Keeping up the Momentum

Nick Pirog opened Louisville's first DIY auto shop, but what he offers is much more than just tools and a lift.

Tucked away in the neighborhood of Irish Hill, Louisville, Kentucky, Momentum Motorsport LLC is more than a garage, it’s a thriving community hub built around a shared love of automotives.

Nick Pirog in his shop, Momentum Motorsports, on May 4.

Founded in 2019 by veteran Nick Pirog, Momentum was inspired by the “auto hobby shops” found on military bases during his time as a tank mechanic.

“Our service members aren’t paid as well as civilians and often seek ways to save money on important issues like necessary car repairs,” Pirog explains.

“The ‘auto hobby shop’ enabled service people to work on their vehicles for a

low cost compared to established professional shops.” He brought that same

spirit to Louisville, creating a one of a kind space that welcomes all makes,

models, and skill levels.

Nick Pirog helps a friend work on an engine of a 1968 Ford on May 4.

Momentum draws in a diverse crowd, from local car clubs to travelers from places like South Carolina, Cincinnati, Nashville and even Canada. “We want everything we do to have a value orientation to it,” Pirog says. Whether someone needs guidance on a tough repair or simply wants to learn how to use a new tool, they find mentorship and support here.

“We can be a guide, a coach, and support team for them,” Pirog said.

Nick Pirog helps a customer install a new radiator on his Mazda on May 4.

But Momentum’s impact goes far beyond the shop. The business runs hands-on automotive classes for underserved youth in the Louisville area in partnership with Pirog and his wife’s non-profit children's art studio, Side by Side.

“Our goal is to help young people be impactful and resourceful in their communities,” said Pirog.

Lessons cover practical knowledge like jump-starting a car, changing oil, or swapping a tire. The shop also hosts an annual Momentum Rally, a community road trip that blends driving with connection and fun. As Pirog puts it, “This is not just a garage rental business, it’s a whole community.”

Nick Pirog conducts a leak-down test

on a customer's 1968 Ford on May 4.

Pirog assists a customer in towing an antique Chevy around the building onto a lift in order to swap the transmission

Momentum is a key contributor to youth events and services in Louisville, particularly the West End. Even when unable to attend, they enjoy sending merchandise and coupons to be used in raffles, such as this "Little Passports" children's book, with a three-hour free garage use coupon inside.

Nick Pirog has created a major hub for car enthusiasts, gearheads, and those who could not afford to do car repairs otherwise. Around his shop, and the city around him, he has installed a great sense of community and family. Having been in the business for five years, the city of Louisville has felt his presence and will continue to do so for years to come.