Dudley "Dud" Perkins Sr.

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Dudley “Dud” Perkins, Sr.: A Life Fueled by Passion for Motorcycling

From the thrill of board track racing to the challenging heights of hill climbing, Dudley “Dud” Perkins, Sr. lived an extraordinary life dedicated to the world of motorcycles. His unwavering passion for motorcycling, particularly for Harley-Davidson, spanned decades, allowing him to wear many hats in the industry: board track racer, hill climber, lifetime AMA member (card #12), race team sponsor, co-founder of the San Francisco Motorcycle Club, and founder of a renowned dealership that still bears his name today. As he once remarked, the dealership was merely a way to support his racing habit—a habit that would shape the lives of many and leave an indelible mark on the motorcycle community.

Early Adventures and Racing Career

Dud’s journey into the world of motorcycles began in his teenage years, where his love for speed and competition blossomed. Starting as a board track racer, Dud quickly made a name for himself on the circuit. However, upon realizing the inherent dangers of the sport, especially at the urging of his soon-to-be wife, he pivoted to a seemingly less perilous endeavor: hill climbing. Little did he know, this transition would lead to a decade-long reign as the West Coast hill climb champion.

His tenacity and skill on the bike not only earned him accolades but also respect within the racing community. His accomplishments on the hill were a testament to his dedication and his love for the sport, marking him as a true competitor.

A Legacy of Sponsorship and Community Engagement

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Dud was not just a racer; he became a pivotal figure in the motorcycle community by sponsoring numerous flat-track racers. His support extended to Grand National champions such as Mert Lawill and Mark Brelsford, whose successes on the track were fueled by Dud’s unwavering commitment.

In addition to his sponsorship roles, Dud co-founded the San Francisco Motorcycle Club, fostering a community of riders and enthusiasts who shared his passion. This organization became a vital part of the local motorcycle scene, providing camaraderie and support for riders of all backgrounds.

The Birth of a Dealership

In pursuit of his racing dreams, Dud founded a Harley-Davidson dealership that would soon become a landmark in the San Francisco area. Located at 66 Page Street, the dealership flourished under his leadership, becoming one of the nation's finest Harley shops. His sons, Dud Jr. and his two boys, James and Tom, proudly continued his legacy, with the dealership now in its third generation of family ownership.

Dud’s life was a perfect blend of passion and business acumen. While he dedicated himself to racing, he also managed to grow his dealership into a thriving enterprise, ensuring its prosperity and leaving a lasting impact on the motorcycle industry.

A Lasting Legacy

As Dudley “Dud” Perkins, Sr. navigated his journey from a teenager with dreams of speed to a well-respected figure in the motorcycle community, his legacy became one of passion, dedication, and community. His influence continues to be felt today, not only through the successful dealership that bears his name but also through the countless lives he touched as a mentor and sponsor.

Dud's story is a celebration of motorcycling, showcasing how a love for the sport can create a lasting legacy that transcends generations. At 66 Page Street in San Francisco, the spirit of Dud Perkins lives on, reminding all who enter that motorcycling is more than just a pastime—it's a way of life.