John "Tom" Sifton

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Tom Sifton: The Pioneer of American Motorcycle Racing

In the vibrant landscape of 1920s motorcycle racing, few figures stood as tall as Tom Sifton. A legendary hill-climbing competitor, Sifton not only carved out his own legacy but also nurtured the next generation of national cycling champions, earning a reputation that would solidify San Jose, California, as the motorcycle racing capital of the world.

Born in Ebenezer, New York, Tom’s journey into the heart of motorcycle culture began in 1920 when he moved to San Francisco. There, he took on the challenge of learning the tool-making trade at night school, a skill that would later serve as the foundation for his impact on the motorcycle industry. Shortly after, he opened a Harley-Davidson dealership, a bold move that placed him at the forefront of the burgeoning motorcycling community.

Tom’s competitive spirit shone brightly on the hill-climbing circuit. In 1929, he clinched the Pacific Coast Championship, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His move to San Jose in 1933 marked the beginning of a new chapter; he set up Sifton's Harley-Davidson dealership, where he would remain until 1954. Under his stewardship, the dealership became a hub for aspiring riders and racers alike, fostering a culture of competition and innovation.

However, Tom’s story doesn’t end with his dealership. After being crippled by arthritis, he found a way to continue contributing to the sport he loved. From his home workshop, he began producing engine parts that would help propel many drivers to victory. He dedicated ten years to grinding, welding, and regrinding cams of his own design, crafting components that became essential for motorcycle racers. His ingenuity resulted in the founding of Sifton Cams, a business that continues to operate today in San Carlos, California.

Known by many as a mechanical genius, Sifton was revered for his unconventional approaches to engineering. Among his groundbreaking ideas was the integration of two cams into engines originally designed for only one. His innovative designs for cams and valve train parts were said to be 50 years ahead of their time, earning him a lasting legacy in the motorcycle community.

Throughout his life, Tom Sifton played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American motorcycle racing. He was not just a builder of championship motorcycles; he was also a mentor and coach, guiding countless riders on their journeys to success. His influence reverberated through the racing community, as he developed more national cycling champions than any other individual in the United States.

Tragically, the world lost this remarkable pioneer in late February 1990. John Thomas Clifford Sifton left behind a legacy that endures in the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts and competitors. His contributions to the sport, both as a competitor and a visionary, have etched his name into the annals of motorcycle racing history. Today, as riders take to the hills and racetracks, they continue to ride on the foundations laid by Tom Sifton, a true champion of the sport.