R.I.P. Bicycle Guru Sheldon Brown (1944-2008)

Before the skinny jeans, the mag wheels, the tricks videos and the track bike boutique, there was Sheldon Brown. He was this name that would always pop up in conversation when people were trying to figure out what gear ratio to ride their fixie or what that even meant. Sheldon was the parts manager and tech guru at Harris Cyclery in West Newton, Massachussets.

Jack Thurston, host of the popular bicycle show on resonance FM in London had a show featuring Sheldon in 2005. He talks about his wide collection of rare 3-speed bicycles. He is also in another Bike Show here.

Image from John Prolly


from Wikipedia:
"In August 2007 Sheldon was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. After losing his ability to balance an upright bicycle to the disease, he was able to continue pedaling by using a recumbent tricycle. Sheldon died on February 3, 2008 after a heart attack."

More info from other blogs:

The Daily Randonneur
Tin Donkey Travels
Carfreedays

Sheldon, I never met you in person and I regret it. You have been a great influence on the many worlds of cycling, both old and new. You will be truly missed. Rest in Peace.