Discover Paul Brodie's story, the visionary Canadian frame builder behind Brodie Bikes. This biography explores his innovations, craftmanship, and lasting influence on MTBing through rare photos, personal stories, and years of cycling history.
Ever wondered what's it like to run a hand-built bicycle factory? Paul Brodie shares the ups and downs of keeping Brodie Bikes afloat during challenging times. From lawsuits to looming bankruptcy, this engaging account of the bicycle biz takes an honest look at the complexities of running a shop where personalities abound and the "biking lifestyle" has been working with metal for close to 60 years. He loves sharing his knowledge, detailing how he learned the craft of bicycle framebuilding and describing shop lore and fabrication techniques. His passion for two wheels shines through chapter after chapter as he moves from bicycles to motorcycles and back again, taking us along for the ride. Paul Brodie is an inspiring account of creativity and perseverance as Paul steadfastly follows his path of fabricating hand-built bicycles and motorcycles.
"One of the best bicycle industry books I've ridden..."-Zapata Espinoza, editor-in-chief of Road Bike Action Magazine"A fantastic read and a great insight into Brodie's background and processes. One of the most enjoyable bike books I've read so far."-Adam Leddin, editor for Cycle EXIF"A great read. It was interesting to learn more about Brodie's history, and reading this book filled in so much. I've always had great respect for Brodie's work and reading this book only increased that for me."-Chris Dekerf, Dekerf Cycle Innovations"Nice job on the book. I really enjoyed it and learned a bunch! For anyone interested in the history of mountain bikes, especially in Canada, Paul Brodie pulls it all together in this book."-Jeff Archer, curator of Museum of Mountain Bike Art and Technology (), judge at NAHBS"Paul is one of the most skilled and talented craftsman I know. And now that he's added writing to his talent chest, I felt like he was sitting right next to me telling his stories. I'm honored to have him as a friend!"-Ross Shafer, founder of Salsa Cycles"What a great story! Easy to read, super-honest voice, which is very refreshing. Some real nuggets in there."-Sam Whittingham, Naked Bicycles and Design"Brodie delivers a very readable tale. For all his Kafka-esque 'one fine morning' woes he finds enough satisfaction in his life'spursuit to excel as a builder, and perhaps even as a writer."-Joe Breeze, Breezer Bikes