James Clark

James Clark: The Godfather of Gaskets in the Motorcycle World
James Clark’s journey from a passionate motorcycle enthusiast to the esteemed founder of James Gaskets, Inc. is a testament to innovation, dedication, and integrity in the motorcycle industry. His lifelong love for riding and relentless pursuit of excellence transformed the world of motorcycle sealing technology, making a lasting impact on riders and mechanics alike.

A Passion Ignited in a Garage
James's love for motorcycles ignited in his parents' garage, where he began tinkering with his own and friends’ bikes at a young age. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for his future career, leading him to work briefly at a Harley-Davidson dealership. Driven by a desire to make a mark in the motorcycle community, James opened his own repair shop, Chino’s, in Fremont, California.

The Birth of an Idea
Dissatisfied with the gaskets available on the market, James started to cultivate his own ideas for improved sealing technology. In 1977, he founded the James Motorcycle Parts Company, focusing on quality and fit. His dedication to excellence quickly earned him a reputation for producing superior gaskets and seals, as he began supplying complete rebuild kits for engine and transmission overhauls across various Harley-Davidson models. James was credited with providing much-needed sealing solutions for the big American V-Twin, a critical advancement for enthusiasts and mechanics alike.

Growth and Expansion
By 1980, the demand for James's products prompted a move to a larger facility to accommodate his growing business. The following year, James Gaskets, Inc. was officially born. Continuing to expand the product line, James introduced new gaskets and seals while making improvements to existing designs. His commitment to innovation and quality led James Gaskets to become the industry leader, known for producing the most complete line of Harley-Davidson aftermarket gaskets and seals.James's advanced sealing technology eventually extended to vintage Indian motors, showcasing his versatility and keen understanding of the market's needs.

A Respected Industry Figure
As the years passed, James Clark became widely regarded as “the Godfather of gaskets.” His intelligence and integrity earned him respect among industry icons such as Ron Paugh, Mike “Kiwi” Tomas, Alan Sputhe, Fred Fox, Denis Manning, and Arlen Ness. James's impact on the industry went beyond products; he sponsored numerous motorcycle race teams, including Mancuso Harley-Davidson, Hoban Brothers Racing, and Pete Hill Motorcycles.He was also a long-time supporter of the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, contributing educational materials and products to foster the next generation of mechanics.

A Legacy in Dayton, Nevada
In 1998, James Gaskets relocated to a state-of-the-art 46,000-square-foot facility in Dayton, Nevada. This expansion allowed for more efficient machinery, improved storage for raw materials, and optimized product flow through production and shipping. The company had come a long way from its humble garage beginnings to a world-renowned brand recognized for its quality products.With distributors across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia, James Gaskets has established itself as a trusted name in the motorcycle industry. James's technical contributions and foresight into industry needs are admired, but it is his integrity and intelligence that truly set him apart.

A Sad Farewell
James Clark passed away on September 7, 2007, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate within the motorcycle community. Industry insiders, company employees, and friends universally regard him as a figure of respect and admiration. James's impact on motorcycle sealing technology and his unwavering dedication to quality and integrity ensure that his spirit lives on in every gasket and seal bearing his name. His story is a powerful reminder of how passion, innovation, and integrity can change an industry and inspire generations of motorcycle enthusiasts.