Since the early 80s, the Skyway TA Frame Kits have been synonymous with iconic BMX design, instantly recognizable for their unique tear-drop tubing that screamed “Totally Aerodynamic.” For BMX enthusiasts who remember the golden era, the TA frame wasn’t just a component; it was a statement.
Secure Your Piece of BMX History Now!
In 2022, Skyway proudly reintroduced this legend with the second generation of the original TA, available as both a frame set and a complete 20” bike. Staying true to its roots, Skyway has sourced the signature teardrop tubing to ensure these bikes capture the authentic essence of the original 80s Bmx Bikes. Every component has been carefully selected to recreate that unparalleled TA feel, including genuine USA-made Skyway Tuff Wheels and classic Redline Flight Cranks.
Specifications that Echo the 80s BMX Era:
- Frame: Full Chromoly T/A Aero Frame
- Fork: Full Chromoly T/A Aero Fork
- Handlebars: 1” Threaded Full Chromoly T/A Pro Bars 9.25”
- Wheels: Genuine USA made Skyway Tuff Wheel II Wheels
- Pads: Genuine Skyway color-coded Tuff Pads
- Tires: Genuine Retro Tioga Comp III Tires
- Cranks: Redline 402 Flight Cranks 175mm w/sealed USA BB set
- Chainwheel: Redline 44t Flight Chainwheel
- Pedals: Alloy Bear Trap Pedals
- Headset: 1” Threaded Headset
- Seat: Skyway Aero Seat
- Grips: Retro Tri Grips
- Rear Brake: Dia-Compe MX1000 Caliper Rear Brake
- Brake Lever: Dia-Compe Tech 3 Brake Lever
- Pad Set: Retro Skyway Pad Set
Geometry:
| SIZE | TT | CS |
|---|---|---|
| 20” | 21.5 | 14.0 |
Busting the Myths Around 80s BMX Bikes Replicas
The launch of Skyway’s 2022 TA complete bike lineup has generated significant buzz, and rightfully so. Skyway wasn’t just present during the BMX boom of the 1980s; they were at the forefront, with the TA becoming the decade’s most iconic bike for many riders. While social media feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, it’s important to address some misconceptions surrounding these retro 80s BMX bikes.
Let’s be clear: this is the real deal. This isn’t a hastily assembled bike by a resurrected brand purely for profit. This project was a labor of love, three years in the making, driven by Skyway USA in close collaboration with Skyway Australia. Key figures from Skyway’s 80s heyday are still leading the charge in the USA. With distribution experience dating back to 1978 and a deep personal passion for BMX, this initiative is far from a mere cash grab. If profit were the sole motive, ventures like energy drinks would be far more lucrative. The significant investment in tooling, sourcing authentic components, and securing the right manufacturing and assembly partners reflects the commitment to quality and historical accuracy, justifying the final price of these meticulously crafted bikes.
These 2022 TAs are not intended to be carbon copies of the original 80s BMX bikes, frames, or complete setups. Such an approach would be disrespectful to collectors who cherish their authentic vintage TA frames. Instead, these are newly manufactured frames, built in 2022 using the same teardrop TA tubing that defined the 1980s models. While subtly refined from the 2012 re-release to more closely resemble the 80s originals, the 20” version now features a 21.5” top tube (the 24” boasts a 22” TT), full Chromoly teardrop TA Tubing, a 1” Threaded fork steerer, USA BB set, side pull caliper brake mounts, and a 25.4mm seatpost tube. The TA fork and handlebar are also constructed from full Chromoly. To enhance its unique appeal, each bike and frameset will be individually numbered, establishing it as a distinctive collector’s item in its own right. It will never replace a genuine 80s model but serves as an attainable piece of BMX history, perfect as a collector’s item or a fun, retro ride for everyday cruising.
For those fortunate enough to own original 80s BMX bikes, particularly genuine TA models, rest assured that this re-release is not intended to diminish the value of your prized possessions. You possess the authentic artifacts from the Chuck Raudman/Ken Coster era. This 2022 version is a collaborative effort between Ken Coster and myself, drawing upon a 40-year business and personal relationship – potentially the longest in the BMX world. This project is fueled by a shared passion for BMX, not solely by financial gain. Our dedication to BMX is evident in our Micro documentary series released on YouTube in 2018.
Owning a Skyway is more than just owning a bike; it’s investing in a legacy, a piece of BMX history that will forever be etched in the sport’s narrative. It’s a chance to reconnect with the excitement and spirit of 80s BMX bikes, reimagined for today.
