The Rise, Fall, and Revival of Metal Bikes: A BMX Legacy
In the gritty world of BMX, few names evoke as much raw energy and underground respect as Metal Bikes. Born from the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, this brand carved its own path through the late '90s and early 2000s BMX scene, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, rebellion, and pure adrenaline.
Origins: Where It All Began
Metal Bikes was founded in 1998 by Jimmy LeVan and Joe Carnall. LeVan, a legendary BMX rider known for his fearless style and punk rock ethos, teamed up with Carnall to create a brand that reflected their vision of what BMX should be—authentic, aggressive, and unapologetically bold. Louisville, with its rich skate and BMX culture, served as the perfect launchpad for their venture.
What Made Metal Bikes Stand Out
Metal wasn’t just another bike company—it was a movement. Their frames were built tough, designed to withstand the brutal demands of street and dirt riding. But beyond the hardware, Metal Bikes was notable for its attitude. The brand embraced a DIY spirit, often operating outside the mainstream BMX industry, and cultivated a cult following among riders who valued authenticity over polish.
Their video productions, like the iconic “Dead Bang,” showcased not just the bikes but the lifestyle—raw footage, heavy music, and jaw-dropping tricks that pushed the limits of what was possible on two wheels. Metal Bikes became synonymous with hardcore BMX, and their influence rippled through the community.
Sponsored Riders and the Crew
Metal Bikes sponsored some of the most respected names in BMX. Of course, Jimmy LeVan himself was the face of the brand, known for his massive gaps and fearless riding. Other riders who flew the Metal flag included Joe Carnall and Derek Gabbert, among others. These athletes weren’t just team members—they were family, united by a shared passion for pushing boundaries and living the BMX lifestyle to the fullest.
The Hiatus and the Comeback
In 2011, Metal Bikes went on hiatus. The BMX world felt the absence, but the brand’s spirit lived on in the riders and fans who kept its memory alive. Then, with the release of the Jimmy LeVan documentary “Go Fast Pull Up,” the spark was reignited. Inspired by the renewed interest and love from the community, LeVan decided to breathe life back into Metal Bikes.
However, the revival wasn’t without turbulence. Internal conflicts and social media drama led to a fractured relaunch, and by early 2024, Metal Bikes was declared officially dead. The BMX community mourned the loss, with fans expressing frustration and sadness over the way things ended.
Faded Glory // Metal Bikes // 2003 (Full Video!)
Metal Bikes NorthWest Road Trip at PROPS 70 FULL
Jimmy Levan // Metal Bikes // Faded Glory // 2003