Big Dog Motorcycles
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Motorcycle manufacturing |
| Founded | 1994 |
| Founder | Sheldon Coleman Jr. |
| Defunct | April 2011 |
| Fate | Ceased operations; resumed later as Big Dog Is Back |
| Headquarters | Wichita, Kansas , United States |
Key people | Sheldon Coleman Jr. |
| Products | Semi-custom motorcycles |
Number of employees | 300+ (2005) |
Big Dog Motorcycles is a Wichita, Kansas-based producer specializing in semi-custom, moderately priced motorcycles. Established in 1994, the business halted its operations in 2011 but has recently resumed under the name Big Dog Is Back.
History
The company was launched in 1995 by Sheldon Coleman Jr., whose father, Sheldon Coleman Sr., formerly led the Coleman Company. Initially, Big Dog focused on customizing Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Their inaugural model, dubbed "Old Smokey," showcased large fenders and a traditional cruiser design that shaped future offerings. Early production heavily incorporated Harley-Davidson components.
By 1996, Big Dog had sold 100 units. Revenues climbed to $2 million in 1997, which led to relocating in 2000 to a larger manufacturing facility and headquarters that eventually expanded to 175,000 square feet. The company reached its highest point in 2005, producing over 5,000 motorcycles with a workforce exceeding 300 employees and generating revenue over $120 million. During this period, it was acknowledged alongside American IronHorse as one of the top two manufacturers of exotic motorcycles in the United States. The milestone of producing the 20,000th motorcycle was achieved by 2006. However, declining sales caused the first workforce reductions in 2007.
Operations ceased in April 2011. Later, in October 2013, Intrust Bank initiated foreclosure proceedings on Big Dog’s property.