Collectors Corner with Chip Bowers

When did you start collecting? When these bikes were new. Most recently 3 years ago.

What originally got you started? My son at age 5, wanted a real bike, so we could go riding. The
bikes at the local shop did not impress me. So off to Ebay I went, to see if I could find anything I
remembered from my early days.

How long have you been collecting? Seriously for 3 years.

What is your favorite bike to collect? 1985 Haro Master - if it's not obvious enough.

What is your current restoration project? 82 Freestyler, Torker 280, and a newly acquired 84
Master. My white 85 Master will never be complete until I track down another blue Peregrine mag for it.

How many bikes do you have in your collection? It varies week to week, usually 10-20.

Is there any one bike that brings back special memories? They all do actually, but I'm partial to
the green 85 Master because that was the bike that got my attention the first time I saw it. I purchased
one new complete, but got the white to be different and later got a chrome one.

Is there a bike that you don't have that you still want to build? An original pink 85 Master.

What was your first restore? My green 85 Master I ride. That frame looked like it was in a creek for a
while, I'll never sell that bike.

What was your very first bike that you can remember riding as a kid? Had to be a huffy, I'm sure
my dad has 8 mm film of me on that bike. I saved up for a used set of Tuff wheel I's and the bike was all
black, I almost got hit by a car on it.

Any last comments you would like to say to every one? I have had great experience's with
everyone I have dealt with in the hobby, no problems with anyone. A few people like Chris Beltramini
(Pepster) and James Tobin (Twintoptuber) have really helped me out and I have to thank them. Most
importantly my son Tommy for getting me started, and my wife for allowing me so much time online and
in the garage. I definitely want to thank the founder's of Vintagebmx.com, os-bmx.com, radbmx.co.uk
and this site as well, These sites keep the hobby fun, and help me realize I'm not as crazy as
non-collectors think I am. Or at least I'm not alone with my addiction.