If you had to name the favorite toy of your youth, what would you choose? Did you have to think about it for very long? I didn’t. Without question, it was my Big Wheel. 

Yes, this all-plastic, low-riding tricycle was the transportation of choice in my childhood neighborhood. Designed in red, blue and yellow with a big front wheel (hence, the name), this toy was popular with many kids in the 1970s. 

The Big Wheel was introduced by Louis Marx and Company, which also produced toy guns, action figures, model trains and even Rock ’em Sock ’em Robots. Most any kid who watched Saturday morning cartoons in the 1970s was familiar with the Marx line of toys, but the Big Wheel was special, at least to me. It was a relatively inexpensive tricycle option that was actually cool. Consumer groups even said it was a safer alternative to the traditional tricycle or bicycle because the large front wheel made it more stable. Of course, those folks never saw me fly it over the plywood ramp my brother made on our driveway.

As a result of those antics, I had a couple of Big Wheels. The first one was a hand-me-down from my brother that didn’t survive the Evel Knievel adventures. The second one I was more careful with, as Mom explained that there would not be a third. This one had a hand brake on the front of the right rear wheel, which allowed for some really cool spinouts. I eventually wore through those plastic tires, but not without hours of fun first. 

I also acquired a special skill on my Big Wheel. I could ride it continually on two wheels. Not the traditional wheelie with the front tire up in the air, mind you. No, I learned to balance on the front wheel and one side wheel. Everybody has to have a claim to fame. That’s mine.

Other companies tried to imitate the Big Wheel, but none could do it as successfully as Marx.  Unfortunately, the company filed for bankruptcy in the early 1980s, and the Big Wheel name and molds were sold to Empire Plastics, which then filed for bankruptcy in 2001. In 2009, the Big Wheel brand name was acquired by Schylling, Inc., a company that specializes in classic toys and games. I am hoping they will create a full-size model for adults. Admit it. That would be fun. Just don’t get tempted by the Evel Knievel ramp. 

Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305