[{"id": 5857815, "authorName": "Thomas54", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thomas54/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just like mine which was my first \"motorcycle\". My dad tried to tune it up by putting it on a log and and revving it up. He was trying to clear it out he said and held it wide open until the little engine gave up its heart and threw the rod out the case. That was the end of my fun weekend during our vacation in northern Minnesota after me spending all my paper route money to buy it. He did get me a new motor after we got home though. I think I'm a little (lot) too big to relive the past. GLWTA", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615222404, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5857902, "authorName": "jimxyz", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimxyz/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow - that takes me back. Still remember when my Dad got us our first mini bike. That was our equivalent to an iphone or XBox. Very cool.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615223975, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5857911, "authorName": "JayJayPG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jayjaypg/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Traded the van for it straight up\u2026 I can get 70 miles to the gallon on this hog.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615224045, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5857918, "authorName": "MrBonus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrbonus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You know Lloyd, just when I think you couldn't possibly be any dumber, you go and do something like this, and totally redeem yourself!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615224096, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5857928, "authorName": "e9er", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/e9er/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It's cool but shouldn't this be $100-200 item on Craigslist or OfferUp?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615224280, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5857945, "authorName": "atlascafe", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/atlascafe/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Do you think it will make the drive/ride back to the SF bay?", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615224513, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858035, "authorName": "HillbillyHeathen", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hillbillyheathen/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Lots of mini bike stuff on OMB.com (old mini bike) or something close to that.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615225674, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858038, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@atlascafe \n\"Do you think it will make the drive/ride back to the SF bay?\"\nDid dumb and dumber have a mini bike snot scene?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615225785, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858125, "authorName": "Round_Rock_Rob", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/round_rock_rob/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The riding video says it all. \r\n\r\nAmazing!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615226918, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858185, "authorName": "Blizzard340", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/blizzard340/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@e9er\r\nThese type of vintage minis bring back great memories for a lot of people. They can't all be 4K dollar CT 70's :-)", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615227591, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858256, "authorName": "CraZ8", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/craz8/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The only shock absorbers on these is the rider. Used to race these around bayside New York in the 70s. I had a 3hp and my buddy had a 2.5 but he had a bit taller gearing and would eventually catch up and pass me. Good times", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615228324, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858259, "authorName": "Blizzard340", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/blizzard340/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "After watching the riding video I was thinking how much better out society would be if kids still did this instead of hanging out on their computers and cell phones...\r\nI know - I'm getting old!", "likes": 11, "timestamp": 1615228365, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858335, "authorName": "bluesman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bluesman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@e9er Weren\u2019t you a kid once? I can remember seeing those ads, probably had them memorized like the BB gun kid in Christmas Story. Most were similar store brand - Sears, Montgomery ward, ...\r\nFriend had a Mickey Thompson.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615229114, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858406, "authorName": "Goodlands", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/goodlands/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice riding, Grayson. That could have been me 62 years ago!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615229794, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858511, "authorName": "BAT284", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bat284/", "bidAmount": 100, "content": "$100 bid placed by BAT284", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615230562, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5858477, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No way -- a 'Lil' Indian mini bike. This very mini bike was my first experience riding a two-wheel motorbike. The neighborhood kids I grew up with, their dad bought a cira 1960s 'Lil' Indian just like this. \n\nI'll never forget that very day... Billy, we were in the same grade. It was Sunday morning and he got on their new 'Lil' Indian mini bike. He pulled the starter cord and started the 3HP Briggs & Stratton engine. Bill twisted the throttle and the mini bike took off with him hanging off the back. He couldn't untwist the throttle and plowed through two planters with rose bushes and hit the neighbors '63 Mercury Meteor rear door and left a huge dent.\n\nWe were all cracking up laughing -- but he didn't think it was funny.\n\nThat 'Lil' Indian went on to make mini bike history. Charles, the brother, installed and 50cc Honda engine and fabricated a side hack when we were in high school. His inspiration was the Honda Wasp side hack racers we watched at Irwindale speedway track during the mid-70s.. \n\nIf you've ever seen two teenagers riding a 'Lil' Indian mini side hack at El Mirage Dry Lake or Saddleback Park... that was us!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615230713, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858553, "authorName": "Vtec4ever", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vtec4ever/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Grayson rocks!!! He is a cool kid. GLWS!!!!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615230888, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858603, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks for the fun comments, everyone. Young Grayson is the son of one of my racing pals. He had a ball making the video. It was his first time on a minibike.\n\nMachines such as this really do bring back great memories for many of us. I had a nearly identical 'Lil' Indian in 1968 or so when I was eleven years old and I rode it like I stole it. It was the start of a lifetime in motorsports. \n\nAdding to the appeal of this bike is its originality. So many of these have been ridden hard, badly broken and repaired, modified or suffered spray can restorations, but not this one. The major components (frame, seat, engine, wheels & tires, controls) appear to be the same ones fitted in 1967 when it was brand new. This bike seems to have seen little use over the last 54 years. \n\nThe frame number and engine number are date-correct for 1967. Some 'Lil' Indians were sold in kit form. The presence of the Prairie Blue Vibro Enamel finish (boy, that's a mouthful) and bolt-on kickstand identify this bike as a factory-assembled model 500. These details are confirmed by documents posted in the photo gallery. Original 'Lil' Indian decals are present on the frame and engine, also confirming the original painted finishes to which they are applied.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1615231545, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858709, "authorName": "MadHungarian", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/madhungarian/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Brings back memories. Not everybody's parents were willing to spring for a new one, but every one of us of a certain age remembers wanting to make a minibike or go-kart out of a retired lawn mower engine that still ran.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615231908, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858713, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Blizzard340 \n\"After watching the riding video I was thinking how much better out society would be if kids still did this instead of hanging out on their computers and cell phones\u2026\nI know \u2013 I\u2019m getting old!\"\nNo, you're just smarter. It was tough to \"befriended\" anyone while riding a mini bike. Actually, just the opposite. That's how we enjoyed the outdoors, moving our bodies, and learning to be social instead of social media wallflowers.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615231979, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858784, "authorName": "Jags_in_the_barn", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jags_in_the_barn/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These were all we could ever knew we wanted when we were younger, though they lost their status as objects of lust once we discovered Yamahas and Hondas and Suzukis with gearboxes and suspension. \n\nThese were faster, had brakes, and were taller. This made for falls from higher seats at faster speeds often compounded by klutzy downshifts and inept braking with the front brake only.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615232284, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5858831, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Grayson, you rock! I couldn't wipe the smile off my face during your ride...the most fun I've had watching a video here. My memories and your big smile. I see you've mastered the balance thing, nearly stopping the bike, keeping it up without even a wobble! Thanks for the entertainment. Made my day. :)", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615232536, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5859071, "authorName": "3Pedalonly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/3pedalonly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Since it's apparently Share your Minibike Memories Monday, here is my story:\n\nBack in 1970 I bought a Alexander-Reynolds (looked fairly similar to this) with a 4 HP Tecumseh engine. Bike was brand new but being the expert mechanic that I was in my mind, I figured I better check it out to make sure all was ok. Got out the \"owners manual\" which was something like 4 pieces of paper stapled together, and checked the carb specs since there wasn't much else for me to tinker with. There was a diagram showing the idle mixture screw which stated turn screw all the way in and then back out something like 1 and 1/2 turns. So I turned the screw and turned, and turned, and turned, and turned till my arm was sore and then backed out 1 and 1/2 turns. Thought wow, this was really way off - bike gonna run much better now\n\nYes folks, it was the idle speed screw I had been turning, not the idle mixture. So now that my idle was - unknown to me - set at full throttle I stood on the side of the bike, held the handlebars, and pulled the starter rope\n\nDidn't turn out so pretty as I ran down the street trying to stop the thing and jump onboard\n\nAt least it wasn't a Hayabusa at full throttle", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615233912, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5859124, "authorName": "Sierra6", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sierra6/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a Taco brand one of these, bought used for $30.00 which I begged my Dad for. Must have been around 1971 or 72. Cleaned it up, spray painted it purple and terrorized the fields out behind our house. It had a rope pull starter that you had to rewind onto the pulley every pull.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615233961, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5859154, "authorName": "WAGONBOYTD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wagonboytd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Y 'all need to go south, dirt bikes have never been hotter, I think kids are going out more than ever and getting on bikes again. At least from I'm seeing from my friends. But yes more need to get out and play kick the can and jump Shasta Campers like we did as kids. \r\nJust play Evel on a continuous loop and they will follow. or for you younger Dads Jackass.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615234089, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5859238, "authorName": "e9er", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/e9er/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@bluesman and @Blizzard340 - No, I think it is really cool and said so. It would be super cool to have one of these to run around on - half the fun would be picking up local for not much money. I guess my point it, that is if it on BaT, the seller is expecting pretty good money for it (it's got to be a $100 to list it here). Then whoever buys it will have to ship it. I think it's cool, just not that cool and special.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615234514, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5859735, "authorName": "Ant5842", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ant5842/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is pretty much exactly the same as my very first 2-wheeled motorized machine, except mine was \"painted\" all sorts of colors.....whatever spray cans we could find in the gutter that the junkies discarded....they were after the glue in the model kits, discarded everything else. I grew up (that's debatable) in da Bronx riding one of these on the streets. This was back in the late 60's. Cops back then didn't give a crap, they were too busy with the drug business going on all around to waste time chasing us little punks. The minibike parts place was in Yonkers, close to the race track. We had to figure out ways to get there to buy consumables like tires, chains and sprockets. We somehow managed to hitch rides back and forth without getting kidnapped, or worse. Man, those were some fun days. The school where street smarts were taught. This one brings back some amazing memories. I'll be watching for sure. Thanks for bringing this one here.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615237167, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5860082, "authorName": "zman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zman/", "bidAmount": 200, "content": "$200 bid placed by zman", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615238818, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5860200, "authorName": "Patrick01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patrick01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow, a near-twin to my first mini-bike! Mine was mostly Rupp, but had no front fender, and sported a very cool chrome rear fender. I got the bike as a rolling frame. No seat or engine, but it did have new tires on it. I put a little 2-1/2 horsepower Clinton engine on it that might have pushed it and me to a whopping 20 mph. Might as well been 100 for a 12-year-old! Death was around every corner, it seemed, but at 12, a kid is invincible! Loved that little bike! Mine was bluish-grey with a black seat and white wheels.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615239705, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5860948, "authorName": "PoweredbyFord", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/poweredbyford/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This basic minibike design was copied by many regional manufacturers around the country. On Long Island in the 1960's, 'Stellar' was a very popular brand, similarly equipped to this one. There was an outdoor power and motorsports place in Jericho that sold minibikes and go-karts. On the Saturday before my 11th birthday, my Dad woke me up and told me he needed me to run an errand with him. I quickly got dressed and we hopped in Mom's Oldsmobile wagon. To my complete surprise, we drove to Jericho where Dad bought me a new minibike for my birthday. What a great memory - every kid deserves to experience that kind of joy.", "likes": 16, "timestamp": 1615243166, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861076, "authorName": "zman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mine had no clutch...direct chain drive drill was balance rear tire off the ground against the kickstand on your leg... with one hand pull rope with the other twist the throttle when she was running smoothly gas it while dropping it and sitting on it at the same time...perfect timing meant a ride.....anything less a flip over wheelie or a stall....virtually theft proof.....lol.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615244045, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861093, "authorName": "zman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Clutches....CLUTCHES????? We don't need no stinking clutches!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615244111, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861098, "authorName": "zman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thats for rich sissy kids.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615244129, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861527, "authorName": "JPSO86", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jpso86/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Back when I was a kid growing up in NJ there were \"Blue Laws\" that made it so stores had to be closed on Sundays.\nThat opened up large parking lots for activities like riding your Minibike or go-kart or flying your Cox gas airplane....\nIt seems like there is no good place to do stuff like that now.\nEven if the parking lots were empty nowadays you'd get chased off by Security because of insurance liability.\nThe guts and ingenuity that helped me in business and life was learned and tested on those parking lots and doing all the other unsupervised activities with my buddies back then.\nIrreplaceable.\nGLWTA!", "likes": 15, "timestamp": 1615250441, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861671, "authorName": "Stinger17", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/stinger17/", "bidAmount": 300, "content": "$300 bid placed by Stinger17", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615253093, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5861679, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I loved my 1st mini bike. It was used, red, had a fake motorcycle-looking gas tank, and dad paid $40.00 for it in 1967. Wish I knew what brand it was. Broke the shear pin on the primary sprocket shaft and walked it home...about 4 miles. Kids didn't complain about such things then. Well, maybe just a bit when it happened. :)", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615253225, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861811, "authorName": "TDR", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tdr/", "bidAmount": 500, "content": "$500 bid placed by TDR", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615255685, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5861862, "authorName": "neverenoughgold", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/neverenoughgold/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mercury clutch by any chance? They were fairly common on mini bikes of this vintage.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615256410, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5861951, "authorName": "LowerCape", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lowercape/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Man, I blew through so many shear pins on those clutches - but I never lost my one and only allen wrench that fit the set screws. Great listing. GLWTA", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615258072, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862029, "authorName": "Pjenney58", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pjenney58/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Where's the string we used to use for the throttle?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615259703, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862090, "authorName": "Lightfoot1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lightfoot1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Finally, something on BAT that I can afford but unfortunately don't need. Nice little mini bike.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615260764, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862387, "authorName": "Portland323i", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/portland323i/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had this exact mini bike in 1968 when I was 6. My buddy and I would fly up and down the streets of a small town on the Oregon coast while my parents had cocktail parties. Gotta love the 60s. Best time I ever had.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615271597, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862477, "authorName": "Mainer99", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mainer99/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@poweredbyford So like that Christmas movie about the boy and his Red Rider bb gun, your mini bike was the greatest birthday gift you had ever received...or would ever receive.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615288718, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862718, "authorName": "ShineOn", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shineon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "So glad I watched to the end - \"Age 8\" - until that piece of data, I was scale-confused -- huge helmet looked to be bigger than the engine and a driver that made the bike appear almost full size.\r\nThank you very much - ShineOn YCD's", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615298931, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862736, "authorName": "NameTaken2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nametaken2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Another former pilot of this model -mine was green. Lusted after a Rupp Roadster, but ended up with a used Lil' Indian -never complained! Good Times.\r\nMine had a chain guard as I recall -was that an option?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615299283, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5862766, "authorName": "BiHi", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bihi/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Reminds me of the Cat 400x I had as a kid. My 4 hp Tecumseh would have blown away any punks on this Lil' Indian. Plus, with my red, white and blue Easy Rider helmet, I was stylin'.\nEndless hours of fun, tho. GLWTA.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615299854, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863254, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good morning, everyone. Gosh, I love reading all of the old stories about minibikes. Four or five kids in my suburban neighborhood had minis in the late 1960s. We lived on a dirt road with a few vacant lots and could just tear all around. The deputy sheriff would come by occasionally to keep the action from getting out of hand.\r\n\r\nThis 'Lil' Indian is an original survivor. It is 54 years old, and I believe that it retains all of its original major components and finishes. Preserved as-is, this bike would be an accurate reference piece for restoration of other 'Lil' Indians. It would also be a great basis for a correct restoration project on its own, or could simply be used and enjoyed in its current condition, as I have done. Wear marks on the bike are uniform from one end to the other. There are no areas of major damage, nor any significant old repairs or modifications. \r\n\r\nThis bike probably runs and rides as well now as when it was much newer. During my 4+ years of ownership the most actual riding it has seen was when my pals and I created the videos for this listing. Beyond that it has been stored indoors as part of my small collection.\r\n\r\nIf you are anywhere near Portland, Ore., come on by for a personal inspection. \r\n\r\n@NameTaken2 I have seen 'Lil' Indians with the chain guard you mentioned. The product brochure posted in the photo gallery does not show that item at all. Perhaps it was for a different model year. The small chrome clutch guard on this bike matches the image in the brochure.\r\n\r\n@ShineOn Yeah, this 'Lil' Indian is a tiny bike. The steel wheels are only 4\" in diameter. The height to the top of the handlebars is 29\", and the seat height is 21\". Overall length is about 40\" and the weight without fuel is a bit more than 60 pounds. Just right for my 8-year-old test pilot! \r\n\r\n@Portland323i I grew up in the Cedar Mill area, west of Portland. We were pretty much free to roam the area on our minis in the 1960s. Where did you live on the coast? I worked in Tillamook and Clatsop counties for many years.\r\n\r\n@neverenoughgold Great question. As kids, my buddys and I all agreed that a Mercury clutch was a hot item. I could find no markings on the face of this bike's clutch. I suppose that it could be a Mercury, or perhaps a Max Torque.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615307051, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863328, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@BiHi...\n\nPerhaps a 'Lil' Indian, but certainly not a Taco 44 with a V580 or V700 West Bend.\n\nHad a friend in the neighborhood that had a Taco 44 V580 and would blow away any mini bike during its time. Of course that was until the Bonaza with Hodaka Ace 100 or Steens F85 Matterhorn came along.\n\nJust sayin...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615307980, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863353, "authorName": "trademark", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/trademark/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is a blast from the past for me. After cutting what seemed like 1,000 acres of grass I had saved enough money to buy a used minibike just like this one in similar condition.\r\n\r\nFirst day I had it I rode it all day long in our yard which was an acre or so & was on cloud nine. Went to sleep that night feeling like the rest of my life was going to feel like Christmas day every day. I wake up, go to head out to ride it, open the garage door & it's not there! Somebody stole it overnight & I was crushed. One day ownership and it was never recovered. Took me until later that summer cutting grass & my Dad helped me out to get a used Rupp Roadster ~ Back to being a happy camper again :)\r\n\r\nI locked the garage door from then on.\r\n\r\nBest of luck seller & bidders", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615308450, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863377, "authorName": "groceg", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/groceg/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Memories\r\nLight the corners of my mind\r\nMisty watercolor memories Of the way we were ......Can it be that it was all so simple then?\r\nOr has time re-written every line?.....Hey ! Maybe I'll write a song.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615308818, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863418, "authorName": "volvoracer9", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/volvoracer9/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Oh man...so cool and such memories.\r\n(Though I wish that kid had really opened this baby up in the parking lot!)\r\nGLWTA!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615309407, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863603, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@volvoracer9 Edited out of the video was me saying loudly, \"Pin it, Grayson!\" But, it was his first time on the bike, and he's only 8 years old and not my boy. I couldn't yell too much. \ud83d\ude04 He did me a great favor by riding it, which I really appreciate. My own kids are all grown up and stand more than 6' tall. They did not pass the audition. \r\n\r\nBTW, thanks to all who have bid so far. @TDR, @Stinger17, @zman, @BAT284, you guys rock!", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615311542, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863642, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In photo #28 you can see a small hole on the top surface of the engine's muffler where it has corroded. I will include with this sale an NOS Briggs & Stratton muffler that is the correct item for this bike. I will also include a pair of NOS Carlisle tires of the correct correct size and spec. The tires are still soft and pliable. They are mounted on new steel wheels that are for a different vehicle or implement and that is how I will provide them. Additional photos will be uploaded to BaT later today.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615312244, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863738, "authorName": "JChuck", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jchuck/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My uncle wanted to ride my Wren mini-bike. He hopped on, drove down the street and around the corner. When he reappeared, he was being followed by our neighbor (captain of the local CHP) in his black and white cruiser. The captain kindly explained that we shouldn't be riding on the street. I had to become much more circumspect. My Dad took the bike to where he worked and had the welders add a jack-shaft to improve the gearing. It would really scoot. Many fond memories.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615313260, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863821, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@trademark \r\n\"After cutting what seemed like 1,000 acres of grass I had saved enough money to buy a used minibike just like this one in similar condition.\"\r\n\r\nAhhhh, mowing grass. Mine was forced labor with a kid-powered push mower...with an allowance incentive of course. And to think, kids riding bikes for miles, delivering newspapers, and then collecting payment. The horror! \r\nI'd like to patent a few million kids who don't akin labor and exercise to waterboarding! :)", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615314503, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863852, "authorName": "Skinnerdawg", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/skinnerdawg/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Yikes! I had one of these, not sure whatever became of it and the only memories of riding it are a blur, like the tree or the house, it was all just a blur before making impact. The video though, wow, thanks for sharing by the sound of the engine made my nose spontaneously begin to bleed. GLWTA, hope it finds a loving home, and to the seller, thanks for taking such good care of it for all these years!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615314851, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863851, "authorName": "volvoracer9", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/volvoracer9/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Tom_S. \"he's only 8 years old and not my boy\"...\" I think you did the right thing by not pushing him too hard!!! lol...", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615314851, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5863946, "authorName": "PoweredbyFord", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/poweredbyford/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Tom_S.\r\nUnless he already has one of his own, I am surprised that your auction/sale didn't end as soon as Grayson got his first taste of motorized 2-wheelin'...LOL", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615316061, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5864574, "authorName": "RidleysRides", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ridleysrides/", "bidAmount": 667, "content": "$667 bid placed by RidleysRides", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615318818, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5864965, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Photos depict the NOS muffler and NOS tires that will accompany sale, plus additional images showing the condition of components and finishes. There is a small rust hole in the original muffler. Frame welds are all shown to be in undamaged original condition.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615321561, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5865002, "authorName": "Deano", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/deano/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Where was that video 50 years ago? The slowness of 3HP would have convinced her that a mini-bike was harmless. Instead, I just took my Schwinn Stingray and catapulted it over endless rows of trash cans, leapt off exterior stairwells, and any dirt mound left behind near a construction site. A missed opportunity having one of these. Damn, just damn. \r\n GLWTA", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615321758, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5865089, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Deano \r\n\" Instead, I just took my Schwinn Stingray\"\r\nOh, but you had the coolest bicycle around! Mine was a new gold '64 or '65 with the five speed shift you didn't want to land on, and a rear slick, banana seat and sissy bar. Endless wheelies. My most coveted bike until my mini bike. :)", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615322277, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5865131, "authorName": "LarryM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/larrym/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hopefully someone will give this a good home before some hyper-sensitive snowflake gets offended by its name and tries to get it \"cancelled\". \r\n\r\nI mounted a 5 HP Briggs on mine; it felt pretty quick. Who needed a clutch? First time out doing about 20 mph the throttle cable stuck as I was approaching an intersection in my neighborhood. I wore big holes through both my Water Buffalos trying to get the thing to stop; luckily no cars were approaching as I passed right through. That was my first lesson in torque.", "likes": 19, "timestamp": 1615322476, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5867314, "authorName": "Chrispc", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/chrispc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "By the time I finally had my Dad talked into buying one these used off a kid in the neighborhood he had vanished from our porch. Thirty-five years later after he was long since passed away I bought a Suzuki VX800. I rode for 5 years before hitting a deer while going 60mph.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615335963, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5867758, "authorName": "ttv566", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ttv566/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "i have one of these that my grandfather gave me when i was 7 years old, now i am 48, still have it, still runs, i grew up on a rural property criss crossed with little roads and i probably put a few thousand miles on it as a child..so cool to one on here!!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615343223, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5868672, "authorName": "Sandman4x4", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sandman4x4/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Back on Christmas of 1969, at 14 years old, I was given a used Fox mini bike by my fantastic Dad, that had bought it off a neighbor, who was a friend and like the older brother I never had being the oldest of 6. But my friend had stripped it all down, painted it what he knew was my favorite colors, put a new seat, cables, disk brake pads (that never worked very well to help stop it)! So all through the rest of the winter I rode on days we had no snow, freezing my ass off trying to not get caught by the cops riding over the roads from trail to trail. At least the old Briggs & Stratton ran great in the cold. But as the hot daze of summer wore on, the engine started using oil, leaving a blue cloud behind me. So I saved up some lawn cutting money an bought what was the hot engine st that time, a 5.5 hp B&S! But I still outgrew it! In the first week of June, after working for my Dad at the family trucking company, washing trucks an learning about heavy wrenches and changing oil, at minimum wage of $1.64/hr!! Dad made me a deal I could not refuse. He let me clean up Foxy, then take the $175 I got for the sale, then had another $150 I had saved up from mowing grass, Dad advanced me the $200 I needed to buy my dream bike! So just 3 months after my 16th birthday I was able to buy a brand new 1971 Hodaka Ace 100 street legal trail bike! They were very sharp looking real motorcycles! With bright red frame, aluminum engine with black steel cylinder with lots of cooling fins, a 5speed trans. nice chrome gas tank with polished aluminum fenders, all for $525! Including a helmet! Even though I worked Friday-Monday in the trucking terminal, getting sweaty an very dirty, that was the best summer of my younger life!!! Plus a life long love of motorcycling! Until about 5 years ago when I was forced to sell my beloved Sportster, due to awful back pain issues!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615384328, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5869335, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good morning, everybody. Please don't hesitate to use the Contact Seller button if you have specific questions regarding this 'Lil' Indian minibike, questions about storage and shipping arrangements or if you would like to schedule an inspection. \r\n@RidleysRides Thanks for your bid!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615393509, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5872240, "authorName": "nofat95", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nofat95/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Loving all the old minibike stories everyone has here. The jostled a few of my foggy brain cells to the good old days.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615411380, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5872283, "authorName": "nofat95", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nofat95/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "BTW, the grips are called Cherry and NOS can be found on eBay for $$$$. Yes, these are original to the bike.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615411624, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5873773, "authorName": "RiffRaff", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/riffraff/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow. Has a front \"monospring\". Amazing it is still in one piece. Along with Tacos, these didn't last very long at the hands of 10 year olds who wanted to be Steve McQueen. But, you could still get a few months out of them. If nothing else...you learn how to weld. Looks fun. GL.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615420059, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5873820, "authorName": "RiffRaff", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/riffraff/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Anyone remember taking off the right side starter shroud/cover thing and disabling the governor? You had to do it or were limited to, I think, 3,600 rpm. Also straight plumbers pipes in place of the \"muffler\". Gotta be able to make more noise.", "likes": 9, "timestamp": 1615420765, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5873861, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@RiffRaff Another mark of originality on this 'Lil' Indian is that the governor assembly and OEM throttle linkage are completely intact. \r\n\r\nThe governor had been removed from the 3HP mini I rode as a child. This unleashed wild amounts of power and throttle response (from an an 11-year-old's view). It scared my parents and left my big sister with a pretty good scrape on her arm. Score!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615421454, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5873896, "authorName": "Rally-x", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rally-x/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Cool to see one of these on here! I had one just like it but mine was orange. When I was a kid, several of the neighborhood kids had dirt bikes. I wanted one but my mom wouldn't allow it. I found a frame on wheels at a garage sale and bought it for $10 with my yard mowing money. My friends and I would push it up the biggest hill and take turns coasting the minibike down the hill, dreaming of the day we could actually ride it up the hill as well as down. \r\n\r\nMy uncle had purchased a new lawnmower and gave me the old one (a front-throw mower with the catch basket in the front and a 3 HP Briggs and Stratton motor). I was still missing quite a few pieces to make it complete. My dad discovered a Minibike shop on Venice Blvd. called Flexo Products that carried everything for minibikes. One evening after work, he came home with the centrifugal clutch, chain, and throttle. We got it running. It was pretty quick for this skinny little 10 year old kid. I had the closest thing I was going to get to having a motorcycle. That little spring suspension didn't help much on bumpy dirt roads! It was a good education that I later applied to working on cars. GLWTA!\r\n\r\nLol @RiffRaff I did exactly that! Straight plumber's pipe in place of the muffler.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1615421976, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5874102, "authorName": "RobReid", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/robreid/", "bidAmount": 1200, "content": "$1,200 bid placed by RobReid", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615425376, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5874827, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"It\u2019s cool but shouldn\u2019t this be $100-200 item on Craigslist or OfferUp?\"\n\nReflecting on the comment above about Craigslist or whatnot... at the current bid, I'd say @BAT is the recognized venue for all things motorized. New and old with four or two wheels -- including 'Lil' Indian minibikes with lawnmower engines.\n\nWe get to relive our past and tell stories about our childhood... \n\nWho else will listen to our stories other than the BAT community?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615437333, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5874880, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@a990dna \r\nAgreed!\r\nBaT is momentarily the international go-to COVID cyber car and bike show, with a chance to snag any item on display. We don't have to squeeze through crowds to see a vehicle, they aren't states away, but only around 2o inches from our faces. We can BS at will, the weather is always great, the bathroom is close, as is the coffee. And the show never ends. I like it here. And when COVID is gone, I'll still stick around. It doesn't get much better. :)", "likes": 12, "timestamp": 1615438690, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5875019, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Dobb...\r\n\r\nSure beats crossword puzzles... \r\n\r\n\ud83d\ude09", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615443039, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5875354, "authorName": "glasshouse", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/glasshouse/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Dobb So well put.\r\n\r\n I just signed up here recently and aside from looking, I'm learning a lot of new info and some stuff I forgot about old cars I have had in the past when details didn't seem so important to me. Now that I'm on the hunt, I'll hopefully be fully prepared to purchase something when the right vehicle comes up.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615468923, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5875715, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@glasshouse That's why I love BaT, too. I have learned so much on this site. \n\nHere's some new info for you: The 'Lil' Indian minibike has a rich history in the Upper Midwest. Beginning in 1959, the minibikes were manufactured by the Michrina Brothers company in Michigan. 1952 Indianapolis 500 winner Troy Ruttman (still the youngest ever 500 winner at age 22) played a role in the early development of the brand. The company exists today as Allied Leisure Corp., still in Michigan, and offers frame kits and parts for 'Lil' Indians, along with other powersports products. One of the founding brothers, Ray Michrina, continues to be involved with the company. \n\nHere is a link to the 'Lil' Indian history page on Allied Leisure Corp.'s website. It is a great story. https://www.alliedleisurecorp.com/littleindianhistory\n\n@RobReid Thanks for your bid!", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1615476544, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5881305, "authorName": "OssoBene", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ossobene/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Have you all gone mad?\nThis is a lawnmower on wheels. No where in any rational world is this worth the current bid, ever with memories included...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615511991, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5881390, "authorName": "Moonglow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/moonglow/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@OssoBene,\r\n\r\nThis is worth exactly what someone else is willing to pay for it. Not what you or I think it's worth, and not a penny more or less.\r\n\r\nHere's to those who don't suffer from (this sort of) insanity, but instead enjoy every minute of it.\r\n\r\nCheers, and GLWTA!", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1615513230, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5882569, "authorName": "linderpat", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/linderpat/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If this was on the east coast, it would be my grandson's minibike by the end of this auction! I love this bike. always wanted one as a kid. I remember pleading with my dad to allow me to get one. He was against it. He finally relented and said I could build one from plans, if I got the motor for it. I ordered up plans from the back of Boy's Life magazine - a tube frame simple mini just like this one. I found an old neighbor living nearby who gave me his old lawnmower, and I got the engine running. I was all set. I think my dad never thought in a million years I'd be able to pull everything together, but I did. He then said no. That was that, and in those days you sure as shyte didn't argue with your dad. \r\n\r\nI am so tempted to buy this bike, regardless of what it takes. I'd ride it around the block a few times just for giggles and smile to the heavens at my dad, and then give it to my grandson. I am now actively looking for one closer to home. \r\n\r\nSo what's it worth? Ha, for something like this, absolutely priceless! \r\n\r\nGLWA.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1615559751, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5882683, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@linderpat Thank you for sharing your story. Seriously, it was really touching. Please bid on this bike. It is a dream that needs to be fulfilled. There is a shipping quote button at the top of the page, but I haven't tried that before. I have used https://haulbikes.com/ to move a couple of motorcycles in the past and they were wonderful for both price and service.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615561317, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5882799, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@OssoBene... \n\nI've seen restored Taco and Bonanza minibikes go as much as $5K... and the 'Lil' Indian brand is close in desirability.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615563130, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5883180, "authorName": "Shadow35", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shadow35/", "bidAmount": 1400, "content": "$1,400 bid placed by Shadow35", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615568457, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 5883347, "authorName": "lorwood", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lorwood/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "We had a lot of Rupp's in the neighborhood. Also a Cat Eliminator and one from Alexanders Department store. Exposed chain and muffler. No helmets or protection, Dad's gas can, now that was a childhood!", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1615570657, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5885176, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good afternoon, everyone. This auction will close on Monday afternoon, March 15. With no reserve, the minibike is guaranteed to sell at that time. I appreciate the bids so far and the sentimental comments. \n\nI have tried to be as accurate as possible in describing the bike's features and condition, but I am not an expert on 'Lil' Indians, or really any on type of vehicle. My research is done on the same internet that is available to everyone. Please be sure to read all of the comments and look closely at the photos and videos, especially if you are going to bid. Post your questions in the comments section or use the Contact Seller button. I will respond promptly. \n\nI have received just one private message, regarding shipping and storage. It is the buyer's responsibility to arrange and pay for shipping. I will be glad to store the bike in my dry garage for 30 days at no cost while shipping arrangements are made. My prior experience with haulbikes.com to ship motorcycles was very positive. There is a link to their website in the comments below. The new muffler and tires that are included with the bike will be sent with the shipper, if they allow. Buyer pays postage if I have to mail them separately. \n\nThanks to @Shadow35 for your bid!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615581764, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5885220, "authorName": "realdealatthewheel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/realdealatthewheel/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is awesome, grew up with many bikes like this in the 1960's, every kid in my neighborhood had one except me I had a go kart. I love Bring a trailer especially the prices. Bring a trailer nostalgia + $1,500 + or found at garage sale $75,00 LOL!!!!!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615581836, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5886538, "authorName": "rdot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rdot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "uShip.com has been a successful way to ship things for me up and down the west coast.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615588445, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5887578, "authorName": "dcitron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dcitron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A true barn find. Do you know how many miles are on it? When was the head gasket last replaced?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615598811, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5887583, "authorName": "dcitron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dcitron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Also I am not sure this vehicle is PC these days and perhaps be renamed other than little indian?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615598868, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5887813, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@dcitron Thanks for asking. There is no way to determine the mileage. The bike has no odometer. The cylinder head gasket has not been replaced during my ownership. I don't know the prior service history.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615602928, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5888087, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The great thing about these Briggs & Stratton engines is the enormous parts availability, and even a novice can rebuild them for little cost if ever required. I rebuilt one for a high school shop project.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615610193, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5888475, "authorName": "bondgraham", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bondgraham/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Every one of us who pined after this as a kid, pine once more.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1615642045, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5889755, "authorName": "Jim_P.", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_p.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In this age of super-high-tech everything, this simple machine brings back terrific memories of what us kids lusted for back then.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615663119, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5890716, "authorName": "Klm50", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/klm50/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I was a Go- Kart kid, built my own at 8.....lived near where these were made in Allen Park Michigan....Livonia just up the road, Woodward ave, Detroit Dragway.....those were some good days!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615687037, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5890790, "authorName": "Bigpaw", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bigpaw/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had one of these as a kid. They were actually sold at Kmart as their brand. It was my first venture with a spark plug.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615692662, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891408, "authorName": "Moonglow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/moonglow/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "When I was about 10 (1965-ish), I wanted a mini-bike more than just about anything.\r\n\r\nMy Mom wouldn't hear of it. Her reasoning was that mini-bikes were to motorcycles as pot was to heroine. So I went back to playing bicycle polo (using crochet mallets & balls) on my chopper style bicycle. Way more dangerous then riding a mini-bike ever would have been.\r\n\r\nFlash forward 6 years, and I'm riding my brothers new Honda CB100 almost every day, while he was away at college.\r\n\r\nGo figure...\r\n\r\nStill have a real soft spot for mini-bikes.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615730734, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891442, "authorName": "johnbennett103", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnbennett103/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Also wanted a mini-bike growing up. I see kids now riding the electric versions. I would love to get this a show what old school looks like. GLWS", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615731380, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891467, "authorName": "Moonglow", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/moonglow/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Damn wrong word check isn't working again. \r\n\r\nI meant croquet, not crochet. A crochet mallet would be pretty limp. :)", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615731707, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891484, "authorName": "cmarston", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cmarston/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'll sum up half of the BAT crowd.....Had one, wanted one or got a Honda 50", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1615731960, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891758, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@cmarston That is so true. While I was still riding a 'Lil' Indian at age 11 or 12, the neighbor kid moved up to a Honda 50. The arms race was on. I quickly got a Honda S90, then he brought home a Yamaha 80cc Trailmaster. I countered with a 125cc Yamaha AT1C and he slapped back with an AT1 MX that his dad actually let him race. My dad was opposed to me racing (that came much later), but we had great times on those bikes. I tried to add an old photo of me with my mini and he with the Honda. Not sure if it uploaded properly.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615738072, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5891939, "authorName": "DesertDog", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/desertdog/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Also had one as a kid in the '60s. $80 brand new from J.C. Penny's. But mine has no 'suspension'. :)", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1615741156, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5892913, "authorName": "jim_rosenthal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jim_rosenthal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Insert IMS bearing question here....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615761646, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5893328, "authorName": "drjaybdmd", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/drjaybdmd/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@cmarston. Exactly! Between myself and my brother: Lil Indian- Honda Mini Trail-Powell Challenger-Yamaha Mini Enduro-Honda CT70-Honda SL100-Honda SL350-Harley Sportster.\r\nDad had a Honda 50 Cub (not called a Cub in 1965)- Honda CB100\r\nNow have a perfectly restored Powell Challenger, Excellent Rupp Roadster 2, Mint Yamaha Mini Enduro, Honda Z50, Hondal SL70 and mini bike built from a kit similar to the lil Indian.\r\nSome may come up here on BAT in the future!...", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615771617, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5893629, "authorName": "STLYRT", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/stlyrt/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This one brings back memories. I was just about to turn 12 in April of 1967 and wanted a mini-bike badly. A couple of seasons of cutting grass; hanging on to the mower\u2019s handlebars, and dodging dog turd laced clippings thrown up by self-propelled Hawn-Eclipse and Cooper Clipper reel-type lawn mowers had piqued my interest in what made the machines go. Deep down inside, I longed for a more exhilarating internal combustion induced experience. \r\nMy Dad said our family\u2019s budget was too tight to spring for a new, +/-$100., mini-bike. He sensed my dejection and sought a more cost-effective solution. \r\nSure enough, Dad found a derelict 125 cc Lambretta motor scooter, and brought it home for my birthday. It was missing a few vital parts, but nonetheless a steal at $25.00! - Seating for two, 4 forward gears, wet clutch, headlight, horn, speedometer, and even a glove box! - But I\u2019d have to get it running if I was going to ride it. - Among other things, it needed a rear shock, a shift cable (handlebar twist-shift), a muffler, and a throttle cable. My buddy Gary helped me get the 200+ lb. beast going. A rear shock for a Chrysler 300 was sourced at the local Western Auto (It may have been a little stiff, but it fit perfectly). We decided a muffler really wasn\u2019t absolutely necessary. Nor were the missing cables, if a little ingenuity was employed. \r\nThe scooter\u2019s side covers were stripped to save weight, which left the carburetor exposed just forward of the passenger\u2019s left shin. A short piece of twine was tied to the throttle linkage, with a loop in the other end to go round the passenger\u2019s left middle finger. - This way, the \u2018driver\u2019 (me) would steer, brake, and upshift (only, no downshift cable), and the passenger (Gary) worked the gas. - 1st gear was slow and powerful, 2nd made the wobbles go away, 3rd was good for all around cruising, and 4th too tall to be of much use to us, because we\u2019d eventually have to slow down for turns and bog the engine to a bucking stop. \r\nWe had a blast with it. Dad found another $35.00 \u2018basket-case\u2019 for the rest of the missing parts. - And so, this adolescent\u2019s penchant for dirt-bikes and mechanics was kindled\u2026", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615779618, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5893887, "authorName": "Raven888", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/raven888/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@STLYRT My story is nearly the same. 1971 and 11 years old. I started with a mini bike like this one ($35) but with a steel plate on a lever which rubbed on the back tire as the brake. I put a string on the governor to over-rev the engine and get 25 mph out of it. The connecting rod came through the side of the block and I repaired it with fiberglass. When I was 13 I moved up to a 1963? Vespa 180 SS ($50) bought from my cousin. What a beast. It did 60 mph on the dirt roads and I lived to talk about it. Moved on to a TM125, a PE250, a YZ250 and now I'm riding a Moto Guzzi Norge GT8V 1200.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615807883, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894097, "authorName": "RandallW", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/randallw/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Great job doing the test drive Grayson!!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1615815447, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894114, "authorName": "PaulieWalnuts", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pauliewalnuts/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Okay...y\u2019all don\u2019t all go \u201cSafety Sheriff\u201d on me but That\u2019s the first time I\u2019ve seen ANYONE a helmet on one of these! And, yeah, I\u2019m old, LOL. What a great little slice of memory heaven!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615815708, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894219, "authorName": "MCShack", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mcshack/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I used to have a little B&S bike like this in the late 60s and my buddy had an old Cushman, handed down from his older brother, never thought we could have more fun than we did on those things.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615817564, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894258, "authorName": "a990dna", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/a990dna/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Tom_S. ...\r\n\r\nThat's funny... the family down the street that had the 'Lil' Indian mini bike just like this, also had a Yamaha 80cc Trailmaster. I bought the Yamaha 80 Trailmaster from them.. it was my first motorcycle.\r\n\r\nThen I went to Bultaco, Suzuki and Maico in that order.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1615818281, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894277, "authorName": "Tom_S. (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_s.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi, everyone. This 'Lil\" Indian will find a new home today. Please read all of the comments and look at the photos and videos before you bid. I will be following this all day to respond quickly to any questions. You may not have noticed that this sale will include separately a NOS Briggs and Stratton muffler for the engine and two NOS Carlisle tires. \n\nGrayson thanks everyone for your kind comments about his performance in the riding vid. \n\nThere are so many comments about your youthful minibike memories. I love them all. \n\n@rdot Another reason why I recommend haulbikes.com so strongly is that they don't require any prep before they ship a bike. No crate or pallet is needed, and you don't have to drain any fluids. \n\nHere are two more of my minibike memories and then I'm done. I will try to add two more photos. One pic shows me sitting on the bumper of my pal's van, with my first 'Lil\" Indian and my dog, in 1967 or 1968. Buddy's Honda 50 is in the back of the truck. The other photo shows the small size of the bike with my uncle aboard in the summer of 1969, right after our street was paved. Grownups had been OK with the neighborhood kids riding around when it was a dirt road, but once the pavement was laid we were banished and had to push our bikes to the vacant lot nearby.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1615818764, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5894575, "authorName": "DeanBean", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/deanbean/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Not far from where this resides, I had a 5HP B&S version with VW chrome tailpipe extension for a muffler. Chrome WWII German Helmet for safety. Got a ride home with it in the trunk, from a very nice State Trooper, who clocked me doing 45 in a 25. \"Dang! I didn't know these things could go that fast!\". Told my Dad to keep me off the street with it. A Honda SL100 followed shortly after. Good times!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1615823344, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5896381, "authorName": "Tammycleo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tammycleo/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ok, here\u2019s my mini bike story: our cousins lived on 5 acres of orange groves. At our disposal to ride (as 10 year old kids), we had a choice of a riding lawnmower, a stubborn pony, or a mini bike. We raced the three \u201cvehicles\u201d, with the horse always losing, the lawnmower slow but steady, and the mini bike (always the first choice of rides) burning our legs as we crashed through the ups and downs of the groves. Good times, good times. Helmets? Never. GLWTA! Wish I could buy it for my grandkids but their parents would think I\u2019d REALLY lost my marbles.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1615836984, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 5896416, "authorName": "RidleysRides", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ridleysrides/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Cool Mini Bike -- STEP UP BOYS &