Firsthand Framebuilding Acquires Paragon Machine Works Assets

In a significant development for the bicycle manufacturing sector, Firsthand Framebuilding has stepped in to acquire the assets and designs of Paragon Machine Works (PMW). This strategic move comes after PMW, a vital supplier of intricate frame components for bicycle builders across the nation, ceased operations in late March 2026, leaving many small brands in a precarious position. Firsthand's acquisition is poised to reignite the availability of these essential parts and uphold PMW's long-standing legacy in the industry.

Firsthand Framebuilding Rescues Supply Chain for Custom Bicycle Builders

Portland, Oregon – In a critical development for custom bicycle frame builders, Firsthand Framebuilding, a prominent parts supplier based in Portland, announced on May 21, 2026, its successful acquisition of the assets and intellectual property of Paragon Machine Works (PMW). PMW, a Richmond, California-based company, had been a cornerstone for frame builders since the 1980s, providing essential components such as dropouts, bottom bracket shells, and brake mounts. Its abrupt closure on March 27, 2026, due to a combination of declining sales and escalating costs, sent ripples of concern throughout the custom bike industry.

Chris Blandford, owner of Firsthand Framebuilding, expressed his commitment to preserving PMW's significant contributions to the industry. “To uphold and carry forward their substantial legacy,” Blandford stated, highlighting the importance of this acquisition. Firsthand plans to make many of PMW's parts available for purchase once more. Initially, the company will collaborate with local producers to manufacture select items from the PMW catalog, with a long-term vision of bringing some production in-house. Furthermore, Firsthand intends to distribute existing PMW inventory to builders in need, providing immediate relief.

The closure of PMW followed a challenging period for U.S.-based bicycle framebuilding suppliers. Henry James, another Portland fixture, closed its doors in May 2020, and California's Nova Cycles quietly ceased operations in 2022. This trend has led some builders to seek CNC-machined parts from international suppliers or develop in-house manufacturing capabilities. However, Firsthand Framebuilding, alongside Bicycle Fabrication Supply in Arizona and Framebuilder Supply in Oregon, remains a key player in the domestic supply chain.

Blandford conveyed optimism about the future, stating, “I’m extremely optimistic that, with the right approach, manufacturing high-quality, affordable framebuilding bits domestically is still very doable—and important—in 2026.” He further added, “Paragon’s closure was a gut-check for all of us. With Paragon’s IP in hand, I’m excited to see what the Firsthand team and I can do to bring a fresh perspective to framebuilding component supply in the future.” This acquisition not only ensures the continuation of vital supply but also promises innovation and renewed domestic support for the custom bicycle framebuilding community.

This acquisition is a beacon of hope for custom bicycle frame builders, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability within the industry. It underscores the critical role of specialized suppliers and the concerted efforts to maintain domestic manufacturing capabilities. By preserving PMW's legacy and integrating its designs, Firsthand Framebuilding is not just acquiring assets; it's investing in the future of bespoke bicycle craftsmanship, ensuring that builders can continue to create unique and high-quality frames for years to come. This move also highlights the potential for innovation and renewed growth in a sector that has faced recent headwinds, fostering a sense of optimism for the craft of framebuilding.