The Freestyle Legacy of Fred Blood: BMX’s Maverick Showman

In the golden age of BMX freestyle, few names carried the flair and charisma of Fred Blood. A pioneer, a performer, and a marketer with a knack for turning heads, Blood carved out a unique space in the BMX world that still echoes through the sport’s culture today.

🧒 Early Life & Entry into BMX

Fred Blood was born in the United States, though exact details of his birthdate remain elusive to many fans. His journey into BMX began like many of his generation—through the raw thrill of riding and the magnetic pull of freestyle. But Fred wasn’t just another kid on a bike. He had a showman’s instinct and a hunger to push boundaries, which quickly set him apart.

Before BMX took over his life, Fred was also a pro-level vertical roller skater—yes, you read that right. That crossover of balance, flair, and aerial awareness gave him a unique edge when he transitioned into freestyle BMX, especially in the early 1980s when the sport was still defining itself.

🔥 Signature Tricks & Riding Style

Fred Blood was known for his inventive and theatrical approach to freestyle. While he may not have been the most technically dialed rider of his era, he made up for it with creativity and crowd engagement. His trick repertoire included stylish flatland moves and ramp tricks that emphasized flair over precision. He was particularly fond of platform-based tricks, which later influenced the design of his signature bike.

He wasn’t just riding—he was performing. That mindset made him a standout in demos and competitions, where personality mattered just as much as technical skill.

🚴 Sponsors & Signature Gear

Fred’s most iconic sponsorship came from General Bicycles, where he not only rode for the brand but had a signature model named after him: the Blood Pro. This trimoly-framed bike featured a platform design that suited his trick style and showmanship. Before General, Fred also rode for SE Racing, where he was often seen on the legendary Quadangle Freestyler and even a prototype called the Trickster.

Beyond bikes, Fred was featured in Vision Street Wear ads, further cementing his image as a freestyle icon with crossover appeal. His look, attitude, and branding helped BMX reach wider audiences during the sport’s boom years.

🎥 Video Sections & Media Presence

Fred Blood appeared in several BMX videos during the 1980s, including the cult classic Stompin’ the States, which featured other freestyle legends like RL Osborn, Pete Kearney, and Todd Anderson. These videos weren’t just about tricks—they were road trip-style showcases that captured the spirit of BMX culture in its rawest form.

Fred also maintained a presence in magazines and promotional materials, often appearing in ads and interviews that highlighted his unique approach to riding and marketing.

🤹 Other Fun Facts

• Fred was known for being incredibly friendly and talkative at BMX tours, especially during the 1985 BMXA tour.

• He helped organize and MC freestyle shows, including events at major venues like Madison Square Garden.

• His dual career in vertical roller skating and BMX made him a rare hybrid athlete in the action sports world.

🕶 What’s Fred Blood Up to Now?

Today, Fred Blood remains active in the BMX and skating communities. He runs Fred Blood Sports, a platform that showcases vintage footage, shares updates, and keeps the spirit of freestyle alive. He’s still involved in shows—sometimes as an MC—and continues to share his passion for action sports through social media and public appearances.

Fred’s legacy isn’t just about tricks or trophies—it’s about energy, creativity, and the joy of riding. He helped shape freestyle BMX into a performance art, and that influence still ripples through the sport today.

Freestylin' at the Spot // 1987 // Dino Deluca, Fred Blood, Chris Day & More!