Paragon Machine Works Legacy Lives On! The Bicycle Industry Celebrates a Win.

Paragon Machine Works (PMW), a revered name in the bicycle framebuilding sector, has been saved from permanent closure after 43 years in operation. The company, known for its specialised frame-building components and tools, had announced its shutdown earlier this year due to declining sales and rising costs. However, the legacy of PMW will continue following its acquisition by Firsthand Framebuilding, a Portland-based supplier and educator in the custom bicycle community. This deal includes the full intellectual property portfolio, manufacturing tooling, and brand assets, ensuring the continuation of PMW’s product line. Firsthand Framebuilding, which already had a longstanding relationship with Paragon as a dealer and distributor of high-quality materials such as Reynolds tubing, is well-positioned to carry forward PMW’s heritage. The company focuses on both supplying framebuilding tools and providing education, and plans to open a framebuilding school in the autumn of 2026. This school will offer a variety of courses aimed at both experienced framebuilders and newcomers, potentially making the craft more accessible by combining education with direct access to essential tools and components. The acquisition is seen as a natural fit given Firsthand’s commitment to the custom bike community and its existing distribution network. By consolidating PMW’s extensive catalogue with Firsthand’s educational initiatives, the supply chain for framebuilders could be streamlined, reducing the need to source materials from multiple vendors. This integration is expected to benefit both established manufacturers and aspiring framebuilders, fostering growth and innovation within the industry. The Norstad family, founders of Paragon Machine Works, expressed pride in their company’s legacy and gratitude that their product line will continue under Firsthand’s stewardship. Firsthand’s owner, Chris Blandford, acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised his optimism about reviving domestic manufacturing of affordable, high-quality framebuilding components. He highlighted the importance of preserving PMW’s legacy and bringing a fresh perspective to the industry, signalling a hopeful future for the craft. While the road ahead will not be without difficulties, the acquisition represents a significant win for the bicycle framebuilding community. The preservation of Paragon’s designs and tools under Firsthand’s guidance promises to sustain and potentially expand the availability of specialised framebuilding resources. This development ensures that Paragon Machine Works’ influence will endure, supporting both the tradition and evolution of custom bicycle manufacturing.