[J.T.]

1972 Schwinn Stingray Fastback

 2006 JT 72 Stingray bike JTFreestyle.jpg (93.09K)
Number of downloads: 3

 2006 JTFreestyle 72 Stingray drivetrain.jpg (84.36K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2006 JTFreestyle 72 Stingray front wheel.jpg (83.12K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2006 JTFreestyle 72 Stingray seat.jpg (56.41K)
Number of downloads: 1

My 1970 Vista with a coaster brake was fine but when a kid sees a Schwinn they want one. Actually my neighbor had a three speed and was bragging about how fast it goes. My Vista had easy gearing so I had to move up to the next level. My Mom couldn't afford $101 but managed to, thanks Mom!

The bike was too big for a six year old but we lowered the seat as far as it would go and I was off! The bike was a Cadillac and stylish. Well I wanted to show how fast this guy went and the three and five speeds raced. At race time I was told I needed to be in 5th gear, what? I stated I would lose due to being in a hard gear so we need a longer race. The drag strip became a full fledge race around a trucking facility I grew up next to. It had ruts due to the trucks sinking in the soft mud which became our first moto-cross course on bikes.

I learned that being in 5th gear was hard work, especially in the trucker's part of the race. In the end I was able to pull off the win and what a thrill that was! Later that Winter I saw On Any Sunday at the movie theater. Wow, kids are riding just like me but they had bigger jumps. I continued to do my own form of BMX at "The Track" which was built right behind my house for many more years.

Schwinn built a great product and can't believe all the crazy Evil Knievel and dirt jumping I did on that. It's really sad to see a great company as only the Schwinn name now.

VEHICLE

Frame - Schwinn Sting-Ray
Fork - Schwinn
Stem - Schwinn
Bars - Schwinn
Grips - Schwinn
Brakes - Weinmann
Headset - Schwinn
Wheels - Schwinn
Front Tire - Schwinn Sting-Ray
Rear Tire - Schwinn Sting-Ray slick
Chain - Schwinn
Sprocket - Schwinn
Cranks - Schwinn
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - Union
Seat - Schwinn Banana
Seat post - Schwinn
Seat post clamp - Schwinn

[J.T.]

1974 Redline Squareback

 1974 RL squareback JTFreestyle_.jpg (36.09K)
Number of downloads: 8

My '72 Schwinn Stingray was great but wanted a true BMX frame and fork to handle all the abuse of daily riding at "The Track."

Just the basics and man what a indestructible ride! What is exceptional about this is that the rear dropouts are perfect! Many Squarebacks are beat but the original quality/finish has lasted after 36 years!

I soon found out that in racing you need a lighter bike unless you are two to three years larger than your age. Retired the bike in 1978 for racing and moved on toward my "Torker Kid" career coined by my local bike shop that I rode to nearly everyday. Thanks Dennis for all your help in my BMX days!

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline Squareback with original nickel finish and rare white decals
Fork - Redline with original nickel finish
Stem - Redline double clamp proto-type stem
Bars - DG
Grips - Oury
Headset - Schwinn
Rims - Araya 7b's
Front hub - Cook Bros.
Rear hub - Bendix "Redline" coaster brake
Front Tire - Cheg Shin 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Campagnolo
Cranks - Campagnolo
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - Union
Seat - Mesinger
Seat post - Schwinn
Seat post clamp - Schwinn
Pad set - Speedo

[J.T.]

1975 Stu Thomsen Helicopter bike

 1975 RL Squareback JTFreestyle.jpg (44.53K)
Number of downloads: 2

 1975 RL gusset JTFreestyle.jpg (37.31K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1975 RL front JTFreestyle.jpg (40.08K)
Number of downloads: 0

The Bicycle Motocross News was an excellent resource for a kid in Minnesota to see what the heck is going on out in California concerning BMX. Elaine Holt was running the show and had Bob and Windy Osborn as staff members. Well in a 1975 publication I saw Stu spinning a helicopter (360) and was totally blown away! I could barely bunny hop so adding the spin was out of reach for a few years.

After building the '74 Squareback I thought this would be a great bike to display due to the first documented "helicopter" by Stu. I'll say this, for the size of Stu at the time this bike is tiny! Compared to today's bikes this would be very difficult for me to pull a 360 due to the short top tube length.

Stu thanks for all the crazy things you did on a bike and glad that I can return a favor of reliving this historical moment again.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline Squareback with original nickel finish and rare white decals
Fork - Redline with original nickel finish
Stem - Schwinn
Bars - Schwinn
Grips - Schwinn
Headset - Schwinn
Wheels - Skyway Tuff I's with Bendix coaster brake
Front Tire - Carlisle Aggressor MX 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 2.125
Chain - Schwinn
Sprocket - Schwinn
Cranks - Schwinn
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - Union
Seat - Mesinger
Seat post - Schwinn
Seat post clamp - Schwinn
Pad set - Speedo

[J.T.]

1976 Redline Squareback

 1976 RL Squareback JTFreestyle.jpg (49K)
Number of downloads: 2

 1976 RL sequence JTFreestyle.gif (375.32K)
Number of downloads: 2

 1976 RL gusset JTFreestyle.jpg (41.61K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1976 RL Front JTFreestyle.jpg (43.82K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1976 RL drive JTFreestyle.jpg (50.17K)
Number of downloads: 0

The 1976 frame had some improvements and most notably the front gusset was increased in size with two holes, slight geometry change, and offered the finish in chrome vs. Nickel as seen with the '74/'75 Squareback.

Redline's MX design into the BMX realm was huge and allowed many kids like myself to have a bullet proof bike but don't mention the $120 price tag for a frame and fork to my Mom in 1975.

The bike features era correct parts and the MX-60's are original finish and add to the chrome Redline offered for 1976.

The stem is a prototype that was featured only on the Redline Monoshock bike which had a production run of less than 50. Eventually this stem was redefined as the Proline stem featured in 1977. Kudos to Byron Friday for testing this stem which became another huge hit for Redline.

Hope you all enjoy another historical Squareback ride.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline Squareback original finish
Fork – Redline
Stem – Redline 1975 prototype
Bars – Kawasaki tall bars
Grips – Hunt Wild
Headset - Tange
Rims – MX-60’s original finish with sealed front hub
Rear hub – Shimano coaster brake
Front Tire – Cheng Shin
Rear Tire – Cheng Shin
Chain - Black
Chain ring - Addicks
Cranks - Ashtabula
Bottom Bracket - Tange
Pedals – KKT Rat trap
Seat – Black quilted
Seat post – Chrome post
Seat post clamp – Chrome steel
Pad set – White

[J.T.]

1977 Steve Skibel / Myke Landis DG replica

 1977 DG Skibel JTFreestyle.jpg (50.98K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 DG lever JTFreestyle.jpg (39.5K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 DG fork JTFreestyle.jpg (53.3K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 DG drive JTFreestyle.jpg (56.02K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1977 DG caliper JTFreestyle.jpg (57.04K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1977 DG rdropout JTFreestyle.jpg (50.43K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1977 DG sequencev JTFreestyle.gif (1.19MB)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 DG display JTFreestyle.jpg (68.22K)
Number of downloads: 1

1976 Steve Skibel was on the new DG BMX team with Stu Thomsen and Jeff Bottema. Steve was a pint sized mega fast racer and with the help of his father Steve Sr. they combined efforts on building "mini" sized bike and parts to allow Steve to have the edge on his competition. Introducing euro bottom brackets, alloy cranks, caliper brakes they got a bike below 20 pounds.

The February Bicycle Motocross magazine featured Steve on the cover and his trusty mount. Steve is the youngest rider ever to be on the cover of the mighty Bicycle Motocross Action. The brand new DG Super Pro Junior frame features the early mini fork that has drilled vs. stamped DG dropouts. This frame features a built-in seat post clamp to save weight. The Dia-Compe brake lever and caliper have been drilled to save weight also. Combining the Sugino alloy cranks, Stronglight alloy headset and bottom bracket, then Campy track hubs makes for one fast machine weighing in at 19 pounds!

Myke Landis was another DG racer and his Dad modified the rear dropout to include another allowing for a rear geometry that suited Myke better.

Click here for a video presentation

Hope you all enjoy another historical ride from the cover of Bicycle Motocross Action.

VEHICLE

Frame - DG Super Pro Mini with dual rear drop outs, one of a kind (original DG stickers)
Fork - DG mini with drilled fork tabs vs. stamped (original DG stickers)
Stem - DG / Powerlite (DG advertised once but didn't produce)
Bars - DG mini
Grips - DG blue, NOS
Headset - Stronglight alloy
Rims - Araya 7b
Hubs - Campagnolo high flange track, NOS
Freewheel - Shimano, NOS
Front Tire - Kenda diamond tread 20 x 1.75, NOS
Rear Tire - Kenda diamond tread 20 x 1.75, NOS
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890, drilled for lightness, NOS
Brake Lever - Dia-Compe, drilled for lightness, NOS
Brake pads - Mathauser finned
Chain - Regina, NOS
Chain ring - Sugino 42 teeth, drilled for lightness
Cranks - Sugino 171's, NOS
Bottom Bracket - Stronglight alloy
Pedals - Bob Reedy
Seat - Leather, NOS
Seat post - DG, 4 inches for lightness
Seat post clamp - Built-in
Padset - DG original
Plate - Rectangle 103x

[J.T.]

1977 Redline MX-II

 1977 RL MXII JTFreestyle.jpg (51.33K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 RL drive JTFreestyle.jpg (48.79K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 RL ad Byron Friday_.jpg (53.11K)
Number of downloads: 0

In 1977 the Squareback was replaced with a traditional rear end to lighten the frame yet keep it strong. Geometry was modified to make it longer with slower steering and keeping the '76 gusset for great looks and strength.

Redline began to expand their product offerings with the famous V bars and redefined Redline Proline double clamp stem thoroughly tested by Byron Friday. The stem features a 45 degree angle brace allowing for more surface area to be welded for strength. The clamps in '77 were the same as the '75 prototype stem but Redline modified to increase the size for more gripping power, strength, and stamped for Redline quality.

Redline never produced the prototype Redline seat post clamp pictured and Byron didn't know why either?

The bike features era correct parts and the Femco rims are NOS with all of the spokes/nipples revived (hand polished) laced up with a Bendix coaster brake and Bicycle Motocross tires.

Hope you all enjoy another historical Redline ride.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline MX-II original nickel finish and stickers
Fork - Redline original nickel and stickers
Stem - Redline Proline double clamp
Bars - Redline V Bars
Grips - Oury, NOS
Headset - Schwinn
Rims - Femco, NOS
Spokes - .105 gauge polished
Front hub - ACS
Rear hub - Bendix coaster brake
Front Tire - Motocross 20 x 2.125, NOS
Rear Tire - Motocross 20 x 2.125, NOS
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Addicks 46 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Ashtabula 7 1/2", NOS
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - Union rat traps from Cash Matthews, NOS
Seat - Mesinger padded, NOS
Seat post - Redline
Seat post clamp - Prototype Redline never mass produced
Caliper - Weinmann
Brake lever - Weinmann
Brake cable - Schwinn

[J.T.]

1977 Torker MX "Big Boy"

 2008 1977 Torker Big Boy JTFreestyle_.jpg (51.81K)
Number of downloads: 1

 2008 1977 Torker Big Boy Rear JTFreestyle_.jpg (56.58K)
Number of downloads: 1

 2008 1977 Torker Big Boy Speedo Fork2 JTFreestyle_.jpg (68.38K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1977 Kevin McNeal Torker cover_.jpg (63.77K)
Number of downloads: 1

The first frame designed by a very young Steve Johnson was actually called the Peddlepower frame sold by the Peddlepower bike shop. The double top tube design captured everyone's attention and for the larger rider this a good first attempt. The head tube was quite mellow at 70 degrees and the seat tube was ultra mellow compared to Redline and Mongoose. The other noticeable difference was the "fish tailed" gussets and forward pressed/welded dropouts. This unique combination combination along with a Speedo dual position fork gave for some superb handling. Soon after the test Steve began production of Torker forks.

The pre-production Torker MX frames did not have a drilled caliper mount but when the frames were designed as complete bikes they started to drill them for calipers. My Torker is a pre-production frame serial #93.

As stated by Bob Osborn, "What does this mean for a purchaser of a Torker MX? Well folks, because of the additional surfaced area and the double joint contact at the steering head afforded by double top tubes, and because of the highly effective location of gussets, and because the entire frame is made of 4130 chromoly, this bugger is exceptionally strong." Bob continues on handling, "The Torker MX handled flawlessly under all conditions: bookin' down straights, blasting berms, or sailing over jumps."

The bike features all the parts from 1977 and this was the year that Redline introduced the Pro Line stem. Pictured is a prototype with square clamps versus the rounded Redline stamped clamps that became famous. The Femco rims were never laced. All the spokes and nipples were polished to get that new look.

The inspiration on this was the July 1977 double coverage by the BMX News featuring Kevin McNeal on the cover and Bicycle Motocross Action featuring RL Osborn during the testing of the MX.

1978 Torker introduced the Low Profile model for younger riders like myself and swooped up one to replace my 1974 Redline Square back. I was coined "The Torker Kid" from that point and rode a Torker to the end of their run in 1984.

VEHICLE

Frame - Torker MX, pre-production MX non-drilled caliper with serial #93
Fork - Speedo dual
Stem - Redline prototype with square clamps
Bars - Kawasaki
Grips - Hunt Wilde from Cash Matthews, NOS
Headset - Schwinn
Rims - Femco, NOS
Spokes - .105 gauge polished
Front hub - ACS
Rear hub - Bendix
Front Tire - Motocross 20 x 2.125, NOS
Rear Tire - Motocross 20 x 2.125, NOS
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Addicks 46 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Ashtabula 7 1/2", NOS
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - Union rat traps from Cash Matthews, NOS
Seat - Mesinger padded, NOS
Seat post - Redline
Seat post clamp - Prototype Redline never mass produced
Pad set - Torker didn't make pads yet

[J.T.]

1978 Stu Thomsen Skate Park replica

 1978 SE Stu Freestyler2 JTFreestyle.jpg (51.39K)
Number of downloads: 4

 1978 SE lever JTFreestyle.jpg (41.06K)
Number of downloads: 2

 1978 SE front JTFreestyle.jpg (43.9K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 SE seat JTFreestyle.jpg (42.33K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 SE drive JTFreestyle.jpg (47.88K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 SE stem JTFreestyle.jpg (42.28K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1978 SE sequencev JTFreestyle.gif (405.25K)
Number of downloads: 1

 2009 Rock Stu Skate park JTFreestyle.jpg (59.42K)
Number of downloads: 1

"As it happens, the best at racing is also the best at riding bowls" Bob Osborn

The Vineland skate park had a skateboarder that wouldn't let anyone ride a bike but after stating that a bicycle could show him up he let Stu in. The skateboarder does a few moves and then asks Stu to ride. Stu walks over to the 15' part of the bowl, sets his coaster brake, then drops straight down the vertical wall then on the other side pulls a one handed aerial!!! Stu then proceeds to fly up the other wall to do a one hander one footer and everyone is blown away!

It was awesome to see Stu reunited with his freestyle bike at the Rockford 2009 even and had some great memories of that incredible day!

Hope you all enjoy another historical ride from the pages of Bicycle Motocross Action.

VEHICLE

Frame - Mongoose Team with rare 1st gen blue SE sticker
Fork - Mongoose Team non-drilled
Stem - Mongoose Gold Stem, NOS with dealer box
Bars - Redline ProLine
Grips - Oakley II's, NOS
Headset - Tange
Rims - Araya 7b
Hubs - Bendix rear coaster brake
Front Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 2.125, NOS
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75, NOS
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890, NOS
Brake Lever - Honda MX custom bend
Brake pads - Dia-Compe
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Takagi 43 teeth
Cranks - Takagi, NOS
Spider - Takagi
Bottom Bracket - Tange
Pedals - KKT rat trap
Seat - Unicantor
Seat post - Laguna solid alloy
Seat post clamp - Schwinn

[getset]

Some extremely nice old bmx bikes right there. They all look immaculate, too. Very cool!

[J.T.]

1978 Redline Proline

 1978 RL Proline JTFreestyle.jpg (46.07K)
Number of downloads: 3

 1978 RL DG grip JTFreestyle.jpg (41.17K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1978 RL bars JTFreestyle.jpg (39.86K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 RL head JTFreestyle.jpg (36.36K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 RL fmag JTFreestyle.jpg (43.83K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 RL drive JTFreestyle.jpg (48.96K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1978 RL Sclamp JTFreestyle.jpg (31.14K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1978 Redline Catalog page1.jpg (39.6K)
Number of downloads: 1

In 1978 the ProLine was modified with a stronger rear dropout, lighter forks, 5" headtube, and geometry change for better handling. The frame was only offered in white in '78.

Redline began to expand their product offerings with the famous V bars and redefined Redline Proline double clamp stem thoroughly tested by Byron Friday. The stem features a 45 degree angle brace allowing for more surface area to be welded for strength. The clamps in '77 were the same as the '75 prototype stem but Redline modified to increase the size for more gripping power, strength, and stamped for Redline quality.

The bike features era correct parts and the Webco Magnesium wheels are original with the introduction of Carlisle Aggressor MX front tire.

Hope you all enjoy another historical Redline ride.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline ProLine 5" headtube, only offered in white
Fork - Redline Proline
Stem - Redline Proline double clamp
Bars - Redline V Bars
Grips - DG, NOS
Headset - Schwinn
Rims - Webco Magnesium, original finish
Rear hub - Bendix coaster brake
Front Tire - Carlisle Aggressor MX 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75, NOS
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Addicks 43 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Ashtabula 7 1/2", NOS
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - KKT rat traps, NOS
Seat - Mesinger padded, NOS
Seat post - Alloy
Seat post clamp - Redline modified

[J.T.]

1979 Dennis "The Red Baron" Dain BMXA replica

 2007 1979 Dennis Dain JTFreestyle_.jpg (40K)
Number of downloads: 8

 1979 May BMXA cover_.gif (107.96K)
Number of downloads: 9

 1979 RL Dain plate JTFreestyle_.jpg (73.32K)
Number of downloads: 6

 2007 Dain JT JTFreestyle_.jpg (52.74K)
Number of downloads: 1

 2007 1979 Red Barron JTFreestyle_03.jpg (48.09K)
Number of downloads: 0

A huge Redline fan with my first ever 1974 Squareback. Being into Moto-cross (MX) I heard about how Redline was coming out with innovative parts. Well that evolved into BMX and man did they come out with the strongest frame and forks but then produced parts that are synonymous with BMX today.

When I received my May 1979 of Bicycle Motocross Action I was blown away by the cover! Um, they're flyin' over indoor/outdoor carpeted jumps in front of a huge crowd. Had to open it up and see what this was all about? In front of 70,000 Superbowl playoff fans they got to see a NBA exhibition race. The shot Bob Osborn caught shows the concentration and power going into and off this ramp.

Well after 28 years of having that shot stuck in my head I had to do something with my 1979 Proline frame and fork. Realized I had most of the parts except some unique ones. At the Legends of BMX gathering I finally had a chance to talk with The Red Baron. Told him I thought a great bike to build would be his '79 cover shot but didn't know a few parts on his bike. Dennis offered to loan the parts to me to make the bike that much more authentic plus his original jersey!

Thanks so much Dennis and a lot of kids and parents have enjoyed your bike this season!

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline Proline
Fork - Redline Proline
Stem - Redline Proline double clamp
Bars - Redline Proline
Grips - Oakley II's
Plate - Original Dennis Dain
Brake lever - Dia-Compe
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890
Headset - Tange
Rims - Araya
Front hub - Suntour low flange
Rear hub - Bendix "Redline" coaster brake
Front Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Takagi 44 teeth, Dennis Dain
Cranks - Ashtabula stamped
Bottom Bracket - Schwinn
Pedals - KKT rat traps
Seat - Kashimax, Dennis Dain
Seat post - Redline 1st generation
Seat post clamp - Powerlite, Dennis Dain
Pad set - Redline vinyl
Modifications - Bend Dia-Compe brake lever

[J.T.]

1979 Redline Proline

 1979 RL Proline JTFreestyle.jpg (48.8K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL Oakley JTFreestyle.jpg (40.88K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL bars JTFreestyle.jpg (45.3K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL head JTFreestyle.jpg (36.49K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL fwheel JTFreestyle.jpg (53.53K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL seat JTFreestyle.jpg (43.7K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1979 RL drive JTFreestyle.jpg (51.34K)
Number of downloads: 0

In 1979 the ProLine was modified with a lighter rear dropout, lighter forks, same 5" headtube, and geometry change for better handling.

Redline began to expand their product offerings with the famous V bars and redefined Redline Proline double clamp stem thoroughly tested by Byron Friday. The stem features a 45 degree angle brace allowing for more surface area to be welded for strength. The clamps in '77 were the same as the '75 prototype stem but Redline modified to increase the size for more gripping power, strength, and stamped for Redline quality.

The bike features era correct parts and the Araya 7b's, laced to Suntour & Bendix Redline coaster brake hubs, and with Carlisle Aggressor MX front tire.

Hope you all enjoy another historical Redline ride.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline ProLine 5" headtube
Fork - Redline Proline
Stem - Redline Proline double clamp
Bars - Redline V Bars, NOS
Grips - Oakley I's, NOS
Headset - Tange Pro Meriter sealed
Rims - Araya 7b
Rear hub - Bendix Redline coaster brake
Front Tire - Carlisle Aggressor MX 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75, NOS
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890
Brake Lever - Dia-Compe
Brake pads - Dia-Compe
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Shimano 43 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Shimano Dura-Ace
Bottom Bracket - Cook Bros. sealed
Pedals - KKT rat traps, NOS
Seat - Unicantor suede padded, NOS
Seat post - Alloy
Seat post clamp - Redline modified
Padset - Redline

[J.T.]

1980 Redline Greg Hill replica

 2008 1979 Greg Hill replica JTFreestyle_.jpg (46.51K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2008 1979 Greg Hill Tuff JTFreestyle_.jpg (52.57K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2008 1979 Greg Hill RL cranks JTFreestyle_.jpg (46K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2008 1979 Greg Hill Elina JTFreestyle_.jpg (31.76K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2008 1979 Greg Hill Replica JTFreestyle.gif (465.22K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2008 1979 Greg Hill JT JTFreestyle_.jpg (45.41K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1980 MiniCycle June Hill_.jpg (67.02K)
Number of downloads: 3

 1980 Redline Catalog page 8.jpg (43.96K)
Number of downloads: 3

We all know what a phenomenal racer Greg was and still is today but what the heck was goin' on with his hair in the ad? Yes, we have kidded about this before and was going to do the same by wearing a "mop" hairpiece and wearing it at Rockford. Well Greg couldn't make Rockford this year so I told my surprise to him when we chatted at the El Dorado event. Greg had a laugh and well here's the mean racin' machine that Greg raced 30 years ago!

Personally I loved the geometry of the Proline's, they were very strong, light, and looked bitchin'! Combined with some serious non-pinch flights, new Super Proline stem...you have a machine that allowed someone to have that technological edge to win a ton of races!

Hope you all enjoy another historical bike.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline Proline
Fork - Redline Proline
Stem - Redline Super Proline
Bars - Redline Proline
Grips - Grab-On MX-II, NOS
Brakes - Dia-Compe 890's, NOS
Brake pads - Skyway Tuff pads, NOS
Headset - Tange, NOS
Wheels - Skyway Tuff II with steel front flange and alloy rear flange
Front Tire - Mitsuboshi Competition III Yellow label
Rear Tire - Cycle Pro Snakebelly, NOS
Chain - Schwinn
Chain ring - Redline Flight
Cranks - Redline Flight with non-pinch
Bottom Bracket - Redline standard
Pedals - KKT lightning, NOS
Seat - Elina, NOS
Seat post - Redline
Seat post clamp - Suntour, NOS
Pad set - Redline originals
Plate - Haro lightning plate with Beaver Bicycles (BB) sticker

[J.T.]

1980 Redline Stu Thomsen replica

 1980 RL ProLine Stu JTFreestyle.jpg (50.22K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 RL Lever JTFreestyle.jpg (48.93K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 RL Fwheel JTFreestyle.jpg (46.49K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 RL Seat JTFreestyle.jpg (40.48K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2009 Stu 1980 bike JTFreestyle.jpg (67.53K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Redline Catalog page 9.jpg (47.65K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Redline Catalog page 10.jpg (45.52K)
Number of downloads: 2

 1980 Stu Bike.jpg (126.41K)
Number of downloads: 3

1980 Stu left SE racing for Redline and with Stu being the #1 ABA Pro this really boosted sales of Redline and Stu's career. Redline offered Stu the opportunities to expand his career which became a historic relationship. The Redline team was "the Team", top quality products, National titles, NORA Cup winner, and great spokesperson/ambassador for BMX.

In 1980 the ProLine was modified with a stronger rear dropout, lighter forks, same 5" head tube, and geometry change for better handling. The ProLine was designed for riders 5'6" or greater and the MicroLine products for under 5' 6".

Redline introduced a new catalog featuring Stu and his brother in-law Greg Hill.

* New Super ProLine (brute) stem was introduced.
* New Flight cranks that had no pinch bolt which was added late 1981 to secure the crank on the beefy Redline spindle.
* New one piece Flight gear, lightweight, strong, and easy to change.
* New flute seat post
* New BMX "MX-III" complete bike
* New TUFF RIDER complete bike
* New MOTO-S complete bike
* New EXPERT complete bike
* New Jerseys, Jackets, patches, sticker sets, logo pads, caps, etc.

The bike features what Stu Thomsen rode that year including the modified Honda MX lever and dust cover from his mini-bike. It's very rare to see black wall Cycle Pro Snakebelly tires and here we have one on the back with a Carlisle Aggressor MX front mounted on first Generation Skyway Tuff's that were introduced then.

Click here for a Stu Thomsen mini documentary

Hope you all enjoy another historical Redline ride, I know Stu did at the Rockford 2009 Vintage gathering.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline ProLine 5" head tube
Fork - Redline ProLine
Stem - Redline Super Proline
Bars - Redline ProLine V Bars, NOS
Grips - Oakley II's, NOS
Headset - Tange
Wheels - Skyway Graphite Tuff II's with Campagnolo hubs
Freewheel - Suntour
Front Tire - Carlisle Aggressor MX 20 x 2.125, NOS
Rear Tire - Cycle Pro Snakebelly blackwall, rare
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890, NOS
Brake Lever - Honda MX
Brake Lever cover - Honda
Brake pads - Kool-Stop finned
Chain - Izumi gold and black, NOS
Chain ring - Redline 43 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Redline Flight non-pinch
Bottom Bracket - Redline unsealed
Pedals - MKS rat traps, NOS
Seat - Cycle Pro Shotgun, NOS
Seat post - Redline fluted
Seat post clamp - Suntour, NOS
Pad set - Redline old font

[J.T.]

1980 Eddy King BMXA replica

 2007 1980 Torker Eddy King replica_.jpg (56.47K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1980 April BMXA Eddy King_.gif (95.49K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Torker King brakeclamps JTFreestyle_.jpg (43.24K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Torker King Araya JTFreestyle_.jpg (43.53K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Torker King CompII JTFreestyle_.jpg (56.62K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Torker King Drivetrain JTFreestyle_.jpg (68.6K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Torker King FHub JTFreestyle_.jpg (65.31K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 Eddy King_.jpg (39.85K)
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 2007 1980 Torker Eddy King pose_.gif (71.47K)
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 2007 Eddy and JT JTFreestyle_.jpg (53.75K)
Number of downloads: 1

When I switched to Torker in 1978 Eddy was getting a lot of coverage and related to him through the magazines. I studied his style and what he had to say. I applied and the combination of Torker, Eddy, and my training paid off!

When the April issue came out with the Torker colors and Eddy doin' a HUGE roost I couldn't wait to see if he was featured or not? Yes, he was and Oz captured some more great shots of one of my favorite racers.

My bike at the time was already similar to Eddy's except I had one piece cranks, Ukai/ACS wheels, Oakley grips, and no Comp II yet.

Well 24 years later I thought I should build this bike that moved me so but it took another three of looking until I finally found some Grab on MX-1's in the bag to complete this historic bike. When visiting with Eddy at the 2007 Legends of BMX gathering I told him about the bike and wish I could have shown it to him. It was so fun to talk with him after so many years and glad to see he is doin' fine with real estate.

Thanks for personalizing the bike by signing the pad set and one of these days I'll catch up with Eddy to show him the original Bob Haro artwork for the To The Max ad/poster.

VEHICLE

Frame - Torker EK replica
Fork - Torker non-drilled
Stem - Torker six bolt
Bars - Torker alloy
Grips - Grab on MX-1
Plate - Haro lightning with Eddy's $
Brake lever - Shimano with black lever sleeve
Caliper - Shimano Tourney
Brake pads - Mathauser
Headset - Tange
Rims - Araya 7b's
Spokes - Double butted stainless steel
Front hub - Phil Wood 1st generation with red (left) spacer
Rear hub - Phil Wood
Freewheel - Suntour 16
Front Tire - Cheng Shin 20 x 1.75
Rear Tire - Mitsobushi Competition II 20 x 1.75
Chain - Sedis
Chain ring - Sugino 44 teeth
Cranks - Campagnolo Grand Sport 170mm
Bottom Bracket - Phil Wood No. 3
Pedals - KKT chrome rat traps
Seat - Unicantor
Seat post - Chrome-moly
Seat post clamp - Addicks
Pad set - Torker vinyl, signed by Eddy

[J.T.]

1980 Cook Bros. 26" cruiser

 1980 CBR 26 Cruiser JTFreestyle.jpg (51.98K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 CBR 26 stem JTFreestyle.jpg (47.32K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 CBR 26 fwheel JTFreestyle.jpg (42.94K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 CBR 26 seat JTFreestyle.jpg (47.04K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1980 CBR 26 drive JTFreestyle.jpg (44.24K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1980 Team Tremco Gary Erdman_.jpg (38.39K)
Number of downloads: 2

1980 was the rage for 26" cruisers and this bike was originally owned by our famous BMX starter Gary Erdman. Gary raced for Team Tremco a Minnesota based team which turned into Rondo, then Tahoe. This frame and fork was personally given to Gary Erdman from Gary Cook.

Kept the bike original but thought it would be neat to match up the CBR pit with the Cruiser at the Rockford event. Decided to drop the Green and black for the traditional Blue, Chrome, and White of Cook Bros.

Everything is Cook Bros. and yes those are NOS Cycle Pro Snakebelly tires on NOS UKAI rims.

2nd place for the Cruiser bike category at the 2009 Rockford Vintage gathering.
1st place 2009 BMX Society Cruiser
1st place and Best in Show at the 2009 Ottawa IL. gathering.

VEHICLE

Frame - Cook Bros. 26", original finish
Fork - Cook Bros. 26", original finish
Stem - Cook Bros. slantline, NOS
Bars - Cook Bros. cruiser, original finish
Grips - Oakley II's, NOS
Headset - Tange MX-5 alloy
Rims - UKAI, NOS
Hubs - Cook Bros.
Front Tire - Cycle Pro Snakebelly 26 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cycle Pro Snakebelly 26 x 2.125
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890, NOS
Brake Lever - Dia-Compe, NOS
Brake pads - Skyway finned
Chain - Sedis
Chain ring - Sugino 39 teeth
Cranks - Cook Bros. 1st generation
Spider - Sugino alloy
Bottom Bracket - Cook Bros.
Pedals - Suntour, NOS
Seat - Cycle Pro Shotgun, NOS
Seat post - Cook Bros. laidback
Seat post clamp - Cook Bros.
Pad set - Cook Bros. generation I

[J.T.]

1981 Cook Bros. Pit

 1981 CBR Pit bike JTFreestyle.jpg (50.22K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR stem pit JTFreestyle.jpg (46.26K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR Pit stem JTFreestyle.jpg (45.06K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR Pit fwheel JTFreestyle.jpg (48.75K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR Fwheel pit JTFreestyle.jpg (54.92K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR Pit seat JTFreestyle.jpg (40.11K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 CBR Pit drive JTFreestyle.jpg (50.86K)
Number of downloads: 0

1981 was the rage for pit bikes and the Cook Bros. came out with six masterpieces and currently only four known to exist. This is #2 and original finish. Everything is Cook Bros. except I decided to put my Cook Bros. cranks on the cruiser so with a little ingenuity I got a Cook Bros. spindle and 170mm Redline non-pinch flight cranks to bind to make a sweet combo!

The wheels are laced with 28 hole Cook Bros. hubs which I'm assuming only six sets were produced. The bars are mini rounding out the pit bike variations.

This bike was 1st place for the Pit bike category at the 2009 Rockford Vintage gathering.

VEHICLE

Frame - Cook Bros. pit, original finish
Fork - Cook Bros. pit, original finish
Stem - Cook Bros. slantline, NOS
Bars - Cook Bros. pit, original finish
Grips - Oakley .5, NOS
Headset - Hatta alloy
Rims - Araya 7x, NOS
Hubs - Cook Bros. 28 hole, rare
Front Tire - Cheng Shin 16 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Cheng Shin 16 x 2.125
Caliper - Shimano Tourney, NOS
Brake Lever - Team Products, NOS
Brake pads - Mathauser finned
Chain - Sedis
Chain ring - Shimano 42 teeth
Cranks - Redline flight non-pinch 170mm
Spider - Phil Wood, NOS
Bottom Bracket - Cook Bros.
Pedals - Suntour with magnesium bodies, NOS
Seat - Cycle Pro Shotgun
Seat post - Cook Bros. laidback
Seat post clamp - Cook Bros.
Pad set - Cook Bros. generation II
Number plate - Cook Bros.

[J.T.]

1981 Bob Haro Torker replica

 1981 Bob Haro Torker JTFreestyle_.jpg (45.72K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1981 Haro Torker_.jpg (70.69K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1981 Haro Torker drivetrain JTFreestyle.jpg (62.79K)
Number of downloads: 1

 1981 Bob Haro Torker Jeff JT Tollefson_.jpg (61.5K)
Number of downloads: 1

 2007 RIDE BMX JT.jpg (174.54K)
Number of downloads: 2

 2007 RIDE BMX JT2.jpg (278.4K)
Number of downloads: 2

Freestyle bike riding wasn't too common in the magazines yet but with a few How-To's and interviews thanks to Action Now Magazine, it got Freestyle out there to the potential Freestylers out there.

Bob started riding for Torker in 1980 and really liked the geometry and double top tube design which allowed him to stand on and invent tricks. This bike was featured in the magazine and quoted to cost $700. Great shots of 540 ramp spins, rock walk, kick turns, and an on the edge ramp stall. These were all mind blowing in early '81 and got kids interested in Freestyle, it did for me. That same year Bob did a show at the Rondo Classic here in Minnesota. Seeing it live made it that more mind blowing!

25 years later I was looking through my mags and ran across this one. Thought I had most of the parts from his bike scattered in my basement and it was true. Found my old sticker collection and built this in a few hours.

Was talkin' old school with some friends and the RID BMX Editor in Chief, Keith Mulligan, though it would be great to flashback to the roots of a Freestyle bike. Wrote that guy up and it was very well received and educated some of the new school riders on where their bikes originated from. This was published in the March 2007 issue with Scotty Cramner on the cover. Bob thought is was really cool to have his bike reappear in a major magazine after all these years.

Here it is and it has been a pleasure displaying this bike that then became the first Freestyle frame and fork, the Haro Freestyler.

VEHICLE

Frame - Torker
Fork - Torker
Stem - ProNeck
Bars - Redline Proline
Grips - Oakley .5
Plate - Haro lightning
Brake levers - Haro two finger
Calipers - Dia-Compe 890's
Brake pads - Skyway Tuff Pads
Headset - Tange
Wheels - Skyway Tuff II with metal flange front hub and Suntour coaster brake
Front Tire - Mitsobushi Competition III 20 x 2.125
Rear Tire - Raleigh Street 20 x 1.75
Chain - Torque
Chain ring - Redline 44 teeth
Cranks - Redline 401's pinchless 180mm
Bottom Bracket - Standard with Redline crank set
Pedals - KKT rat traps
Seat - Kashimax
Seat post - Alloy
Seat post clamp - Cycle Pro
Stem Pad - Bicycle Moto-cross Action

[J.T.]

1981 Jason Jensen Torker BMXA replica

 1981 Jason Jensen Torker JTFreestyle_.jpg (46.78K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 BMXA Jensen cover_.jpg (72.12K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2006 Jeff Tollefson 81 Jason Jensen stem_.jpg (47.74K)
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 2006 Jeff Tollefson 81 Jason Jensen rear_.jpg (47.21K)
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 2006 Jeff Tollefson 81 Jason Jensen pedal_.jpg (25.59K)
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 2006 Jeff Tollefson 81 Jason Jensen Torker fork_.jpg (46.5K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2006 JTFreestyle Jensen Torker with chain.jpg (41.78K)
Number of downloads: 0

 2006 JTFreestyle Torker display_.jpg (99.14K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 Jason Jensen closeups JTFreestyle.jpg (43.1K)
Number of downloads: 0

Jason was a fast dude and when this bike was featured in Bicycle Motocross Action I think he became that much more faster due to this bike. Jason was winning everything in sight then and to have this custom mini designed for him made the Torker/Jensen combination unstoppable.

Being a Torker rider I was thrilled to see the cover in the Torker colors and amazed at how aesthetically awesome the black and copper combination worked out for the bike. This is one solid and light BMX machine and can see why Jason won many races with it.

The mini wasn't promoted heavily by Torker and with the limited production this has become a rare frame and fork.

To my surprise at the Vintage BMX 2006 gathering that this bike won first place for best 80's BMX?

A year after I presented the bike at various gatherings I received an E-mail from Jason himself. He thinks the bike is perfect and would like to see it personally as many of his items were misplaced when moving.

It's been great sharing the Torker bicycle and rider history with others. So many kids and parents ask where do I get this bike and I tell them it's a "one of a kind." Here it is for your online pleasure and thanks for the positive feedback on this unique racing machine.

VEHICLE

Frame - Torker Mini
Fork - Torker Mini
Stem - Torker six bolt modified for Jason
Bars - Laguna alloy V bars
Grips - Oakley .5
Plate - Haro lightning bolt
Brake lever - Team Products stamped
Calipers - Shimano Tourney
Brake pads - Mathauser
Headset - Tange MX-5
Rims - Araya 7x
Hubs - Shimano Road hubs with track axles and Shimano axle nuts
Spokes - D.T. 80-60 stainless spokes and alloy nipples
Front Tire - Mitsobushi Competition II 20 x 1.75
Rear Tire - Raleigh Red Dot 20 x 1.75
Chain - Sedis
Chain ring - Shimano Dura-Ace 44 teeth
Cranks - Shimano 600 EX 170mm
Bottom Bracket - O.M.A.S. Italian sealed bearing with O.M.A.S. alloy crank bolts
Pedals - Suntour MP-100
Seat - Uni-Seat with integrated seat post
Seat post clamp - Tange
Pad set - Torker vinyl

Hard lacquer coated copper plating on all aluminum alloy parts

[J.T.]

1981 Stu Thomsen Rondo Classic Redline replica

 1981 RL ProLine Stu2 JTFreestyle.jpg (56.77K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 August BMXA Stu_.jpg (118.4K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 RL fwheel JTFreestyle.jpg (43.49K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 RL drive JTFreestyle.jpg (50.24K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 RL seat JTFreestyle.jpg (41.79K)
Number of downloads: 0

 1981 RL rear JTFreestyle.jpg (51.56K)
Number of downloads: 2

 2009 RLs JT Carolyn3 JTFreestyle.jpg (76.15K)
Number of downloads: 5

 2009 Rock Tollefson Thomsens JTFreestyle.jpg (69.54K)
Number of downloads: 3

1981 the Saint Paul Civic Center hosted the Rondo Classic indoor race here in lovely Minnesota. The shot of Stu speed jumping is etched in my head for a lifetime after Bob Osborn shot the same angle I was at. It was awesome to see Stu race here indoors and to honor that thought I would slap together that ride of his.

In 1981 the ProLine was modified with tapered fork legs and new dropouts. Late in 1981 they introduced the single pinch flight cranks to snug up on the spindle without loosening.

Stu really enjoyed seeing this bike at the 2009 Rockford Vintage gathering where he was the guest speaker and inducted into the VBMX Hall of Fame.

Hope you all enjoy another historical Redline ride.

VEHICLE

Frame - Redline ProLine 5" head tube
Fork - Redline ProLine tapered forks
Stem - Redline Super Proline
Bars - Redline ProLine V Bars, NOS
Grips - Oakley .5's, NOS
Headset - Tange
Rims - Araya 7x
Hubs - Campagnolo low flange
Freewheel - Suntour
Front Tire - Mitsuboshi Stadium yellow label, NOS
Rear Tire - Mitsuboshi Stadium yellow label, NOS
Caliper - Dia-Compe 890
Brake Lever - Dia-Compe
Brake pads - Dia-Compe
Chain - Izumi, NOS
Chain ring - Redline 43 teeth, NOS
Cranks - Redline Flight non-pinch
Bottom Bracket - Redline unsealed
Pedals - KKT chrome rat traps, NOS
Seat - Elina Lightning bolt, NOS
Seat post - Redline fluted
Seat post clamp - Suntour
Padset - Redline new font
Plate - Haro Type II with original stickers from that cover shot