Del Hofer
Del Hofer: A Lifetime of Passion for Motorcycling
In the rolling hills of rural eastern South Dakota, a young Del Hofer first felt the thrill of the open road on his brother’s Harley. That initial spark ignited a lifelong love for motorcycling, leading him to save up diligently until, at just 16 years old, he purchased his very own 1947 Knucklehead in 1951. This significant milestone paved the way for his first unforgettable trip to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally at the age of 17—a journey that would become a cornerstone of his motorcycling story.
From Soldier to Dealer
After serving in Korea, Del returned home and quickly found his place in the local motorcycling community by joining the Prairie Ramblers, a local AMA club. It was during this time that he married his partner, Renee, and began building a life centered around motorcycles. In the late 1950s, Del worked tirelessly, holding down two jobs—one on the railroad at night and the other at the local Harley dealership during the day.
In 1961, Del’s dreams took a bold turn when he acquired the Harley dealership in Huron, South Dakota, with the help of a loan from the Railroad Credit Union. Despite the challenges of running a business, Del continued his night shifts on the railroad to support the dealership, which gradually expanded to include Yamaha, Ski-Doo, Bolens, and McCulloch products.
Ten years later, Del made a strategic move to Fargo, North Dakota, where he refocused the dealership on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, golf carts, and snowmobiles. Today, Del's dealership is a thriving business, employing 35 full-time associates and fostering a passionate motorcycling community.
Champion of the Motorcycling Community
Del’s 50-year legacy as a Harley-Davidson dealer is just a fraction of his contributions to the sport of motorcycling. Actively involved in the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Del has served as a district congressman and referee, and he has participated in amateur AMA racing across various disciplines. His achievements earned him the title of Mr. Motorcyclist South Dakota, a testament to his passion and dedication.
Over the years, Del has supported numerous nationally ranked expert flat track racers and hill climbers, including one who has held the Sturgis Hillclimb record for over 35 years. His influence has extended beyond racing; he has played a significant role in the Harley Owners Group (HOG), where he has trained primary officers and spread his love for motorcycling across the globe.
Del's leadership in HOG has fostered valuable relationships, including sister chapters in Wellington, New Zealand, and Stuart, Florida. Each year, members from these chapters ride alongside the Fargo chapter on their annual pilgrimage to Beartooth Pass in Montana, creating lasting memories and friendships that span continents.
Advocate for Motorcyclists' Rights
A staunch advocate for motorcyclists’ rights, Del has actively participated in discussions and legislation impacting the motorcycle community. When South Dakota was drafting vehicle inspection laws in the mid-1960s, Del’s insights were sought by the state Highway Patrol. In North Dakota during the early 1970s, he faced a potential ban on motorcycle modifications. Scheduled to testify in a pivotal case, Del’s expertise helped to rewrite laws that would ultimately allow safe alterations to motorcycles, ensuring riders’ freedom and safety.
A Legacy of Dedication
Del Hofer’s journey from a young rider on a Knucklehead to a revered motorcycle dealer and community leader is a testament to his unwavering passion for the sport. His contributions have not only shaped the local motorcycling landscape but have also left a lasting impact on riders far and wide. As Del continues to share his love for motorcycling and advocate for the rights of riders, he remains a beloved figure in the community—a true champion of the open road.