One hundred and nine years after it was founded in 1901, the classic Indian motorcycle is back and it's making its west coast premiere on Saturday and Sunday, April 17 & 18, at the grand opening of Indian Motorcycle Los Angeles in Harbor City.
Five new 2010 models will be unveiled for the first time on the West Coast and available for free demo rides. Other festivities include free concerts by Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats and Wild Child, L.A.'s ultimate celebration of The Doors. Hours both days are 11am-5pm and all ages are welcome.
Indian is America's oldest motorcycle and was a major competitor of Harley-Davidson during its 52-year production run from 1901 to 1953. After a brief return from 1999-2003, the Indian brand was purchased by Steve Hesse and Stephen Julius, two entrepreneurs with a commitment to reviving iconic luxury brands, such as Chris-Craft Boats.
The five 2010 Chief models—all aesthetic recreations of 1940s models with prices that start at $26,000—include the Classic, Dark Horse, Bomber, Roadmaster, and Vintage. All five models will be available for test rides on April 17 & 18 for riders with an M1 motorcycle license. Less than 200 new Indian motorcycles will be available for sale in Los Angeles County in 2010.
Other Grand Opening festivities include an antique Indian Motorcycle show, opportunity drawings, food fair, beer garden, and special guests.
Lee Rocker, the legendary upright bassist of the Stray Cats, will headline the Saturday concert at 2pm. Since the 1980s, the Stray Cats have been international sensations with 23 gold and platinum records. On Sunday at 2pm, Wild Child will bring the spirit of Jim Morrison and The Doors to life with a concert that has earned them critical praise for over 20 years.
Indian Motorcycle Los Angeles is located under the same roof as California Harley-Davidson at 1521 Pacific Coast Highway in Harbor City, one mile west of the 110 Freeway and 5 miles from Redondo Beach. For more information, call 310-539-3366 or go online to www.IndianMotorcycleLA.com.