Perry King to emcee 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by KTM

PICKERINGTON, OH – October 10, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Stage, television and film star and longtime motorcyclist Perry King will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by KTM, on Friday, Nov. 16, at the Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa in Las Vegas, Nev.

“Some of the most wonderful people I’ve known have been motorcyclists — whether weekend enthusiasts or world-caliber competitors,” said King, a member of the AMA Board of Directors. “It is my honor to pay tribute to some of motorcycling’s best and brightest as the emcee of the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by KTM.”

The 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by KTM, will officially welcome seven inductees to the Hall of Fame: the late Rod Bush, longtime KTM North America president and industry visionary; world championship roadracing tuner Nobby Clark; multitime off-road racing champion Ty Davis; 1975 AMA Supercross Champion Jimmy Ellis; pioneering female motocrosser Sue Fish; world-class bike restorer Brian Slark; and the late Al Wilcox, an iconic race flagger.

“The Class of 2012 represents speed, dedication, ingenuity, talent and the pioneering spirit that has defined motorcycling throughout its history,” King said. “All of today’s riders owe a tip of the helmet to these amazing people who have contributed so much to our sport and industry.”

In addition, two existing members of the Hall of Fame will be honored as Legends at the event: 1998 inductees Malcolm Smith, a pioneer in off-road motorcycling, and Mert Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion. Both Smith and Lawwill starred in the iconic motorcycling documentary “On Any Sunday.”

The AMA Legends Weekend also includes one of the country’s leading motorcycle shows and the finale of one of the most thrilling AMA-sanctioned national racing series. On Saturday, Nov. 17, the Red Rock will host the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance, featuring many of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles. That evening, at the nearby Orleans Arena, fans can catch the last round of the 2012 GEICO AMA EnduroCross National Championship Series.

Tickets for the AMA Legends Weekend are available online at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5r7zy8ea4316694&llr=vw9ldxbab or by calling (800) 342-5464.

The AMA Legends Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends Weekend. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group code RCIAME or AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST. Online room reservations are available at www.redrocklasvegas.com.

The deadline for receiving the group rate at the Red Rock is Oct. 26.

AMA EnduroCross tickets can be purchased at www.endurocross.com.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

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Zero Motorcycles sponsors AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame rings for class of 2012

PICKERINGTON, OH – September 19, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American-made electric motorcycle manufacturer Zero Motorcycles is the official ring sponsor for the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The prestigious Motorcycle Hall of Fame ring is a symbol of the significant contributions made by an inductee to the sport, business and lifestyle of motorcycling. The gold ring, which is created exclusively for the Hall of Fame, bears the institution’s logo, the “Glory Days” design and the name of the inductee. The rings will be presented to the 2012 inductees and Hall of Fame Legends during the gala event at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa on Friday, Nov. 16, in Las Vegas, Nev.

Receiving the rings will be roadracing world championship tuner Nobby Clark; off-road racing champion Ty Davis; 1975 AMA Supercross Champion Jimmy Ellis; pioneering female motocrosser Sue Fish; world-class bike restorer Brian Slark; and representatives for the late-Rod Bush, KTM North America president and industry visionary, as well as the late-Al Wilcox, iconic race flagger.

“It is refreshing to see Zero Motorcycles, a pioneering company that is taking electric motorcycle technology to new levels, honor motorcycling’s storied history and pay tribute to pioneers of yesteryear,” said Jeff Heininger, chairman of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, which raises money for the Hall of Fame. “The Hall of Fame rings are an important piece of the induction ceremony and, for many inductees, the ring is an enduring symbol of their lifetime achievements. Zero Motorcycles’ support is helping make all that possible.”

Two existing members of the Hall of Fame will be honored as Hall of Fame Legends and will also receive rings: 1998 inductees Malcolm Smith, a pioneer in off-road motorcycling, and Mert Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion. Both Smith and Lawwill starred in the classic motorcycling documentary “On Any Sunday.”

Scot Harden, who is vice president of global marketing for Zero Motorcycles and also a member of the Hall of Fame, said that Zero Motorcycles is proud to be a part of the Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

“On behalf of the entire staff of Zero Motorcycles, it is a proud honor indeed to support the Hall of Fame as official ring sponsor of the 2012 induction ceremony,” Harden said. “The men and women selected reflect the highest level of achievement and accomplishment possible in our sport. I can’t think of a better way for a company like Zero Motorcycles, one that is clearly focused on the future of motorcycling, to pay tribute to, and acknowledge, the legends who built this sport by sponsoring the ring ceremony.”

The AMA Legends Weekend also includes one of the country’s leading motorcycle shows and the finale of one of the most thrilling AMA-sanctioned national racing series. On Saturday, Nov. 17, the Red Rock will host the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance, featuring many of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles. That evening, at the nearby Orleans Arena, fans can catch the last round of the 2012 GEICO AMA EnduroCross National Championship Series.

Tickets for the AMA Legends Weekend are available online at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5r7zy8ea4316694&llr=vw9ldxbab or by calling (800) 342-5464.

The AMA Legends Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends Weekend. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group code RCIAME or AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST. Online room reservations are available at www.redrocklasvegas.com.

For tickets to the final round of the GEICO AMA EnduroCross Championship Series at the Orleans Arena, see www.endurocross.com.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame announces results of supplemental vote for Derek ‘Nobby’ Clark induction

PICKERINGTON, OH – August 16, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Famed Grand Prix motorcycle tuner Derek “Nobby” Clark has been elected to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in a supplemental vote, the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation reports.

“Derek ‘Nobby’ Clark stands shoulder-to-shoulder with roadracing’s most enduring legends, and played a key role in successes that will go down in history among the greatest of the sport,” said Jeffrey V. Heininger, chairman of the AMHF. “It’s time for Mr. Clark to take his rightful place among the many legends who embody the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

For 25 years, Clark was one of the world’s leading motorcycle race mechanics. In addition to being a part of 17 FIM Grand Prix world championships, earned in classes ranging from 50cc to 500cc, his teams won three Daytona 200s, one Daytona 100, four Imola 200s and eight Italian championships. Clark not only excelled at the highest level, but also worked with some of the greatest motorcycle racers in history, including Hall of Famers Mike Hailwood, Giacomo Agostini and Kenny Roberts.

“It certainly was a surprise,” Clark said. “I’m very excited, and I’m looking forward to being in Las Vegas for the induction ceremony and seeing my old friends. I haven’t seen quite a few of them for quite awhile, so it’s going to be like a family reunion.”

Clark also expressed his appreciation for the support he received during the supplemental vote process.

“I’d like to thank everybody who supported me,” Clark said. “I admire them, and I respect them, and I hope they all come back to the Hall of Fame. In my opinion, all of them are legends, and I respect them not just for what they’ve done in racing, but for what they’ve done for motorcycling in general. Motorcycling is a big family, and that is something we are privileged to have.”

Clark joins the late Rod Bush, KTM North America president and industry visionary; pioneering female motocrosser Sue Fish; 1975 AMA Supercross Champion Jimmy Ellis; world-class bike restorer Brian Slark; the late Al Wilcox, iconic race starter; and off-road racing legend Ty Davis as a member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2012.

The supplemental vote for Mr. Clark was implemented by the AMHF, which overseas the Hall of Fame, in response to procedural errors that invalidated Mr. Clark’s inclusion on the original ballot. The supplemental vote did not affect the other 2012 Hall of Fame inductees.

“The members of the AMHF Board of Directors extend our sincerest apologies to Mr. Clark for the mistakes that invalidated his original ballot,” Heininger said. “By way of this supplemental vote, we’ve ensured that Mr. Clark’s induction took place with the utmost sincerity and that no one can question his inclusion in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

The supplemental vote was tallied by the independent voting service Votenet. The accounting firm Plante Moran independently audited the results.

The class of 2012 will officially be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Nov. 16 as part of the AMA Legends Weekend. The weekend also includes the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance on Saturday, Nov. 17, featuring many of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles.

In addition to the current class, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony shines the spotlight on two previously inducted members of the Hall of Fame, reminding the motorcycling community of the amazing careers of these Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends. For 2012, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends will be 1998 inductees Malcolm Smith, a pioneer in off-road motorcycling and a star in the motorcycle documentary “On Any Sunday,” and Mert Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion whose title defense was the central theme of the timeless film.

Tickets for the AMA Legends Weekend are now available through this online registration form: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5r7zy8ea4316694&llr=vw9ldxbab or by calling (800) 342-5464.

The AMA Legends Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends Weekend. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group code RCIAME or AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST. Online room reservations are available at www.redrocklasvegas.com.

More information about the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

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World-class bike restorer and motocross pioneer Brian Slark to be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame

World-class bike restorer and motocross pioneer Brian Slark to be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame

PICKERINGTON, OH – July 31, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the fourth member of the induction class of 2012. Bike restorer extraordinaire and motocross pioneer Brian Slark will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as part of the 2012 AMA Legends Weekend at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, Nev., Nov. 16-17.

“Brian Slark is a true renaissance man in the world of motorcycling,” said Jeffrey V. Heininger, chairman of the board of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, which raises funds for the Hall of Fame. “Not only did he help create motocross in America, but he also created works of art while working at some well-known motorcycle museums. His expertise is second to none.”

Born in London, England, on Feb. 2, 1938, Slark was a moving force in the creation of a vibrant motocross-racing community in the United States during the 1960s. He helped organize motocross tracks, and promoted the sport by teaching famous people — including then-teen heartthrob Bobby Darin — to ride motorcycles. He also imported and built Rickman Metisse and Cheney motocrossers.

Slark later assisted the late Dave Mungenast — who is also a member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame — in the creation of a motorcycle museum in St. Louis. He then helped create the world-class Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds, Ala. Slark also played a key role in setting up the bikes for the immensely popular “The Art of the Motorcycle” exhibit at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City in 1998, which later traveled to the Field Museum in Chicago and then Bilboa, Spain.

“As my wife said, for once I was absolutely speechless,” Slark said, reacting to the news that he would be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. “[Working with motorcycles is] something I’ve been doing nearly 60-plus years and I love it. I never ranked myself in the league of other people in the industry. I’ve just done what I love to do.”

Slark said he is particularly humbled and honored that he is being inducted to the Hall of Fame where his longtime friend Mungenast is honored.

“Dave was an incredibly multi-talented person,” Slark said. “He did so much for kids and everybody. He was a mentor. He was a wonderful guy and a good friend. To be in the same league as Dave is an incredible compliment. I can’t express how I feel.”

Slark’s motorcycling career spans more than 60 years. It began in 1957 when he started work at Associated Motorcycles (AJS and Matchless) in London, England, testing and evaluating bikes. He soon moved to the factory race shop.

In 1964 he spent a year in California riding desert events and helping organize motocross tracks. His experience prompted him to move to California the following year.

In 1969, Slark managed the service and competition departments for Norton and AJS at the west coast factory facility. Later, he became marketing communications manager for Norton-Villiers and advised designers on models for the North American market.

Slark decided to strike out on his own in 1976, and he opened a British bike shop in Southern California. Two years later he became the volunteer technical editor for the International Norton Owners Association-a role he still holds today.

In 1986, Slark sold his bike shop and moved to St. Louis. Ten years later, he joined the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum as technical director and helped elevate the museum to its present position of the largest collection of motorcycles in the world. He remains in that post today.

Slark is the fourth member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame class of 2012 to be announced. He joins the late Rod Bush, KTM North America president and industry visionary; pioneering female motocrosser Sue Fish; and Jimmy Ellis, 1975 AMA Supercross champion. The remaining 2012 inductees will be announced in random order in the coming weeks.

The class of 2012 will officially be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Nov. 16 as part of the AMA Legends Weekend. The weekend also includes the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance on Saturday, Nov. 17, featuring many of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles.

In addition to the current class, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony shines the spotlight on two previously inducted members of the Hall of Fame, reminding the motorcycling community of the amazing careers of these Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends. For 2012, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends will be 1998 inductees Malcolm Smith, a pioneer in off-road motorcycling and a star in the motorcycle documentary “On Any Sunday,” and Mert Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion whose title defense was the central theme of the timeless film.

Tickets for the AMA Legends Weekend are now available through this online registration form: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5r7zy8ea4316694&llr=vw9ldxbab or by calling (800) 342-5464.

The AMA Legends Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends Weekend. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group code RCIAME or AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST. Online room reservations are available at www.redrocklasvegas.com.

More information about the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at www.motorcyclemuseum.org.

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame to conduct supplemental vote for Derek ‘Nobby’ Clark induction

PICKERINGTON, OH – July 19, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  The American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation Board of Directors will conduct a supplemental vote for the inclusion of Derek “Nobby” Clark in this year’s Hall of Fame induction class.

The decision is in response to errors that occurred in the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame balloting process. The supplemental vote does not affect other 2012 Hall of Fame inductees.

“We believe Mr. Clark is worthy of induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame,” said Jeffrey V. Heininger, the chairman of the AMHF. “It’s important to stress that the balloting errors were not of Mr. Clark’s making, and the entire board offers its sincere apologies to Mr. Clark.”

The AMHF Board moved to put Mr. Clark’s name to a vote that could see him inducted to the Hall of Fame at this year’s induction ceremony in November.

“The only people who can elevate Mr. Clark to the Hall of Fame are the voting members, which include the living Hall of Famers,” Heininger said. “A clear vote in light of all that has happened allows Mr. Clark to enter the Hall with the honor he deserves. We expect to start contacting voting members for balloting early next week.”

The action follows a recommendation of the AMHF Executive Committee on Monday, July 16, when a report detailing problems with the 2012 Hall of Fame balloting process was discussed. The full report can be found at http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/News/12-07-13/Statement_and_review_of_the_2012_Hall_of_Fame_induction_class.aspx.

Also in response to the errors in the 2012 ballot, Heininger told the AMHF board that the executive committee would convene a review panel to evaluate the Hall of Fame selection committees’ structure, along with procedures to ensure the adherence to, and checks and balances within, the induction process.

“There were errors made at the staff and committee levels in the formulation of the 2012 ballot.” Heininger said. “Those errors were rightly investigated, and the process must — and will be — corrected going forward.

“Recent events show that while the procedure for selecting Hall of Famers is sound, the implementation of that procedure leaves too much room for mistakes,” Heininger said. “It is important, for the integrity of the selection process and the Hall of Fame itself, to make sure our balloting is beyond reproach.”

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

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Statement and review of the 2012 Hall of Fame induction class

PICKERINGTON, OH – July 13, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation announces the completion of the investigation and report regarding the 2012 induction class of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Click the below link to download the report:

Statement and Review of the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Class

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame supporters invited to participate in My Hall of Fame project

PICKERINGTON, OH – June 1, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The American Motorcyclist Association Motorcycle Hall of Fame has introduced a new way for individuals and companies to help promote and protect motorcycling’s heritage: My Hall of Fame.

“The idea is simple,” said AMA Director of Operations and Hall of Famer Jack Penton. “For a small donation, your photo can hang on the wall of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame museum entrance foyer during the campaign year. The image you put in that space can be a photo of you, your family, your friends, your bike, your company logo — anything appropriate for public display.

“The Penton family has already jumped on board with our support, and I’m looking forward to seeing others back the Hall of Fame’s mission in this very visible way,” Penton added.

A 3-inch-square photo will be placed on the wall for a $20 donation, while an $80 donation includes a 6-inch-square photo and a $180 donation secures a 9-inch-square photo. All donors participating in the My Hall of Fame program receive an official certificate noting that their picture is on display. All proceeds support the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

To hang with the legends and support the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, just visit MotorcycleMuseum.org > Get Involved > My Hall of Fame.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

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Industry leader, visionary Rod Bush to be inducted into AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 25, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  The American Motorcyclist Association Motorcycle Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the first member of the induction class of 2012. The late Rod Bush, who helped establish and grow KTM North America and served as company president from 1987 until his death in 2005, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as part of the 2012 AMA Legends Weekend at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, Nev., Nov. 16-17.

“Rod Bush led KTM North America during its formative years in the United States, and under his leadership, the Austrian company grew from a small European alternative to the Japanese brands into an off-road racing powerhouse,” said Jeff Heininger, chairman of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, which raises funds for the Hall of Fame. “His contributions to motorcycling are significant and lasting, and have helped shaped the off-road racing and riding environments in America for a generation.”

While leading KTM, Bush also made numerous contributions to U.S. teams in national and international competition, helping advance American off-road racing in general. A major influence in developing both rules packages and minicycle technology, Bush’s efforts helped revolutionize youth competition in America in the 1990s — a development that has continued to fuel the steady advancement of American motocross and off-road racers.

So much of the success KTM has seen in North America is built on the foundation that Rod worked so hard to create,” said current KTM North America President Jon-Erik Burleson. “As a mentor and friend of mine, his leadership and success were, and continue to be, great inspiration to continue to push forward. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame represents the pinnacle of those who have achieved so much for our sport and industry. I am deeply happy for his family and his legacy for him to be honored with such prestigious recognition.”

Bush, who passed away on Sept. 12, 2005, is survived by wife Cheri Bush, who said his influence went beyond tangible milestones and infused both his employees and peers with confidence and enthusiasm.

“Rod had a tremendous amount of integrity, honesty and fairness,” she said. “He lived every day to the fullest, and everything he did involved motorcycles and KTM. KTM and the people who worked for him truly were a part of his family. I think that was recognized even at the highest levels of the company. His opinions were valued greatly in Austria, where they had great faith in Rod and what he was doing in America, and I think that was reflected when he was appointed one of three managing directors for the parent company.”

Cheri Bush said most people will likely remember Rod for his friendly nature as much as they’ll remember him for his accomplishments.

“Rod was very down to earth,” she said. “He would talk to anybody. His attitude is probably best captured by the simple way he signed his emails and letters: ‘see you down the trail…’ It conveyed so much about him — his friendliness, his expectation that he would see you again and, of course, his love for motorcycling.”

Born July 6, 1955, in Huntington, W.Va., Bush rode his first hare scrambles in 1970 and three years later opened a Penton dealership in Parkersburg, W.Va., with his father. Bush started taking his racing seriously, and began competing in the International Six Days Trial in 1974, ultimately winning gold medals in later ISDTs. In 1976, Bush started working for Penton Imports as a sales representative.

In 1978, Bush left Penton Imports to help form KTM America, later KTM North America, with Jack Lehto. In 1987, Bush took the position of KTM North America president when the company was selling about 2,500 motorcycles a year. When Bush died in 2005, KTM North America sold approximately 28,000 units annually and had 140 employees. During his tenure at KTM, Bush was elected as a partner and one of three managing directors of KTM Group, as well as a member of the AMA Board of Directors.

Bush is also survived by his son Robbie, his daughter Stacy and granddaughter Amaris.

Bush is the first member of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame class of 2012 to be announced. The rest of the 2012 inductees will be announced in random order in the coming weeks.

The class of 2012 will officially be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Nov. 16 as part of the AMA Legends Weekend. The weekend also includes the 2012 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Dave Mungenast Memorial Concours d’Elegance on Saturday, Nov. 17, featuring some of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles.

In addition to the current class, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony shines the spotlight on two previously inducted members of the Hall of Fame, reminding the motorcycling community of the amazing careers of these Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends. For 2012, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends will be 1998 inductees Malcolm Smith, a pioneer in off-road motorcycling and a star in the motorcycle documentary “On Any Sunday,” and Mert Lawwill, the 1969 AMA Grand National Champion whose title defense was the central theme of the timeless film.

Tickets for the AMA Legends Weekend are now available through this online registration form: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5r7zy8ea4316694&llr=vw9ldxbab or by calling (800) 342-5464.

The AMA Legends Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends Weekend. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group code RCIAME or AMERICAN MOTORCYCLIST. Online room reservations are available at RedRockLasVegas.com.

More information about the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

About the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation
Founded in 1990 by the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the goal of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is to tell the stories and preserve the history of motorcycling. Located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association in Pickerington, Ohio, the Museum’s three major exhibition halls feature the machines and memorabilia of those who have contributed notably to the sport. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to motorcycling, including those known for their contributions to road riding, off-road riding and all categories of racing, as well as those who have excelled in business, history, design and engineering. More information can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame to announce 2012 nominees on April 2

PICKERINTON, OH – March 26, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – On Nov. 16 at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev., the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation (AMHF) will welcome a new class into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. This year, for the first time ever, the AMHF will announce not just the final class of inductees, but on Monday, April 2, will reveal the men and women who have been nominated for consideration of one of motorcycling’s highest honors.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, located on the campus of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), tells the stories of motorcycling heroes and legends and preserves the history of motorcycling. Nominees for annual induction are selected from applications submitted by the public and members of the AMHF Nominating Committee.

“While in previous years only the inductees have been announced, this is the first time that we will announce the names of our nominees, each of whom is a worthy contender,” said AMHF Board of Directors Chairman Jeff Heininger. “Supporters and fans of the Hall of Fame have encouraged us to do this, and the enthusiasm generated by these announcements is one more way for us to acknowledge the tremendous contributions each of these individuals has made to the sport, business and lifestyle of motorcycling.”

Nominees are selected from a number of specialties within two main categories. The non-competition category includes ambassadors/industry, design/engineering and leadership/motorcyclist rights advocates, and the competition category includes flat track, motocross/Supercross, off-road, roadracing, and specialty competition.

A committee overseeing applicants for each specialty reviews the submissions, and determines which applicants meet the criteria to be considered as candidates to the Hall of Fame. The field of candidates is then narrowed by committee votes to select the nominees for a particular year. The voting group that selects Hall of Fame members is composed of experts in the various fields of motorcycling, living Hall of Fame members, and the board members of the AMHF and the AMA.

In the coming weeks, six new members representing the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2012 will be elected from the nominees announced on April 2 — three from the non-competition categories and three from the competition categories. The Hall of Fame class of 2012 will be announced this summer, and the new members will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame at a gala ceremony on Nov. 16, at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev., during the AMA Legends Weekend. Ticket information will be announced soon at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

“One week from today, we’ll reveal who is in the running for induction into the Hall of Fame,” said Heininger. “It’s going to be a who’s who of motorcycling’s greats, and we can’t wait to share the excitement with motorcyclists everywhere.”

For more information about the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and the induction process, please visit MotorcycleMuseum.org > Induction.

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Cycle magazine editor, race tuner headed for Motorcycle Hall of Fame

PICKERINGTON, OH – May 12, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The Motorcycle Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the first member of the class of 2011: Phil Schilling, one of motorcycling’s most accomplished journalists and an expert race tuner who set the early mark for Ducati’s on-track success in America. Schilling, who led the editorial department of Cycle magazine for nearly 20 years, will be honored at the 2011 induction ceremony as part of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Legends & Champions Weekend at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, Nev., Nov. 18-20.

“Phil Schilling was many things in motorcycling, but above all he was a pillar of journalistic integrity and an industry pioneer in editorial innovation,” said Jeffrey V. Heininger, chairman of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, which raises money for the Hall of Fame. “We’re honored to welcome him as the first member of the 2011 class of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

Schilling was teaching at the University of Wisconsin when Hall of Famer Cook Neilson asked him to become managing editor of Cycle. Schilling and Neilson developed Cycle into the gold standard of motorcycle periodicals in the 1970s. Neilson, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006, says Schilling’s influence touched all those who worked there during Schilling’s tenure.

“Phil Schilling joined Cycle magazine in 1970, and for 18 years — nine as editor-in-chief — served as our magazine’s foundation and its conscience,” Neilson said. “During that rich and extraordinary two-decade span, when Cycle grew to be the largest-circulation motorcycle magazine on the planet, Phil found time to teach young racers how to race, and young writers how to write. He provided the racers with wisdom, patience and fast equipment, and the writers with fluency and grace and perspective. Often the racers and the writers were the same people.

“To this day, Phil remains motor journalism’s finest editor, and its finest writer,” Neilson added. “I’ve known him now for more than 40 years. He’s been my best friend through all of it. I know he’s honored to join the Hall of Fame. All those whose lives Phil has touched — riders, racers, writers, readers — should feel honored too.”

Schilling and Neilson were not just successful at the editor’s desk. In 1977, they entered a Ducati in the Superbike race during Daytona’s Bike Week and gave Ducati its first AMA Superbike win in the United States.

“My reaction to my induction is one of amazement,” Schilling said. “I never thought I would be considered for this type of honor. I feel like there are a lot of other people who are more deserving. While the Neilson and Schilling era of Cycle magazine is something I’m really proud of, I’m also very proud of the people we worked with and who became the next generation of Cycle magazine editors and continued to improve the publication.”

Schilling is the first announced member of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2011. The rest of the 2011 inductees will be announced in random order over the next few weeks.

The Class of 2011 will officially be inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame on Nov. 18 as part of the AMA Legends & Champions Weekend. In addition to the induction ceremony, the weekend includes the 2011 Motorcycle Hall of Fame Concours d’Elegance on Saturday, Nov. 19, featuring some of the country’s most impressive original and restored classic motorcycles. The AMA Racing Championship Banquet closes out the weekend on Sunday, Nov. 20, where AMA Racing amateur champions of all ages will be recognized for their 2011 accomplishments.

Tickets for the AMA Legends & Champions weekend are now available through this online registration form: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=vw9ldxbab&oeidk=a07e3rn4juk2e3f80c1. Tickets may be ordered over the phone by calling (800) 262-5646.

The AMA Legends & Champions Weekend also includes the final round of the GEICO AMA EnduroCross National Championship Series on Saturday evening, Nov. 19. EnduroCross tickets are available at www.orleansarena.com/event-calendar/endurocross or by phone at (702) 284-7777 or (888) 234-2334.

The AMA Legends & Champions Weekend will be held at the Las Vegas Red Rock Resort, a world-class spa, hotel and casino, featuring a range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly attractions. The facility’s expansive ballrooms provide a stunning backdrop for the AMA Legends & Champions Weekend, which is certain to be memorable for the 2011 inductees, champions, families, friends and fans. Room reservations are available now at a special group rate by calling (866) 767-7773 and referencing group AMA or AMERICANMOTO. Online room reservations are available at RedRockLasVegas.com. For online reservations, use the promo code RCIMOTR.

More information about the Motorcycle Hall of Fame can be found at MotorcycleMuseum.org.

SOURCE: American Motorcyclist Association

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