For over 50 years, Dutchess Recreational Vehicles has been a cornerstone of the powersports community in Poughkeepsie, NY, serving enthusiasts from across the Hudson Valley and beyond. General Manager Steve Guarino has been driving the business’s success for more than three decades.
Guarino’s journey in the industry began at the age of 14 when he started flagging at a local motorsports track. This early exposure led him to work for a Kawasaki dealership at 18. Now, with over 25 years at Dutchess Recreational Vehicles under his belt, Guarino’s dedication to the powersports world remains strong.
What sets Dutchess Recreational Vehicles apart is its connection to the community. The dealership actively participates in the motocross scene, sponsoring races and contributing prizes to annual banquets. Beyond motorsports, they organize charity rides and collaborate with other local dealers for events such as the September animal rescue fundraiser, demonstrating a commitment to giving back that transcends business competition.
For Guarino, the core of the business lies in the relationships forged with customers over the years. “It’s definitely the customers,” he says when asked about what he enjoys most about his work. “We’ve developed great long-term relationships. You get to know them and their families, attend their weddings, and support them in various ways. You can’t put a price on that.”
Since 1971, Dutchess Recreational Vehicles has been serving powersports enthusiasts from Poughkeepsie, Peekskill, NY, Danbury, CT, and throughout the Hudson Valley. The dealership boasts an impressive inventory of new and used vehicles from top manufacturers including Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Sea Doo, Can Am, Ski Doo, CF Moto, and Scarab. Their extensive selection encompasses motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, personal watercraft, boats, snowmobiles, and trailers, catering to a wide range of powersports adventures.
While Guarino remains modest about the dealership’s accolades, the longevity and success of Dutchess Recreational Vehicles speak volumes. Maintaining a successful business for over half a century in a competitive industry is an achievement in itself, reflecting the dealership’s commitment to quality, customer service, and community engagement.
As powersports continue to evolve, Dutchess Recreational Vehicles stands ready to serve the next generation of enthusiasts, building on its rich history and community ties to support adventures for years to come.