During the first decade of America’s fast-growing motorcycle industries existence, Indian swiftly emerged at the forefront as one of the more prominent makes. The company’s participation in various sporting events rewarded them with valuable publicity, which, in turn, popularized their machines to the masses beyond the capabilities of production.

These first years saw the production motorcycle develop from not more than a motor-driven bicycle to rugged, reliable means of transportation. Progress was rampant, and the company’s racing endeavors continued to fuel its advancement.

By 1909, the Indian lineup was entirely redesigned. The bicycle-inspired diamond frame was replaced with the more conventional loop frame, which had previously been fitted to the racing machines of the company’s top riders. A new, streamlined torpedo-type gas tank was fitted between the upper and lower tank rails, and oil was carried in a large capacity half-gallon tank that was fixed to the frame beneath the seat. In addition to the improved 2.75-horsepower, single-cylinder model, two new twins were offered, the five horsepower, 38-cubic inch Light Twin and the sturdy seven-horsepower, 61-cubic inch Big Twin. Mechanical intake valves were also now standard equipment on all models.

This rare 1909 Indian Twin, formerly of the Jim Atchley Collection, is preserved in unrestored, original condition, and it still retains its unusual Green factory paint. The machine features the five-horsepower, 38-cubic inch, twin-cylinder, pocket-valve engine and its original Hedstrom carburetor and Bosch magneto. Other high-wear items, such as the seat, pedals, and grips, are also original to this machine. This remarkably preserved bike is among the earliest original twin-cylinder Indian motorcycles in existence.