Harley vs Indian – the Great Race It’s not often we get a classic Indian hauled up outside Mid Life Cycles, but local Indian rider “Wazza” called in recently to buy a new Bell Classic open-face helmet before he headed off to the USA to take part in the Harley versus Indian Great Race. Wazza’s battered open face helmet wasn’t likely to pass scrutineering before the Great Race – it didn’t appear to have much inner shock-absorption, unless you counted the (very) vintage rabbit-fur lining (which Wazza assured us was good for absorbing moisture)! The original Harley versus Indian Great Race was founded by Australian collectors and friends Peter Arundel (Indian) and David Reidie (Harley-Davidson). The Australian event celebrated its 21st anniversary this year and its success has spawned a similar race in the USA. The Great Race is for pre-1957 bikes only. The Harleys and Indians can run some modifications, but must retain the original hand shift and foot clutch features of the era. Peter and David were part of a contingent of Aussie-based Indian and Harley enthusiasts who headed off for this year’s American event. The group included Wazza and Johnny Gee of Antique Motorcycles (who had lined up a pair of Indian Chiefs to buy over there and to bring back to Melbourne after the event), plus Peter’s son Paddy and daughter Emily Hazel. Photos include Emily Hazel, Peter and Paddy Arundel at this year’s American Great Race; and Mid Life Cycles’ Dean Oliver (aka Thin Arthur) aboard Wazza’s Indian Chief. (Research and Great Race information by Cath Davison.)
Posted on: Sun, 11 May 2014 11:56:48 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015