Danny Ridgeway started working part-time at Cahill’s when he was in the 10th grade. His first job was servicing lawnmowers.
In 1969, Danny had the opportunity to buy the business. At the time, he had four young children and did not have the resources to buy the store, although he did have the ability to manage it. So the owner helped Danny obtain financing, set up a new store and hire a sales manager.
Now, 44 years later, every one of Danny’s children and grandchildren have worked at the family business at one time or another, and many still do today. And with his pending retirement, sons Mark and Charlie are taking over the reins of the business.
“I’m lucky,” Danny says. “I know a lot of people whose children want nothing to do with the family business. My sons have been instrumental in helping to grow this business.”
Mark is in charge of the North Tampa location, and Charlie runs the Zephyrhills store, which the family opened in 2005.
The business has seen many changes since Danny became owner. It no longer sells lawn equipment, and its line of motorcycles has grown from the original two lines to most of the major brands sold today.
Today you will find something for every type of rider, from six-cylinder touring bikes to 50cc motor scooters. Cahill’s has a wide range of dirt bikes, combination street and off-road bikes, all-terrain vehicles and utility vehicles. And, they have recently diversified by adding a line of water-sports equipment.
“We see a lot of first-time buyers, and most of them know exactly what they’re looking for when they walk in the door,” says Danny. “Years ago it was young boys looking for fast bikes. Today the average first-time buyer is an adult man or woman.”
Customers need to attend a three-day class to get their motorcycle license before they can purchase anything with an engine over 50cc.
Danny advises anyone who hasn’t ridden in a while to take the class. “It’s a great refresher course,” he says. “It keeps you aware of things that’ll keep you safe while riding.”
This is a real family business with children and relatives working in both locations. Whether you’re coming in for service or a purchase, the Ridgeway family treats their customers like part of their family. Visit them at one of their two convenient locations.
Cahill’s Motorsports has two locations, including 8820 U.S. 301 in Zephyrhills, and 8920 Armenia Ave. in Tampa. The Zephyrhills store can be reached at (813) 788-1779, while the Tampa store can be reached at (813) 933-3528.
Visit them online at www.Cahills.com.
– Mike Matthew
This story was written by the advertising department.
