Richard Klamfoth
1994, Competition
Born September 30, 1928, in Columbus, Ohio. Currently resideing in Thornville, Ohio. Dick has spent his entire life as a success in the motorcycle sport and business. He has always been a credit to the sport and is well known and respected among his peers for his winning efforts in competition and his later accomplishment in the retail business. From a racer to the largest motorcycle (Honda) dealer in the United States (in 1964 and 1965) is a transition rarely seen.
Dick is mostly remembered for his first National Number 2 as displayed on his Norton. He also rode for BSA, Royal Enfield and Indian during his competitive years. Indicative of his talent and determination and loyalty, he did more than anyone else to make Norton a force to be reckoned with on American tracks. As a three time winner at Daytona (49, 51, and 52) he showed his worth. And it wasn't because he was in slow company. Hall of Famers like Bobby Hill and Bill Tuman fought him all the way to the checkered flag.
In addition to Daytona wins he won at:
- Laconia: 1949, 1951 and 1952
- Heidelberg: 1958 and 1959
- Richmond: 1951 and 1954
- Shreveport: 1951
- Ohio State Champ Five times
- Voted MOST POPULAR RIDER in 1962
These were some Nation Championships and Regional Championships and they don't count the wins at places like Sturgis and other racetracks.
Dick earned respect on the racetrack as a rider, a mechanic, and a sportsman. Later he showed the depth of his ability when he became the largest U.S. motorcycle dealer. But certainly a most important consideration, he always conducted himself publicly and privately as someone motorcyclists can be proud of.
« Return to Hall of Fame List