Klunkerz

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In the late 1960s and early 1970s San Francisco was the vortex of America’s counter-culture movement. Just over the Golden Gate Bridge, in Marin County, another movement was under way. The kids here would shake up a 100 year old American industry, and within a decade, create a worldwide phenomenon.

Long before the mountain bike entered our global consciousness, the cycling enthusiasts of Marin rode modified pre-WWII bicycles down the slopes of Mount Tamalpais. They developed their bikes through rigorous field-testing, often risking life and limb to do so.
Only the strongest, heaviest parts could withstand the abuse that Mount Tam dished out.

The pioneer’s bikes were scavenged from dumpsters and junkyards, sometimes adapting motorcycle parts to suit their needs. It was from these humble beginnings that a billion dollar industry, a new form of recreation for the masses, and an Olympic event, were born. These hefty steeds were affectionately known as Klunkerz.

Using archival footage, still photographs, and interviews, Klunkerz tells the story of the earliest days of the sport from those who were there. Some of the biggest names in the industry, as well as some more obscure characters, recount the people and events that gave birth to the modern mountain bike.

Praise for Klunkerz:

“Savage’s funny and often poignant film looks at how a bunch of semi-stoned hippies in Northern California developed a unique style of off-road bike riding through collaboration and competition… Klunkerz is worth checking out, even if you’re not a bike nut.” USA Today

“Klunkerz is the most compelling bike film made in quite some time.” Bike Magazine

“Finally, a mountain biking film that captures the history of the sport, Klunkerz has many of the same traits that made films like Riding Giants and Dog Town so great.” Bicycle Retailer and Industry News

“It was a period of camaraderie and innovation that has been loving and masterfully documented by Billy Savage in his film Klunkerz.” VeloNews

“Combine the hedonistic philosophy of the times with the sort of expendable income and spare time for recreation undreamt of by earlier generations, and it becomes a no-brainer… William Savage perfectly captures this era.” Ride Magazine, SA

“Watch this film, then go out on your bike… you’ll feel differently about the way you ride, I’m sure of it.” Dirt Magazine

Klunkerz is a region-free DVD, meaning it will play on all DVD players worldwide.