The 1920s marked a decade of growth and model expansion for Indian. The Powerplus-era street bikes, known for their durability and performance, gave birth to the new Scout in 1920 designed by Charles B. Franklin– featuring a 37 cubic inch (600 cc) V-twin engine. The low-slung Scout model, with its long wheelbase, innovative semi-monocoque construction, three-speed transmission and helical-gear drive, was an immediate hit with performance riders on the street, dirt tracks, and endurance circuits alike. The Scout wasn’t the most powerful bike on the market, but it gained a following for its responsiveness and agile handling. In 1928, Franklin masterfully tweaked the Scout, and in the process created the 101 Scout– with an even stronger frame, superior suspension and steering, longer wheelbase, increased fork rake, lower seat, addition of a front brake. and beefed-up engine putting out 45 cubic inches (750 cc) of displacement. The result was what many consider to be the best bike Indian ever built.
