Indian Motorcycle was founded in 1901 by George M. Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom in Springfield, Massachusetts, initially operating as the Hendee Manufacturing Company. The brand name "Indian" was adopted in 1898 to improve product recognition in export markets. The company quickly became a dominant force in early motorcycle racing and production, introducing the first American production V-Twin engine in 1906 and sweeping the top three positions at the Isle of Man TT in 1911.
During the 1920s and 1930s, Indian released iconic models like the Scout (1920) and the Chief (1922), establishing itself as a leader in American motorcycling culture. The company served extensively for the U.S. military in both World War I and World War II, shifting production to war efforts. However, post-war competition and declining sales led to the cessation of original production in 1953.
The brand underwent several revival attempts, including ownership by Brockhouse Engineering in 1955 and Floyd Clymer in 1963, often involving rebadged imports. The modern era began in 2011 when Polaris Inc. acquired the rights and revived Indian Motorcycle, launching new models like the Chief, Chieftain, and Roadmaster. As of 2026, Indian Motorcycle is a subsidiary of Carolwood LP and continues to produce cruisers and touring bikes, competing directly with Harley-Davidson.