Roland creates one-of-kind BMX to celebrate 808 Day

Roland is set to auction off a one of a kind Roland 808 BMX bike to commemorate this year's 808 day, with the proceeds going to help fund a scholarship to the 1500 Sound Academy.

It comes as part of efforts to honour Roland’s iconic TR-808 drum machine and its lasting impact on music. First released in 1980, TR-808 was on the market for just 2 years. Roland made 12,000 units before having to discontinue the model once it’s vital transistors (a miniature semiconductor) became difficult to restock.

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The bike is a commissioned work from graffiti artist and vintage BMX designer DUROTHETHIRD, using all original parts like a 1983 Dyno Comp frame, Odyssey pedals, Dyno pretzel bars and Panaracer tires.

According to Roland, the bike was commissioned from renowned graffiti artist and custom vintage BMX designer, DUROTHETHIRD, and is made from all original vintage parts including a 1993 Dyno Compe frame, GT power series cranks, Odyssey pedals, Dyno pretzel bars, Panaracer tires, custom wheel hubs and other classic parts and accessories.

The auction began yesterday (August 8), and will last until August 16. The proceeds from the auction will be used to fund a scholarship for an aspiring artist to attend 1500 Sound Academy.

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Roland Lifestyle founder and creative director, Nathan Chandra said: “I believe music is a ladder for the soul to reach the highest realms and to participate in an initiative to help a student gain access to one of the best music schools in the world is an honour,”

“It is exciting to work with the 1500 Sound Academy and Roland to help fund the dream of music for the next generation.” He continued.

Tiffanie Ibe is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram