1941 Indian Model 841 WWII-Era Military Motorcycle

Updated August 30, 2026

Rare 1941 Indian Model 841 military motorcycle offered as a project/partially assembled example. This is an exciting opportunity for the serious Indian motorcycle collector, military motorcycle enthusiast, vintage motorcycle restorer, or WWII memorabilia collector to acquire one of the rarest and most unusual motorcycles produced by Indian. The Indian Model 841 was developed during World War II as an experimental military motorcycle for the U.S. Army. Unlike the traditional Indian motorcycles of the period, the 841 featured a highly unusual 90-degree V-twin engine and shaft-drive system, making it one of the most distinctive motorcycles in American motorcycle history. This example is being offered in its present project/partially assembled condition, as shown in the photographs. It should be carefully evaluated by prospective bidders for completeness, originality, and the presence of correct Model 841 components. The motorcycle is being sold as presented, with no assumption that it is complete or ready to ride. What Makes the Indian 841 Special? The Model 841 was one of Indian's most ambitious wartime designs. Approximately 1,000-plus examples were produced for military evaluation, making surviving motorcycles and components highly sought after by collectors. Its distinctive engineering includes: 45 cubic-inch / approximately 737cc V-twin engine 90-degree cylinder configuration Shaft final drive Four-speed transmission Military-inspired olive-drab finish Girder-style front suspension Plunger-style rear suspension Full fenders Large military-style tires Solo saddle WWII-era American motorcycle design The unusual shaft-drive configuration and 90-degree V-twin distinguish the Indian 841 from more familiar Indian models such as the Scout and Chief. Collector & Restoration Opportunity Rather than simply another vintage motorcycle, the Indian Model 841 represents an important chapter in American WWII military engineering and Indian Motorcycle history. This motorcycle would make an exceptional restoration project, museum display, military vehicle collection centerpiece, or donor/component acquisition, depending upon the buyer's plans and evaluation of the motorcycle. Because the motorcycle is presented in a partially assembled/project condition, bidders are encouraged to study all photographs carefully and personally inspect the motorcycle when possible. Components, completeness, originality, mechanical condition, and authenticity should be determined by the buyer prior to bidding. THIS IS A BARN FIND. THE PICTURES INSIDE THE OLD BARN ARE IN AS FOUND CONDITION WITH THE PARTS ON THE SHELVES BEHIND IT. THE BACKSTORY IS THIS WAS A PROJECT FOR AN OLDER GENTLEMAN WHO STARTED IT AND THEN PASSED AWAY. HE HAD ORDERED EXTRA PARTS SO THERE’S PROBABLY ENOUGH TO BUILD A MOTORCYCLE AND A HALF. THE WIDOW IS HAVING US SELL IT. THERE WILL BE AN OPEN HOUSE VIEWING THIS SATURDAY BEFORE THIS AUCTION ENDS, THE VIEWING WILL BE LOCATED AT FLOYDS ANTIQU

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