Four
generations.
One obsession.
It wasn't long after the motorcycle was invented and mass-produced that the McBride family embraced them with open arms, and never let go.
Percy McBride opened McBride Cycle in Toronto in 1909 and the family business set the standard for how motorcycles were retailed and distributed in Canada. What began with one man's vision became a four-generation obsession with two wheels.
McBride Cycle opens in Toronto
Percy McBride opens his doors and sets the standard for how motorcycles are retailed and distributed in Canada, the first motorcycle entrepreneur to build a network of dealers across the country.
Canada's first parts catalogue
“Anything that came into the country, he touched it.” McBride Cycle grows exponentially and becomes even more influential by mailing customers the first motorcycle parts catalogue in the country.
The Japanese wave arrives
Percy's son Marty, working in the shop since his early 20s, takes control of the business and begins importing Japanese bikes into Canada with remarkable success.
John takes the helm at 24
After Marty passes away in the summer of 1977, John is forced to take over the company at just 24. He travels extensively to motorcycle shows here and abroad, determined to uphold the standards his father and grandfather built.
Built on world-class racing
Racing becomes McBride Cycle's promotional engine. John backs top Canadian racers with the finest gear from around the world (Dainese, Spidi, Diadora and Daytona) and even helps design Dainese racing suits.
Riders Choice is born
After a parting of ways with other family members, John closes McBride Cycle and opens Riders Choice shortly after, carrying forward the family themes of world-class products and pure passion for the ride.
John helped design some of Dainese's racing suits, even showing Lino Dainese a prototype that incorporated hockey pads as protection. It was the kind of world-class connection that defined the McBride name: Dainese, Spidi, Diadora, Daytona. The best products from around the world, brought home to Canadian riders.
Riders Choice continues my passion of motorcycling, sport riding, track riding and racing. It maintains the McBride family themes of world-class products and passion. What sets it apart is experience and dedication to bringing customers the finest products in the world.
Matt McBride carries the torch
John's son Matt has embraced the family tradition wholeheartedly, rising through the Pro ranks of Canadian national road racing, proof that the McBride obsession with two wheels is alive and well.