It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of our colleague, mentor, and friend, Mel Harris, who passed away over the weekend due to cancer. He has been instrumental in the growth of SSR Motorsports over the last 6 years and will be sorely missed more than words can ever express. He was not only a leader at SSR, but within the powersports industry. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.
SSR Motorsports / Benelli Motorcycles USA
A lifetime spent in this industry, simple words just don't seem worthy. The last of the true heroes. All of us that remember what the business used to be like, we will miss this man. — Rod Overstreet SSR
RIP Mel you were one of the best in the motorcycle industry embodying passion for motorcycles, being a truly a nice person and a true professional. — Brad Hagi, KTM
The motorcycle industry lost a great man.
Many may not know him but at one time this man was responsible for selling over 200,000 Suzuki’s in one year. He put together a sales force that made the other brands very nervous. And he taught me so much about the motorcycle business. He was the man that brought Travis Pastrana, Ricky Carmichael, Chad Reed, James Stewart, Broc Hepler and so many other off-road racers to Suzuki. He also was responsible for countless roadracing championships… he was the guy behind Makita tools. Rockstar Energy Drink and many other huge sponsors entering the market. Mel will be sadly missed but his pain is gone. — Jeff Cernic, Cernic's Suzuki
My father-in-law Mel Harris passed away on Sunday from cancer, and he was one of the greatest men I have ever known. Mel was an incredible example of a husband, father, grandfather, colleague and friend, and he will be forever missed. As the former head of Suzuki’s Motorcycle division in the U.S., his favorite aspect of motorcycling was unquestionably racing. He helped the careers of legends such as Kevin Schwantz, Travis Pastrana, Ryan Dungey, Jeremy McGrath, Ricky Carmichael, Guy Cooper, Greg Albertyn, Mat Mladin, and many others. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him and often turned to Mel for guidance, counsel, and his opinion. Rest in Peace, Mel Harris, and thanks for everything you did for Amy, Hannah, Wyatt, myself, the rest of our extended family, and the motorcycling community. Mel's celebration of life will be held on April 24 from 10 am-2 pm at Pole Position Raceway, 1594 E. Bentley Dr, Corona, CA 92883.— Ken Faught, Pole Position Raceway
