1976 Indian MI175
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
Description
1976 INDIAN MI175 ENDURO – 2,845 MILES
RARE 50-YEAR-OLD CLASSIC – PROJECT INDIAN
ORIGINAL SURVIVOR – 2-STROKE
RARE 1976 INDIAN MI175 ENDURO! LOW-MILEAGE, LARGELY ORIGINAL SURVIVOR WITH JUST 2,845 MILES SHOWING! A FANTASTIC WINTER RESTORATION PROJECT OR COLLECTOR'S DISPLAY PIECE!
This Indian has been sitting in collector storage for decades and is being offered AS-IS, NOT CURRENTLY RUNNING, AS A RESTORATION PROJECT.
SOLD ON BILL OF SALE / NO TITLE /ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM
Kaplan Cycles is proud to offer this super cool, 50-year-old 1976 Indian MI175, a classic street-legal enduro motorcycle powered by a Minarelli two-stroke engine featuring its distinctive radial-fin cylinder head.
This is a genuine piece of 1970s motorcycle history, from the era when Indian-branded motorcycles included lightweight, European-powered machines designed for both on-road and off-road adventures.
What makes this particular Indian special is its remarkable originality. This motorcycle appears to retain nearly all of its original equipment, including the factory paint, handlebars, mirrors, seat, lighting, exhaust, wheels, and numerous hard-to-find components.
The odometer shows just 2,845 miles!
These classic Indian enduros are increasingly difficult to find, especially in such complete, largely unmodified condition.
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT & FEATURES
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1976 Indian MI175 Enduro – 50 Years Old!
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Minarelli single-cylinder two-stroke engine
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Distinctive radial-fin cylinder head
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Only 2,845 miles showing on the odometer
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Original factory paint and bodywork
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Original Indian-branded engine case
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Original downpipe exhaust system (painted silver)
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Original handlebars and mirrors
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Original speedometer and ignition assembly
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Original front and rear turn signals
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Original taillight and street lighting equipment
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Original front forks and reflectors
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Original front fender in excellent condition
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Original chrome wheels
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Original chrome chain guard
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Original dual-passenger seat
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Passenger footpegs
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Front and rear brakes operational
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Clutch operates smoothly
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Transmission shifts in and out of gear
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Engine kicks over and has good compression
A remarkably complete 50-year-old Indian motorcycle with tremendous restoration potential!
MECHANICAL CONDITION – PROJECT BIKE
This Indian has been sitting in collector storage for decades and is being offered AS-IS, NOT CURRENTLY RUNNING, AS A RESTORATION PROJECT.
The good news is that the engine is not seized!
We checked the kickstarter, and the engine turns over with good compression. The clutch operates smoothly, the transmission shifts in and out of gear, and both the front and rear brakes function.
These are encouraging signs for anyone looking for a vintage motorcycle to bring back to life.
The motorcycle has not been started or road-tested by our shop.
It will require a complete mechanical recommissioning before being returned to service, including inspection and servicing of the fuel system, carburetor, ignition, brakes, and other age-related components.
The tires appear to be very old, possibly original, and will need replacement. The front tire currently does not hold air, so the tubes will also require attention.
The battery will need replacement.
The front air forks are currently collapsed due to having no air pressure. They will require inspection, and the fork seals may need replacement.
This motorcycle has been sitting for many years, so buyers should anticipate the usual service and restoration work associated with a 50-year-old machine.
We have not attempted to start this motorcycle, and we make no guarantees regarding its mechanical condition. It is being sold exactly as it was received.
COSMETIC CONDITION – AN AMAZING ORIGINAL SURVIVOR
Take a close look at the photos and video!
The beauty of this Indian is how complete and original it remains after half a century.
The original front fender is exceptionally well preserved. The factory forks, reflectors, handlebars, mirrors, and lighting equipment remain intact.
The chrome wheels still retain some shine, and the original chrome chain guard is present.
The engine cases feature the distinctive Indian head emblem, a fantastic detail that makes this motorcycle a particularly interesting collector's piece.
The original exhaust system remains in place, which is another big plus when restoring a vintage motorcycle.
We see no obvious evidence of major crash damage, and the motorcycle appears to have survived its 50 years without significant modifications.
The original seat is still present. The seat cover has an Indian marking on the rear and a small duct-tape repair. The original seat foam has deteriorated and collapsed with age, so the seat will require restoration.
There is age-related wear, deterioration, and patina throughout, as expected on an unrestored antique motorcycle.
Rather than cosmetically restoring this machine and erasing its history, we are offering it in its original survivor condition, allowing the next owner to decide how far to take the restoration.
A RARE PIECE OF INDIAN MOTORCYCLE HISTORY
While most people associate Indian motorcycles with large American V-twins, the Indian name also appeared on lightweight motorcycles during the 1970s.
These smaller Indian enduro machines offered riders the excitement of a high-revving two-stroke engine in a lightweight chassis with street equipment and off-road styling.
This MI175 features the desirable Minarelli two-stroke engine with its distinctive radial head, a classic period design.
With its upright dirt-bike-style seating position, street lighting equipment, passenger pegs, and classic enduro proportions, it represents a fascinating era of dual-purpose motorcycles.
For an Indian motorcycle enthusiast, vintage enduro collector, or Indian dealership, this would make a fantastic restoration candidate or display piece.
Imagine this machine restored and sitting alongside a collection of vintage Indian motorcycles, or simply cleaned up and displayed in your barn, garage, showroom, or motorcycle museum!
It is a genuine 50-year-old antique, and motorcycles this original are becoming harder to find.
WHY WE'RE SELLING IT
We've owned this motorcycle for more than two years and originally intended to restore it ourselves.
However, Kaplan Cycles has accumulated an enormous inventory of classic motorcycles, with approximately 240 machines awaiting restoration, service, or resale.
Truckload after truckload of vintage motorcycles has arrived, and we've reached the point where we simply cannot restore every motorcycle ourselves.
We had considered getting this Indian running, but with so many other restoration projects underway, we've decided to offer it as-is and let another enthusiast bring it back to life.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working on vintage two-strokes and wants to put a little sweat equity into a classic motorcycle.
Our loss of restoration time is your opportunity to own a rare, largely original 1976 Indian MI175!
THE PERFECT WINTER PROJECT!
Whether you're an experienced collector, an Indian enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates unusual vintage motorcycles, this machine deserves a second chance.
It has the originality, character, and classic styling that make these old motorcycles so special.
Restore it to showroom condition, preserve its original patina, or display it exactly as it sits.
With only 2,845 miles showing and so many original components intact, this Indian is a great foundation for a rewarding project.
IMPORTANT: This motorcycle is being sold as-is, where-is, in non-running project condition. It has not undergone a complete mechanical inspection. Buyers should review all photos and video carefully and plan on a full mechanical and safety inspection before attempting to ride it.
SHIPPING AVAILABLE – WE CAN HELP GET IT TO YOUR DOOR!
We regularly sell and ship vintage motorcycles to enthusiasts and collectors across the country.
Contact us to discuss transportation options and shipping arrangements.
CALL KAPLAN CYCLES: 860-454-7024
We encourage serious buyers to contact us with any questions or to arrange an inspection before purchasing.
Don't miss your chance to own this super cool, 50-year-old Indian MI175 Enduro!
A CLASSIC INDIAN. A MINARELLI TWO-STROKE. JUST 2,845 MILES SHOWING. A FANTASTIC PIECE OF MOTORCYCLE HISTORY READY FOR ITS NEXT CHAPTER!
Thanks for watching, and God Bless America!
– Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum
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 by our team.
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.
• 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 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, and we will help make it right.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
That means:
• 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.

























