Keith Terry
Keith Terry: From the Mound to the Motorcycle Shop – A Life Built on Passion
In the heart of California, a young boy with a passion for speed and competition found himself torn between two worlds: the roar of motorcycle engines and the crack of a baseball bat. Keith Terry’s journey through life has been anything but ordinary, spanning the thrilling realms of professional baseball and custom motorcycle building, all driven by his relentless passion for all things that move.
A Pitcher’s Dream
In 1967, fresh out of high school, Keith took a bold step towards his dream by signing a contract as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox Organization. Over the next five years, he honed his skills on various minor league teams, working tirelessly to reach the major leagues. His dedication and talent made him a promising player, but fate had other plans. In 1972, a shoulder injury abruptly cut short his baseball career, leaving him at a crossroads.
Turning to Automobiles
With his baseball dreams dashed, Keith turned to another of his passions: automobiles. He launched his first company, Terry Distributors, specializing in the remanufacturing of import carburetors. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he navigated the automotive industry, building a reputation for quality and expertise.
In 1986, Keith’s hard work paid off when he sold his company to Fiat USA. He continued to serve as president and a member of the board of directors for Magneti Marelli for five years. However, the spark of entrepreneurship burned bright within him. After his contract expired, Keith launched a consulting company while waiting for his non-compete clause to end. It was during this transitional period that he built his first custom motorcycle with his older brother, Kent, igniting a passion that would redefine his career.
The Birth of Terry Components
Inspired by the motorcycle culture, Keith took a leap of faith in 1996 and founded Terry Components, specializing in aftermarket high-torque starter motors, super flexible battery cables, and a groundbreaking “Closed Loop” fuel management system. His innovations quickly made waves in the industry, establishing him as a respected name among motorcycle enthusiasts.
In 2004, seeking new opportunities, Keith relocated his company to Spearfish, South Dakota. There, he further expanded his horizons by co-founding BAGGSTER LLC, which manufactures urethane conversion kits for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, catering to the growing demand for customization in the biking community.
Giving Back to the Community
Keith's dedication to motorcycles extends beyond business. In 2012, he was invited by Rod Woodruff of the Buffalo Chip Campground to lead the “Legend Ride Student Build Challenge.” This initiative involves students at Sturgis Brown High School building a custom motorcycle, which is then auctioned off each year during the Sturgis Rally in Deadwood. For Keith, this role has been immensely rewarding, allowing him to share his passion and expertise with the next generation of motorcycle enthusiasts. “I will continue as long as they will have me,” he says, emphasizing his commitment to nurturing young talent.
A Life of Passion and Purpose
Keith Terry's life story is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions, whether on the baseball field or in the motorcycle shop. From a promising baseball career to a thriving venture in the motorcycle industry, Keith has proven that resilience and determination can turn setbacks into opportunities.
As he continues to inspire others through the Legend Ride and his innovative products, Keith remains a vibrant figure in the motorcycle community, embodying the spirit of adventure and the joy of building something truly unique. Whether it’s revving engines or guiding young builders, Keith’s journey is a celebration of passion, purpose, and the thrill of the ride.