Harley-Davidson Sport Center up for sale as owner recalls seven decades of business

HERMANTOWN, Minn. (Northern News Now) - The owner of the Harley-Davidson Sport Center in Hermantown is retiring in spring 2025.

The patriarch of Northland Harley-Davidson knowledge was Richard Kachelmyer.

“He bought the dealership in 1951 and he went to work for Art Moats a number of years before that,” said Richard’s son, Dennis Kachelmyer.

Art Moats taught young Richard well; so well that the Harley dealer rode a 46 FL Knucklehead year round.

“I grew up in that red sidecar and before 1968, Dad did not have a car to drive,” Dennis said.

Dennis started working at his father and mother Ann’s dealership around 1968, painting the building for dimes.

Richard’s ability to ride a Harley all winter long relied on thawing the bike with a blow torch.

That was a skill that one fellow rider envied.

“Dad tells him how to do it and he calls back a little while later and says my motorcycle burned to a crisp so you had to use a little finesse to do that sort of thing,” Dennis said.

The Kachelmyers continued together down the road selling and fixing Harleys until 1997 when Ann passed away.

“So I took over in 97 and Dad didn’t retire and Dad passed away in 2001 and he only missed three days of work,” Dennis said.

Now in his 70s, Dennis is ready to retire.

After 73-plus years and three locations, the Harley-Davidson Sports Center is looking for a new owner.

Loyal customers hope one is found before the next riding season starts.

Earl Mudderman of Eveleth loves getting his trike maintained at the shop.

“Love bringing it in every year maintenance-wise and to come down and pick up whatever we want in accessories so I’m hoping someone does buy it and keeps going,” Mudderman said.

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