By John Hernandez
San Manuel Miner
HD First Motorcycle Repair and Service had their grand opening on Dec. 7 in Oracle. Owner Barry Johnston is a graduate of MMI (Motorcycle Mechanics Institute) and is a certified Harley Davidson mechanic. He worked over five years for Harley Davidson in Tucson. He has been a resident of Oracle since 1986. He lives with his wife Lori and they have a daughter Rachelle and son Barry.
Barry decided to go into business for himself after getting tired of being on the road working heavy equipment. He decided to sell his fifth wheel and put the money into HD First. The shop does service, parts, tires and repair for all motorcycles, dirt bikes, and ATVs. “Our rates are equal too or better than Tucson,” said Barry. HD First can order any parts not in stock that may be needed.
At the grand opening, Twisted Whiskers AKA Dutch Vande Mheen had organized a motorcycle rodeo. DJ Rodney Diehl provided the music. Proceeds from the event went to the Wounded Warrior Project, a veteran’s organization.