11. Indian Model 640
Source: The Ernest Bud Cox Collection, Mecum Collections
The Indian model 640 B actually has roots that trace back to the Indian Scout produced in 1920. The model 101 was killed after the depression and Indian harmonize production of the Chief, Scout and 640 B in 1931 to ease budget constraints in areas of cost, as well as ensure company survival under Dupont ownership. However, there was still an outcry from the consumer base which saw the Sport Scout model produced in 1934. It was 20 pounds heavier than the previous 101, but had much better performance. Therefore, when the military requested motorcycles for World War II, Indian responded with a modified version of the Sport Scout, known as the 640 B. The fenders were skirtless and the bike now sported a coat of boring olive paint. However, the 22 hp motor could propel the 485 pound machine to top speeds of 75 mph. It could out run any convoy… yet never got the chance. All 2,500 were kept stateside on US military bases.