What is your motorcycling background?
I've been riding for almost 40 years. From starting out as a young wiseass mini bike punk to racing motocross, road racing and most types of enduros and rallies, I've experienced almost every type of riding. I have also been a part of the promotional team that created the Incas Rally in South America and the Nevada Rally.
What do you think the future of street motorcycle apparel will be like the next five years?
I think the market will return to a point where riders will be looking for higher quality, longer lasting products that also feature innovative technical details. In other words, they will be looking for gear that performs. They will see the value of paying a little bit more for products that fit well and last.
What's the story behind your company mascot, Tony the Donkey?
About eight years ago a member of the Motonation staff was getting married in Mexico. Some of us were walking down a street after a nice lobster lunch and decided Motonation should have a company mascot. We saw Tony's pretty ass and signed her up on the spot to the job (Tony's a girl).
You seem to carry some high-end exclusive brands. What makes you choose the brands you carry?
As a rider I learned long ago that buying quality riding gear would save many things. In the long run quality gear lasts longer, saves skin, time and money thanks to fewer visits to the emergency room. Quality gear also has a better chance of saving a rider's life in the event of a huge crash.
What's the craziest story you have from a customer trying to return something?
There are always the calls we label as "JRA." JRA means "just riding along," as in: "I was just riding along when my motor blew up and threw shrapnel into my boot. Can I get a new boot?"