Mike "Kiwi" Tomas
Kiwi Mike Tomas: Reviving a Legend in Motorcycling
In the picturesque landscape of New Zealand's North Island, a young boy named Michael Tomas grew up in the small town of Wellsford, where his passion for motorcycles began. With dreams as big as the open road, Mike’s journey into the world of motorcycling started with a modest Honda CB100 at the age of 16. While his parents may not have approved of a larger bike, Mike was determined to carve his own path, convincing them that he needed affordable transportation for his apprenticeship in automotive machining.
A Passion Ignited
The turning point for Mike came when he laid eyes on a military Indian 741. Captivated by its history and craftsmanship, he purchased it, despite it not running. With determination and a knack for mechanics, Mike repaired the vintage bike, and shortly after, he added a 1924 Chief to his collection. This initial passion for classic motorcycles would lay the groundwork for an incredible journey in the industry.
In 1982, seeking new adventures, Mike traveled to Canada, where he once again found himself buying a motorcycle—a Honda this time. His travels eventually led him to California, where he settled down and married Carolyn in 1988.
The Birth of Kiwi Indian Motorcycle Company
Fueled by his love for classic Indian motorcycles, Mike established the Kiwi Indian Motorcycle Company in Riverside, California, in the same year. His mission was clear: to fulfill the demand for high-quality, American-made products catering to the classic Indian market. The response was overwhelming, prompting Mike to expand his initial facility to a 2,400-square-foot space just two years later. The success didn’t stop there; within ten years, Kiwi Indian outgrew that space and moved to its current impressive 11,000-square-foot facility.
Kiwi Indian has evolved from a parts supplier to a manufacturer of brand new retro-styled motorcycles, flathead engines, frames, forks, and tanks, with many parts being replicas of the originals, albeit with modern enhancements. The company now boasts over 2,500 parts sold worldwide, serving motorcycle owners, builders, and even racing teams. In addition to its extensive parts catalog, Kiwi Indian also produces four complete motorcycle models, each paying homage to the iconic Indian motorcycles of yesteryear.
Racing Spirit and Community Support
Amid managing his thriving business and family life, Mike has also dedicated time to support racers and race teams. He has actively competed in endurance races, showcasing the classic Indian's viability in today's fast-paced motorcycle world. His son Ross has followed in his footsteps, making headlines in 2009 as the youngest racer at the Bonneville land speed record trials.
Beyond racing, Mike has made significant contributions to his community. He has organized fundraising events for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and actively supports the Hispanic motorcycling community in Riverside, proving himself to be a true ambassador for the Indian brand and the sport of motorcycling.
Recognitions and Achievements
Mike Tomas’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards both within and outside the motorcycle industry, showcasing his custom motorcycles at prestigious exhibits and competing in high-end judged competitions, often securing first-place victories. He has built bikes for celebrities and provided his expertise for film productions, including the making of The World’s Fastest Indian. His company and its contributions have been featured in various motorcycle industry publications, cementing his status as a significant figure in the motorcycling community.
Legacy of Passion and Excellence
When you ask anyone in the motorcycle industry about Indian motorcycles, the name “Kiwi Mike Tomas” is sure to come up. His unwavering passion for classic Indian motorcycles, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement, has not only revived the legacy of a legendary brand but also inspired countless riders and enthusiasts around the world. As Kiwi Indian Motorcycle Company continues to thrive, Mike’s commitment to craftsmanship and the spirit of motorcycling ensures that the legacy of the Indian brand will live on for generations to come.