Skyway T/A | cruiser revolution

Something sweet from Skyway

13 02 2014

Planet BMX has been on a bit of a roll lately, partnering with Haro on the introduction of the retro Haro cruisers most recently, and bringing back the legendary Skyway T/A (with modern touches) prior to that.

As further evidence that they won’t be slowing their roll any time soon, they have released pictures of the new candy-chrome Skyway T/As they will be stocking soon in both 20 and 24″ versions. (To get this look they put a translucent powdercoat finish over chrome plating.)

The candy chrome name is fitting because these frames, forks and handlebars look sweet!

For now, the red and blue candy chrome version will be the only colors available. However, plans are already underway for other colors. They’re currently waiting on samples of gold, green, and purple. The outlook is to do 20 sets (each) in red and blue, and limited quantities (like five or so) of each of the other colors. You could have a very unique ride if you’re quick or lucky enough to nab one of these small run unique colors!

Digression: I can’t read the words “candy chrome” without thinking about this song.

Check the Planet BMX Facebook page for the latest on these new frames, forks and handlebars. For now, have another look at that sweet red candy chrome.

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Tags: 24" BMX, Candy chrome Skyway T/A frame, Planet BMX, Skyway T/A
Categories : Freestyle, New products, Old School, Racing

Austin Texas picture show

16 05 2013

After hearing so many good things about Austin, Texas I finally made a trip out there to check it out for myself.

I was a little worried that my expectations were too high but it turns out that Austin really is a great place if you’re into BMX…and cruisers in particular.

Actually, Austin is a great place if you’re into bikes of any kind.

Unlike a lot of cities, Austin seems to go out of its way to promote bicycling. People bike everywhere and bike racks are plentiful….I don’t think I have ever seen bike racks set up in front of a bar before but in Austin that’s commonplace.

But as a BMXer, I was kinda blown away by how much BMX is part of the everyday fabric there.

Walking by a women’s clothing store downtown there was an immaculate old school Skyway T/A just sitting in the window as part of the display.

Go down to the 6th st., a bar and restaurant area, and you’ll see tricked-out 24s, like this Liquid, just locked up outside the restaurants.

Heck, you’ll even see cruisers hanging from the ceiling in some bars. Check this out:

Hop on one of the city buses and you’re likely to see a cruiser sitting on the bike rack.

And you would you believe that a local brewer has come out with a cruiser-themed beer? Yes, it’s true. In Austin you can pick up a Firemans 4.

A beer that was made to honor Austin’s own, Firemans Texas Cruiser bikes.

Add in great places to ride, like the 9th street trails…

…and Walnut Creek

and pair that with friendly, laid-back locals, it’s hard to go wrong.

Buddy (pictured above), not only shredded everything in sight at Walnut Creek but was also kind enough to let me borrow a bike and drive me out to the trails. Thanks man!

(I wish I could’ve captured a better shot of his riding but rest assured Buddy was taking care of business at Walnut Creek.)

If that weren’t enough, Austin’s live music scene is off the charts, not only is Austin home to multiple music festivals, but it’s also home to a record number of live music venues. Just walking around town you’re bound to find a musician or band that blows you away….it happened to me more than once on this trip.

And the food!

Austin is well-known for its food trucks, BBQ, tacos (which you can eat for every meal of the day)…you name it…you will find something that strikes your fancy here.

Do I need to say more?

Frankly, I’m just trying to figure out when I can go back.

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Tags: 9th street trails, Austin, Austin Texas, BMX Cruiser, Bmx Cruisers, Buddy, Fireman's #4 Blonde beer, Firemans 4 beer, Firemans Texas Cruzer, Liquid Feedback, Skyway T/A, Walnut Creek
Categories : Freestyle, goofiness, New School, Old School, shenanigans, Skatepark, street, Tomfoolery, Trails, Trails/Jumping

Does the T/A stand for totally awesome?

13 01 2012

If you were on the Cruiser Revolution Facebook page over the Christmas holidays, you’re already in the loop on this.

If you weren’t, let me give you the scoop.

Back in 1982, Skyway came out with the T/A frame. T/A stood for “Totally Aerodynamic” and featured teardrop-shaped tubing that made it an instant classic.

It was widely available as a 20″ and Skyway was said to have produced thousands over the years that it was available.

However, despite the 20’s popularity, Skyway decided to only produce a 24″ version in limited quantities. You pretty much had to be a factory rider like Richie “The Avalanche” Anderson to get a hold of one of these puppies.

This kind of exclusivity has made them a much sought-after item for collectors. You either had to be extremely lucky or have deep pockets to get a hold of one of the 24″ Skyway T/As. (Being as hot as Eva Gabrielle didn’t hurt either.)

But now PlanetBMX and Skyway are working together to bring a 24″ Skyway to the masses. It’s going to stay true to the original classic design but have a few modern elements thrown into the mix.

Check out the specs:

22″ top tube
Euro BB
1-1/8″ threadless headtube
V-brake mounts
Headtube angle- 73.5 degrees
Seat Tube angle- 73 degrees
Chainstay length- 15.4″ to 16.75″
BB Height- 12.3″

I just love the look of these frames…especially the chrome ones. Throw on some black Tuffs and some skinwall tires and you’ve got a serious looking machine on your hands.