Indian Four
The Indian Four was a luxurious and smooth inline-four motorcycle produced from 1928 to 1942. As one of the premier American pre-war bikes, it's a blue-chip collectible prized for its unique engine configuration and iconic styling.
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4 listed in the past year. The last was 8 days ago.
Indian Four prices by year
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
Indian acquired the Ace Motor Corporation in 1927, inheriting its impressive inline-four engine design. The first Indian Four appeared for the 1928 model year and quickly became the brand's luxury flagship. Over its production life, the engine saw several changes, including a short-lived and poorly received 'upside-down' intake-over-exhaust design for 1936-1937, before returning to a conventional F-head configuration in 1938. Production ceased in 1942 as Indian's factory focused on the war effort.
The Four is a blue-chip collectible because it represents the pinnacle of pre-war American motorcycle design and engineering. Its inline-four engine offered a level of smoothness that contemporary V-twins couldn't match, making it a true luxury tourer. The most sought-after models are the 1940-1942 versions, which feature plunger rear suspension and iconic, deep-valanced fenders. These late-model Fours are widely considered some of the most beautiful motorcycles ever made.
Buying Tips
- Verify matching engine and frame numbers. Many Fours were assembled from parts over the decades, so originality is key to value.
- Inspect the sheet metal carefully. Original gas tanks and especially the 1940-42 valanced fenders are very hard to find and expensive to replace.
- Scrutinize the engine design. The 1936-37 'upside-down' engine is less desirable and prone to overheating; confirm you're getting the correct F-head design for other years.
- Check for period-correct components. Original carburetors, distributors, and lighting are major value-adds, as many bikes now run modern reproductions for reliability.
- Ask for any ownership or restoration documentation. Provenance is very important for a motorcycle at this price point.
30 Indian Four vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 3 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian Four listings are for sale right now?
There are 3 Indian Four listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.