Indian Motorcycle - 125 Years and 'Never Finished'
The Indian motorcycle brand marks its 125th anniversary in 2026 - the first ever motorcycle to carry the Indian brand name was produced in 1901 in Springfield, Mass.
The anniversary campaign will celebrate "125 years of historic innovation and iconic motorcycles" as it "continues to push American V-twin motorcycles forward with timeless designs, leading Innovation, renowned performance and unwavering reliability."
Nate Secor, Director of Marketing for Indian Motorcycle, said that "the 'Never Finished' campaign will be a year-long program that pays tribute to the pioneering spirit of founders George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, while declaring that Indian Motorcycle will never stop challenging limits.
"Following successful careers as bicycle racers in the late 19th century, Hendee and Hedstrom joined forces to engineer gasoline-powered bicycles to pace competitive races. At the time, early motorised pacers were notoriously unreliable, often sputtering to a stop and drawing laughs from spectators as racers pedalled past.
"Hendee and Hedstrom, however, built machines that performed flawlessly, earning respect and attention. Recognizing the potential, they set out to produce motor-assisted bicycles for mass production.
"Hendee and Hedstrom introduced what was America's first motorcycle in 1901, marking the birth of Indian Motorcycle. By 1913, the company had become the market leader, producing 30,000 units annually in what was then the world's largest motorcycle factory."
Secor went on to say that these days, "the brand empowers riders to forge their own path with machines that stand apart for those who refuse to blend in. Reaching 125 years is a historic milestone and a true testament to the riders who refused to let the spirit of Indian Motorcycle fade through a 60-year hiatus and to those who helped fuel the brand's return more than a decade ago.
"With 125 years of road behind it, Indian Motorcycle's legacy serves as a launchpad, shaped by its rich history and driven forward by competitive spirit, grit, and determination."
Throughout 2026, Indian Motorcycle says it will celebrate its 125th anniversary "through a variety of products, programs, and rider promotions. More information will be shared throughout the year."
