The Indian Model O – also known as the Indian Light Twin.
Photos and Text by Christine Paige Diers, Executive Director, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame
In 1916, Hendee Manufacturing Company introduced the Indian Model O – also known as the Indian Light Twin. This opposed cylinder motorcycle was meant to be an entry-level motorcycle. The Model O has a very unusual layout with the opposed twin cylinder mounted with the cylinders facing front and back rather than sticking out each side. Indian had hoped to attract a new younger audience with these lightweight bikes and the company advertised these light weight motorcycles in magazines like Boys Life.