Help us restore our 1942 Indian 741B Motorcycle

The MOTAT Volunteer Team’s gearing up to restore an Indian 741B Motorcycle complete with its military configuration.

This project is already underway, but we are now looking for a little help to finish the job.

This vehicle holds historical significance as a WWII military vehicle used by the New Zealand Armed Forces 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) in the North African Desert Theatre of Operations during the war.

The motorcycle is an example of innovative technology from this period. Its unique features include a left foot-operated clutch pedal and a right-hand lever-operated gear-change and left-hand throttle control on Police and Military motorbikes which is said to have freed the rider’s right hand while riding.

MOTAT acquired the in Indian 741B Motorcycle in the early 1970s and the team are eager to complete its restoration. To date, the frame, wheels, and tin-work have been restored, and the engine, running gear, wiring and ancillaries next on the list.

This is a large project that includes reconditioning original components, preparing and painting parts in the bikes original desert tan colour. We are looking to raise $8000 to complete the project. The money raised will be used to purchase the parts needed restore the Indian 741B.

The Museum is fortunate to have an expert in Indian Motorcycles offer his time to rebuild the engine and a team of dedicated MOTAT Volunteers concentrating on the running gear, wiring, ancillaries, and assembling the frame.

Once completed, the restored Indian 741B Motorcycle will be on display for public viewing in MOTAT’s Military Section, making it the third of its kind on display in New Zealand. Waiouru National Army Museum is home to the only other Indian 741B restored with military configuration and Motorcycle Mecca in Invercargill display a ‘civilianised’ version of the motorcycle.

Thank you for your generous support.