PORTLAND, OR (BRAIN)—Cyclone Bicycle Supply has hired industry veteran John Byfield as its new sales director.
Byfield has been a fixture in the Pacific Northwest bicycle scene for as long as some people can remember. His history started as a retail bicycle shop owner, to a sales rep for the likes of West Coast and Derby Cycle; finally working his way up through the industry to become the West Coast sales manager for J&B Importers. Along the way he built The Outback, one of the first production mountain bikes and promoted some of the earliest mountain bike races in the nation; including the first officially sanctioned NORBA race, the legendary Cascade Cruise where Carl Decker ran his first race, and the NORBA Pacific States Series among others.
During Byfield's absence in the industry his professional career became even more diverse; building up action sports video distribution company VAS (Video Action Sports) as well as developing a line of eco-friendly furnishings which received the Silver Exemplary Award by the Sustainable Furnishings Council. His knowledge of green-living and sustainability eventually led he and his wife, Kate, on a two-year tour around the country in an eco-friendly refurbished 1962 Airstream trailer.
After catching up with long-time friend and former business associate Erik Deeter, owner of Cyclone Bicycle Supply, Byfield was offered a position as their sales director. When offered this chance to return to the industry, Byfield jumped at the chance.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for me and Erik has built an amazing company here,” Byfield said. “It feels good to be back in Oregon, back in the bike business, and back in the game. I look forward to working with some of the dealers I used to work with as well as getting to know all of those I have not.”
“We are excited that John decided to join our growing team. His strong work ethic and 30 years of expertise will take our expansion to the next level," Deeter said.
After getting settled in at Cyclone and catching up on the industry, Byfield plans to travel with his salespeople in the area and visit as many of the dealers as possible.
