People often ask, “What’s the big deal with GT bikes?” It’s a question that comes up frequently, especially if you weren’t immersed in the mountain biking scene since its early days in the 1990s or the BMX craze of the 1980s. To truly grasp the significance of GT during its peak, you almost had to be there. Many of us still vividly remember those golden years, and watched with concern as the brand faced near extinction, only to witness its remarkable resurgence.
So, let’s delve into the story of GT Bicycles, a journey that begins in the burgeoning world of BMX and evolves into a powerhouse in mountain biking and beyond.
From Moto Tracks to BMX Frames: The Gary Turner Origin (1970s)
The early 1970s witnessed the explosion of Motocross. Between races, kids would ride their bicycles on the dirt tracks, sparking the birth of Bicycle Moto Cross, or BMX. Among the fathers watching from the sidelines was Gary Turner. A musical instrument repairman skilled in welding delicate materials like trumpets and trombones, Turner was also a professional drag racer experienced in crafting robust cro-moly chassis for dragsters.
Observing his son and other kids struggling with heavy, fragile bikes on the MX tracks, Gary saw an opportunity. Utilizing high-grade aircraft cro-moly tubing, the same material used for drag racer frames, Gary began building frames for his son. These frames were lighter, stronger, and faster. Word spread quickly as other kids and parents noticed the superior performance of Gary’s bikes. Demand grew, and Gary Turner’s reputation as a builder of exceptional BMX frames began, one frame at a time.
Image alt text: Close-up of an early hand-welded BMX frame by Gary Turner, showcasing the craftsmanship and 4130 Cro-moly tubing that became a hallmark of GT Bicycles.
Product Highlights: 1974
- 4130 Cro-mo Frames and Forks: Setting the standard for BMX frame construction.
The Partnership with Richard Long: GT Bicycles is Born (1974-1980)
In 1974, Richard Long, owner of a bike shop in Orange County, California, noticed Gary Turner’s frames gaining traction. He recognized the quality and the growing interest in these handcrafted BMX frames. Richard contacted Gary with a proposition: to stock and sell Turner’s frames in his bike shop. Gary agreed, and this marked the beginning of one of the most iconic partnerships in BMX history.
The collaboration between Gary Turner and Richard Long was dynamic and perfectly synergistic. They invested in a dedicated shop in Santa Ana, California, focused on producing top-tier cro-moly BMX frames. In 1979, GT Bicycles, Inc. was officially incorporated. Richard sold his bike shop to fully dedicate himself to GT, focusing on sales and marketing, distributing frames across the USA and into Europe as BMX popularity surged. Gary, the engineering and craftsmanship genius, remained the backbone of product development. Neither could have foreseen that their combined talents would build one of the most recognized bicycle companies globally within two decades, leaving an indelible mark on both BMX and, eventually, the world of Mountain Bike Gt.
Product Highlights: 1975-1980
- 4130 Cro-mo Frames and Forks: Continuing to refine frame technology.
- 4130 Handlebars: Expanding into component manufacturing.
- Forged Stems: Introducing durable and performance-oriented stems.
- 4130 Seatposts: Completing the core component set with robust seatposts.
BMX Glory Days and Freestyle Innovation (1980-1986)
The 1980s were the glory days of BMX. GT Bicycles experienced exponential growth, fueled by the booming BMX racing scene and the emergence of freestyle BMX. Gary Turner designed the Performer, GT’s first frame specifically for freestyle. The Performer became legendary, and even today, it remains one of the most recognizable names in youth bicycles, synonymous with early freestyle culture and innovation in mountain bike gt’s predecessor discipline.
GT moved into larger facilities on Container Lane in Huntington Beach, California, expanding from a single office to four buildings to accommodate welding, warehousing, shipping, and administration. During this period, GT dominated BMX racing, becoming the preeminent brand in a sport that had exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. Their dominance at race venues earned them the nickname “the firm.” GT’s journey from a garage operation to a corporate entity was swift and significant.
Image alt text: A classic GT Performer BMX bike, highlighting its iconic frame design and components that defined the freestyle BMX era and influenced future mountain bike GT design principles.
Product Highlights: 1980-1986
- Full Assortment of USA-Made BMX Frames and Parts: Comprehensive product line for racing and freestyle.
- Full Assortment of USA-Made Freestyle Frames and Parts: Leading the charge in freestyle-specific equipment.
- Performer Frame and GT Freestyle Parts: Challenging Haro for market dominance in the burgeoning freestyle segment.
Transition to Mountain Bikes and Global Racing Dominance (1987-1994)
As the late 1980s approached, BMX racing’s initial frenzy began to subside. Richard Long astutely recognized the rise of a new cycling discipline: mountain biking. While remaining committed to BMX, GT strategically shifted focus to this emerging sport. In November 1987, GT showcased its first line of five mountain bikes at Interbike in Reno, Nevada. Despite skepticism from some who felt GT was “too BMX” to succeed in mountain biking, Richard Long’s vision and determination proved them wrong.
Within five years, GT replicated its BMX success in the mountain bike world, dominating mountain bike racing through a massive marketing effort spearheaded by a large international race team. This team, featuring world-class athletes, elevated brand awareness globally and cemented GT’s place in mountain bike gt history. In 1988, GT consolidated operations into a purpose-built facility on Gothard Street in Huntington Beach, a period many consider the company’s cultural and financial zenith.
GT further expanded its reach by acquiring Riteway Products in 1988, venturing into dealer-direct distribution. This acquisition, followed by three more distributors nationwide, established GT as a national force in the Independent Bicycle Dealer (IBD) market. GT began producing complete bikes, increasing business complexity and scope, reaching a remarkable $125 million in revenue.
In 1991, GT signed World Champion Julie Furtado and Junior World Champion Nicolas Vouilloz. Furtado became the most decorated World Cup winner of her time, while Vouilloz dominated downhill racing like no other, setting an unmatched legacy in the sport. Pioneering MTB racer Rishi Grewal, known for his style, also joined, further enhancing GT’s image. Team GT, in the early 90s, became one of the most formidable mountain bike teams ever assembled, contributing significantly to the brand’s authority in the mountain bike gt arena.
Project ’96, a no-expense-spared initiative to create the fastest track bikes for the US Olympic Track team, was also launched. This multi-million dollar project resulted in revolutionary aerodynamic bicycles that won medals but ultimately led to the UCI banning many aerodynamic design aspects in bicycle racing due to GT’s groundbreaking innovations.
Image alt text: A GT Zaskar mountain bike, an early example of USA-made aluminum frames, showcasing its robust design for off-road use and highlighting GT’s innovation in mountain bike gt technology.
Product Highlights: 1988-1994
- 1988: Introduction of MTB line: Outpost, Timberline, Tequesta, Karakoram, and Avalanche, all featuring Triple Triangle technology, which became a GT design hallmark. Dyno brand introduced for hardcore freestyle.
- 1990: MTB range expands to 12 models, including the titanium Xizang LE and the 700D trekking series. Dyno becomes a more affordable GT sub-brand.
- 1991: Legendary USA-made Zaskar (frame only) launched. Quatrefoil off-road tandem introduced.
- 1992: GT innovations: Groove Tube, Flip Flop stem, 2 x 4 forks. “Tech Shop” custom USA-made frames. Taiwan-made aluminum Pantera arrives.
- 1993: RTS full suspension hits the market, establishing GT as a leader in suspension technology. GT USA assembles complete adult bikes, RTS-1 and Zaskar LE.
- 1994: RTS becomes a complete line. GT pioneers mass production of functional full-suspension bikes in Taiwan. GT introduces road bikes and sponsors the US Olympic Team. Groundbreaking LTS (Linkage Tuned Suspension) 4-bar linkage frame launched, winning “full suspension shootout.”
Tragedy and Transition: The Loss of Richard Long (1994-July 1996)
GT’s phenomenal success was the envy of the cycling industry. As 1995 approached, business was thriving. BMX was making a comeback, and GT was at the pinnacle. Richard Long had built GT into a unique entity – a top supplier of both BMX and adult bicycles, combined with the Riteway parts business, making it the dominant US cycling company in 1995. GT relocated to a larger facility in Santa Ana, doubling warehouse and office space. In October 1995, GT Bicycles Inc. went public on the NASDAQ, backed by Bain Capital, instantly making Richard and Gary multi-millionaires.
Life was good, and Richard lived it to the fullest, indulging his passion for motorcycles. He acquired a Honda Valkyrie, a powerful and imposing machine. Tragically, while riding to Big Bear to watch Team GT race, Richard was killed in a motorcycle accident. The cycling world was stunned. Richard Long, the driving force behind GT’s success, was gone at age 46.
The day after Richard’s death, Bain Capital, now in control of GT, convened a Board of Directors meeting and announced the company would be sold for the highest possible price, much to Gary Turner’s dismay. The dream Richard and Gary had built together was about to take a sharp turn, impacting the future trajectory of the mountain bike gt brand.
Product Highlights: 1994-July 1996
- BMX Bikes:
- 1994: “Fueler” frame, a dirt jump specific frame, introduced. 25 models in GT/Dyno line.
- 1995: Fueler offered as a complete bike. Power Series tubular cro-mo cranks introduced. 27 models and 20+ framesets. Powerlite and Robinson lines introduced (16 models).
- 1996: Aluminum “Speed Series Team” BMX frame launched, a major shift. Taiwan-made frames in GT and Dyno lines for price point. 50 models across GT/Dyno/Powerlite/Robinson.
- Mountain Bikes:
- 1994: RTS becomes a complete suspension line. GT pioneers mass-produced functional full suspension in Taiwan. Road bike line introduced. Custom high-end bikes for US Olympic Team. Groundbreaking LTS 4-bar linkage frame introduced, winning accolades.
- 1995: LTS dominates MTB line. GT first to supply dealers with USA-made 4-bar linkage MTB with ALPS 5/Fox shock. Karakoram wins “1995 Bike of the Year.”
- 1996: Adult line features LTS and RTS platforms. LTS-2 and 3 attempt to bring LTS tech to lower price points. Rock Shox coil sprung 2 is successful, elastomer sprung 3 is not.
The Sale to Schwinn and the Quester Years (July 1996-2001)
Despite Richard’s death, GT’s momentum continued initially. Business grew, and GT acquired distributors in the UK, France, and Japan. In June 1997, GT moved to an even larger 300,000 sq ft facility, integrating manufacturing, assembly, and warehousing. Stock prices, after a brief dip, soared. However, weaknesses emerged as Richard’s strong leadership was irreplaceable. Internal conflicts, missed sales goals, and product delays surfaced.
In the summer of 1998, GT introduced the “I-Drive” suspension platform, a significant advancement. A lavish press event in Las Vegas and Brian Head, Utah, showcased the new bikes. But the celebratory atmosphere was shattered by the announcement that Schwinn had bought GT for $175 million. GT employees were stunned and uncertain about the future of the brand and their roles in it.
Image alt text: A GT I-Drive mountain bike, exemplifying the new suspension technology introduced in 1998, marking a significant development in mountain bike gt full-suspension design.
Product Highlights: July 1996-1998
- BMX Bikes:
- 1997: Monocoque “Box series” chainstays on Speed Series Team. Shimano V-brakes on GT BMX. Spin wheels introduced.
- 1998: Aluminum in freestyle with groundbreaking “Show” flatland frame, designed with flatland legends.
- Mountain & Road Bikes:
- 1997: Carbon fiber and aerodynamics drive new models. New carbon fiber LTS MTBs and aero road bikes, including Vengeance triathlon bike, a template for modern TT bikes.
- 1998: STS technology drives product line. LOBO DH bike introduced. Full suspension dominates models over $1000 (80%). LTS-2000 wins “Bike of the Year.” Steve Peat hired for DH, Team Saturn rides GT road bikes. I-Drive introduced with controversial launch.
The Quester Years (10/12/1998 – 9/11-2001):
Schwinn’s purchaser was actually Questor, an investment company that had acquired Schwinn in 1997. The once-mighty Schwinn was a shell of its former self, lacking manufacturing, global presence, and the Riteway parts business that GT possessed. Questor underestimated GT’s brand power, employee pride, and operational complexity. Management missteps alienated key GT personnel, creating a power vacuum filled by Schwinn management, who sought to portray GT negatively.
Questor’s attempts at “synergies” and “leveraging strengths” failed due to a lack of understanding of bike culture. Simultaneously, the US and European bike markets declined. Cost-cutting, layoffs, and closures became the norm. By spring 2001, Questor sought an exit. Payments to vendors stopped, and Schwinn-GT Inc. declared bankruptcy on June 27, 2001, five years after Richard Long’s death. Pacific Cycle acquired the combined companies on 9/11/01 for $86 million, a massive loss for Questor and a blow to the cycling community.
Product Highlights: 1999-2002 (Quester Years)
- BMX Bikes:
- 1999: Product lines categorized: BMX racing (Speed Series), Trails (Fueler, Bump, Thumper), Freestyle (Show platform, Vert bikes).
- 2000: ULTRABOX!!! Monocoque BMX frame boosts GT in BMX market. Fueler and Show platforms continue.
- 2001: Focus shifts to X Games crowd, marketing athletes. Vert legend Dave Voelker and Jamie Bestwick become centerpieces. Ultrabox and Show lead lines.
- 2002: Bankruptcy year, product development stalled.
- Mountain & Road Bikes:
- 1999: I-Drive suspension launched, hailed as a new chapter in MTB suspension. 7 models feature I-Drive. Last year for LTS; XR-1000 model with sealed bearings and FOX air shock is the finest LTS.
- 2000: GT acquires Syncros, enters Tour De France. Revamped road platform. I-Drive refined and lightened. DH-I replaces Lobo. Roland Greene pilots I-Drive prototype to silver at World Championships.
- 2001: I-Drive Team (inspired by Roland’s bike) at 24.5 lbs. Affordable DH-I released. Ruckus hardtail for extreme riding. Zaskar Team at 22.5 lbs.
- 2002: Ruckus I-Drive becomes new standard for freeriding.
The Pacific Cycle Era: Rising from the Ashes (2003-2008)
On 9/11/2001, Chris Hornung, CEO of Pacific Cycles, acquired Schwinn and GT in bankruptcy court, outmaneuvering Huffy Corp. Hornung recognized the value of the GT brand name for mass-market appeal. However, Pacific Cycle initially didn’t know how to handle the IBD-focused GT brand. All GT and Schwinn staff were let go, buildings emptied, and equipment moved.
At Interbike 2002, Pacific Cycle’s attempt to engage IBD dealers was a disaster. However, Bob Ippolito, a former Richard Long associate, saw GT’s potential and persuaded Chris Hornung to retain a small GT product and international sales team. In February 2002, a tiny office in Lake Forest became the new GT headquarters. From 2000+ employees to just three, GT was “sort of” back in business.
This small team, eventually growing to six, created a bike line for 2003, sold internationally, leveraging GT’s global brand recognition. The 2003 model year was moderately successful, impressing Chris Hornung with the GT brand’s enduring power and paving the way for a true revival of the mountain bike gt legacy.
Product Highlights: 2003-2008 (Pacific Cycle Years)
- 2003: I-Drive Marathon featured on BIKE (Germany) magazine cover. Ruckus “Dullies” (lighter 6-inch travel bikes). Limited new product development due to the transition.
- 2004: IDXC 1.0 and 2.0: Reinvented I-Drive for short travel, user-friendly maintenance. Ruckus Flowta (Air/Air freeride bike). Zaskar Team sub-23 lb hardtail gains niche popularity.
- 2005: “G-Box” concept bike resurrected. New 5-inch I-Drive platform replaces eccentric system. IDXC 1.0 wins “Gear of the Year” from Outside magazine. Last year for eccentric I-Drive.
- 2006: All full suspension models adopt new I-Drive. IT-1 production gearbox bike launched, generating significant press. Zaskar hydroformed frame (lightest aluminum MTB frame by GT). I-Drive 7 freeride platform. GT Ruckus 29″ MTB. Kustom Kruiser aluminum cruiser line.
- 2007: “Year of Carbon.” Carbon frames in road, DH, XC. New carbon road platform success. Revamped I-Drive 5. New DH-i (lightest production DH bike). Carbon I-Drive 4 (carbon front triangle XC bike).
- 2008: True return to form. New GT Zaskar carbon hardtail, Marathon, Force, Ultrabox 2 carbon BMX, GTR carbon road bikes. Limited Edition Zaskar Re-Issue for 20th anniversary. GT Fury carbon DH and Force carbon bikes under development.
Image alt text: The GT Zaskar Carbon mountain bike, representing GT’s resurgence and innovation in carbon fiber technology, a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy in mountain bike gt evolution.
2008 marked a significant milestone: GT Bicycles’ true return to form. From the brink of bankruptcy in 2002, GT had risen again, showcasing innovation and a renewed commitment to quality. With the introduction of the Zaskar carbon hardtail, Marathon, Force, Ultrabox 2 carbon BMX, and GTR Series carbon road bikes, GT demonstrated its resilience and enduring appeal. The limited-edition Zaskar Re-Issue celebrated 20 years of the iconic name, and the development of the GT Fury carbon downhill and Force carbon bikes signaled a bright future. Let’s hope GT continues on this path, reclaiming its former glory and continuing to innovate in the world of bicycles, especially in the mountain bike gt arena that it helped to shape.
