Hitchcocks Forum

Dear all,

I'm planning to buy an old Bullet from 1967.
Can somebody please help me in getting a better view on where the Bullet is coming from based on the VIN? (e.g. where it was produced, engine, year produced, etc.)

I've uploaded a picture of the VIN, can be found on the weblink below.

I've also included a picture of the motor below, what would be the estimated value of it (engine doesn't work anymore)?

Any insight would be very welcome.

Link to picture VIN: https://s13.postimg.org/rjia9x8hj/WP_20 ... 57_Pro.jpg

Link to picture motor: https://s14.postimg.org/nf7hrh2dt/IMG_4736.jpg

Br,
Koen

Email the info to Graham Scarth and he can tell you chapter and verse. [email protected]

Thanks Pete. I've sent Mr Scarth an e-mail just now.

Any view on the money-value of the motor (ref. picture)?

Graham will be able to tell you what's what but those stamped numbers look distinctly "moody" to me. (That means dodgy in the motor trade!) It looks like someone has over-stamped the numbers to look like a 60s stamping. The actual bike looks like a 70s, possibly early 80s Indian Home Market 350. Nothing wrong with that, as long as it's cheap enough. If it hasn't got any paper work, and I suspect that's why you are asking, I wouldn't give more than £500 tops. Seriously, if no papers, I wouldn't buy. I don't know where you are but there are plenty of cheap Bullets like this around in the UK (a bit more than £500 though,) and I'd wait for one of those. (

REgards, Mark

Wave a curry at it and see if there is any reaction?

Hi Mark, thanks for the info! The numbers look indeed 'moody'. I'll wait for Graham's feedback.
The original papers are there, but it has never been registered. The engine doesn't start anymore, but according to the seller it needs a new battery and some oil. I'm living in Belgium, but would be interested to know where in Europe I can find a 350 in the range of £500 - £750. I've been searching for good website and found eBay, official resellers (bit pricey), anything else than eBay you would recommend?

The numbers are from circa 1967, and have been doctored. There should also be another number just below the engine breather vent on the drive side crankcase; that is the actual Indian made engine number and should be present on all Indian made Bullets post 1965...


REI was in turmoil for most of 66 and 67 with the closure of Reddich and the unavailability of parts, production was limited as a result.


Like most all older Indian Bullets LOTS of parts on the bike are later model: levers, front wheel, carb, both mud guards, saddle is non standard. I could go on...


Did you mean to say the selling was offering you money to take it of his hands? I definitely would not pay more than scrap value for the bike as you will be certain to discover that EVERYTHING will at best be worn out, but is much more likely to be 100% truly fornicated and uneconomical to repair.


My advice would be to stay well clear of it.