1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype) 
#1 2010-08-22 8:02pm
- bloud
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1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
1979 Flying Rhino (a.k.a Axe-blade) - non-serialized. This frame and fork is thought to be Carl Burris's original prototype from Shimano/Tange.
UPDATE SEPTEMBER, 9, 2012
After much more research this is being dated further back to 1979 per conversations with Carl Burris who is believed to be the original owner/rider of this frame and fork. He receive his F/F in 1978/79; exact dates are hazy at this point.
I've also added a picture of its current state which is a Carl Burris tribute/recreation based on the few surviving photos.
PREVIOUS UPDATES
I initially filed this under the Rhino section, however, after being led to the April 1981 edition of BMX Plus magazine, I'm quite certain this is a Flying Rhino (a.k.a the Rhino Axe-blade) made by Tange. The reviews for these frames with the Tange TRX forks were fantastic and said to have been some of the best handling frames of their time. I've included a picture of the bottom to show there was never a serial number there where other frames have them. I now wonder if this is an early prototype. I have also included a picture of my original Axeblade from the 80's. One of the only surviving pictures.
The story continues. After further research, I was able to get in contact with Carl Burris, former rider for team "Flying Rhino". Given the proximity of where this frame was found and that it is not serialized, it is possible this is Carl's prototype frame and fork from back in the day. It could also be his former teammates Larry Ruiz (unfound at this point). Also, I have changed the year to 1980 from 1981 as this is when Carl was racing with this frame.
Given these event, this bike has turned into a Carl Burris tribute bike.
This frame is currently under restoration. Currently I do not plan to have it rechromed. The condition you see is "as found". 
Last edited by bloud (2011-01-29 6:51am)
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#2 2011-01-29 6:54am
- bloud
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
The story continues. After further research, I was able to get in contact with Carl Burris, former rider for team "Flying Rhino". Given the proximity of where this frame was found and that it is not serialized, it is possible this is Carl's prototype frame and fork from back in the day. It could also be his former teammates Larry Ruiz (unfound at this point). Also, I have changed the year to 1980 from 1981 as this is when Carl was racing with this frame.
Given these events, this bike has turned into a Carl Burris tribute bike. I will be working with Carl in an attempt to recreate his original bike in the picture below.
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#3 2011-09-14 5:14pm
- MR.KRASH101
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
Wow I used to have one of those;)
OAKLAND NORCAL BMX,My first bike was a 1977 cyc stromer out of Hank & Franks.Looking for a 1977 cyc stromer with diamond in the gusset snakebelly tires in 20" & 24"Also on the hunt for Oldskool Boomboxes & 70's,80's skateboards will buy or trade.Cazels & old Krylon too.Stuck in the 80's as you can see!
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#4 2011-09-14 5:19pm
- GAry
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
Damn!!!! Awesome bike thanks for posting..I have had most brands over the4 years, but NEVER one of these..
I would REALLY like to find one of these and the version without the axe blade gussett as well..
[img]http://bmxmuseum.com/reference/Gary's%20Stuff%20-%20BmxMuseum/thanksig.jpg[/img]
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#5 2011-09-14 7:14pm
- bloud
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
Getting back at the hobby recently and should have some updates to my Carl Burris Flying Rhino recreation soon. I have only seen 2 of the axeblades come up in the US the past couple years. One went to Australia (where most reside I believe) and I own the other. 
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#6 2011-09-26 3:04pm
- bloud
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
Finally making some progress on the Carl Burris Flying Rhino tribute.
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#7 2011-09-26 5:37pm
- AirInk
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
That's cool to have pic's of the bike BITD.
Nice build.
Never argue with a fool, for they may be doing the same.
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#8 2012-09-09 10:49pm
- bloud
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
Made some updates to the original post.
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#9 2013-04-21 3:06am
- monkian
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Re: 1979 Flying Rhino (Carl Burris Prototype)
You've done an awesome job man. I keep coming back for a look 
I know how much work and research went in to the build, especially getting info on the decals.
Looking at it now, I bet Carl would love to have it back 
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