The Evolution of Haro Bikes: A Journey from BMX Excellence
The Humble Beginnings: Customized Number Plates
In the year 1976, Haro Bikes was not yet a corporation but a fledgling idea. Bob Haro began crafting customized number plates for local BMX racers in Spring Valley, California. These weren't mere pieces of plastic; they were the first brushstrokes on a canvas that would become a masterpiece in the world of cycling.
The Birth of Haro Bikes Corporation
Two years later, in 1978, the Haro Bikes Corporation was officially founded by Bob Haro2. This marked the inception of a brand that would soon become synonymous with quality, innovation, and the hardcore spirit of BMX and freestyle biking.
The Expansion Era: Beyond Borders
The early 1980s were a pivotal period for Haro Bikes. The company expanded its product line and ventured into national and international distribution. During this epoch, Haro was not just a brand; it was a revolution in the making, developing BMX and freestyle bikes and accessories that would set industry standards.
The Freestyler: A Milestone in Bike Design
Come July 1982, full production of the Haro Freestyler began at the workshop of Torker BMX in Fullerton, Orange County. This wasn't just another bike; it was an icon, a game-changer that would redefine what a BMX bike could be.
The Haro Sport and Master: Revolutionizing the Industry
In 1983, Haro introduced its first successful line of Freestyle BMX bikes: the Haro Sport and Master. These bikes didn't just meet industry standards; they set them. They sparked a revolution in bicycle design, inspiring a wave of imitation across the industry.
The Trials of a Pioneer: Bob Haro's Retirement from Riding
By 1985, Bob Haro had undergone four knee surgeries, compelling him to retire from riding. Yet, his spirit remained indomitable, his influence on the world of BMX and freestyle biking irrefutable.
The Hall of Fame: A Legacy Cemented
Bob Haro's contributions to the world of cycling were formally recognized when he was inducted into the American Bicycle Association Hall Of Fame in 1987 and the BMX Hall of Fame in 1993. These accolades were not just trophies; they were the crystallization of a legacy.
Haro Bikes Today: The Saga Continues
Fast forward to the present day, Haro Bikes continues to be a force to be reckoned with. The company now produces not just BMX but also mountain bikes, always with a focus on innovation and quality. The Haro name remains a byword for excellence, a testament to a journey that began over four decades ago.
Haro Bikes is not just a brand; it's a legacy, a saga, a revolution that has spanned decades. From its humble beginnings in Spring Valley, California, to its current status as an industry leader, Haro Bikes stands as a testament to innovation, quality, and the indomitable spirit of its founder, Bob Haro.