Now, more than 45 years later, his shop specializes in custom low-rider bicycles. His chromed-out creations have become a staple in the Compton community.
"I love Compton because Compton loves me," Silva said.
On the outside, Manny's Bike Shop is dull and old, but what's on the inside is incredible. Epitomizing West Coast culture, these elaborate chrome-embellished two-wheelers are built behind closed doors by Manny, the "Godfather of Low-rider Bikes," with hydraulics and can cost up to $15,000.
The eye-catching bicycles are the offspring of low-rider cars and have been featured in many Hollywood movies and music videos.
www.facebook.com/pages/Mannys-Bike-Shop