Motorcyclists and other powersports enthusiasts in Mount Vernon have an ally in Mid-Ohio Powersports, a store catering to all facets of the hobby.
Owner David Ewart and his wife, Carol, purchased the business (formerly Mid-Ohio Suzuki) in October of 2016. The store has been a labor of love for the couple.
"I'm a rider, and an enthusiastic supporter of the riding sport," David Ewart said. "I'm also an advocate for enabling those that love to ride. Our staff are all fellow riders and bring that passion to serve the powersports community."
When the Ewarts purchased the store six years ago, the industry was undergoing generational change, David recalled, affecting what buyers wanted. Manufacturers were revamping their product lines.
That led to the elimination of many cruiser-style motorcycles between 2016 and 2018.
"At the same time there was a shift in younger buyers towards off-road riding, especially with the ATV and side-by-side (UTV) models," he explained.
By the time the upheaval was over, Ewart said his store had moved from about 65% road motorcycles to about 60% ATV and UTV models.
"We also made the transition by adding new brands that offered new and different products. In 2016 we had four brands. Today we have 12."
Although he credits his OEM vendors with supporting the store's transition, he also said his faith played a role.
"First and foremost, I must give all credit to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ," Ewart said. "He is the author of our story and has kept us going in very amazing ways."
Ewart's faith was crucial when he suffered a setback in 2018 after an eight-point buck hit his bike as he was traveling at 60 mph.
"I had a lot of injuries, but He was there every step of the way, and has given me the gift of life, and of the story of this business," Ewart said. "My wife, Carol, is my business partner, best friend, tech expert, cheerleader, and has been a great source of strength."
Early on when he acquired the store, Ewart said he committed to keeping community involvement in the forefront. This was a role the previous owner played.
As a result, Mid-Ohio Powersports supports the Salvation Army, Knox County's Food For The Hungry, the Mount Vernon Music and Arts Festival, Knox County Fair, local law enforcement, local charity rides and many other causes and events.
"The prior owner has a long history of this kind of service to the powersports community, and I am focused on continuing that legacy," he said. "From our perspective, success is one satisfied customer at a time, and seeing them come back to us with confidence for their next needs."
