Early in October, we told you about Biker’s Warehouse’s 20th anniversary celebration, which was set to take place in November. We went along to join the festivities—and what a jol it was!
The multi-franchise operation we know today as Biker’s Warehouse represents Honda, Kawasaki, SYM, KAYO, Lifan, QJ Motor, Suzuki, KTM and Husqvarna. It began life in 2006 as Puzey Motor Corporation. Mike, whose background as a pilot gives him strong roots in aviation, started importing pit bikes from China, built to his specifications. The pit bikes soon proved themselves, thanks in part to Mike’s input. Big Boy stand-up scooters also found an enthusiastic following, and both product lines were sold through a countrywide dealer network.
During time spent in the States in the early 2000s, Mike and his wife Kerry—whom Mike describes as “the backbone of our business”—saw firsthand the benefits of multi-franchise dealerships. So, in time, Biker’s Warehouse was born and grew into the highly impressive facility we know today.
The celebration drew a who’s who of South African motorcycling, with representatives from all the brands Biker’s Warehouse represents, as well as customers who have become friends. Tables and chairs were laid out beneath a huge marquee, with food trucks and drink facilities around the perimeter. The stage was set for a seriously good time.
Mike kicked things off with a slideshow showcasing the early days of pit-bike racing at Syringa Spa and other off-road venues. There’s an old question about when motorcycle racing began, with the obvious retort: “When the second bike was built.” And so it was with Biker’s Warehouse—a story of passion for motorcycles, expressed through racing and off-road adventures.
Mike emphasised that the business’s success has been built on the shoulders of a nucleus of special people, many of whom have been there since the beginning, with Kerry at the top of the list. Number-crunching is vital to any successful operation, and I suspect Kerry provides a subtle check and balance for Mike. We guys sometimes just want to get on with building our dreams without considering practical questions, such as how to fund our occasionally harebrained schemes. Kerry is the perfect foil for mechanically minded Mike.
Mike’s dad has always supported his endeavours. Having lived in Rhodesia “back in the day”, his advice to Mike was typical of those who grew up in that remarkable land: “If you want it, just make it.” Sage advice indeed!
While recognising the part all his staff have played in building the business, Mike gave special mention to several people. Well-known off-road racer Wayne Farmer played a pivotal role in establishing a first-class accessories department. Dudu, who started as the tea girl, now helps Kerry with operational finance. Israel has become the go-to parts guy. Then there’s Joseph, whom Mike met on the side of the road. Seeing something in him, Mike offered him a job. Today, Joseph is the resident KTM technician.
Jackie Ludick is another member of the team whose contribution deserves recognition. Over the years, she has raised funds for cancer awareness through Cancervive and through her own fundraising efforts, often alongside Biker’s Warehouse.
Thomas, the driver, has literally driven millions of kilometres in the course of his duties, meticulously maintaining the bakkies he drives. Mike also paid tribute to the motorcycle media for helping establish the business and “getting the story out there”. Mark Henderson (Henderson Racing Products), too, was instrumental in building the accessories side of the business.
There are many more people behind the business whose names could be mentioned; each has helped make Biker’s Warehouse what it is today.
Then it was over to Matt “Hollywood” Smith, who, together with Mike and celebrity guests—including Dakar and World Rally hero and factory rider Ross Branch—started the prize-giving, with more than R600,000 worth of prizes up for grabs. The two-wheeler prizes included a Honda 750 Transalp, QJ SRT 450 RX and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250, as well as a TVS Ntorq scooter and a KTM STACYC 12e electric balance bike for kids. The prize pool also included helmets from Scorpion, Arai, HJC, Shark and LS2; an SGI Tyro helmet and gloves; Alpinestars jackets and pants; a Fly kit hamper; a Leatt neck brace and off-road kit; tyre combos from Bridgestone, Michelin and Pirelli; a Quicksure insurance package; service-kit vouchers for HiFlo, DID, SBS, Motobatt and JT Sprocket; hampers from Motul, Motorex and Bel-Ray; a Bandit Decal voucher; Golden Shield and Biker’s Warehouse gift vouchers; and Oxford goodie bags.
Unfortunately, I had to get back to Pretoria before the prize-giving ended, so I didn’t see the lucky recipients collect their prizes. The atmosphere was electric, and I’m sure the festivities carried on late into the night.
On the ride home, I reflected on how vital dealers like Biker’s Warehouse are to South Africa’s motorcycle industry. While others have struggled, the team’s vision, passion and commitment have helped them reach heights that many might not even consider possible. It brings to mind the old saying: “It is your attitude, together with your aptitude, that determines your altitude.”
Mike and Kerry, may you and the Biker’s Warehouse team continue to ascend and serve South Africa’s biking fraternity for many years to come. Bring on the next 20 years!
Find Biker’s Warehouse on the ZA Bikers Dealer Network for contact details, directions and motorcycles for sale.
