Walter & Lucille Timme

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The Timme Legacy: A Family's 65-Year Ride with Indian and Honda Motorcycles

In 1938, with just $200 in savings and a $1,000 loan, Walter Timme and his family opened an Indian Motorcycle dealership in Pueblo, Colorado. What started as a small local business would become a lasting legacy in the motorcycle community, spanning decades of growth, change, and passion for two-wheel adventure. Despite challenges—including a hiatus during World War II—the Timme family operated the dealership for 65 years, transitioning from selling iconic Indian Motorcycles to becoming a trusted Honda dealership.

A Family Affair and a Love for the Open Road

Walter Timme wasn’t just a businessman; he was a lifelong rider who embraced every form of motorcycle competition. From endurance races to flat-track events and hill-climbs, Timme’s love for riding knew no limits. He and his wife, Lucille, shared this passion, creating a bond that ran deeper than just their marriage.

When Walter married Lucille Thomas in July 1935, motorcycles were already a central part of their lives. In fact, the couple began their married life on the road—riding their bikes from Pueblo to Denver on their honeymoon. According to family lore, they camped out in a roadside culvert along the way, embodying the adventurous spirit that would define their lives together.

The Challenges of War and a New Beginning

When World War II broke out, the Timme family temporarily closed their dealership as Walter went off to serve his country. Like so many businesses of that era, they had to put their dreams on hold. But as soon as Walter returned from the war, the shop reopened, and the family picked up right where they left off.

While the Indian Motorcycle brand eventually ceased production, the Timmes didn’t slow down. They adapted with the times, embracing the new wave of Honda Motorcycles that took the world by storm in the post-war era. Their ability to evolve with the industry kept the dealership thriving for more than six decades, making it a cornerstone of the Pueblo motorcycle community.

Leaders in the Motorcycle Community

Beyond their business success, Walter and Lucille were active leaders in the local motorcycle scene. Both were long-standing officers of the Pueblo Motorcycle Club, a group that fostered camaraderie among riders and helped promote the joy of motorcycling throughout the region. Their involvement further solidified their reputation as pillars of the community—not just as shop owners, but as ambassadors for the sport they loved.

A Legacy on Two Wheels

The Timme family’s journey from opening a humble dealership in 1938 to running a successful business for 65 years is a testament to passion, perseverance, and adaptability. Walter’s deep involvement in all forms of motorcycle racing, combined with the couple’s commitment to the local community, left a lasting impact on Pueblo and beyond.

The Timmes didn’t just sell motorcycles—they lived and breathed the lifestyle, inspiring countless riders along the way. Their story is a reminder that motorcycles are more than just machines; they are a way of life, built on adventure, camaraderie, and love.

Even though the dealership doors eventually closed, the Timme family’s legacy continues to ride on in the memories of those who crossed paths with Walter, Lucille, and the bikes that fueled their extraordinary journey.