Fred Fox

Fred Fox: The Man Behind the World’s Largest Motorcycle Aftermarket Distributor

Fred Fox’s passion for motorcycles and racing began when he was just 13 years old. Growing up riding and racing motorcycles, snowmobiles, and even go-carts, Fox’s early years were spent wrenching on bikes and honing his skills both on the track and in the garage. These formative experiences would eventually fuel a lifelong career in the motorcycle industry, one that would change the landscape of aftermarket parts distribution worldwide.

After earning a five-year engineering degree in just four years, Fred Fox set his sights on becoming a motorcycle distributor. In 1967, in the small town of Edgerton, Wisconsin, he launched his business, Parts Unlimited, out of his garage. With his dedication, hard work, and long hours, Fox steadily grew the company. Initially serving motorcycle and snowmobile dealers across Wisconsin, Parts Unlimited rapidly expanded its reach, soon becoming a national name in the powersports industry.

The turning point for the business came in 1988 when Fred Fox acquired Drag Specialties, a key player in the motorcycle aftermarket. This acquisition helped solidify Fox’s vision of creating a comprehensive aftermarket distributor for motorcycle parts and accessories. Today, under the umbrella of LeMans Corporation, Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties have become global leaders, serving dealers across the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin, LeMans Corporation is now the world’s largest motorcycle aftermarket distributor, with a wide-reaching network and an impressive lineup of brands. Among their proprietary offerings are Drag Specialties, Thor Motocross, Moose Off-Road, Icon, and Z1R helmets and apparel. These in-house brands are complemented by hundreds of other leading names in the powersports industry, all cataloged in Drag Specialties’ famous FatBook, as well as various Parts Unlimited and Parts Europe catalogs.

Beyond his remarkable business success, Fred Fox has also become a notable collector of Americana, especially when it comes to antique motorcycles. His personal collection includes over 60 rare and unique motorcycles, featuring classic Harleys, Indians, and other vintage motor vehicles. His collection stands as a testament to his enduring love for the history and heritage of motorcycles, further cementing his legacy within the motorcycling world.

From wrenching on bikes as a teenager to building the world’s largest motorcycle aftermarket distributor, Fred Fox has spent a lifetime dedicated to the motorcycling community. His vision, hard work, and passion continue to inspire dealers and riders alike, leaving an indelible mark on the industry for generations to come.