Travis Chipres

Travis Chipres is a legend in the bike industry, not only as three-time world champion of BMX Racing [1] , but also for his participation in the movie beloved to all BMX riders, “Rad,” where he appears as ”Bart Taylor”/Bart Conners’ stunt double. [2]

Travis started his racing career in 1976 in his hometown of Simi Valley, California at a racetrack called Hope Town. Needing a parent’s signature on his authorization form to race, he had the female clerk at his local liquor store sign for him. Working at odd jobs and mowing lawns to make up his entry fees, he continued ot race and went on to win the World Championship title in 1985 when he was 17. Travis rode for Robinson and Mongoose. [3]

Travis was a huge influence in the Palm Springs "Race Against Drugs" campaign. He was the `95 World Cup Champ in Pro Cruiser and Vet Pro. He officially retired from double-A in 1992. But when ABA formed the “Masters” class in 1993, he was there, back on a bike. [4]

He has also made considerable contributions to the bike industry since his active riding days, working as Team Manager for Specialized, Director of Sports Marketing for Pacific Cycle (Schwinn, GT, Mongoose) and currently working as Promotion Manager for Giant. [5] He is known for his incredible knowledge of the industry, ability to spot up-and-coming talent, and dedication to protecting the rights of his riders while still promoting the industry and his company.

He has also been involved in videogame 2003 Downhill Domination [6] and played himself in the 1997 movies “Tread and Re-Tread.” [7]

References

* BMXtreme.com, 1999. Top 90 BMXers of the 90's!
* IMDB. "Rad" page.
* ABA American Bicycle Association. 2002 ABA Hall of Fame Listing.
* Zoom Info for Travis Chipres.
* Games Are Fun website.
* Amazon.com.