Thomas Heininger
2004, Leadership
One of the great innovators of the motorcycle industry, Tom Heininger
always supports the riders, the businesses, and the events.
There are many phrases that describe Tom. He is a problem solver and
a promoter with un-heralded energy and passion, always helping to
make all facets of the motorcycle industry better. Tom is respected
by all as the guy who gets things done with integrity and class, not
to mention fun.
Tom founded Webco, Inc. in 1954, the original House of Power Parts.
Webco, Inc. made and sold all sorts of high-end engine components
and performance accessories. As the industry evolved around the Japanese
imports, Webco continued to focus on safety and increased performance
of the bike and rider.
During the first years of the Daytona motorcycle races, Tom (and the
late Roxy Rockwood) started a nightly radio show. At first, it was
broadcast locally in Daytona and surrounding areas. After a few years,
the broadcast was heard across the southern U.S. It became the meeting
place for racers and industry personalities to get together.
Tom also provided insight and inside lines of the motorcycle industry
to Hollywood film makers. Long before Bruce Brown®'s On Any Suday
was released, Albert Ruddy Little Foss and Big Halsey starring little
known actor, Robert Redford. Tom's involvement proved to be a big success
for the motorcycle sport and business as it introduced the excitement
and challenges of the national racing scene through the lenses of Hollywood.
A tireless innovator and astute businessman, Tom (along with Bob Hughes) is
still regarded by many as the father of the motorcycle accessory business.
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