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Rogue Bikes Inc was established in September 2003 as the formalization of a long standing hobby. James Baker started building customized bicycles in 1997 upon arrival in California from the mid-west. Influenced equally by the ‘Beach-Cruiser’ genre being so prolific in the Southern California coastal areas, together with the Harley and Custom motorcycle styles, it seemed logical to combine these style elements with functionality. The first ‘Customized’ bicycles built were based upon the, then revolutionary, Dyno Roadster frames, some of which can be seen in the Gallery section. During these ‘early years’, James had the good fortune to be able to utilize workshop space in Huntington Beach with Mr Gary Silva. Formerly of Rott Industries, and Phat Cycles fame, Gary is now owner of 3G Cycles and continues to be a pioneer in bicycle style and creativity. Gary’s innovative ideas contributed to some design and technical aspects of James’ earlier work. Late in 2000 it became quite apparent that the Dyno frame on which James had based his work, would no longer provide the scope for development he felt was needed to really push the boundaries of bicycle design. Endeavouring to move towards a significantly more ‘Exotic’ style, and further incorporating the Chopper Motorcycle ‘Look’, he designed and built a new frame which would form the basis of the more current examples seen in the Gallery. This new frame incorporated key elements such as ‘Steering stops’; ‘transmission mounts’; Central primary drive; and a battery box. An introduction to Steve Hutchison of Wild Wheel Werks fame, back in 2001, and the continued close working relationship with him since, has also contributed to many design elements and technical developments. Steve’s vision, innovation and skills continue to aid Rogue Bikes evolution process which is continuous and further enhancements are being incorporated into newer frames. This enables Rogue Bikes to be able to offer a range of frame geometries and fittings to accommodate, not only the physical dimensions of the client, but also their styling preferences. Rogue Bikes Inc today, is the most prominent builder of exotic and high-end custom bicycles, aiming at a niche market for discerning buyers or collectors of ‘Luxury Toys’. It is not imagined or intended that these bicycles will have any ‘mass-market’ appeal by virtue of both their cost and production times. Currently, Rogue Bikes is building bicycles to customer order only, very specific to their requirements and styling wishes. Costs range between $4000 and $10,000 dependant upon specifications of individual clients. Production time is on average about 120 days. James Baker |