JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Battle Creek Powersports, located at 375 Commerce Place between Jasper and Kimball, is a local dealership specializing in a wide range of powersport vehicles from several of the industry’s leading brands.
The business first opened in February 2008, initially selling Kawasaki vehicles. Over time, it expanded to include major brands such as CFMOTO, Can-Am, and Polaris. Owner and CEO Phynessa Sewell explained that UTVs (utility task vehicles) are the dealership’s biggest sellers, largely due to the region’s rural and spacious terrain—an ideal setting for off-road adventures. UTVs are less popular in more urban areas, giving the dealership a competitive edge locally.
“Side-by-sides are king around here. We definitely sell a ton of side-by-sides,” said Sewell, referring to UTVs that offer multiple passenger seating—one of their most appealing features for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy sharing the ride with friends or family.
Phynessa shared that the business was originally founded by her husband, Stan Sewell, under the name Midsouth Powersports in 2000. Ownership changed hands in 2003, though the name remained the same until the Sewells reacquired the business in 2008 and rebranded it as Battle Creek Powersports.
Today, the dealership offers a variety of vehicles, including ATVs, dirt bikes, and road-legal models like the Polaris Slingshot, which debuted in 2014. In addition to sales, Battle Creek Powersports provides mechanical services such as oil and tire changes for all major brands of motorcycles and off-road vehicles. However, Sewell noted that more complex repairs involving software diagnostics are limited to brands with which the dealership holds manufacturer partnerships.
Looking ahead, the dealership has plans to expand with a new location near Godsey Drive and Industrial Boulevard. Part of the site plan has already been approved by the Marion County Commission. The new facility is expected to be larger than the current one and will include a spacious showroom to better display the dealership’s offerings.
While still in the planning stages, Phynessa and her team are excited about the expansion and remain committed to serving the community and surrounding areas with high-quality on- and off-road powersport vehicles.
