Frank Diehl, Cathy’s Person of the Week, Got a Quick Start Out of the Gate

By Cathy Miller

It’s pretty nice when a teen discovers an innate talent at such a young age, and then via decisions and destiny and decades well spent, achieves roaring success in that very arena!

Frank Diehl restored his first motorcycle at 16 years old. It was a 1974 Kawasaki H1. In 1989, at 23, he began working part time as a mechanic at Kawasaki Sport Center in Pompton Plains while continuing his full time job as a pipe fitter. He entered the motorcycle business full time at Black Hills Custom Parts in 1997, then joined the crew at Hanover PowerSports in 2000 for an eight year stint. There’s the “Talent.”

2008 was a banner year for Frank. He and his family took up residence in Blairstown in January. In that same year, working from his garage, Frank launched F & J Service and Maintenance. Word of mouth referrals generated a steady influx of satisfied customers. In time, the business outgrew the garage so Frank purchased the old Blairstown Ambulance Squad building in 2015. He renovated the center of the building, originally the Squad’s office and kitchen, transforming it into a showroom and service counter. The bays got a fresh coat of paint and the floors were epoxied. On March 7, 2016, Blairstown PowerSports had its Grand Opening. Three years later, it’s going stronger than ever.

Culling from his cumulative work and business know-how, Frank built a custom-made business model to suit his community and his clientele. Blairstown PowerSports provides service, maintenance, parts and accessories for all major brands of motorcycles, ATVs and power equipment. With 35+ years of experience, Frank firmly believes that being a local businessman allows him to better understand the area and meet his customers’ varied needs. He also supports and helps organize area charity motorcycling events…and there’s the “Commitment.”

While Blairstown PowerSports services motorcycles of all makes and models, Frank rides a customized Harley-Davidson. In 1997, he purchased a 1986 Harley-Davidson FXR limited edition. He did a ground up rebuild by installing a 6 speed transmission and a 92″ Stroker engine making 105 HP and 105 ft lbs of torque at the rear wheel. He also updated the front end, fuel tank and fenders with a custom paint job.

When asked about his favorite places to motorcycle and his most unforgettable experiences, Frank replied, “I have ridden up and down the East Coast, but one of my favorite memories was when I went out to Sturgis, South Dakota with a group of friends for a week. Another memorable time was getting to ride around Southern California with my daughter, Danielle.”

What about just chillin’, does he have any time for that? “On my days off,” Frank said, “I enjoy riding ATVs, fishing and using my custom-made BBQ smoker with my three children and granddaughter.” That’s the “Family.”

And here’s to “Success!”