Tom Seymour
A Trailblazer’s Legacy in the Motorcycle Industry
Born in 1945 in upstate New York, Tom Seymour is a remarkable figure whose life seamlessly intertwines engineering prowess with a deep passion for motorcycling. A science enthusiast and a sportsman, Seymour's academic journey was marked by distinction—he received a full scholarship to Cooper Union, excelled in wrestling and football, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1969, followed by an MBA in 1973.
Seymour's career trajectory led him through several prestigious corporations, where he worked as an Engineer, Test Engineer, and Engineering Manager, eventually serving as Chief Engineer in engine development. His professional path took a turn westward, where he transitioned into marketing with McCulloch within Black and Decker, overseeing international operations.
Yet, behind the scenes of his corporate success, Seymour nurtured another side of his life. Away from his lab coat and corporate attire, he was an avid motorcyclist. Commuting to work and school on his motorcycle, he also participated in racing events including short track, Enduros, motocross, and TT Scrambles. His involvement extended to the Yonkers Motorcycle Club, the oldest motorcycle club in the United States, where he rose to the positions of Road Captain and President. Even as a high-ranking executive, Seymour was known for donning his Yonkers vest and leading rides to rallies and events.
In 1977, Seymour made a pivotal career shift by purchasing a small motorcycle accessory company. This venture laid the groundwork for the creation of Saddlemen, a company where Seymour’s expertise in engineering and marketing merged with his enthusiasm for motorcycling. Saddlemen’s focus on developing superior motorcycle seats, born from Seymour’s extensive personal experience, soon made it a notable name in the industry. The company became renowned for its innovative seat technologies, with Seymour personally holding several patents.
Under Seymour’s leadership, Saddlemen expanded its product line to include motorcycle luggage, saddle-bags, tool bags, and trunk and tail bags. His commitment to the motorcycle community was evident through his employment strategy—hiring riders at all levels to represent the brand and sponsoring numerous racers and racing events. From professional racers to emerging talents, Saddlemen supported over 1,000 riders across various disciplines including Flat Track, Road Racing, Speedway, Hooligan, Land Speed Challenges, and stunt riding.
Seymour’s support extended beyond sponsorships; he invested in shows, rallies, and rides, personally logging as many as 20,000 miles a year to attend events like Daytona Bike Week, the Colorado 500, the Kenny Roberts Peace Ride in Japan, Americade, and Sturgis, where he has been a regular since 1971.
His contributions to the industry were recognized through numerous accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from Peterson Publishing and the Leadership Award for the Class of ’79 Charity for Injured Racers. Seymour’s commitment to the motorcycle community also earned him a place in the Trailblazers Hall of Fame, as well as roles on the Board of Directors for both the Trailblazers and the AMARookies of ’79, and a V-Twin Committee membership with the Motorcycle Industry Council.
Today, in retirement, Seymour has entrusted the leadership of Saddlemen to David Echert. He remains active in the motorcycle world, continuing to ride, collect motorcycles, and engage in industry events. Tom Seymour’s enduring legacy is a testament to his passion for motorcycling, his innovative spirit, and his unwavering dedication to the community he has helped shape.