint and chrome
-
Rechromed wheels
-
Restored engine and transmission exterior
-
Period-style Indian lighting and accessories
-
Triple front running lights
-
Indian-stamped auxiliary lights
-
Original-style rear fender and taillight
-
Original-style chain guard
-
Chrome crash bars
-
Center stand and side stand
-
1949 license plate shown on the motorcycle included
-
Recently serviced and recommissioned
-
Recently completed extensive 14.5-hour detailing
-
Runs and rides
-
Offered from the New England Motorcycle Museum
OWNERSHIP HISTORY
Our friend Perry purchased this motorcycle approximately ten years ago, around 2016.
At 6'6", Perry quickly discovered that an Indian Scout of this size was not exactly built for him. As a result, he rode it very little and primarily kept it as a display motorcycle.
The restoration had already been completed when Perry purchased the bike. He believed it may have been restored many years before his ownership, although the exact date and shop responsible for the restoration are unknown.
What is obvious is the amount of time, money and craftsmanship that went into it.
This was not simply repainted and cleaned up.
It was comprehensively restored.
RESTORATION & COSMETIC CONDITION
Virtually every visible component received attention during the restoration.
The painted surfaces were refinished.
The chrome was restored or rechromed.
The aluminum components were polished.
The engine and transmission were completely restored cosmetically.
The wheels were beautifully rechromed.
The exhaust system is fitted with excellent chrome mufflers.
The rear suspension components were beautifully refinished and rechromed.
The motorcycle also features excellent grips, levers, handlebars, footpeg rubbers, crash bars, horn, battery cover and numerous additional details.
The chains and sprockets were replaced during the restoration, and the brakes were reportedly rebuilt.
Look closely at the photographs and video.
The Indian lettering on the transmission cases, the polished aluminum, chrome engine covers, tank, fenders, wheels and small hardware all demonstrate the level of attention this motorcycle received.
It is one of those motorcycles that becomes more impressive the closer you look.
Replicating this level of restoration today would be extremely expensive.
With professional motorcycle restoration labor now commonly costing well into the triple digits per hour, completely disassembling, refinishing, plating, rebuilding and reassembling an approximately 80-year-old motorcycle can easily consume hundreds of hours.
The expensive cosmetic work has already been completed on this Scout.
RECENT SERVICE
After spending most of the last decade on display, we brought the Scout into our service department to recommission it.
Our technicians performed approximately six hours of mechanical service and inspection, including:
-
Installed a brand-new battery
-
Fabricated new battery leads
-
Inspected the motorcycle's wiring
-
Verified operation of the electrical system
-
Adjusted the drive chain
-
Checked and adjusted tire pressures
-
Checked engine oil level and condition
-
Removed the carburetor
-
Cleaned the carburetor jets and internal passages
-
Reassembled and tested the carburetor
-
Started and ran the motorcycle
-
Adjusted the idle
-
Tuned the carburetor to the best setting achievable during the service
-
Inspected fluid levels
-
Performed a final operational inspection
The mechanical service invoice totaled approximately $1,219 including labor, battery and related materials.
14.5 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL DETAILING
Following the mechanical work, the Scout went through our detail department for an extensive 14.5-hour rotisserie-style detailing process.
The motorcycle was:
-
Steam cleaned
-
Hand washed
-
Chrome polished
-
Painted surfaces machine polished and buffed
-
Tank polished
-
Side panels polished
-
Front and rear fenders polished
-
Aluminum components polished
-
Wheels and rims extensively cleaned
-
Engine and transmission detailed
-
Kickstand refinished
-
Brake lever refinished
-
Center stand touched up
-
Every accessible nook and cranny cleaned and detailed
Between our service and detailing departments, we have invested more than 20 hours of professional shop time (20 x $150 = $3,000) preparing this motorcycle for its next owner.
MECHANICAL CONDITION – PLEASE READ
We want the next owner to know exactly what he or she is purchasing.
The motorcycle runs and rides.
One of our senior technicians, Justin Harris, rode the Scout for our video, and once warmed up the engine runs strongly and sounds absolutely fantastic through the dual exhaust.
However, there are two items that should be addressed if the next owner intends to use the motorcycle regularly.
PUSHROD TUBE OIL LEAKS
After sitting for many years, the seals at the bottom of the pushrod tubes have begun leaking oil.
Interestingly, they were not leaking noticeably during our initial ride, but after subsequent running they began seeping enough oil that it is clearly visible beneath the motorcycle.
The pushrod tubes should therefore be removed and properly resealed.
This motorcycle does leak oil and will require repair.
A buyer wishing to continue riding it before performing the repair will need to monitor the oil level carefully.
CARBURETOR TUNING
We removed and cleaned the carburetor and adjusted it.
The motorcycle starts, runs and rides, but it remains somewhat cold-blooded and the low-RPM carburetor calibration is not perfect.
At higher RPM the engine appears to run very well.
We believe additional carburetor tuning would improve its starting and low-speed operation.
For someone intending to make this a regular rider, our recommendation would be to reseal the pushrod tubes and perform a final carburetor setup at the same time.
TIRES
The tires present very well but show age-related checking on the sidewalls.
Although they have very little apparent use, their age is unknown. Because this is a vintage motorcycle, we recommend replacing the tires before any significant road use.
SPEEDOMETER / MILEAGE
The speedometer presents extremely well.
We cannot confirm whether it is an original unit that was completely restored with a new face or a high-quality reproduction.
Because the motorcycle underwent a restoration and the history of the speedometer is unknown, actual accumulated mileage cannot be verified.
The prior owner reportedly put only a very small number of miles on the motorcycle during approximately ten years of ownership.
A RARE PIECE OF INDIAN HISTORY
The 1949 Scout represents one of the most interesting periods in Indian Motorcycle history.
Rather than continuing exclusively with its famous large American V-twins, Indian attempted to compete directly against the lighter British motorcycles gaining popularity in the United States.
The resulting Scout was an overhead-valve parallel twin with a four-speed transmission, telescopic front fork and distinctive rear plunger suspension.
It is radically different from the prewar Scout and consequently represents an important chapter in the final years of the original Springfield Indian Motorcycle Company.
Surviving examples—particularly restored matching-numbers motorcycles—do not appear for sale every day.
VALUE & COLLECTABILITY
Comparable sales of 1949 Scouts vary considerably depending on restoration quality, originality, mechanical condition, provenance and auction venue. One Sold this Year At Mecum for $38,500!
The more important consideration with this motorcycle is what it would cost to duplicate today.
Paint, chrome plating, wheel restoration, aluminum polishing, engine cosmetics, exhaust, controls, hardware, electrical work and professional assembly can consume an enormous amount of labor and money.
The heavy lifting has already been done here.
This is an exceptionally attractive vintage Indian that can immediately be enjoyed as a museum-quality display piece, while needing relatively straightforward mechanical sorting if the next owner intends to use it regularly.
SUPPORTING THE NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM
This motorcycle is being sold to help support continued improvements and preservation efforts at the New England Motorcycle Museum.
We continue investing heavily in the historic mill complex, including accessibility improvements, bathrooms, fire and security systems, cameras, building restoration and additional museum infrastructure.
Special motorcycles like this help us continue preserving motorcycle history for future generations.
SHIPPING
We ship motorcycles nationwide.
We can assist with arranging licensed, insured, enclosed transportation directly to your door.
International buyers are also welcome to contact us regarding shipping arrangements.
FINANCING
Financing may be available through FreedomRoad Financial, which specializes in motorcycle financing and may finance qualifying classic and collectible motorcycles.
Financing is subject to lender approval and applicable terms.
IMPORTANT SALE TERMS
This is an approximately 80-year-old antique motorcycle.
It is being sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS, with no warranty expressed or implied.
The motorcycle runs and rides, but it presently has oil leakage from the pushrod tube area, requires additional carburetor tuning for optimal operation, and has aged tires that we recommend replacing before regular road use.
We have made every reasonable effort to describe the motorcycle accurately and transparently.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to inspect the motorcycle personally or arrange for a third-party inspection prior to purchase.
The period 1949 plate shown on the motorcycle is included as part of the motorcycle/display package; no representation is made regarding its current registration validity.
Please review all photographs and the accompanying video carefully.
THE BOTTOM LINE
If you are looking for a cheap unrestored Indian project, this isn't it.
If you are looking for a matching-numbers, comprehensively restored 1949 Indian Scout that presents beautifully and represents one of the most fascinating chapters in Springfield Indian history, take a serious look at this motorcycle.
The paint is beautiful.
The chrome is beautiful.
The aluminum is polished.
The wheels are stunning.
The engine sounds fantastic through the dual exhaust.
And nearly eight decades after being built in Springfield, Massachusetts, this Indian has found its way back to within a few miles of where its story began.
All of the difficult and expensive cosmetic restoration work has already been done.
Address the pushrod tube seals, spend some additional time dialing in the carburetor, install fresh tires if you intend to ride it regularly, and you'll have an extraordinary piece of American motorcycle history.
Bid with confidence.
Good luck bidding, and God Bless America.
Vin - 2494189
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?
“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country
You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.
You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.
We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.
You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset
You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.
From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.
Sincerely,
Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
AUCTION TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.
