Bob Haro: The Godfather of Freestyle BMX

If you're into BMX, chances are you've heard the name Bob Haro whispered with reverence. He's not just a rider—he's the architect of an entire movement. From his early days in Southern California to pioneering freestyle BMX and founding Haro Bikes, Bob Haro’s story is one of creativity, grit, and game-changing innovation.

🧒 Early Life & Origins

Bob Haro was born on June 29, 1958, in Pasadena, California, and raised in San Diego. Originally obsessed with motocross, he won over 50 trophies racing dirt bikes before financial constraints led him to explore BMX. His transition came around 1976, when he started racing his brother’s bike behind a local shop. That humble beginning would ignite a revolution.

🚴♂️ Birth of Freestyle BMX

By 1978, Haro teamed up with R.L. Osborn to form the first-ever freestyle BMX team, debuting at the ABA Winternationals in Arizona. His riding style was radically different—less about racing, more about expression. He was one of the first to treat BMX as an art form, blending tricks, ramps, and skatepark flair into a new discipline.

In 1981, Haro designed the first BMX frame and fork specifically for freestyle, manufactured by Torker and released as the Haro Freestyler in 1982. This bike became the blueprint for generations of freestyle rigs.

🔥 Signature Tricks & Style

Bob Haro was known for:

• Flatland mastery: He helped invent and popularize flatland BMX, a style focused on balance and technical tricks on flat ground.

• Ramp and vert riding: Haro’s performances often included smooth transitions and aerial flair.

• Creative combos: His tricks weren’t just athletic—they were choreographed, often blending skateboarding influences.

His riding was more than technical—it was theatrical. That’s why he was chosen as a stunt rider in Steven Spielberg’s “E.T.” during the iconic BMX chase scene.

💼 Sponsors & Business Moves

Bob Haro’s early sponsors included:

• Vans

• Oakley

• Off Shore Surf Apparel

These partnerships helped fund his legendary 1981 Haro Freestyle Tour, which covered 18,000 miles across the U.S. and Canada.

After retiring from riding in 1985 due to knee injuries, Haro shifted gears. He founded Haro Design, Inc. in 1993, a creative agency that worked with brands like Nike, Red Bull, Yamaha, and Ducati.

🎥 Video Sections & Media Presence

Bob Haro’s riding and legacy have been captured in several video features:

• “The Freestyle BMX Story” – A deep dive into his journey, available on YouTube.

• Rare 1979 footage – Showcases his early style and innovation.

• TikTok tributes – Clips celebrating his influence and tricks from the early '80s.

He also created instructional content like the “Freestyle Moves” book, helping spread the gospel of BMX to new riders.

🎨 Beyond BMX: Art & Design

Drawing was Haro’s first love. He worked as an illustrator for BMX Action Magazine, and his artistic sensibility shaped everything from bike decals to brand logos. His design agency, Harodesign, became a powerhouse in action sports branding.

🌍 What’s Bob Haro Up to Now?

Bob Haro is still deeply involved in BMX culture. His latest venture is ICONIX, a brand blending his legacy with modern BMX design. The first model, the FS1, pays homage to his history while catering to today’s riders.

He’s also active in event planning and collaborations, including a UK BMX celebration with Gumball 3000. Haro continues to speak at events, design gear, and inspire the next generation of riders and creatives.

Bob Haro and Mike Dominguez, Freestyle BMX Demo, Bristol, UK, 1984

Bob Haro Launches His Ikonix FS-1 Bike at DirtyFest!

BOB HARO - UNCLICKED