Obree (2018)

In 1993, amateur cyclist Graeme Obree’s unusual riding position and homemade bike earned him a maverick status, but little success.
'Obree' chronicles his remarkable final attempt at cycling glory that year.
Blocking his path is the establishment darling Chris Boardman, whose eyes are also firmly fixed on the same feats.

OBREE STUDENT FILM (2018). Dissertation project for archive documentary degree.

***All the archive content used in the video belongs to its respective owners and neither I or this channel claim any right over it.

Archive sources:
Adam Glasser
Bromley Video
Channel 4
Demus Productions
Granada
Independent Image
Phil O’Connor

[eskimodot]

"In the end he never truly made it into the world of pro cycling." ... Literally beat world class riders on a 100£ home made bike with almost no sponsors and support and set multiple world records. This truly shows once again that pro cycling is a sport controlled by the establishment. I love bikes and cycling but absolutely despise the sport and most people in it.

[rfwhyte]

It's absolutely insane (and baldly disingenuous) for anyone to suggest that Obree on his homemade $100 bike had any advantadge over the dudes on their $10, 000 custom race bikes. Obree deserves ALL the credit that's his due.

[davidagudelo]

Genius, elite athlete, engineer, pioneer, heart, fighter, misunderstood and persecuted by the establishment. The cream always rises to the top.

[timehonored]

"Obree still lives in his hometown in Scotland... rides for fun with his local cycling club...no longer gives interviews...still inspiring people worldwide to live beautiful, powerful, life."

[clippzzorito]

Can we just agree this guy is a fucking legend.

[itellyouwhy]

The money behind cycling wanted him out. They can't push all their cycling products on the public after a guy using washing machine parts and a diy bike wins. Every field in this world is utter corrupt. Obree was a maverick. He was a man fighting against the big machine. What a hero.

[leehargreaves]

A fantastic touch by Boardman, after Obree beat him in the Semis. He went straight to him and gave him his, much better, aero helmet, which Obree wore to victory.

[benoitbergeron]

His story breaks my heart. He was a pioneer, he truly pushed the sport forward with his ingenuity, but the establishment simply couldn't accept change. It's so sad how such a passionate man was shut down by politics.

[oneeleven]

Disgraceful how the UCI treated him…but he gave the ultimate FU to them when he invented the Superman position 👏👏

[filip]

Great documentary, old school production, informative, without any unnecessary drama. Also, the Obree story is inspiring. Would love to meet the man.

[ThetrueDave]

You know you're one of the greatest innovators in cycling history when the UCI has to ban your riding position not once but twice!

[DarrenBates]

A working class hero is something to be. Can't get over the governing body's petulance at his innovation, ingenuity and his obvious athleticism. I really hope he's doing well these days and is aware of how many people genuinely love him.

[nemohalperin]

Love this guy. He used to fuel on jam sandwiches instead of scientific sports nutrition. He proved creativity, ability and will are the most phenomenal component in competing.

[benanderson]

This guy designed a bike that million $$$ companies couldn’t and they shut him down as he was making them look stupid. To be flexible is a skill that is trained, you still need the power in your legs! The guy is a hero and inspiration. UCI have and always will be out of touch

[neverspreadjamonabadjer]

When they have to change the rules to beat you...

What an absolute legend!!!

[alanmurray]

Met Graeme yesterday in Kilmarnock on his bike. True gentleman and an inspiration

[diggydodges]

I don’t even have the slightest interest in anything to do with cycling, but DAMN this was an amazing underdog story. Didn’t have the money, had to build his own bike and kicked ass, well done Mr. O’bree, well done.

[bazanderson]

H.G. Wells once said "Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race" Graeme Obree renews my faith in the human race and the world is so much better for people like him being in it, thank you Graeme 🙏 Living legend ❤

[donnybrooklads]

Someone HAS to make a movie about this! Incredible story.

[silvertain]

I have never been into cycling and had no idea who Graeme was but I enjoyed this documentary, Im struck by the sportsmanship of both Obree and Boardman very nice to see