Hamsters USA
Hamsters USA: The Heart and Soul of Custom Motorcycling
If you were to look for the spirit of custom motorcycling, it would undoubtedly be found in the members of Hamsters USA. This tight-knit group is united by their passion for building custom bikes and fostering lifelong friendships among like-minded riders. Since its founding in Daytona Beach in 1978, Hamsters USA has become a worldwide organization, revered for both its artistry in bike building and its philanthropic impact.
The group’s founding members — Steve Allington, Barry Cooney, Ed Kerr, Jimmy Leahy, Arlen Ness, Dave Perewitz, Susie Perewitz, and Donnie Smith — are legends in the custom motorcycle world. They established Hamsters USA as a place where innovation, craftsmanship, and camaraderie thrive. Over the years, these individuals, along with countless other members, have made Hamsters USA a global force in the world of custom bikes.
Every year, Hamsters USA members make the journey to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally™, a highlight of the motorcycling calendar, where they gather to showcase their latest custom builds, celebrate their passion, and strengthen bonds. But this annual event is about more than just bikes and fun; it’s also about giving back. Many individual Hamsters have been inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame for their significant contributions to the motorcycling world. In 2023, however, the entire organization was inducted into the Sturgis Hall of Fame as a collective, a recognition of the immense charitable work the Hamsters have done for the Black Hills community.
One of the Hamsters USA’s most significant charitable efforts has been their long-standing support of LifeScape Children’s Services in Rapid City, South Dakota. LifeScape provides crucial support to children with special needs, and for the past 13 years, Hamsters USA has dedicated their annual Sturgis gathering to raising funds for this vital cause. In 2018, they surpassed the $2.7 million mark in total donations raised for LifeScape, an incredible testament to the generosity of the group.
While Hamsters USA is known for their cutting-edge custom bike designs, it’s their philanthropic spirit that has solidified their place in the heart of the motorcycling community. Through their dedication to helping those in need, particularly children with challenges, the Hamsters have shown that their commitment goes far beyond the garage.
As they continue to ride, build, and give, Hamsters USA remains a symbol of everything that’s great about the custom motorcycling world — creativity, camaraderie, and a deep sense of giving back to the communities that support them.