Mongoose Bikes
A mongoose is a cat-like carnivore which has over thirty species ranging from the 7 – 11 inches long Common Dwarf weighing approximately 300 g, to the 1.5 meter, 5 kg White-tailed variety. In between these extremes is the Indian mongoose which is about two feet long. This specie is known for its agility, quick reactions, strength, and cunning. Indeed, they are often used to fight and kill venomous snakes, including the dreaded cobras. It is probably the Indian mongoose that Skip Hess saw in Australia after which he named his bikes because he wanted them to be agile, quick, and strong enough to handle extreme conditions.
Hess started from humble beginnings. This motor sport enthusiast set up BMX Products, Inc. in 1974 in Simi Valley, California and originally built only lightweight yet strong wheels for the then budding BMX sport from his garage. Eventually, his production expanded to build complete BMX bikes, and in 1976 Hess was selling bikes called Mongoose. In the process, he moved to a bigger facility.
In the late 80s, the mountain bikes became the rage and plenty of road bikers switched to the new sport. Even couch potatoes suddenly developed an interest. Mongoose responded by introducing the Amplifier, the pioneer full-suspension mountain bike frame. Mongoose continued to develop both its BMX and mountain bikes into the 90s. In 2001 it merged with Pacific Cycle and today, there are over 40 models of BMX freestyle, trail, and jump bikes as well as road and mountain bikes.
The bikes of Mongoose are classified into the Basic and Pro Lines. The former are the bikes you see in department and online stores. These bikes are fitted with starter-level components that are suited for weekend warriors who run moderately difficult courses. The Pro Line bikes, on the other hand, are strong enough not just to jump, but to fly. These high-end products have higher-standard components and a sturdier frame intended to take extreme punishment. If you plan on competing against the likes of Eric Carter and Simon Tabron, visit independent bike specialty shops. These are the only places where you can buy Pro Line Mongoose bikes.