Marilyn Stemp

Marilyn Stemp: A Legacy of Motorcycle Media and Community

In 1989, Marilyn Stemp and her late husband Dennis embarked on a journey that would forever impact the world of motorcycle journalism. Together, they launched IronWorks Magazine, a publication born out of their combined talents — Marilyn’s journalistic expertise and organizational skills paired with Dennis’s artistic creativity and passion for motorcycles. With their background in the printing industry and graphic arts, they aimed to create a publication that not only told the stories of motorcycling but also elevated the community and culture around it. IronWorks quickly became known for its quality content and its ability to present motorcycling in a positive, inspiring light.

For 25 years, IronWorks was a staple in the motorcycle community, offering a platform that resonated with both new riders and seasoned enthusiasts. The magazine’s final issue was published in March 2014, marking the end of an era. But Marilyn was far from finished. In the same year, she launched Iron Trader News, a new publication that carried forward the legacy of IronWorks.

Building on the foundation of fairness, integrity, and inclusivity, Iron Trader News quickly established itself as a trusted source for motorcycle news, reviews, and features. With its collaborative approach, Marilyn created a platform that not only informed but also entertained, engaging the community with stories that celebrated the culture, innovations, and traditions of motorcycling.

Beyond her work with Iron Trader News, Marilyn Stemp has continued to be a force in the motorcycling world. She works with various notable businesses, events, and charitable organizations, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, Bikernet, and The Buffalo Chip. Her commitment to the industry has gone beyond journalism, as she has become a key figure in helping preserve the history and culture of motorcycling while also supporting its future.

Marilyn often reflects on the profound connections she’s made through her work, saying, “It’s a splendid gift to work in an industry that’s endlessly innovative while holding tight to its traditions. Better yet, motorcycling is populated by such authentic people. Over time, many of them have become for me not simply business associates or acquaintances, but essential friends and family.” For Marilyn, the motorcycling community has become not just a passion or a career, but a chosen family — one that has given her purpose and fulfillment for decades.

As she continues to build on the legacy she and Dennis started, Marilyn remains a tireless advocate for motorcycling culture and the people who make it so special. Whether through her publications or her involvement with key events and organizations, Marilyn Stemp’s contributions to motorcycling are both vast and enduring.