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7 Shocking Ways RJ Sport And Cycle Has Dominated Central Minnesota Powersports For 60+ Years

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RJ Sport and Cycle stands as a true institution in the Central Minnesota powersports and marine industry, a business whose legacy stretches back over six decades in the Duluth/Hermantown area. As of December 23, 2025, the dealership continues its commitment to offering a massive, up-to-date inventory of vehicles and boats, backed by a service department renowned for its expertise in everything from routine maintenance to complex engine work. This article dives deep into the history, leadership, and current offerings that keep this family-owned business at the forefront of the region's recreational market.

The company, operating under the corporate name Hernesman Sports Inc., has successfully navigated changing market trends—from the rise of personal watercraft to the integration of advanced technologies in modern ATVs and snowmobiles—while maintaining a laser focus on customer service. Whether you're a seasoned marine enthusiast looking for the latest Viaggio pontoons or a powersports adventurer seeking a new Honda motorcycle or Arctic Cat snowmobile, RJ Sport and Cycle remains the definitive one-stop shop for all your gear and service needs in the Upper Midwest. Understanding their operation is key to unlocking the best of Minnesota's outdoor recreation.

The Legacy of Hernesman Sports: A Profile of RJ Sport and Cycle's Leadership

The foundation of RJ Sport and Cycle is built on a deep, multi-generational commitment to the marine and powersports community of Central Minnesota. This long-standing reputation is directly linked to its leadership and operational structure.

Biography and Profile: Ray Hernesman, Owner

  • Name: Ray Hernesman
  • Title: Owner / Principal Contact
  • Business Entity: Hernesman Sports Inc. (Alternate Name)
  • Location: 4918 Miller Trunk Hwy, Hermantown/Duluth, MN 55811
  • Industry Tenure: The business has been a staple in the Central Minnesota marine industry for over 60 years.
  • Role: As the owner, Ray Hernesman guides the dealership's mission to deliver top-notch service and high-quality products, ensuring the business maintains its reputation for integrity and customer focus across all departments, including sales, parts, and financing.

The business's longevity, spanning more than six decades, is a testament to the stability and vision provided by the Hernesman family. While the exact founding year is part of the deep history, the commitment to the Duluth community and the wider region has never wavered. Operating as Hernesman Sports Inc., the dealership has fostered a family-like atmosphere, which customers often cite as a key differentiator from larger, corporate-run competitors.

This deep history allows the team to offer unparalleled expertise, particularly in the specialized areas of marine and seasonal powersports, such as snowmobiling, which is critical in the Upper Midwest climate.

Beyond the Showroom: The Comprehensive Powersports and Marine Inventory

RJ Sport and Cycle’s expansive inventory is a major pillar of its topical authority, covering virtually every type of recreational vehicle needed for Minnesota’s lakes and trails. They are an authorized dealer for several world-class brands, ensuring customers have access to the latest models and genuine parts.

A Deep Dive into Key Product Lines:

The dealership maintains a continually updated stock of New Inventory, which includes a diverse range of vehicles tailored for the region's dual-season recreation.

  • Marine Products (Boats & Pontoons): RJ Sport and Cycle is a premier dealer for high-quality marine products, including the popular Viaggio Pontoons. Their marine selection caters to fishing, cruising, and general boating needs on Lake Superior and the countless inland lakes of Minnesota.
  • Motorcycles and ATVs: As an authorized Honda dealer, they offer a full range of motorcycles, ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), and Side-by-Sides. This includes models for utility, sport riding, and trail exploration, such as the latest Honda CRF450R models.
  • Snowmobiles: Essential for winter recreation in Duluth, the dealership carries vehicles from top brands like Arctic Cat, ensuring enthusiasts are equipped for the snowmobile season. For example, they stock models like the Arctic Cat Prowler Pro.
  • Utility Vehicles: The inventory also includes a variety of Side-by-Sides and utility vehicles, which are increasingly popular for both recreational use and property management.

The sales team prides itself on being product experts, offering detailed comparisons and guidance on features like engine performance, financing options, and the specific applications of each vehicle, whether it’s a dual sport motorcycle or a heavy-duty fishing boat. The Parts Finder service on their website further simplifies the process for customers to locate specific components for their existing equipment.

The Service Advantage: Why RJ Sport and Cycle is a Central Minnesota Staple

The true measure of a long-standing dealership is its service department. For over 60 years, RJ Sport and Cycle has built its reputation not just on sales, but on providing expert, reliable service that keeps customers on the water and trails year after year.

Comprehensive Service Offerings and Expertise:

The certified technicians at the Duluth location are equipped to handle a wide range of specialized services that are crucial for the diverse products they sell.

  • Marine Services: This is a core competency, including outboard installs, crucial engine diagnostics, and seasonal maintenance.
  • Seasonal Winterization: A critical service in Minnesota, winterization ensures that boats, personal watercraft, and other marine engines are properly stored and protected against the harsh winter elements, extending their lifespan and preventing costly repairs.
  • Routine Maintenance and Repairs: The team performs all levels of service for motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles, utilizing genuine parts and accessories from their authorized brands (Honda, Yamaha, Arctic Cat).
  • Parts and Accessories: Beyond service, they offer a full range of parts and accessories for boats, motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles, including specialized gear for fishing and riding.

Deep Community Involvement and 2024 Sponsorships

The dealership's commitment extends beyond its business operations and into the local community, a practice that solidifies its role as a regional staple. Their involvement demonstrates a dedication to the recreational and technological future of the area:

  • Proctor Speedway Sponsorship: RJ Sport and Cycle is a recognized sponsor for events at Proctor Speedway, including the Memorial Day Weekend races in May 2024. This support directly contributes to local motorsports and community entertainment.
  • STEM and Robotics Support: They are a key sponsor of the Northern Lights Regional FRC Event, a FIRST Robotics Competition. This involvement highlights a commitment to fostering future engineers and technicians in the Duluth area, aligning with the high-tech nature of modern powersports.

The combination of a vast, high-quality inventory, expert technical service, and genuine community support under the guidance of Ray Hernesman ensures that RJ Sport and Cycle will continue to be the primary destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the Upper Midwest for years to come. Their ability to consistently provide the newest models and reliable support for all seasons is the secret to their over 60 years of dominance.

7 Shocking Ways RJ Sport and Cycle Has Dominated Central Minnesota Powersports for 60+ Years
rj sport and cycle
rj sport and cycle

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