Joe Parkhurst

2000

Joe Parkhurst: The Visionary Who Shaped Motorcycle Journalism

Joe Parkhurst’s career journey is a story of creative evolution, bold entrepreneurship, and a deep passion for motorcycles. From his early days as an artist at Walt Disney Studios to becoming a pioneer in the world of motorcycle publishing, Parkhurst left a lasting mark on the industry.

Parkhurst’s professional path began in 1948, working at Disney, and later Capital Records. After serving in the Army, he shifted gears into print media, becoming art director for Road & Track magazine. This experience honed his design skills and paved the way for him to take on new challenges. Eventually, he became the art director of Karting World magazine, where he was instrumental in helping launch Cycle World as its first editor.

In 1962, Parkhurst made a bold move by purchasing Cycle World magazine, founding Parkhurst Publishing. His vision elevated Cycle World into one of the most respected publications in the motorcycle world. The magazine provided motorcycling enthusiasts with high-quality content, expert insights, and a platform for the growing community. Under Parkhurst’s leadership, Cycle World became the largest motorcycle magazine in America, influencing trends and culture at a pivotal time for the industry.

While Parkhurst sold the company to CBS in the early 1970s, he stayed on as publisher of Cycle World until 1977. Two years later, he continued to fuel his passion by launching the Motorcycle Business Newsletter, keeping his finger on the pulse of the industry and maintaining his influence.

Beyond publishing, Parkhurst’s dedication to motorcycling extended to advocacy and leadership roles. He served two terms as a trustee for the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and was recognized with the Motorcycle Industry Council's Key Award in 1989, a prestigious honor acknowledging his significant contributions to the motorcycle world.

Joe Parkhurst’s life was defined by his ability to blend creativity with entrepreneurship, all while championing motorcycling. His impact as a publisher, editor, and industry leader endures, inspiring new generations of riders and media professionals alike.