Indian Motorcycle is one of the most iconic American motorcycle brands. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycles is America’s first motorcycle company. Over the decades, Indian motorcycles have built a reputation for quality engineering, power, and styling.
In recent years, Indian Motorcycles has seen a resurgence in popularity. Under new ownership since 2011, Indian has invested heavily in new technology, engineering, and design. This has led to a new generation of Indian motorcycles that combine classic styling with modern performance.
With strong brand recognition and a loyal following, Indian motorcycles tend to hold their value quite well on the used market. Determining how much a used Indian motorcycle is worth depends on factors like the model year, condition, miles, options, and more.
Key Factors That Determine Indian Motorcycle Values
Some of the most important factors that impact Indian motorcycle values include:
- Model Year – Newer models typically hold value better than older models
- Miles – Lower miles increases value, high miles decreases value
- Condition – Excellent condition brings top dollar, while poor condition drastically reduces value
- Maintenance – Proper maintenance and service records increase value
- Modifications – Aftermarket mods usually decrease value, stock is best for resale
- Options and Accessories – Certain options like ABS brakes can increase value
- Title Status – Clean titles command premium pricing vs branded titles
- Location – Indian prices vary by local market conditions
New Indian Motorcycle Prices
When evaluating the worth of a used Indian motorcycle, it helps to understand the original MSRP price when new. Here is a look at the base MSRP prices across the current Indian motorcycle lineup:
| Model | MSRP Price |
|---|---|
| Scout | $8,999 |
| Scout Bobber | $10,999 |
| Scout Bobber Twenty | $12,499 |
| Chief | $13,499 |
| Chief Bobber | $15,999 |
| Super Chief | $13,999 |
| Springfield | $14,999 |
| Chieftain | $17,999 |
| Chieftain Dark Horse | $18,999 |
| Challenger | $21,999 |
| Challenger Dark Horse | $27,499 |
| Roadmaster | $29,499 |
This provides a baseline for new bike prices. Of course, most buyers are looking at used Indian motorcycles. Next we’ll look at factors that make certain used Indians more valuable than others.
Used Indian Scout Prices
The Scout is Indian’s lightweight cruiser offering. Originally introduced in 1920, the Scout was reborn in 2014 featuring modern styling and performance.
Here are typical used prices for decent condition Indian Scout models with average mileage:
| Year | Price |
|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| 2016 | $6,500 – $8,500 |
| 2017 | $7,500 – $9,500 |
| 2018 | $8,000 – $10,000 |
| 2019 | $9,000 – $11,000 |
| 2020 | $9,500 – $12,000 |
| 2021 | $10,500 – $13,000 |
The Scout Sixty, Scout Bobber and Scout Bobber Twenty command a small premium over the base Scout models. Well maintained, low mileage examples in excellent condition can fetch prices beyond the ranges shown here.
Used Indian Chief Prices
The Indian Chief line represents the heart of the Indian brand, with models like the Chief Classic, Chief Vintage and Chieftain.
Here are typical used Indian Chief motorcycle values by model year:
| Year | Price |
|---|---|
| 2014 | $9,000 – $12,000 |
| 2015 | $10,000 – $13,000 |
| 2016 | $11,500 – $14,500 |
| 2017 | $12,500 – $16,000 |
| 2018 | $14,000 – $17,000 |
| 2019 | $16,000 – $19,000 |
| 2020 | $17,500 – $21,000 |
| 2021 | $19,000 – $23,000 |
The Chief Dark Horse, Springfield and Chieftain models command the top end of the price ranges. Vintage and Classic models tend to be on the lower end. Excellent condition bikes with desired options and low miles can exceed the prices shown here.
Used Indian Challenger Prices
Indian revived the iconic Challenger nameplate in 2020 with an all-new bagger model. The Challenger and Challenger Dark Horse feature the powerful new PowerPlus engine.
Used prices for decent condition Challenger models are:
| Year | Price |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $17,000 – $22,000 |
| 2021 | $19,500 – $25,000 |
Being a newer model, the Challenger holds its value extremely well. Expect to pay a premium for loaded Dark Horse models and examples in top condition with service records.
Used Indian Roadmaster Prices
The Roadmaster is Indian’s flagship touring motorcycle. Premium features like the Fairweather touring screen and top-of-the-line sound system make this a luxury touring machine.
Here are typical asking prices based on model year for used Roadmaster models in good condition:
| Year | Price |
|---|---|
| 2015 | $14,000 – $17,000 |
| 2016 | $15,500 – $18,500 |
| 2017 | $17,000 – $20,000 |
| 2018 | $18,500 – $22,000 |
| 2019 | $20,000 – $24,000 |
| 2020 | $22,000 – $26,000 |
| 2021 | $24,000 – $28,000 |
Roadmasters with lower mileage and all the bells and whistles can sell for prices above these ranges. The Roadmaster Dark Horse adds additional value.
Factors That Increase Indian Motorcycle Values
Certain factors can dramatically increase the value of an Indian motorcycle beyond the base model year price. Factors that boost value include:
- Ultra low mileage – under 5,000 miles
- All service records and maintenance
- No modifications or upgrades
- Optimal storage conditions
- Mint cosmetic condition
- All original parts
- Popular color combinations
- Rare special editions
- One owner with documentation
Indian Motorcycle values are also strongly influenced by market demand and local supply and availability of particular models. For example, Roadmasters tend to command higher prices because they have lower production numbers.
Factors That Decrease Indian Motorcycle Values
On the other hand, certain factors can reduce the value of an Indian motorcycle compared to the usual model year price range:
- High mileage – over 20,000 miles
- Missing service records
- Aftermarket modifications
- Poor storage conditions
- Visible cosmetic damage or wear
- Non-original parts installed
- Undesirable color combinations
- Branded or reconstructed title
- Missing manuals, keys, components
Indian motorcycles that have been neglected, not properly maintained or have damage or mods will be discounted compared to clean, original examples.
Is it Worth Restoring an Old Indian Motorcycle?
For classic Indian motorcycles from the 1940s-1950s era, a restoration project can be worth investing in if the bike is complete, original and not beyond repair. Here are some factors to consider:
- How difficult will it be to find missing parts?
- Does the frame have rust or damage that requires welding/fabrication?
- Are the engine internals seized or corroded beyond repair?
- Will replacement parts require extensive modifications to fit?
- How many total man hours will a proper restoration require?
- What will the total cost be including labor and parts?
In general, a restoration project will cost at least $10,000 and often much more. The value when complete must justify this investment. Well-done restorations of rare, desirable vintage Indians can command premium pricing however.
Matching Serial Numbers
Original matching serial numbers on the engine, transmission and frame increase collector value significantly. Mixing and matching parts from different bikes decreases collectibility. Original patina also adds character. Over-restoration can hurt value on classics.
Regional Market Values
Indian motorcycle values vary by location and regional market conditions. In general, prices trend higher on the U.S. coasts in places like California, Florida, New York and others. More rural midwestern areas often see lower prices and trade activity.
Private Sale vs Dealership Prices
You can expect to get a better price selling a used Indian motorcycle privately rather than trading in at a dealership. Dealers have overhead expenses and must make a profit reselling bikes. By selling privately, the seller keeps the full sale amount.
Online Auction Sales
Sites like eBay Motors and Bring a Trailer can sometimes yield higher sale prices for special interest Indian motorcycles. These online auctions allow buyers from all over the country to bid, driving up values for rare and desirable bikes.
Indian Motorcycle Pricing Resources
To estimate the value of a specific used Indian motorcycle for sale, the following pricing resources can help:
- NADA Guides – www.nadaguides.com
- Kelley Blue Book – www.kbb.com
- Indian forums – www.indianmotorcycle.com/forums
- Asking prices on sites like Cycle Trader and Craigslist
- Recent comparable Indian sales on eBay Motors
Conclusion
Determining how much a used Indian motorcycle is worth depends on factors like the model, year, miles, condition and equipment. Later model Indians tend to hold value exceptionally well compared to many other motorcycle brands.
Well-maintained, low-mileage Indians with a clean title and service records bring top dollar. Restored vintage Indians can also command a premium. Condition is one of the most important factors for maximizing resale value.
Understanding used pricing by model year along with how different factors impact valuation helps set expectations when buying or selling an Indian motorcycle. Thoroughly researching auction results, asking prices, and expert appraisal sources provides the most accurate method for dialing in true market value.
