< Back

Arlin Fatland

Arlin Fatland: The Unwavering Legacy of 2 Wheelers

In a world where trends come and go and countless shops have opened and closed, one man’s vision has remained steadfast through the decades: Arlin Fatland. For over 50 years, Arlin has owned and operated 2 Wheelers, one of the few independent motorcycle shops that have held firm to their roots, thriving in the same Denver location since its founding. What began as a small, innovative shop in the 1970s has grown into an institution, renowned for its dedication to classic motorcycles, its pioneering spirit in custom and chopper building, and its unwavering support of the motorcycle community.

A Shop Built on Passion and Innovation

Since its inception, 2 Wheelers has been a beacon of innovation. Back in the 1970s, when the concept of "aftermarket parts" was barely a whisper in the industry, Arlin and his team were already manufacturing and distributing their own custom components. 2 Wheelers was the place to find the newest, most cutting-edge parts—often before anyone else had even heard of them. Their printed catalog, which first appeared in the 1970s, was one of the earliest of its kind and set a standard for how independent shops could connect with their customers nationwide.

Arlin’s commitment to quality and creativity turned 2 Wheelers into a custom bike-building powerhouse. His choppers and custom builds became a fixture in motorcycle magazines, showcasing his knack for blending style with performance. Decades later, 2 Wheelers remains the go-to shop for riders who appreciate classic models and want work done by someone who truly understands and loves the machines.

Bringing the Essentials to Riders at America’s Biggest Bike Events

Arlin’s story isn’t just about building bikes—it’s about being there for the community. His first trip to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 1973 planted the seed for what would become a lifelong tradition. During the wild, early days when riders camped in City Park, Arlin noticed a gap that no one else had thought to fill. Riders had nowhere to buy essential items like oil, plugs, and chains—things they needed to keep their bikes running on long journeys. In 1989, he bought property in Sturgis and opened a shop, becoming the first to offer these basic necessities to rally-goers. A year later, he did the same in Daytona, providing riders at both major rallies with the parts and service they desperately needed.

“That was 29 years ago, and I’ve been doing it ever since,” Arlin says. “I created a monster.” With shops now established at both events, Arlin and his wife Donna have spent decades traveling cross-country, helping riders stay on the road and enjoy the rallies to the fullest. Their presence at these events isn’t just about business—it’s about building relationships and contributing to the unique camaraderie that makes the motorcycle world so special.

A Humble Contributor to the Industry’s Growth

What sets Arlin apart is his humility and consistency. In an industry where many have chased overnight fame or given up when success didn’t materialize, Arlin has stayed true to his values, focusing on his love for the lifestyle and his community. Over the years, countless people and organizations have turned to 2 Wheelers for help with charity efforts. Whether it was a struggling rider in need of parts or a larger cause that needed material support, Arlin always stepped up—quietly, without fanfare or recognition. His approach has always been to serve without seeking the spotlight, a rare quality in a world that often glorifies self-promotion.

As a member of the Hamsters—a group of motorcycle enthusiasts and industry insiders who are known for their charity work—Arlin has been actively involved in supporting charitable causes for over 40 years. The Hamsters’ annual fundraisers have raised millions of dollars for various causes, and Arlin has been there every step of the way, contributing time, money, and resources without hesitation. Yet, he’s the first to downplay his role. “No one has been turned away when they approached 2 Wheelers for help,” says a fellow Hamster, “but you’d never know that from Arlin, who is eminently circumspect about such things.”

The Secret to Staying Power

The most remarkable aspect of Arlin’s career is his staying power. While many others have come and gone, tempted by quick fame or disillusioned by the challenges of running a business, Arlin has continued to show up, year after year, decade after decade. His success isn’t measured in fleeting accolades but in the relationships he’s built and the respect he’s earned within the industry.

“People like Arlin sought none of that,” one industry veteran notes. “He’s not interested in fame or recognition. He’s just a guy who loves motorcycles and loves helping people. That’s why he’s still around, and why he’s still respected.”

In an era where so much has changed, Arlin’s commitment to his craft and his community is a reminder of what truly matters. His story is one of steady, consistent, and humble engagement—fueled by an undiminished love for motorcycles and motorcyclists alike.

Looking to the Future

Now, as 2 Wheelers celebrates its 50th year, Arlin shows no signs of slowing down. The shop is still bustling, the catalogs still go out, and the Fatlands still make their annual pilgrimage to Sturgis and Daytona, fulfilling the needs of riders just as they have for decades. The shop’s Denver location is more than just a business—it’s a living piece of motorcycle history, a place where passion and tradition intersect.