Accessory Pioneer Named to Hall
Accessory pioneer named to Hall
Bates founded scooter service and accessory company Bates Manufacturing Inc. in Los Angeles, Calif. in 1939. Bates began designing scooter windshields and, when metal was being rationed during World War II, he developed a plastic windshield rim that he later patented.
Following the war, Bates Manufacturing began marketing motorcycle accessories and leather apparel.
After I bought my first real motorcycle, a Triumph Bonneville, the next thing I needed was a Bates leather jacket, says Don Rosene, chair of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction committee. I thought as much of that jacket as I did my new motorcycle. I know Robert Bates made many other motorcycle accessories, but Ill never forget my Bates leather jacket.
Rob Dingman, AMA president and chief executive officer, credits Bates as a pioneer in the aftermarket industry.
In many ways, motorcycling attracts individuals, and that individualism often manifests itself in how we customize our motorcycles, says Dingman. This social phenomenon was not lost on Robert Bates, who developed a broad range of products that connected with motorcyclists, from aftermarket pillion seats to leather jackets. As one of the first businessmen to leverage this affinity for personalization, Bates helped establish an aftermarket industry that is thriving today.
Bates will be honored with the eight other members of the Hall of Fame class of 2009 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. on Dec. 5.
Related Reading
Dirt-tracker Palmgren goes to AMA Hall
Gary Mathers named to AMA Hall
Motorcycle safety author heads to Hall
Fox brothers chosen for AMA Hall
OHV activist headed for AMA Hall
Shock pioneer named to AMA Hall of Fame
Enduro champ Hawkins heads to the Hall
Motorcycle.com presents an unrivaled combination of bike reviews and news written by industry experts
More by Motorcycle.com Staff
Comments
Join the conversation