In late March, in an interview published on The Union, Tree Bicycle Co's Nathan Parker discussed the brand's decision to discontinue frame production and focus on component development and manufacturing. According to Parker, "it gives us the chance to work with people we may have wanted to but couldn't because they had a frame deal."
About a week after the change in Tree's approach, the brand added Austin-based trail rider Clint Reynolds to the team, introducing him with a stellar "Day in the Life" video that showcased Reynolds in his adopted hometown, roasting huge sets of trails. Now, just a month later, Tree has added one more piece to their developing puzzle: Pittsburgh's Brian Yeagle. According to Tree, "he's a driven individual whether he's behind the lens of his camera, teaching himself a language, or going on an adventure. He's a perfect fit to fly the flag for the Tree tribe."
And they couldn't be more correct. In the above introductory video from Yeagle and Tree, Yeagle does what he does best -- huge transfers, a command of huge transitions, unreal boost from curved wallrides and some of the most stylish and burly trail riding on the scene today. What grabbed me about Yeagle joining Tree's new team was the direction that the brand seems to be taking by sponsoring two of the most stylish riders on the BMX scene today.
Tree's components, from spline-drive sprockets to collet stems to some of the most innovative straight-pull spoke hubs on the BMX market, were designed out of necessity to make BMX bikes simpler and stronger, with an added edge that subtly emphasized uniqueness. And now, with both Clint Reynolds and Brian Yeagle being added to the team, Tree's unique edge continues. Or, as Parker more succinctly says, "We decided Tree needed more boost."
For more on the original spline-drive BMX sprocket and Tree's straight-pull hubs and spokes (which not only creates a stronger wheel but simplifies wheel builds), check out the expanding Tree Bicycle Co. website.
