Indian Motorcycle Returns After 45 Year Absence
10 September 1999
Indian Motorcycle Returns After 45 Year Absence; Indian Motorcycle Royal Oak to Begin Taking Orders Today, September 10Re-Introduction of American Icon Rekindles Passion for Classic Motorcycle ROYAL OAK, Mich., Sept. 10 -- The Indian Motorcycle is back and ready to take to the streets with the introduction of the limited edition Indian Chief on Friday, September 10. The elegant Indian, the preeminent American-built motorcycle from 1901-1953, has enthusiasts around the world excited about its triumphant return after more than four decades. Known as "the pride of the American road," the new 1999 Limited Edition Indian Chief brings back the sleek style, superior performance and lush ride of Indian Motorcycle tradition. The motorcycles are built at the Indian Motorcycle Company of America's new manufacturing facility in Gilroy, California. Only 1,100 of the coveted new 1999 Limited Edition Indian Chief motorcycles will be produced. "There's a lot of excitement about the new Indian Motorcycle," said J. J. Nederlander, President of Indian Motorcycle Royal Oak, the exclusive dealer in southeast Michigan. "People have been waiting a long time for this bike to come back, and it's better than ever." Nederlander, who has been riding for more than 15 years, was frustrated with service departments at motorcycle dealerships because of the long waits to have work done. "I decided to open up a store that was totally service oriented, both in the showroom and the service department. People who want an Indian Motorcycle expect the best, and that's the kind of service we deliver." The mechanics at Indian Motorcycle Royal Oak have more than 100 years experience working on virtually every kind of motorcycle. The store even keeps vintage bikes on display as part of its collection. Interest in the new Indian Motorcycle reflects the diversity of people who enjoy biking as part of today's lifestyle. Biking is not just big, bearded men in leather jackets anymore. In fact, today, motorcycles have become a family sport with families spending time riding together. Indian Motorcycle enthusiasts are often men and women who are executives or entrepreneurs. The 1999 Limited Edition Indian Chief sells for $24,900. Indian Motorcycle Royal Oak will begin taking orders for the Limited Edition at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 10. The bike comes in a variety of colors including black, red and blue and two tones: red/black, red/cream, black/gray, maroon/cream, blue/blue, bright yellow/white, double mocha. "The Limited Edition Indian Chief is the ultimate cruiser," Nederlander said. "It represents the new tradition of excellence in American motorcycles." Indian Motorcycle Royal Oak is located at 222 N. Main Street one block north of 11 Mile Road. Hours: Sunday, 11-5, Tuesday, 11-6, Wednesday 11:30-7, Thursday through Saturday, 11-7. Closed Mondays. Telephone: 248-543-1000.