Indian 741

Ok guys, I got this Indian 741 (500cc) that's been lying around in my garage for a while now. It's complete and it looks like its in ok condition. The motor needs to be rebuilt. My question is: is this bike worth the effort (time and money)? I'd like to make a small bobber or racer out of it but people keep telling me this bike is a piece of shit. What do you guys think? I mean, how does it work compared to a Harley 45 for example? How different is it from a 45 scout? Is there interchangeability of parts (top end)? Thanks,
Eric

knk45
I think your 741 is definitely worth keeping, restoring and getting it back onto the open road again. 741's, when "civilized" and tuned, are goodlooking and fun to ride. They are plentiful, especially over here in Europe, spares are easy to get and there are some very nice things either already reproduced or in the making (check out VirtualIndian), which by the way is the real INDIAN revival! Too many people fall for the big and heavy stuff (myself included) and they don't know what they are missing.
Sorry, I'm not the one to give Tech Tips but I encourage you to keep the bike (unless you are taller than 1,90m).
Best wishes,
Andi

Knk45:
As it sets its a neat old bike but slow, about 55 or 60 wfo. Bore it to 2 5/8" for 37 cid itll rul about 70 or 75. Change to 45 flywheels and 2 5/8" bore ends up at 42 cid. 75 for sure and much stronger but the intake limits top speed. Change to 45 cylinders and heads for a true 45 85 or faster depending on tune but you either have to grind the fins or find a 45 frount frame section. 45 cylinders with 74 crank makes 57 cid. around a hundred in street trim. 45 cylinders with Hardly 45 crank makes 42 cid and changes rpm faster than a 57. And for the truley insane a few 61 cid Scouts have been built using the 80 cid crank and 45 cylinders, but piston life is measured in months.
Dusty

Sounds good guys. Might try and make something out of this bike. Maybe for going to work or something.

Hey Andi,
Actually, I'm in Europe too (France). Could you give me a few adresses where I might find parts? Thanks,
Eric

knk45
I could give you some german adresses but a "french connection" might be of more use to you. Try the site of the french indian club: http://www.members.xoom.fr./indianclub/
They are nice guys and can provide more information on french dealers than I can.
andi

Yeah, I know Fred very well (the webmaster). He's got a bad ass Chief Chopper/bobber/rat (who knows what the hell it is). I just thought you might have different sources.
Eric