He now co-owns Open Road Harley-Davidson, 24 S. Rolling Meadows Drive, with partner Lori Thiel. The memorable sound of a Harley engine — and a chance encounter in Sturgis, S.D. — led them to their own shop.

Johnson, who has 20 years of experience with Harley® bikes, first heard the calling at an early age. Motorcycles kept him and his four brothers entertained, especially after his father built them a small racetrack, he recalled. When the boys had a moment, they ate Mom's lunch on the station wagon tailgate.

When Thiel bought her motorcycle, her father thought she "flipped (my) lid." Growing up on a 300-acre dairy farm, she and her brother filled their days with dirt bikes. She matured to a responsible adult, but wondered about her future once her daughter neared graduation.

Then Thiel heard the rumble.

The sound exploded in South Dakota.

Business beginnings

Thiel and Johnson met each other a few years ago in Sturgis, Thiel said. The two, both financial services workers from the Appleton area, somehow met one another in the crowd.

"We decided the next chapter of our lives would be something we loved," she added.

And Open Road Harley-Davidson revved to life.

The business opened on Jan. 4, 2007. Johnson said they want to enhance the shop, learning about their customer's needs and sharing their devotion to riding.

Staff tries to make each visit an experience, whether or not patrons leave with a bike, Thiel added. Riders, a close-knit group, enjoy having somewhere to tell their stories.

Those who have little riding experience shouldn't shy away. Both are willing to acquaint anyone from any background with the lifestyle.

If some shoppers still feel uncomfortable, Drake should lighten the moment. The golden retriever, who loves wagging his tail and carrying toys, greets everyone who walks through the door, Johnson said.

"He's as tired as we are at the end of the day," he said.