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It may come as a blow to Harley fans but Indian was the first manufacturer of motorcycles in the USA. In sort of a divergent evolution, Indian approached engine design with parallel cylinders instead of the "V" configuration Harley favored. An Indian four-cylinder was a marvel of compactness, providing a smooth-running engine comparable in cubic inches to its rival Harley.
FM has done an outstanding job on the 1942 Indian 442. The deep, maroon red metallic finish looks great and, in a departure from the soft plastic seats of other releases, the bicycle-type saddle is covered in tan leather with a fringe around the back. Very nice. The clutch, brake and starter pedals move, as does the side-mounted shift lever and front and rear suspensions. The gauge detail on the big tank is nice and all emblems a logos are present. What's more, much of the chrome is metal and not chromed plastic. Tire spokes are photo-etched metal and the tire tread pattern is clearly visible. This is one fine image indeed, sure to please Indian loyalists. (NOTE: I have an older Certificate of Authenticity that indicates some of the early images may have had saddlebags.)
Indian manufactured a quality machine that ensured owner loyalty. My dad owned one when he was a young man. Back then, many considered the Springfield, Massachusetts manufactured Indian to be the definitive American motorcycle. (ADDITIONAL NOTE: There's still time to get one of these images before they are discontinued on 12/31/2000.) (11/26/2000)
(11/26/2000)
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