Collen Barnett & Mike Taylor
Celebrating a Legacy: Colleen Barnett and Mike Taylor
In the storied history of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame, only a handful of husband-and-wife teams have been honored for their contributions to the motorcycle industry. This year, the museum is thrilled to welcome Colleen Barnett and Mike Taylor to this elite group, joining the ranks of legendary couples like Pearl and Pappy Hoel, Willie G. and Nancy Davidson, Jim and Phyllis McClure, and Brian and Laura Klock.
A Family Business with Deep Roots
Barnett Clutches & Cables, founded in 1948 by Charlie and Afton Barnett, proudly celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. What began as a small operation has blossomed into a recognized name in the motorcycle industry, and it’s still run by a husband-and-wife team. Colleen Barnett-Taylor grew up immersed in the business, becoming an integral part of both the company and the motorcycle community.
Colleen’s earliest memories are intertwined with the family business; she recalls standing by her father’s workbench in their garage, watching him craft cables. Riding on his motorcycle in front of him on the gas tank, she experienced the thrill of biking at an early age. “I loved it!” she remembers fondly. As she grew older, Colleen assisted in various capacities, from packing orders after school to running a drill press—though that job was not her favorite!
A Love Story Born in the Industry
Colleen’s journey took a fortuitous turn in 1965 when she met Mike Taylor on a blind date. Coincidentally, Mike had just encountered a clutch failure on his old Honda CA95 and had nursed it to Colleen’s home. When he explained his delay, Colleen responded with a practical solution: a trip to her father’s shop for a Barnett clutch. Little did they know that this chance meeting would lead to a lifelong partnership, both personally and professionally.
That fateful day not only marked the beginning of a beautiful relationship but also led to Mike’s realization of the exceptional performance of his motorcycle after installing the Barnett clutch. Their connection deepened, leading to their marriage in 1966 and eventually joining forces in the family business.
Building a Legacy Together
In 1969, Charlie Barnett invited Mike to work with the family, solidifying their partnership. By 1975, Colleen and Mike took the reins of Barnett Clutches & Cables, fully embracing the challenges of running the company. The couple faced a tumultuous period when Charlie suffered a stroke in 1974, forcing them to step up and manage the business while raising their family of three.
Over the decades, Colleen and Mike have donned many hats within the company, from manufacturing cables and clutch plates to managing operations and even sweeping floors. “As a small company, everyone does everything!” Mike emphasizes, highlighting the hands-on approach that has characterized their leadership.
A Passion for Motorcycling
For Colleen and Mike, work has never felt like a job. Their shared passion for motorcycles and the thrill of making parts for riders has fueled their dedication. “What’s better than getting up in the morning and looking forward to making parts for motorcycles? We are very lucky to make a living doing what we love,” they affirm. Their journey has not only enriched their lives but has also forged lasting friendships within the motorcycle community.
Honoring a Legacy of Love and Labor
In the spirit of the legendary Pearl and Pappy Hoel, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum proudly inducts Colleen Barnett and Mike Taylor into the Hall of Fame Class of 2017. Their story is one of resilience, dedication, and love—not just for each other, but for the entire motorcycle industry. As they celebrate their remarkable journey, Colleen and Mike remind us all of the power of family and the bonds that make the motorcycle community thrive.
As Barnett Clutches & Cables continues to innovate and grow, the legacy of Colleen and Mike Taylor serves as an inspiration, proving that with hard work and a shared passion, the road ahead is limitless.