Dale Walksler

Dale Walksler: A Journey Through Time on Two Wheels

At just 15 years old, Dale Walksler took his first ride into a world of adventure when he purchased his first motorcycle. Little did he know, this initial foray would spark a lifelong passion that would not only lead to an extensive collection of motorcycles but also a museum that celebrates the rich history of American motorcycling.

Early Years and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Dale's journey began in the early 1970s when he made a bold move that would shape his future. He purchased the contents of an old Harley-Davidson dealership in Macomb, Illinois, and relocated the treasures to his hometown of Glen Ellyn. This marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey in the motorcycle industry. A few years later, at the young age of 21, he acquired an existing dealership in Mount Vernon, Illinois, earning the title of the youngest startup dealer in the country.

For the next 25 years, Walksler’s dealership thrived, maintaining a small business atmosphere while achieving impressive sales and marketing performance. His dedication to customer service and community engagement laid the foundation for what would become a hallmark of his career.

The Birth of a Museum

In 1988, Dale's interests began to shift as he purchased a collection of vintage cars from a friend. With this acquisition, he constructed a building to house his growing collection, officially opening “Dale’s Classic Cars.” However, as the 1990s rolled in, Dale’s true passion for vintage motorcycles took center stage. Before long, the museum began to pivot from classic cars to rare and extraordinary pieces of American motorcycle history.

Dale’s collection quickly expanded, showcasing over 200 vintage motorcycles. Each piece represented not just a mode of transportation but a chapter in the storied history of American motorcycling. In 1999, with a desire to fully immerse himself in his passion, Dale made the life-changing decision to sell his dealership and relocate to Maggie Valley, North Carolina, where he reopened his museum under a new name: Wheels Through Time.

Wheels Through Time: A Legacy of Passion

Since its opening in 2002, Wheels Through Time has become a beloved destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike, welcoming over 500,000 visitors. The museum boasts what experts consider to be one of the finest collections of rare American motorcycles, dating from 1903 to the present. Remarkably, around 95% of the 275+ motorcycles and cars in the collection are in running and riding condition, allowing visitors to witness the craftsmanship and engineering that defined a generation.

Though the museum is no longer open for daily operations, it hosts special events and limited visitation days throughout the year, allowing fans to connect with the past and celebrate the spirit of motorcycling.

A Family Legacy

Dale’s dedication to preserving the history of American motorcycles is not only a personal passion but also a family affair. He now shares the responsibility of Wheels Through Time with his son, Matt, ensuring that the torch of this legacy is passed on to the next generation. Together, they continue to foster a love for motorcycles and educate visitors about the rich heritage of the sport.

A Lasting Impact

Dale Walksler’s journey from a young motorcycle enthusiast to a renowned dealer and museum curator exemplifies the power of passion and dedication. Through Wheels Through Time, he has not only preserved the history of American motorcycling but has also inspired countless individuals to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of vintage bikes.

As Dale looks ahead, his commitment to the motorcycling community and the legacy of Wheels Through Time will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of motorcycle enthusiasts for generations to come.