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Not a replica, the Original Freestyler is an update of the original 1970s BMX bike ridden by BMX legend Bob Haro.
The new version of the 1978 cult classic features a throwback Haro Freestyle Division frame, Skyway Tuff Wheels with Haro MS4 tyres, tubular 4130 three-piece cranks, 44/16 gearing with ACS Mainline freewheel and as befits a limited edition, chrome aplenty.
If you’re into your BMX, all of that will no doubt mean something to you. if it doesn’t let’s just say it’s a bike that’s both fun to ride and cool to be seen with. The Original Freestyler sells for around the $545 (£355) mark.
Find out more at the Haro Bikes website
Thanks to David Washington for the tip off!
Despite what it says in the above blurb from Haro, this IS a replica of the original Gen 1 Freestyler, and not a particularly good one. It has nowhere near the quality of the original, in the frameset or the componentry. I think that Haro really missed a chance to come up with something special here, it is the bike that started BMX freestyle really, and this cheap looking repro does not do it justice. They should have followed the example of SE Racing, whose replica of the iconic 80s PK Ripper frame and fork set, could actually be ridden for proper BMX riding today, whereas Haro’s F&F is only suitable for rolling down to the shops on. What is going on with the awful pressed steel chain and seat stays where they join the rear dropouts? Yuck! I don’t remember ever seeing that shoddy build technique on any BMX frame, especially not on one of the top makes like Haro. And that sofa of a seat…..
I would have killed for a Haro Freestyler when I was a kid in the early 80s, but I wouldn’t get out of bed for this bike. Give me a proper original one anyday!!!
^ what he said!