Matthew Harris, owner of Epic Powersports in Traverse City, Michigan, has transformed his dedication to powersports into a thriving business with a unique origin story and a strong community focus.
Epic Powersports began in 2011 in the most unlikely of places – a converted girls’ bathroom in an automotive shop. “I removed the toilet and put my desk over it,” Harris recalls with a laugh. “We called it the ‘prison cell’ because I painted everything gray.” This tiny space served as the launching pad for what would become a respected powersports dealership.
Harris’s journey in the powersports industry began long before Epic’s inception. Since 1994, he’s worked in various roles, from a Supercross team to managing a Polaris and Victory dealership. This wealth of experience laid the foundation for his own venture.
As interest grew, Harris expanded to a small storefront in northern Michigan’s farm country. The business continued to evolve, and within two years, he moved to Traverse City, focusing on two-wheel vehicles and bringing KTM into the fold.
What sets Epic Powersports apart is its deep community involvement. The dealership hosts “Wednesday Night Nationals,” a regular riding group that brings enthusiasts together. “It’s hands-on. You’re in the trenches with your customers,” Harris explains. This close connection allows for immediate feedback and problem-solving, building strong customer relationships.
Epic Powersports takes a customer-centric approach to sales. “We let people try the product,” Harris says. Despite initial reluctance from manufacturers, this try-before-you-buy strategy has proven successful. “Before you spend $12,000, it’s nice to say, ‘Hey, we have demos. Let’s go ride and see.’” This approach not only ensures customers get the right bike but also creates lasting connections.
While Epic Powersports doesn’t focus on formal charitable causes, they are committed to supporting young riders. “We help a lot of customers out, especially younger racers,” Harris shares. The dealership puts energy into supporting promising young talents who demonstrate not just speed, but good character and leadership qualities.
As Epic Powersports continues to grow, Matthew Harris remains committed to his hands-on approach and community focus. While the dealership hasn’t received formal industry awards, their impact on the local riding community speaks volumes.
From its unconventional start in a converted bathroom to its current status as a community hub for powersports enthusiasts, Epic Powersports exemplifies how dedication, experience, and a customer-first approach can drive success in the competitive powersports industry.
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