Back in 1954 George Roeder, Sr. started his memorable motorcycle career on a Harley-Davidson WR model motorcycle. A short time after riding the motorcycle for the first time, George upgraded to a Harley-Davidson KR which would ultimately be his weapon of choice on the track. In fact, he used the KR for the remainder of his racing career.
As a life long fan of racing, George worked tirelessly seeking perfection in the sport. Throughout his racing career, he worked on his own equipment while racing on the Harley-Davidson team. In 1961 and again in 1967 he was runner-up in the national Flat Tack Championship Series. He was also voted the most Popular Rider in the country during those years.
The Harley Factory approached George in 1965 and hired him to travel to the Bonneville Utah Salt Flats to take a shot at the World Land Speed Record in a Streamliner Powered by a 250cc Harley-Davidson Sprint engine on pump fuel. On October 21st, 1965 George successfully obtained the World Land Speed Record while piloting the Streamliner to an impressive 176.817 mph average.
In October of 1966 George took the first step toward starting a family and married Jessie. Together they opened up Roeder Harley-Davidson in 1972 in Monroeville, OH. Working as a team, they worked hard to establish a dealership that was built on a reputation for service. In the early 90's they sold the dealership to the oldest son, Will, and his wife, Julie. The dealership still thrives today and has expanded to now include two locations.
George Roeder, Sr. took pride in working with his three sons on their racing careers. As a life-long fan and participant of racing, George gained valuable experience and passed those many years of experience and knowledge down to his sons. He worked with his family through the 70's, 80's, 90's and into the Millenium. The industry lost one of its biggest fans when George passed away at the age of 66 on May, 8 2003.
George Roeder, Sr.
Family Photo Gallery
