END OF AN ERA: Harley-Davidson dealership owner selling shop after 26 years as fans mourn store once run by legendary racing champion
According to The Sun, A popular Harley-Davidson dealership is entering a new chapter after 26 years of operation, leaving behind an uncertain future. The Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, closed its doors under the current ownership on Saturday, with the final day of business focused solely on merchandise sales, which were cash-only.
Transition to New Ownership
The dealership, which has been a family-run business for over a quarter of a century, is being sold to the Walter Brothers Harley-Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois. The decision to sell was announced on Facebook, and the current owners cited the move as a long-anticipated change.
Scott Packee, who took over the dealership from his father, Dennis, shared the motivation behind the decision. Reflecting on a recent fishing trip with his sons, he mentioned, “When we went fishing, we decided, you know, maybe it’s time that we do…things a little different.” This shift in perspective prompted the family to contemplate new experiences outside of running the dealership.
A Rich Legacy
The Kewanee dealership has a storied history, previously owned by motorcycle legend Roger Reiman, a national champion racer in the 1960s who won the Daytona 200 three times and served as head mechanic for daredevil Evel Knievel. After Reiman’s tragic death in 1997, Dennis Packee took over, and the following year, he was inducted into the Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame.
Scott Packee explained that his decision to sell was also motivated by a desire to spend more time with his father, who is now 80 years old. He expressed a longing to enjoy motorcycle rides together, something they haven’t done in the past 26 years. “It is time for us to actually be able to go out and actually go for a ride,” he said.
Community Reaction
In response to the sale, customers expressed their disappointment and fondness for the dealership. One customer, Colin, described it as a “great local HD dealership for many years,” hoping that the new owners would maintain the family-friendly atmosphere. Another patron, Tyler, praised Reiman’s for its fairness and honesty, wishing the Packee family the best in their future endeavors.
The sale is anticipated to be finalized in the coming weeks, marking the end of an era for the Kewanee community and the beginning of a new chapter for the dealership.
