For BMX enthusiasts, few brands evoke more nostalgia than Redline. Founded in 1974 in California, Redline quickly became one of the premier BMX brands during the sport’s massive growth in the 1970s and 1980s.
They were known for their innovative engineering, stylish frame designs, and high-performance race bikes. Even today, decades later, vintage Redline BMX models remain highly sought after by collectors and riders looking to relive their youth.
In this blog post, we’ll take a nostalgic look back at some of the most popular and influential vintage Redline BMX models spanning the late 1970s through the 1990s. We’ll see how Redline continually pushed boundaries and set trends during BMX’s early days.
Whether you own one of these classic machines or just appreciate retro BMX styling, read on for a trip down memory lane!
1980s Redline BMX Models
The 1980s represent the golden era for Redline BMX. During this decade, the brand cemented itself as a leader through cutting-edge engineering and racing dominance.
Vintage Redline BMX models from the ’80s have gone on to become some of the most recognizable and coveted vintage bikes around. Here are some of the most significant 1980s Redline BMX bikes:
1980 Redline 500RX
One of the first production BMX bikes made entirely from aluminum, the 500RX debuted in 1980. Its 7000 series aluminum frame shaved weight while still delivering a responsive and lively ride.
The 80s Redline 500RX featured many race-oriented components like alloy rims, tapered fork legs, and motorcycle-style brake levers. It set a precedent for using lightweight metals in BMX frame construction.
1981 Redline RL-20
Considered one of the most iconic BMX frames ever made, the 1981 RL-20 featured Redline’s patented “Uni-Cam” rear dropout system. This allowed fast wheel changes during racing pit stops along with easy chain tension adjustment.
The bike also sported Redline’s first black chrome finish that would become an ’80s brand staple. Vintage examples of the 1981 Redline RL-20 remain highly collectible today.
1984 Redline 412 Flight Pro
Capitalizing on the mid-80s BMX aerodynamics craze, Redline released the wind-tunnel-tested 412 Flight Pro in 1984. It featured a super-low standover height and dropped the top and down tubes to cheat the wind.
The 412 Flight Pro also introduced Redline’s Eccentric Bottom Bracket (EBB) system allowing for chain tension adjustments without moving the rear wheel.
1985 Redline RL-20II
An updated version of the immensely popular RL-20, the 1985 RL-20II incorporated ovalized tubing for increased frame stiffness. The chrome color palette was also reversed with chrome chainstays and fork and a black main frame.
Like the original, the 1980s Redline RL-20II is still regarded as one of the best racing BMX frames ever produced.
1987 Redline 500 Series
In 1987, Redline revamped their entire BMX line renaming it the “500 Series.” The models included the RL-20II, the RL-25, the RL-100, and the RL-200. They shared many features like investment cast dropouts, ovalized tubing, and Tange chromoly construction.
The uniform numbering system established model year-based lineages that continue today with bikes like the 2021 Redline Flight Pro XX.
Other Significant 1980s Redline BMX Bikes:
- 1984 Redline 24′′ Cruiser
- 1984 Redline Proline
- 1985 Redline MXR
- 1986 Redline MX-II
- 1987 Redline MX-III
From the minimalist 1980 500RX to the race-bred 1987 RL-20II, Redline’s engineering and style defined performance BMX in the 1980s. Their frames achieved iconic status and established Redline as a go-to brand for young aspiring racers.
1990s Vintage Redline BMX Models
As BMX became more specialized in the 1990s, Redline adapted with both race-focused and trail/street-oriented models. Advancements in materials and construction marked Redline’s BMX evolution in the ’90s. Some of the most noteworthy 1990s vintage Redline BMX models include:
1990 Redline Proline PL-26
The aluminum Proline PL-26 replaced the RL-20II as Redline’s premiere pro-level race frame in 1990. It utilized double-butted aluminum tubes along with a tapered headtube and seat stay wishbone.
These helped shed weight while retaining stiffness and snappy power transfer. The 2000s Redline Proline PL-26 had a production run until 1996, showing off Redline’s race expertise throughout the decade.
1991 Redline 400 Series
Targeting the burgeoning trail, dirt jump, and street segment, Redline introduced the Chromoly Steel 400 Series in 1991.
The 400 Series featured BMX-specific geometry with shorter chainstays, higher bottom brackets, and sturdier tubing compared to their race frames. Models included the 1993 Redline Proline 410 and 1996 Redline Proline 450.
1995 Redline RL450
Made from 7005 aluminum butted tubing, the mid-90s RL450 incorporated huge 1.75″ diameter downtubes. Combined with ovalized chainstays and seat stays, this created noticeable stiffness gains for transferring power to the rear wheel.
The 1995 Redline RL450 also saw improved TIG welding techniques resulting in beautifully crafted frames.
1997 Redline PL24
With a 74-degree seat tube angle, short 17.25″ chainstays, and responsive Easton Ultralite tubing, the 1997 Redline PL24 was built for the demands of Pro-level BMX racing.
LS2 forged dropouts, a machined headtube, and press-fit Spanish BB kept the weight low while handling hardcore racing abuse. Later PL24 iterations took home numerous championships cementing its racing pedigree.
1999 Redline Conquest Pro
In 1999, Redline designed the Conquest Pro specifically for dirt jumping’s rapid growth. Its sturdy, low-standover chromoly frame handled big air and abusive landings.
Other dirt jump enhancements like 990 mounts, 10mm dropouts, and an integrated headset made the Conquest Pro one of the best early dirt jumpers.
Additional Notable 1990s Redline BMX Bikes:
- 1990 Redline Alloy RL20
- 1992 Redline 420 Pro
- 1995 Redline Expedition
- 1996 Redline MX IV
- 1997 Redline Proline 470
Redline’s 1990s BMX models highlight their ability to adapt and excel across multiple disciplines. From dialed race rockets like the ’97 PL24 to burly jump bikes like the ’99 Conquest Pro, Redline demonstrated their versatility and commitment to performance.
Vintage Redline BMX Models Buyer’s Guide
For riders seeking that nostalgic BMX experience, purchasing one of these vintage Redline models can be a rewarding project. Keep the following tips in mind when shopping for and restoring a classic Redline:
- Thoroughly inspect frames for cracks, especially at the welds. Carefully check chainstays, headtubes, and bottom bracket shells.
- Look for original components when possible. Period-correct parts like Cook Bros. cranks, CW hubs, and Kashimax seats add to collectability.
- Watch for bent forks, wheels not running true, and damaged or expired tires. These are common issues on older bikes.
- Be prepared to regrease bearings and pivots plus replace brake pads, cables, grips, and saddle.
- Don’t over-polish frames or components during cleaning. Lightly polish then use protectants to preserve finish.
- Upgrade to modern tires for safety. New sealed bearing hubs also greatly improve rolling.
- If repainting, research accurate paint codes and decals to retain value. Pro builds demand proper restoration.
Owning a collectible vintage Redline BMX models is a nostalgic link to BMX history. With care and some restoration work, they can be functional and stylin’ bikes for decades to come!
FAQs:
Q1: What are some of the most iconic 1980s Vintage Redline BMX models?
A: Some of the most iconic 1980s Redline BMX models include the 1981 RL-20, 1984 Redline 412 Flight Pro, 1985 RL-20II, and the 1987 Redline 500 series. These bikes demonstrated Redline’s engineering leadership in materials, aerodynamics, adjustability, and weight reduction.
Q2: Which 1990s Redline BMX models were best for racing?
A: Redline’s 1990 Proline PL-26 and 1997 PL24 models were designed specifically for professional-level BMX racing. They utilized lightweight double-butted aluminum tubing and race-specific geometry that dominated the track.
Q3: What are good beginner vintage Redline BMX models to look for?
A: Beginner-friendly vintage Redline models include the 1984 Redline 24” Cruiser, 1987 Redline MX-III, and some of the early 1990s 400 series bikes like the 1993 Redline Proline 410. These are well-built, affordable, and more available than pro-level vintage Redlines.
Q4: How can I determine the model year of a vintage Redline BMX models?
A: Look for a small engraved or stamped code on the bottom bracket shell or rear dropouts that indicates the model and year. You can also reference vintage catalog scans online to date models based on the paint scheme, tubing, and components used each year.
Q5: What should I inspect when buying a used vintage Redline BMX models?
A: Carefully inspect the frame and fork for any cracks, bends, or damage, especially around the welds. Make sure the wheels are true and hub/headset bearings turn smoothly without play. Check component condition as many will need to be rebuilt or replaced.
Q6: Is it worth restoring a complete vintage Redline vs finding one all original?
A: Original complete vintage Redlines are very rare and command a premium price. Mixing some newer components can cut costs but may reduce collectability. Lightly restoring a quality frame with period-correct parts is often a good compromise.
Conclusion
Pioneering vintage Redline BMX models of the 1980s and 1990s cemented their brand legacy. Their race-bred engineering coupled with timeless frame styling makes them enduring classics still coveted today.
Riding a vintage Redline lets you reconnect with the roots of BMX and experience the retro machines that inspired a generation.
Whether you long for the simple elegance of an early 80s Redline 500, the race dominance of the 1987 RL-20II, or the burly capability of a 90s Conquest Pro, these vintage Redlines represent the best of BMX heritage.
Their details reflect the changing fashions and technologies that influenced BMX’s growth through the decades. Vintage bike collectors are still seeking out clean original examples to add to their stable.
The next time you see an old Redline locked up or on the classifieds, take a closer look. Underneath the wear of time lies well-engineered nostalgia that tells the story of the evolution of BMX.
Bikes like the 1984 RL-20 and the 1996 PL-26 trace a direct line to the superbikes of today. They may not have disc brakes or carbon parts, but they represent the foundations and innovation that got us here. Ride on.