Behind the Bars: The Story of S&M Bikes
If you've ever dipped your toes into the gritty, no-frills world of BMX, chances are you've heard of S&M Bikes. This isn't your average bike brand—it's a movement, a legacy, and a punk-rock anthem on two wheels. Let’s take a ride through the history, culture, and current pulse of one of BMX’s most iconic companies.
The Birth of a BMX Rebel
S&M Bikes was born in 1987 in the heart of Southern California, the epicenter of BMX culture. The company was founded by Chris Moeller, a wild-child racer and test rider for BMX Action magazine, and his partner Greg Swingrover. Frustrated by the fragile and uninspiring bikes of the time, Moeller set out to build something better—something that could take a beating and still beg for more.
Their first creation, the K-9 D-Zine frame, was a game-changer. It was the first frame designed to handle all terrains: track, dirt, and street. With help from legendary fabricators like Cook Bros. Racing and Voris Dixon, S&M quickly earned credibility for their craftsmanship and innovation.
What Makes S&M Legendary?
S&M isn’t just known for building bikes—they’re known for building culture. From the beginning, they’ve embraced a DIY ethos, keeping production in the USA and staying fiercely independent. Their frames are hand-welded in California, and they’ve never sold out to big corporations. That punk spirit runs deep.
They’ve also been pioneers in frame design, creating models like the Dirtbike, Holmes, and the iconic BTM (Boyd the Man) frame. These bikes weren’t just tools—they were extensions of the rider’s personality, built to withstand the abuse of street riding and the demands of dirt jumping.
Sponsored Riders and BMX Royalty
Over the years, S&M has sponsored some of the most influential riders in BMX history. Names like Mike Hoder, Charlie Crumlish, Chris Childs, and Craig Passero have all flown the S&M flag. Their team videos—raw, creative, and often hilarious—have become cult classics in the BMX world.
They’ve also collaborated with Credence Bikes, another rider-owned brand, to push the boundaries of trail and transition riding. The S&M Slidepipe Stunt Team and their “Factory Friday” series give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the brand’s operations and rider antics.
What’s S&M Up to Now?
Today, S&M Bikes is still going strong. They continue to produce high-quality frames and components in the USA, staying true to their roots. Their website is a hub of activity, showcasing new products, rider edits, and community events. They’re also active in the global BMX scene, with riders tearing it up from London to Austin.
S&M remains a beacon for riders who value authenticity, durability, and a little bit of rebellion. Whether you’re bombing down a street, carving through a bowl, or just cruising your local trails, riding an S&M means you’re part of something bigger—a legacy built on passion, grit, and a whole lot of attitude.
S&M 44 Something (1993)
S&M - Dirt Rules!
S&M WINS