Bill Barnfield

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Bill is best known, as one of the select group of surfers who made names for themselves surfing the large waves of Hawaii's, North Shore during the 1970s. He is also widely regarded as one the worlds premier surfboard designers and shapers, dominating in that position from the mid '70s to early '80s. Bill's athletic interests have spanned a broad spectrum of multi-sport activities, including respect as one of Hawaii's top yachtsmen and expert class, motorcycle trial riders. Bill's zeal for life and commitment to live it expansively, is obvious in everything he does, easily spilling over onto those around him.

Originally a machinist by trade, Bill left that rigid environment for one with greater artistic freedom - designing and building the softer curves of surfboards and other water craft. His familiarity with the precise use of measurements led to his development of "Measurement Controlled Shaping" which when introduced to others in the '80s, revolutionized the world of surfboard design and shaping. Educated in Computer Science at BYU Hawaii, Bill's fascination with computers and Graphic Design uniquely linked the diverse environments of his automated machine world with the more esoteric realms of art and design.

By his 20th birthday he was self employed and developing the business skills which are his forte. Currently (while still squeezing in his surfboard shaping) Bill functions as Owner and President of Barnfield Performance Ltd., a Hawaii Corporation with two divisions, Proglass and Raging Isle. Tending to business along with his wife Wendy (Vice President) and raising two daughters 12 and 15 years old, makes it difficult to indulge in sports. In spite of this, at 51 years, Bill is one of the top NORBA Masters Class competitors in Hawaii. In the Down Hill events he regularly finishes first in his class and often near the top against all classes and divisions much to the frustration and awe of the younger competitors.

Bill is the only bike shop owner on Oahu who participates in the mountain bike races, giving him a unique view of the sport and industry his competitors often miss. This grass roots approach to his business keeps him in touch with customers and provides a special opportunity to observe upcoming racers and secure them for his team. Consequently, the Raging Isle Mountain Bike Team is the most respected and feared team in Hawaii.

SHOP PROFILE

Barnfield's, Raging Isle Surf & Cycle was established in downtown Haleiwa back in 1985. Owner Bill Barnfield, is a well known North Shore, surfer and surfboard Designer/Shaper. During the 70's, photos of Bill surfing and shaping filled many pages in the surf magazines and his boards were the brand of choice for most of the worlds top surfers. Through the years his shapes and designs have achieved legendary status and continue to be sought after by many of the worlds best surfers even today. The cool thing is that, all Bill's boards are hand made right on premises where you can watch them being made.

Bill's wife, Wendy, manages the surf dept. which includes all the neccessary items for a proper attack on the North Shore's exceptional surf. A broad selection of clothing and accessories is also available. Brands like, Billabong, Hurley, Rusty, Solitude, Mossimo, Rip Curl, O'Neil Ray Ban, Oakley, Arnette, Teva, Reef, Simple, Vans, Etnies, and many more. Skateboards and snowboard wear is also featured. This is only a few of what we have, we are HUGE!

Bicycles were added to the mix, right at the start. With the 80's boom in mountain biking, Raging Isle became known around the world for it's excellent stock of reasonably priced, cutting edge parts, accessories and fine mechanical staff. In fact, Mountain Bike Action Magazine has called the shop, "A magical place" and Two Time World Champion "Insane Wayne Croasdale" called it, "the Raddest store I've ever seen!" Raging Isle has grown at 20% per year, every year and 40% in 1997 while the rest of the cycling business on Oahu was taking a beating, 10 shops went out of business on the Island of Oahu, since 1996.

The main reason that the shop is such a standout is that Bill and his staff are MTB fanatics! They are all active racers and riders. Many of the mechanics are graduates of Barnett's Bicycle Institute, and some even hold State titles for their racing achievements. Raging Isle's race team dominates the local downhill circuit and often captures the cross country titles as well. Even Bill, at 50+ years old, regularly hammers the younger crowd in the downhills, finishing among the top riders in overall standings. In 1998, Bill was invited onto the US Team to represent the US at the 1998 World Championships at Mont. Sainte Anne, Quebec Canada. Where he successfully finished as the third best rider - in the world - in the Master, 50+ class. He is currently 2nd in the 1999 Nationals.

The shop organizes many fun rides and trips to races on the outer islands. We can also provide personal tours or rides for a fee. We will happily direct you to the best trails in the area for the weather, your ability and personal preference.

LOCATION

Barnfield's Raging Isle Surf & Cycle is located in the "North Shore Marketplace," a unique oasis in the center of Historic Haleiwa Town. Where an unusual balance of merchants and eateries is mated with the North Shore's relaxed "country" atmosphere. Raging Isle sits to the left, behind the buildings fronting the highway. It is a large grey building with bright yellow trim and awning. You can't miss it.