2025 INDUCTEE DEAN BUSCH

Dean Busch’s legacy in BMX racing is defined not just by his skill on the track, but by his kindness, spirit, and the way he made everyone feel like family. Known for his clean outfits, his impressive collection of 30 bikes, and his ever-present smile, Dean embodied everything that makes BMX special — passion, camaraderie, and a deep love for the ride.

Through BMX, Dean helped shape countless lives — especially those of his sons, Caden, Lane, and Colten. Together, they traveled the country, meeting new people and building lifelong memories through the sport they loved. For Dean, BMX wasn’t just competition; it was connection — a way to teach focus, discipline, and the simple joy of doing something fun and meaningful.

Dean’s BMX story began at local dirt jumps like Maplewood, where riders of all ages came together to ride, learn, and push each other. It was there that Barry Hughes and many others first met Dean — a skilled rider whose enthusiasm and quiet confidence made a lasting impression. He was the kind of person who greeted everyone, rode hard, and left just as humbly as he arrived.

Dean invited him to join a small neighborhood BMX crew, and what followed was a summer of mentorship, creativity, and lifelong lessons. Dean taught the crew not just how to ride — but how to build. Together, they constructed wooden ramps, hauled them to different neighborhoods, and eventually created the “No Frills” dirt jumps near a baseball field. Under Dean’s supervision, safety, skill-building, and teamwork were always top priorities.

Dean also introduced the group to new BMX terrains — racetracks, skateparks, and beyond. At the track, he demonstrated racing form and shared tips on focus and dedication. At skateparks, he became a local legend, riding his BMX race bike with unmatched style and control — moments his friends affectionately called “The Dean Show.”

Dean’s positive influence reached far beyond his friends. He taught countless neighborhood kids how to fix their bikes, build jumps, and ride with confidence. His sons — Caden, Lane, and Colten — carried on his love for BMX, traveling and racing together as a family. Dean made sure that bikes weren’t just a pastime; they were a bond that connected people and built character.

Dean was loved by countless people in the sport of BMX. Among some of the guys lucky enough to race and travel with Dean are Todd Kay, Josh Larson, Chris Rowlette and Tim Lillethorup. Tim recalled recently a weekend spent with Dean at the ABA Grand Nationals many years ago. “There was a lot of camaraderie, laughter and shenanigans, especially while sharing Thanksgiving dinner at Cracker Barrel! The image of Dean flying around the Grands track, way out in front, is still burned into his memory”.

Dean’s son, Colten, shared these heartfelt words:

“To my mentor and hero, I’m stoked on all of your biking accomplishments and I couldn’t be more proud to be the son of the one and only Dean Busch. BMX racing allowed you, Caden, Lane, and I to travel the country, meet new people, and have a consistent sport to keep our focus on something fun, productive, and challenging. There are many thing’s I could’ve gotten involved in growing up, but I’m extremely grateful to have a father that got me into the sport of bikes. The Hall of Fame is very special, and everyone admires you and keeps your memories close to their heart. Nobody cares about how good you were, more so the big heart that you showed and the non-judgmental opened arm personality you brought to every race as everyone felt like they could instantly be your buddy. Keep on watching over everyone dad, and let’s continue to be kind to one another as you would. To the clean outfits and 30 bikes that you owned, we won’t ever forget that.

I apologize I couldn’t be there tonight, I care deeply, I had a good buddy from Alaska that flew down to Utah this weekend for a mountain bike competition and this was planned way in advance. I feel like you would tell me to go party in the desert anyway, I have you with me in spirit. Thanks everyone for attending tonight and congrats to everyone else that was nominated. Thanks for keeping BMX cool and keep jumping like Dean”.

Dean Busch leaves behind a lasting impression on the BMX community — one built on friendship, integrity, and a love for the sport that will continue to inspire future generations. His spirit reminds us all to “keep jumping like Dean.”