The Myth, the Madness, the Magic: Davin “Psycho” Hallford

If BMX had a spirit animal, Davin “Psycho” Hallford would be it. A rider whose name still echoes through the ramps and rails of the American Midwest, Hallford wasn’t just a BMXer—he was a force of nature. With a style that defied convention and a presence that felt almost supernatural, Psycho carved out a legacy that’s equal parts folklore and fact.

🌪 Origins of a Freestyle Maverick

Born in the heartland of the United States—likely somewhere in Oklahoma or Texas—Davin Hallford emerged during the golden age of freestyle BMX in the late 1980s. While exact birth details remain elusive (as they often do with legends), what’s clear is that he was already making waves during the Central States Freestyle and AFA contest days. His early riding was raw, aggressive, and unfiltered—an antidote to the polished routines of the era.

Hallford’s breakout moment came in 1991 with his appearance in Eddie Roman’s seminal video Headfirst. That segment didn’t just introduce him to the BMX world—it detonated him into it. His riding was wild, unpredictable, and deeply creative. He wasn’t trying to impress judges; he was trying to obliterate expectations.

🔥 Signature Style & Tricks

Psycho’s riding was defined by a fearless disregard for safety and a deep love for chaos. He was known for:

• Ramp-to-ramp transfers that seemed physically impossible

• Sprocket grinds on everything—including the hood of a car

• Huge airs off quarter pipes, sometimes landing straight to flat

• Unorthodox lines that turned skateparks into playgrounds of destruction

He didn’t just ride—he attacked. His bike was an extension of his imagination, and his imagination was wild.

🛠 Sponsors & Gear

Hallford was a key figure in the early days of Hoffman Bikes, not just as a rider but as a creative contributor. He helped design:

• The original Flaming H logo

• Graphics for the Condor bike

• Visuals for the Bicycle Stunt Series

When Mat Hoffman and Steve Swope had prototype parts to test, they handed them to Psycho. If they survived his riding, they were ready for production.

🎥 Video Sections & Appearances

Aside from Headfirst, Hallford appeared in several underground and archival videos, including:

• Warehouse sessions at Hoffman Bikes in the mid-90s

• Contest footage from the early AFA days

• VHS edits compiled by Paul Covey and others who recognized his unique contribution to BMX

These clips are treasured by BMX historians—not just for the tricks, but for the energy. Watching Psycho ride is like watching a storm unfold in slow motion.

🎨 Beyond the Bike

What makes Hallford even more compelling is that his creativity wasn’t limited to BMX. He’s also:

• A talented artist, known for bold, expressive designs

• A musician, channeling the same raw emotion into sound

• A freestyle purist, never chasing trends, always chasing fun

He was never about fame or sponsorship deals. He was about vision—and his visions were rad.

Davin 'Psycho' Hallford // Headfirst // 1991

Davin "Psycho" Halford // AFA Masters // Austin Texas // 1988

Davin "Psycho" Halford