With our own shop, we can always work on progress first hand, if there is a problem, it gets fixed, if Tag wants to try something new, it happens, if DMC needs gyro tabs, it gets done, the list goes on, and on top of that, the money we spend making bikes, goes into the riders pockets that work at FBM, and that is pretty cool, Because they all kick ass, do a great job, and when they get off work, they all shred. Who knows better how to make a good frame, then a skilled welder/machinist that rides the shit out of one?
So many companies have given up producing bikes in the USA, what keeps you going? Crandall: Since we are in-house, we can be a lot more flexible, that helps. We have a commitment to the lifestyle we have chosen as well, as riders and rider owned, rider built etc... I don't see any reason to abandon that any time in the near future... We have put a lot of time and effort to make it this far and we are all pretty stoked on that.
What are some of the things that you did not think about when you started a bike company that are kicking you in the butt right now?
Crandall: I didn't really ever have a game plan, But one thing is for sure, you don't just put in some time and then it's smooth sailing. It's constant hard work if you ever want to be successful. Any time I realized I was not paying enough attention, or that I was slacking, it definitely came back to bite me in the ass.
Do you have more respect for other bike companies who have been in the business longer, now that you have gone through everything yourself? Crandall: Of course, I have a lot of respect for the Independently owned Bike companies. I wouldn't say we have been through "everything" yet, there is always something new to learn, or figure out, or have to deal with....
You have been presenting quite a few BMX videos and BMX programs for TV, is that something you like to do more of in the future or is it just nice to travel and put a few extra bucks in the pocket?
Crandall: I have no aspirations to become a TV personality, at least not in any seriousness. It's lighthearted and fun, because I work with Stew and Marco, and the Props crew, and they are all great friends, otherwise, I imagine it would probably suck. I am happy doing FBM, and the sidework, for me is a way to help promote FBM further.
With the FBM company, presenting videos, making art, organizing contests, do you have time to ride yourself? Crandall: Not as much as I would like, obviously, but I still get out and do some laps on the halfpikes and dirt rampers. Lately I have been getting some good evening sessions with my buddy's, at the trails and around town. Stoked on that.
Is there any FBM road trip in the works for this summer?
Crandall: We just did one that will be in Ride UK, and we'll probably do a bunch of smaller ones throughout the summer, and a big trip later on towards fall. I think we are always on the road to some extent...
Who are all on the team these days? Crandall: The team has different sects, so to speak, the staff, the hall of fame, rookies, and the PRO's. The current pro team is Derrick Girard, Mike Tag, Tony Cardona, Tony Hamlin, Cameron Wood and [url=//fatbmx.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1357]Aaron Ross[/url].
What's the status on the superduper flatland frame?
Crandall: It's awesome, John Corts rides it every day at lunch.
What's the main reason you're in this business?
Crandall: Independent nature I guess....
[url=http://www.fbmbmx.com]FBM[/url]
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.