The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame announced its list of inductees for 2012 that represent the individuals who have had a positive, long-term impact on motorcycling south of the border. The six inductees for 2012 are Dave Barr, Buzz Kanter, Brian and Laura Klock, Ed Kretz, Jr., Steve Piehl, and Ron Stratman.
Despite having lost both legs in a landmine explosion, Dave Barr became an avid motorcyclist and consequently an inspiration for other physically challenged riders. His accomplishments include riding around the world, most notably through Siberia during winter. Barr is also an author, a documentary producer, the holder of two Guinness World Records and a founder of the Patriot Express, which assists military servicemen during their hospitalization from unexpected injury or illness.
Buzz Kanter is best known in his role as publisher of American Iron Magazine and owner of TAM Communications, which publishes Motorcycle Bagger, American Iron Garage and RoadBike.
Brian and Laura Klock, owners of Klock Werks Kustom Cycles in Mitchell, South Dakota, have built a reputation based on their company’s success. Builders of the only bagger to compete and win a Discovery Channel Biker Build-Off, Laura Klock also set a National Land Speed Record in 2006 at the Legendary Bonneville Salt Flats. Brian Klock followed this accomplishment by also setting a record in 2011 during the sixth year of their team’s efforts at the Salt Flats.
Recognised for his competitiveness in every discipline of motorcycle racing, Ed Kretz Jr. has competed in road racing, TT racing, dirt track and short track racing. Kretz Jr. was an AMA Grand National Champion in the ‘50s and ‘60s and continued to be actively involved in motorcycling after his retirement from racing.
Steve Piehl is the recipient of the J.C. Pappy Hoel Outstanding Achievement Award for his role in the creation of the largest rider’s group in the world, the Harley Owners Group (HOG). Launched in January 1983, HOG has grown in just under 30 years to a membership of over 900,000 members. Piehl was HOG’s first manager and set the parameters for HOG’s membership, local chapters and events.
A racer and race sponsor for many years, Ron Stratman founded Sturgis Harley-Davidson and went on to become the artist responsible for the most iconic Sturgis imagery ever created. Known to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally regulars as “The Buffalo Man”, Stratman got his nickname by covering a motorcycle with a full buffalo hide and being the first rider of a Buffalo Bike down Sturgis’ Main Street.
This year’s annual Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast will be held on August 8th at The Lodge at Deadwood, in Deadwood, South Dakota. Tickets for the event can be purchased through the Museum (605-347-2001) through their website at sturgismuseum.com.
