The Grand Opening of Art’s Motorcycle Shop Unites Bikers in North Augusta

The Grand Opening of Art’s Motorcycle Shop Brings Bikers Together in North Augusta

This past Saturday, North Augusta was bustling with excitement as a crowd of CSRA bikers gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Art’s Motorcycle Shop. Located strategically along Edgefield Highway, this new venture is already creating quite a buzz in the local motorcycle community.

A Journey Back to the Passion of Bikes

Meet Art Robinson, the man behind the wheels at this shop. His journey to becoming a motorcycle mechanic is nothing short of inspirational. As a teenager, Art found joy in tinkering with bikes—a hobby he stepped away from for a time due to its high costs. But life had different plans for him!

Art’s career meandered through various roles, including a stint in the Army, a position in security, and nine years on the railroad. However, his passion kept calling him back. After spending a year at the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Orlando, FL, he gained the skills needed to turn his childhood hobby into a livelihood.

Support from the Community

In a twist of fate, Art found himself working in a local shop in New Ellenton where he transformed the space into a thriving business. After listening to the needs of the community and noticing a gap in motorcycle services due to retiring mechanics, Art decided it was time for a change. Just a year ago, he and his wife, Elizabeth, moved their business to North Augusta, near Exit 5.

And what a move it has been! “We’ve been very blessed with it,” Art shared. “The traffic volume here is fantastic, and the location being closer to Augusta really helps attract customers from Columbia and beyond. We’ve brought a lot of our loyal clients, but we’ve gained a whole new set of patrons too!”

A Community of Bikers

Art also emphasized the support they received from local businesses and the American Legion, making their transition smooth and welcoming. Plus, their connection to the Freedom Biker Church in New Ellenton adds a unique flavor to their operations. Speaking with Pastor Gary Hanna, he explained that their ministry focuses on serving the biker community in a way that feels more inclusive. “We like to think of ourselves as a biker rally every Sunday,” Hanna noted. “It’s a different kind of church vibe, and everyone feels at home here.”

A Helping Hand in the Community

It’s heartwarming to hear how Art and Elizabeth give back to the community. With the shop acting as a satellite ministry for the Freedom Biker Church, they not only fix bikes but also support fellow riders in need. Associate pastor Travis Brown emphasized their mission: “Art and Elizabeth commit to living out the Gospel here, helping where they can, and making everyone feel welcome.”

Art even recalled one instance where he stayed late to fix a flat tire for a group traveling from North Carolina to Texas for a veterans’ ride. “It’s about being there for others,” he explained. His commitment is a reflection of his own experiences trying to manage repairs on a budget, and he wants to extend that service to others who may be facing similar challenges.

What’s Next for Art’s Motorcycle Shop?

As for what’s on the horizon for Art’s Motorcycle Shop? The husband-and-wife duo continues to expand their reach while honing their craft. “I want to be that shop where someone can come without breaking the bank,” Art said. “It feels great to do what I love while also supporting the biking community.”

So, if you’re in the area and looking for motorcycle repairs or just want to connect with fellow bikers, head over to Art’s Motorcycle Shop at 551 Edgefield Rd. in North Augusta. It seems like you’ll not just find expert bike care, but a welcoming family ready to share their passion for motorcycles!