Park Tool

In 1956, Hazel Park Radio and Bicycle Shop in St. Paul, Minnesota, primarily offered bike repairs using basic tools. Owners Howard Hawkins and Art Engstrom introduced a bicycle “repair stand” in 1963, which allowed easy access to bike parts. This stand gained popularity and led to the creation of more specialized tools as bikes became more complex.

By 1981, Howard and Art had sold their bike business to focus on Park Tool. The company expanded, offering over 500 products in 70 countries, and operates from a 100,000 square foot facility. Park Tool is now the preferred brand in the biking industry, not only for tools but also for repair tutorials and educational content.

Despite the evolving complexity of bikes, Park Tool’s mission remains unchanged: to create high-quality tools for both professional and amateur bike mechanics. The company attributes its success to its commitment to this mission, dedicated employees, and loyal customers. Park Tool is prepared to meet the challenges of bike maintenance in the future, just as it has for the past 60 years.