Santa Rosa Og Shredder Thomas Re Q&A

Thomas doing a huge Feeble on a stair ledge in Berkeley,Photo from Chad Smith of norcalbmx.com


The Bay Bmx had the opportunity to interview OG Santa Rosa Shredder and all around bad ass Thomas Re.Thomas has been riding for over a decade and has been one of Nor-Cal's heavy hitters for years now.Thomas doesn't limit himself to what He can ride. Trails,Park,And Street is all fair game to him,Whatever his homies ride that day is what is on his shred menu.

Thomas is known for his technical combo tricks, Barspin variations, Manual lines,Or just cruising around the Santa Rosa park. He also has done some very burly rails and moves over the years.Thomas's skills and burliness are showcased in Chad Smith's video Disobedience from the mid 2000 era,As well as some rad pictures Chad sent on over to me.

These days Thomas still rides whenever he has the chance to,But also does other things like skydiving,Drifting cars,Snowboarding or just about anything fun he can think of.So without further introduction, Here is what Thomas had to say when i presented his questions to him.Thanks to Thomas Re for taking the time to do this,And to Chad Smith for the Pictures and Thomas's Video part.

        Thomas doing a Truckdriver on a hip at his home skatepark in Santa Rosa.-Photo-Chad Smith



#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Thomas Richard Re, 28 years old, And I'm from Santa Rosa,Ca.

#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also What is your current bike set up?

Scarea was my friends clothing company that i rode and helped with.  I'm still trying to get my own thing going called Forever Young, But it's just a pipe dream right now. Other then that no hook up's at this time.

My bike set up now is a Haro SD THANKS TO DENNIS FOR HOOKING THAT UP, And just a bunch of parts laying around that Jerm hooked up thanks to his OCD about bike parts.

                         Thomas with a Downside Double peg stall somewhere in Cali.Photo-Chad Smith


#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

I stared riding around the hood and had a flatland bike first. Then I found the skate park and it was all down hill from there. I like all kinds of riding, Park, Street,And dirt all of it's  awesome! As long as i'm with my friends and on my bike it's all good. I never want to limit myself to one kind of riding.

Thomas doing an Icepick stall to Fakie at the 2003 2-Hip Meet The Street,Photo-Chad Smith


#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent or older memories of spots you enjoyed?

Ok, Well most people will already know this one,The Santa rosa skate park is my favorite. I  just love it so much. From raging session going on, To the jams we have to the parking lot chilling, You can't find a better place. I liked way to many spots. I like woodward east is up there lots of good times there.Anything in Oregon ,San Diego is awesome and any outdoor park at night with lights love that shit!!!!

#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?

Maybe the way kids throw the bars these days hahaha!! I don't know if i would change much everything happens for a reason. I just wish it was a little more for fun then getting picked up by a company.There is too many kids who just wanna make it big. They are so hard on each other, Just have fun and push yourself forget everone else, It's freestyle be free.

 Thomas with a Tailwhip at dusk at the Santa Rosa skatepark.Photo Credit-Chad Smith

#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?

Well Van Homan for sure, Then Taj and Joe, Morgan Wade, Joey Garcia and Chad Kagy for sure. As far as the new kids  there is way to many, But I love watching Dennis Enarson. He is a great kid who deserves everything he has, And Drew Bezanson also. I like riding and watching the local kids like lil nate and Will, Daniel, Ryan and Japan. They all keep me on my bike and motivated so thanks guys.

#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?

I love the scene here, I think there is lots of great riders here and stuff to ride. I just hate how it's not really big on the map of bmx which I think sucks it needs to blow up and get more exposure.

     Thomas doing a double kinker rail on a roadtrip for his Disobedience video clips,Photo-Chris Jehly

#8.A lot of people from the North Bay absolutely kill it,You being one of those riders.What was it like in the early to mid 2000's when the Norcalbmx.com site was going?

Some of the best times in my life man, Van's skatepark sessions, Jenson park, Drews bmx, 2 hip contest, Oroville contest, Everthing was so easy back then. Everyone was so young and just wanted to ride. You could go meet up with so many people and so many places and just sesh,  It was awesome!! It sucks when people have to grow up and move on to bigger things, But yes those were great times !!!!!!!

                  Thomas with a nice Suicide No Hander at the Santa Rosa park.Photo-Chad Smith.

#9 Your part in Chad Smith's Disobedience Video was kick ass and way ahead of its time.Did you ever feel under pressure to get clips or was it natural?

Disobedience was all natural, It was just everyone doing what they wanted and Chad  Smith was  a wizard.We just got it all so it was never pressure, I just wanted to film everything and we did. Only thing that sucked was missing clips and having to do stuff twice like the tag rail in the city. We had to go all the way back for that one clip. But all Disobedience was about is all the boys doing what we do and filming and documenting it. By the way we are trying to get a second video going so if you have footy send it Chad Smith's way !!!!

When Thomas isn't being burly,He likes to throw down tech wizardry,Here we have a barspin to fufanu.Photo-Chad Smith.

#10.These days what other kinds of stuff are you into for fun besides riding?

Ok wow, Well there is a lot.I'm trying to do everthing these days, I got certified to skydive, I love motorsports, Rally cross, Drifting, Rockcrawling. I'm trying to get more into motocross, I have a stand up jet ski that i'm in love with.Then snowboarding, Wakeboarding, Down hill trike drifting, And BMX of course.It's just about having a good time with life. I'm also a big 49er fan these days thanks to Big Jerm, So yeah that's it I think! At least for now ahahahahahahaa!!!

Thomas likes to get tech with his tricks when he is having a kick back sesh,Here with a Footjam Suicide at the Santa Rosa Park-Photo Chad Smith.

#11. Would you like to give any shout outs?

Big shout out to Mom and Dad. He is a enabler to all my fun,I could not do what I do without him, So thanks Dad love ya so much. God of course, Porter my brother from another mother for making me do stuff I don't want to. Tyler for always helping me with my car, Jimmy Haliday and Big Jim for bringing me into their world of skydiving. (Thanks guys see ya soon YAHOO MAN)
Anybody who has loaned me money. Chad Smith for making a couple of kids superstars and anybody who has filmed us. The whole Santa Rosa family you guys rule, P nut for the 24 block best house ever. Travis Pastrana for all the influence. Anybody who has got my heart going and got that butt hole tight keep it puckerd!!  Also everyone who helps me laugh thanks guys. Ohh and The Bay Bmx for this interview !!!!! Thanks if I left you out sorry there way to many people to thank!!

Here is Santa Rosa Og Jeremy Mccart And Thomas Re's Section from Chad Smith's Disobedience video,Thank to beerman of www.sjbmx.com for uploading it.

Thomas's section is one of the best video parts in my opinion to come out of Nor-Cal to date.So if you have a minute,Watch his section.It really showcases his burliness and tech ability.


Disobedience (2004) Part 5/6 from Chris McMahon on Vimeo.

Solid Bikes rider Cameron Birdwell Q&A

 Cam is no stranger to going huge,He likes to huck himself! Here is an extended Superman Seat Grab over the Woodward West Megaramp.Photo credit-Cameron Birdwell sent it over.



The Bay Bmx was stoked to do a Q&A with Nor-Cal legend Cameron Birdwell. Cam has been a heavyweight contender in the Nor-Cal scene for many years now. Cam was a local at the legendary San Jose Ramp Club, Nor cups trails, Calabazas, and tons of other Nor-Cal spots over the years. Anywhere he went to ride, Cam would show up and blow everyone away!! Cam's fearless,Go big or go home mentality on a bike is awesome to witness.

Cam didn't have foam pits and resi ramps to learn his tricks on back in the day. He came from the days where you either pulled what you were trying, Or you were going off in an ambulance to the hospital! Luckily Cam didn't have to make too many hospital visits, Because he either pulled what he was trying, Or he was tough enough to dust himself off and try again until he pulled it!

Cam has graced BMX Plus! and other magazine's with pictures over the years on several occasions. He also has had full parts in the 2 Hip videos, As well as a bio in the Transit 9 video. Many riders were blown away with his crazy tricks at height. I myself had his superman peg grab picture at a B3 comp hanging on my wall that was featured in Bmx Plus.

Cam has had a few sponsors over the years, Most notably was Ron Wilkerson's 2 hip bikes. For the last few years he has been on the Solid Bikes team, But has also received help from other companies and bike shops over the years.

Cam is still riding better then ever these days.Most notably where he took best trick at the 2010 Warriors of Wood comp. Although he is just starting to ride again after a knee surgery a few months back. Cam has big plans for the end of 2011 & especially 2012, So keep your eyes pealed for some crazy shit in the coming month's and years from Mr. Birdwell.

So without further introduction here is what Cam had to say when i presented his questions,Thanks Cam!!

Here is cam's spread from Bmx Plus years ago doing a Extended Superman Seat Grab at a B3 comp.
Photo Credit- Cameron Birdwell sent it over.




#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

My name is Cameron Birdwell, I’m 32, and I reside in San Jose, Northern California



#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also what is your current bike set up?

I ride for Solid Bikes and Calabazas Cyclery. I am currently riding a Solid AA, but that’s the only part that I can name on my bike really.

Cam with a huge Double Tailwhip over the big box at the Bay Air skatepark in Oakland.Photo Credit-Cameron Birdwell sent it over.



#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding, Also what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

I was always into BMX and skating when I was little, but there came a time when I decided I wanted to pick one and get really good at it. I chose BMX because I lived far away from stuff at the time and it was a better form of transportation. My roots are jumping (box, dirt, whatever) and that’s what I like the most, but I like riding everything. I also enjoy riding shorts stories in my spare time.



#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent memories of spots you enjoyed?

I dig Ramp Rats a lot because the feeling of it reminds me of the SJ Ramp Club. I’ve become a big fan of LCRSP and I’m hoping they work everything out so that it stays open. Aside from the fact they don’t have a good box, everything else is super fun. I really like the Fun Spot in Santa Cruz because it’s a fun spot in Santa Cruz. I think I got Mega fever went I went to Woodward the last time, and as stupid as it makes me, I like the foam and resi-landing. It makes it so much easier to learn everything, and with my old ass, I need all the help I can get.

Cam has the ability to grab everyone's attention and make their jaw's drop.Huge 1080 attempt at the 2010 warriors of wood.Photo credit-Cam sent it over.


#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?

If I could change BMX, I would make it mandatory that all bikes riders with girl jeans were required to have Hello Kitty seats and rainbow grips…..because it would be funny.



#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?

I looked up to a lot of guys growing up, but basically the top pros at the time. Guys like Hoffman, Miron, Mirra, Joe Rich, Taj, and guys pushing the envelope. I would say the guys I rode with all the time were the ones who inspired my style of riding. Nyquist and I were barspin crazy and leaders in the era of barspins, but me, Ryan, Joey G, Mat M, Crobar, Oscar G, Butthead, Kagy, Squirrel, and everyone else in that era all pushed eachother to become better and better. All the times and riders from Calabazas/SJ Ramp Club days are where my roots will forever be.

Cam is no stranger to riding street,Here he does a X-up Crooked grind down a stair rail.Photo Credit-Cam sent it over.


#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?

You know, it’s decent. I’m not big into the scene or this or that, I just like to ride, and I prefer to ride with my boys. There are all kinds of sick riders in NorCal that always throw down and have an original bag of tricks. Seems like BMX is headed towards some mega era or something, so hopefully we get a Mega-resi or Mega-pit. That would be so much fun. I would live there. I would be the Mega-troll liviing under the Mega-Ramp.



#8.You got injured a while back,Hows the healing process been going?When can you ride again?

Yeah, I tore my ACL again at a contest in April at Ramp Rats. I knew right away and I had it repaired on May 4th by a top notch specialist named Warren King. He does the Raiders, and a butt-load of other professional athletes. I’m about 5 months in and it’s feeling really good, almost better than it ever did after my first surgery. I’m trying not to rush it and I will start riding again in the beginning of November. I’ve been getting into shape hardcore because I’ve only got a few more years in my prime to do the most. I have a hard time holding back when I ride so I need to be as healthy and light as possible.

Cam has a bunch of signature moves he came up with,This being a Spiderman,Which is a Superman seatgrab peg grab.Photo Credit-Cam sent it over.


#9.You are well known for always pushing the envelope as far as riding is concerned.Is there any tricks on your agenda that you want to try and pull?

Oh yeah, if I’m not doing something new, I’m not having fun. It’s the way I’ve always been and the way I’ll always be. I was hung up on whip stuff the last few months before I got hurt (720whips, 3whip to barspins, double whips) so I will probably continue down that path. I have some big new tricks in mind, you know, basically along the line of what the hell are you thinking, you’re an idiot. You won’t be seeing me do ugly front flips off of wedge ramps that’s for sure.



#10. Would you like to give any shout outs?

Big thanks to Calabazas Cyclery for always dialing in my bike after I beat it to crap, and Squirrel too since he deals with it all the time as well. Thanks to Nyquist too for always flowing parts and other things, he shows big time love. Other than that, thanks all the NorCal homies who are part of my BMX brotherhood.









Here is Cam doing a huge Superman Seatgrab over the Megaramp, Courtesy of Squirrel. Squirrel also has other videos of Cam killing it on his Youtube Channel in the related videos,Check that out as well.

Solid Bike's rider and Scientist Zac Costa Q&A

                                                     Photo Credit- Kyle Emery-Peck


The Bay Bmx had the opportunity to interview Solid's Zac Costa. I am honored to interview him.So thanks to Zac for taking time out of his busy schedule to do this Q&A.

Zac is originally from the North Bay area city of Santa Rosa,Ca. Ever since he picked up a bike he quickly made a name for himself. Zac is known for his burly style of street riding, But is also no stranger to riding skateparks and even trails.

Zac is a grind wizard, He easily grinds as good switch as regular.His go big or go home style is astonishing to watch. I have to say Zac's Cuttin It Deep part is legendary.He also has an appearance in Primo's Nice Try and the Animal Cuts video. Costa's riding earned him flow from S&M bikes in the early 2000's,But has now been on Solid for quite some time. Zac also gets help from Revenge,Tip Plus,Franchise clothing,Shitluck, As well as Animal.

Costa is absolutely not your average bmx'er. He also has a devout dedication to his education and profession as a Scientist. Zac graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Evolution and Ecology from UC Davis. He then ventured to the east coast to attend the Virginia Commonwealth University to study Biology, Where he became a grad student.

Zac's education and love for science brought him to Panama to study the wildlife and ecosystem. He also researches with fellow scientist at the Smithsonian Tropical Research institute in Panama. Zac even teaches an introductory biology lab course when he has time from his other ventures.

With all of Zac's travels,Education and work, His bike has made the journey with him. Whenever Zac has the opportunity he shreds on his bike, Hitting spots all over the East Coast,West Coast, And abroad. To say his life is interesting would be an understatement. So without further introduction here is what Zac had to say when i presented his questions.

                   Zac with a toothpick stall on an oververt DIY bowl. Photo Credit- Kyle Emery-Peck.





#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Zacharia James Costa, 26 years old residing in Richmond, VA




#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also What is your current bike set up?

Just got some stuff in the mail, I'm setting up a new Solid 21" King Cobra, Solid stem, Solid bars, Solid cranks, Skavenger forks, Primo back wheel, The rest is Animal and Skavenger parts. I get shirts from Franchise, Tip gives me a little here and there too.

             Zac with a rail ride to 180 barspin out on a makeshift rail.Photo Credit-Kyle Emery-Peck


#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?


I like riding street in foreign countries the most, But I got into it riding jumping curbs in my neighborhood, I started building some little jumps and just never stopped. I lived near the Santa Rosa skatepark so that helped a lot and we had some trails back in the day.



#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent memories of spots you enjoyed?


Panama City parking garage spot is one I always want to go back to. Three stories of curved downhill tranny like 5 ft, pretty steep, grindable, fucking awesome. Just rode a pool in Jersey that was awesome, o.g. spot is the Prom King pool outside of Santa Rosa shit is amazing, I would do almost anything to ride that again. China banks in s.f. is a o.g. spot I'll never get tired of

    Zac airing with a nice toboggan on transition better then most skateparks in a parking garage in Panama.




#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?


It seems like everyone is on some bitch shit one way or another, I don't know keep it real and just ride, who gives a fuck what anybody else is doing.



#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?


My style of riding...I don't know as a youngster I looked up to Kurtis Elwell and Jeremy McCart they were the older guys that killed it in my area. Pro wise I liked Dave Young, Jason Enns and Troy McMurray, Ralph Sinisi's props bio got me thinking about street differently as well.

This is what Zac is famous for, Super burly rail ride with a 2 story drop on the other side-Photo Credit Kyle Emery-Peck


#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?


Nor-Cal has its ups and downs, I don't know I haven't spent too much time out there in the past 3 years or so... I was in S.F. in July keepin it lit, clocktower life, Santa Rosa had a jam at the skatepark huge turn out of my old skateboard and bike riding friends, shit north 5s and methaluma were even in the house. Its dope there's the o.g.'s still lurking around and the new blood coming up, that shit will never change.

Zac with a rail ride to bar out somewhere deep in the city of San Francisco.Photo Credit Kyle Emery-Peck




#8.How do you like riding on the east coast and abroad?


East Coast, NY, NJ nothing really compares to it, so much to ride and do. Richmond you sometimes have to work for spots its cool though. Abroad is the best because every block is brand new and you never know what your going to find. Plus most of the countries I've been too chances are no one has ridden or even thought of doing some of the stunts on the weird obstacles I've come across



#9.What is it like Juggling school,Work,Traveling and riding?


School and research has been my work so in that sense its not too bad. My two trips to panama were for work so I can't complain about that. Riding is what it is, if I feel like doing it I'll make time for it. Motivation can make a lot of things happen

Zac's other love besides riding is Science,One of the perks of his research is handling bad ass wildlife,They don't call Costa the King Cobra for nothing,Dude is fearless!

#10.Would you like to give any shout outs?


Huff, Jase and the rest of Solid. Animal for helping me out, Barney at Tip, Sean Ryan and Franchise for putting me on, Bunnyhop bike shop in Richmond, VA, Kyle-Emery Peck for shooting photos and holding down S.F. all the homies on the east coast, West coast, Panama and everywhere else, Keep it lit

Here is Zac's infamous part in Marco Svizzero's 2007 video "Cuttin It Deep,As well as a recent 2011 edit Zac cooked up for Solid. I Also got to give a big shout out to Kyle Emery-Peck for his outstanding quality photos of Zac.
Check out Kyle's website to see his travels and more photography at http://fullframecollective.com/

Linq Bicycles Q&A

The Bay Bmx had the opportunity to sit down and do a Q&A with Linq Bikes.LINQ is based out of Apple Valley,California.They are rider owned bmx parts and frame company.Linq makes their frames and parts in house which definitively sets them apart from most of the competition.

Linq builds very high quality stuff. They have a great team and the company is growing fast. Linq also runs the High Desert Freestyle BMX fund, Which some of the proceeds from their parts you purchase go to raise money to build a bmx friendly skatepark and dirt course,So with that being know it is awesome that they have set that up as well.

Linq is also a part of the upcoming Soulstyce BMX Competition on Sept 17th and 18th.More info is posted at the end of the Q&A and can be checked out at Soulstycediscounts.com So without further introduction,Here is what Linq had to say,Thanks to Josh and the Linq family.


#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Josh Richling, 39, Apple Valley, Ca.


#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also what is your current bike set up?

Profile helps us out as it's the only company the entire team can agree on haha!

This week my current bike setup is missing left crank arm (gave it to a rider) missing back wheel and Chain (gave them to another rider) And..... Can we talk about something else? Haha!



#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

 Well, like alot of us,  I grew up poor and a bike is all I had and all I knew. Dirt jumps were all we had as there were no such things as "concrete parks" back then and only the rich kids and thieves had enough wood to do anything with. We used old doors and bricks and shit and that's about it. I lived in the desert, we didn't even have curbs where I grew up but the crazy thing is that I still live there!!WTF??! Right?! Haha!




#4.Who is behind LINQ?Also how did you come up with the idea for Linq.

Our riders are behind LINQ, without them, we are nothing. Our company will succeed or fail based off of their actions.It's not about money, if it were, I'd definitely find something else to invest in.
 I came up with the idea for LINQ for two reasons actually. The first is a way to fund change. Bikes being banned from Skateparks is ludicrous!!!

It's purely discrimination and I don't see anyone standing up against the powers that be for this issue who have the financial status to really make these changes at the state level, so I thought "let's build a company dedicated to providing riding areas for riders and changing the legal discrimination that exists as well as assisting those interested in doing the same".


The other Reason is I was competing at a contest last year where I met Pat Casey and learned that at that time, he was breaking frames like crazy!! And right through the center of the welds!! His mom explained to me how the company actually blames him for the breakages. (Ignoring the fact that their built in taiwan). I thought to myself, I'm a welder/fabricator and an American who can do it better!! So I did.

                           Here is one of the LINQ frame's being welding up in Apple Valley,Ca
                                             Photo Credit- Smoogs Malone Photography.

                  Another Angle of welding a frame up.Photo Credit-Smoogs Malone Photography

#5 Tell us about your product offering,Can you elaborate on your unique sprocket design and other products?


Our Sprockets...........Perhaps the most renowned and controversial parts in BMX today. The fans Say they are the best and lightest sprockets they've ever used, the haters cant comprehend how they actually work, but they do.

The Original Decadon (named for it's 10 sided appearance when used with half links) is the most unusual part to be created and therefore has created a lot of attention. It actually works perfect  and may be the lightest 25T in BMX today.

 However, being so light, it has a shorter life span than traditional sprockets so we have created the Decadon Bridge which is for the hard-core Park Riders who put them through hell and last as long as traditional sprockets. The gap in the teeth allow for taking the chain on and off without screwing up the sprocket on bikes with slammed rear ends but works perfect on all bikes.

We presently offer custom Frames & Semi-Custom frames (all with custom etched logos/names/etc. in them, sprockets, Bars and we are constantly adding new parts. Next on the list is....... Follow us and you can grow with us:)

Here is a LINQ frame being showcased,They have excellent attention to detail and awesome paint.LINQ also has the ability to custom etch logos and writing into frames for a very unique look.They also have a revolutionary sprocket design in a large assortment of colors and teeth. Photo Credit-Smoogs Malone Photography

#6. Who is on the Linq team?

Our Team Manager is Josh Metz (Las Vegas NV) who wears many hats and deals with sponsorship issues, riders, photos, edits, and much more..
Ross Lanier and Jordan Johnson (Newberry springs, Ca.)
Mark Rubio (Las Vegas NV)
Brakeless Billy Beddow (Las Vegas NV)
Taylor Bachellier (Riverside Ca)
Patrick Overturf (Woodward West)
Marco Palacios ( Apple Valley Ca)


#7.Whats a typical day at Linq for you like?

Honestly, you wouldn't believe me if I told you.



#8.What is the Future of Linq?Also where can we purchase your Products?

LINQ is an Underground BMX company who's growth is based on it's support from riders who believe in Quality, Style, and American Made Products. We hope to help open all parks to BMX someday and support the sport through promoting BMX events like Soulstyce (soulstycefest.com)


#9.Would you like to give any shout outs?

I'd like to thank my family ( for being supportive and understanding when I'm at the shop Building Bikes instead in hanging out with them), the Riders for making LINQ what it is today, Quamen bikes for helping us make the coolest shit with their CNC machine and everyone at Quamen Bikes for all their support.Woodward West,  And we'd like to thank Bay BMX for doing what you do.

#10. Tell us about the Soulstyce BMX Competition everyone is talking about.

Man, it's going to be crazy this year! We took the two BMX Sports who the X-Games Discarded (Dirt jumps and Flatland ) and are giving them an arena packed with 15,000 people 270 degrees around them to watch and combined it with Hip Hop stars and legends to created the Largest two day Dirt and Flat BMX event in California or actually the entire West Coast.

We got Adam Aloise (builder of Dew tour and Anthony Napolitan's Dream Line) building the Dirt Course, we got Dan Hubbard and Fat Tony on the mics Announcing, we got Lance Mosley giving Clinics to amateurs before the event getting them ready for the comp, (yes, we are having an amatuer Class on dew tour sized jumps!!!)

We got Lalo Jimenez, Shayne kajanoori and Jessie Puente promoting the Flatland Comp. Which has gone international as well as the Dirt comp.  We got over 100 Artists performing on 4 stages over two days with names like Fat Joe, Redman, The Visionaries, Dialated Peoples, R.A. The Rugged man..... Just go to Soulstycefest.com

And here's a little secret, go to Soulstycediscounts.com and use Promo code: LINQ and get 1/2 off the door price. That's only $25 for both days of concerts and BMX  competitions!!! Don't Miss it!! Sept 17&18 at the Pico Rivera sports arena.

You can also check out more pictures,Videos,And product information as well as more about the High desert freestyle bmx fund over on their website at http://linqbmx.com/

Solid Bikes Rider & Welder Jase Knack Q&A

                                            Jase with a steep vert wall carve to over barspin.
                                                              Photo credit -Cubi


The Bay Bmx was yet again stoked to do a Q&A with all around bad ass rider & welder Jase Knack.
Jase is originally from Montana,But he made his move out west a few years ago.Jase began his work in the bike industry at S&M bikes.Eventually working his way up in the shop and learning how to weld and fabricate frames and parts.He eventually moved up to Nor-Cal. He is now Solid Bikes lead welder for the past couple years.When Jase isn't welding frames and parts at Solid, He spends the rest of his time riding all over the Sacramento area as well as the occasional trip to the Bay Area,Kickin it tough with the homies,Or just chills and enjoys a cold one after a long day of welding and riding.

Jase has a unique and smooth riding style,He is an all around type rider.Jase sticks to the pegless style of riding.He does some bad ass pedal and pegless grinds on the street.He also isn't afraid to throw the bars out of pretty much anything or just style out a nice table over a set of trails.So without further introduction here is what Jase had to say when i sent over the questions.Thanks again to Jase for taking the time to do this.

                        Jase with a burly pedal grind down a spooky ledge over in Berkeley.
                                                        Photo credit TD-Photography




#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Jase Knack, 24, Sacramento Ca ....And wherever I end up sleeping at night..


#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also what is your current bike set up?

I ride for Solid bikes,Get flow from Cult,and Auviq clothing ...I ride the prototype Solid k.i.l frame, Solid 8.666 custom get lit bars, Solid cranks, Animal rims with an Eclat female rear hub and a Simple female front, And cult everything else .....


#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

Well i grew up in Billings,Montana. Not that keen of a place to ride but i had fun... I was into anything that was an adrenalin rush and i finally settled on bikes, It was the most fun to me ... Me and about three of my friends started off building dirt jumps down the street from my house we just had fun jumping and learning what we could then like most trails spots it became hot and the city actually made me and my friend tear the jumps down ourselves and threatened us with big fines when we were like 15... So then the streets came.. We just cruzed around jumping anything we could good times no worries.... Then one of the most og bmx riders in Montana opened a bmx only shop in town and started a box jump team.. I ended up getting asked to ride on it when i was 16 and he was like a second dad to me fosho brought me in to bmx for real... And its been my life ever since..Now days i love the streets more then anything ... Streets are talking

                             Jase at Solid in between finishing up welding a batch of frames.
                                                          Photo credit-Stephan Hawk

#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent memories of spots you enjoyed?

All of Oakland and really the bay as a whole, Endless amounts of spots .. I also really like Az and Portland Oregon ...All the Solid trips are the best time on my bike we dodamost and kil kil kil awawawaw.


#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?

Some of the drama could go away but other then that i'm stoked on bmx and always will be ..


#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?

I have looked up to so many riders!!! I'd have to say when i was young it was Joey Garcia,Joey is the man and Van Homan ...Really so many um, I'd say BF , Mike Aitken, Chase Hawk, Chase D, Eddie C, And the list could go on and on and on. To many amazing good riders and reasons to look up to them all ...

#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?

Wedodamost !!!!!! The north is the shit, We got it all be it the streets, Fun parks, Or trails. Nor-Cal has it all !! And we keep it mad lit!



#8 How did you get into welding frames and parts?Also whats a typical day at Solid for you like?

I always liked to make things so i got into welding in high school. I figured i might be able to make bikes one day ...When i moved to So-Cal from Arizona i thought hey S&M is down here. I'll see if i can get a job there. So i applied saying i could do lite welding and whatever they wanted.. After 2 months of just working a cooking job i tried again. They ended up hiring me to box orders for shipping i did that for about a year. Then I just mentioned to Chris that i had metal shop past and could kinda weld but i had never TIG welded before ... So he got me cutting parts in the shop for a while and i would stay after and practice welding everyday until i got it. I've been welding ever since...


A typical day at Solid i roll in anywhere from 630 to 9 depending on how hard it is to wake up in the morning lol... Talk to Aaron for a bit, Get a game plan for the day, And start building lil kids bikes.. lunch some where in there and some lil brakes here and there. I try to leave to go ride any where between 5 and 7...

                  Jase getting ready to lay a tack weld and then a bead on a frame up at Solid.
                                                   Photo credit-Stephan Hawk.

                     Jase laying down a bead with the Tig welder on a headtube of a frame at Solid.
                                                           Photo Credit-Brent Everitt



#9 in your opinion why is American made frames and parts better then Overseas made frames and parts?
   
I got 99 Problems but Taiwan ain't one... I'd say our materials for one are a lot better. Plus the fact that if you are building lil kids bikes for a living you probably like them a lot and actually care about making a bad ass products!! Where overseas they don't care what their making. Their just throwing it together.Theres no passion or love for the sport. One day they are making kids bikes and the next they are lawn chairs or something ... I love lil kids bikes, I love the sport.I care a lot about the company i weld for and try my best to put the best finished products out i can... It's really satisfying seeing all your homies on something you put blood, sweat, And possibly almost tears in to lol...


#10.Would you like to give any shout outs?

 Shouts to Aaron Huff and all of the Solid crew, You know who you are ehehehehehe awawawaw KIL KIL KIL.. Robbie and Neal down at Cult for all their support and love, And the whole Cult crew for being homies.. Kyle Frazier ,Eric Mesta, Bama,Crazy Chris, And all the bay area homies doing the most we out here.. Definitely gotta thank John Ivers for getting me set up with Aaron and Solid , Lee Brinkman and all the Montana bmx homies, My Montana family you know who you are ... My Mom and Dad for their support over the years ...And to all the homies out there you know who you are. Thanks to all y'all, Keep it Lit!!!!!!


To check out some of Jase's work head on over to the Solid site and hook yourself up with a new pair of bars or a frame.Jase also has some bad ass flicks over on Stephan Hawk's Photography.
Jase has some clips is Solid's most recent road trip up north to Oregon.

Lil' Mikey Beeswax Q&A

The Bay Bmx had the opportunity to sit down with Lil' Mikey Beeswax to do a Q&A. It was nice finding out more about the up and coming Nor-Cal rider owned Bmx Wax and Apparel company,So thanks to LMB for being down to do this. Lil' Mikey Beeswax offers a grind wax for rails and ledges, As well as a Clothing and sticker offering. The company started from humble beginnings in 2011, But they have rose up the ranks in the Nor-Cal scene and is vastly expanding its grasp on the bmx community as a whole in a short amount of time. They have been recognized by big name companies, Pro riders, Local Newspapers, And bmx publications for their Wax and for their jams & contest.

Lil' Mikey Beeswax or better known as LMB for short is based out of the east bay area city of Discovery Bay. Behind LMB is "Big Mike Bronzi", Lil' Mikey's Dad and backbone of the company, And "Lil Mikey Bronzi" is the creator and visionary of the company. The Duo have done a great job of coming up with idea's and products for the company. LMB has 2 teams of riders consisting of the "Young Guns" and the "Big Guns", They are shredders from all over Northern & Central California.

LMB is also known to set up local jams and contest, They have really done a great job pulling the scene together in a kick back, No pressure environment. Riders of all types from up and coming shredders, To bmx veterans came out to throw down and have fun on their bikes. Where the main goal is to just ride with your homies,Pull new grinds or moves in the name of fun and Bmx. LMB has big plans for the future when it comes to their product offering and jams,The future looks very bright for LMB.So without further introduction here is what Big Mike and Lil' Mikey had to say.

                             Here Lil' Mikey displays his very own grind wax that started it all.

                                                             Big Mike and Lil' Mikey
                                            


1.Who is behind LMB and where are you guys from?

Lil' Mikey- I'm Lil' Mikey and me and my Dad, aka Big Mike, are behind LMB we are from Hayward (tha STACK!) and currently live in Discovery Bay Ca

2. How did you come up with the idea for LMB? How did you get started?

Lil' Mikey- I came up with the idea of making BMX wax and starting a company on 1/1/11. I wanted to make bike parts for about a year before that and kept bugging my dad. We met with his homie Dougy the machinist, I still want to make bike parts but it's hella expensive so i started thinking why don't we make wax. So we start researching different waxes and how to make molds and thinking of a name and then it hit us... Lil' Mikey Beeswax. Then it all became a reality of having my own company.

                         What started it all, A nice packaged grind wax from LMB ready to use.

3.Who does your team consist of?

Big Mike- Original Young Guns~

Jordan Brockman - Oakley
Josh Parsons - Pittsburg
Jacq Madden - Bethel Island
Tanner Stone - Antioch
Marcos Revuelta - Oakley
Lil' Shane Jaskolski - Antioch

A couple of months later we added the following riders to the LMB family~

Lil' Mikey Bronzi - Disco Bay
Casey Barnes - Oakley
Ty Callais - Concord
Zak Howerton - Concord
Samar Carillo - Pittsburg
Joseph Parra - Antioch
Shane Saw - West Oaktown
David Seaborn - San Martin
Adrian Orduno - Oakley
Adrian Romo - Lodi

Newest member since he started hittin lil rails... Bryce Tryon.

Eric Fonseca tha YEEBMX Filmer - Oakley

I am the TM and have help from my homie Victor Ozuna, Marcos' brother.

We are pretty stacked... kinda loud and hard to miss.


4.You guys have been very active in the Nor-Cal scene,Especially with setting up jams and contest.How does it feel to unite so many riders and put on these jams?

Lil Mikey- The feeling you get when you have a jam or a contest is better than anything, its indescribable because you know all the people that show up are there to support you ... Its amazing!!

Big Mike- We are proud of where we are from and ALL of the BMX riders we know and meet. To get them all together is sikk! I can not fully put it into words brother, but it rocks! It makes me proud to be involved with a scene that cares about it's identity, it's roots and it's future. BAYSTREET II!? Can't wait.

   A snap of the Baystreet Jam, Held on July 30th in Martinez was a great success and a fun day for all.

5.What do you think of the Nor-Cal BMX scene?

Lil' Mikey- The Nor-Cal BMX seen is intense. There are so many great riders who are really friendly and exactly like me.

Big Mike- The NOR*CAL BMX scene is off the chain! NOR*CAL is a special place to call home dude. Be it music, sports, BIKER MCs, art, schmoke or BMX... you name it and you know it is for real if it comes from the north and that is special, serious swagger. Norcal has lots of dedicated riders that go hard all day, even all night. There is a shit ton of dank ass riders out there not even being recognized, most of them don't even give a fuck cause they ride for love of their bike and BMX. Proper respect for the norcal scene, the BAY and Cen Cal too. We have been shown nothing but respect, someone's momma is doin a good job. Appreciate that young homies.


6.If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?

Lil' Mikey- If i could change anything about BMX what would it be,,,? ummm probably nothing i like BMX the way i fell in love with it.

Big Mike- Man,,, more places to ride in Nor*Cal, More sanctioned trails,,, Those cats never get a break. They dig their asses off and alot gets mowed down, its wack! So much open park lands and no free shovels. Less restrictions for the park riders, If a king pin can grind on it why not a peg or metal pedal you ass. Props to Mosqueda BMX park in Fresno for pushin hard enough to get that dope park! Less hassle by anyone hassling street riders, Don't touch my kid!


7.Do you guys have any influences as far as companies?

Lil' Mikey- I would probably have to say the Zephyr skate shop in the Lords Of Dogtown because they did exactly what we are doing and CULT! They are small and keep doin it up big!

Big Mike- Any company that is not afraid to do it their own way. Any BMX rider owned company and all local shit that is pushin. Any shop that is truly there for the riders and BMX! Nor*Cal Ramp Rats, VANS, Animal, CULT, Skavenger, Solid, Primo, STF BMX, The Bike Shop... SJBMX and of course the Zephyr Surf/Skate shop, we watched that flick so many times my son used it like a game plan.


8.What is the future of LMB as a company.Also what should we expect in the future as far as products from you guys?

Big Mike- As a company LMB would like to keep pushing. A huge part of our gig is our riders so we want to continue to take them out and show them things that they have never seen before, Let them grind that durty street that they love so much. Maybe get a 50 passenger school bus with a fat roof rack. We would like to help riders and other young BMX cliques get off the ground if possible. Of course we would like to expand our market and for me... to teach my boy as much as I can about business, life and get his little ass in college! Look for a Pro team in the future.

As far as the future of product goes we plan to come up with a couple of collab joints with select BMX companies. We are working on some new tee shirt designs, Fresh stickers and a new version of the wax. Some more beanies and hoodys for winter. Not trying to follow any one else's shit, Just trying to do what we like. Someday we would like to make some bike parts as that is Jr.'s dream. He has already drawn up some tight stem designs and a sprocket and bars and a dope ass cam mount.

                                       New LMB logo concept for later in the year and 2012

9.Would you like to give any shout outs?

Lil' Mikey- I would like to shout out to my Mom and Dad, Teralynn and my nephew, Jess and Rylan, the original Brentwood bike co team, Schwinn city the bike shop for the hook up, Samar at STF for helping me see the future, Mesta for helping me turn off my brain and dial in my rail game and a HUGE thanks to Robbie and Crazy Chris from CULT for being some of the coolest people ever and helping me get out there in the BMX world and also for the joog!

Big Mike- Shout out to Moms/Dan, Gramz, and my fam,Karma, Kenny and Scotty RIP, Old school homies Dougie, Tony, Allan Cassaro, Big D, Crazy George Odin and Shellie, Ron and Kelly, Samar, The whole LMB Fam, Behind tha Bars, GCP2, Max Bongiorno and his parents, Mesta for rockin steady at our shit, Fresno Parks and Fresno riders, DAK and TW Ride BMX for the props way back in Feb, thats wussup! our new homies ,BEERMAN, Scuba!!!, K Ru$$, Felipe, Shane Saw, John and Trail Gypsy @ Clayton Bikes, Rich @ XYIENCE, Dan @ Oh Yeah, R.E. Borremann Steel, Nick Benson, KC Badger, Edwin,Tom WW, Chris Gille, BAYGAME Homies! Jackson, Julio, D Block, Black Mike, Cornileous, Singha (you two got respect from me, thanks for that) Tony Tone and the homie Robert the welder, Solid & Jase - Durt - Colby, Milligan & Nigel, coco county BMX riders,and proper shout out to Robbie Morales and Crazy Mutha Fuckin Chris from CULT for showin a lil homie the ropes and reconizin when you didn't have to!!! If I forgot you and you are in our roll my bad, been a long year yo! Shout out to Will at The Bay Bmx for this interview. Some of you we have not known long, but you showed us some love and LMB don't forget.





Check out LMB's website http://lilmikeybeeswax.com/ And also check out this edit from the Baystreet LMB/STF jam cooked up by Eric Fonseca .

Richmond's shredder Kyle Frazier Q&A

                   Kyle doing a burly nose bonk to big drop in Berkeley.Photo Credit-Stephen Hawk

The Bay Bmx sat down with Kyle Frazier to do a Q&A.Kyle is another bad ass dude who keeps it real. He is an all around type rider. Kyle could be riding a skatepark, Shredding a street spot, Or roasting a set of trails depending on the day. Kyle is from Richmond,Ca.. He tends to ride his neck of the woods, But has ventured all over the Bay and further on his bike riding all types of spots.

Kyle doesn't get involved in the politics of bmx, He rides for the fun of it and enjoys kicking it with the homies, And doing the most on a daily basis.Kyle is all about making the most of spots, Coming up with unique lines and is being creative. Kyle has a very controlled and smooth style that's enjoyable to watch. He also has icepick grinds on lock, Some of the best i have seen, Even up to par with S&M's Josh Stricker.

So in a nutshell, Here is what he had to say when i sent over the questions. Thanks to Kyle for being down to do this, And to his homie Stephen Hawk for the awesome pictures.

                 Kyle has a good eye for lines, Here he does a stylish footplant on a tree in Berkeley.
                                                          Photo Credit-Stephen Hawk





#1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Kyle Frazier,27,I'm from Richmond CA.



#2. Do you have any hook ups ?Also What is your current bike set up?

Aaron Huff & Jase give me the joog at Solid bikes. White boy Paul at El Sobrante Schwinn holds.it down as well.

My Set up is a Solid King Cobra frame. 20.6, Solid pegs. Solid stem. GSport front & rear hubs & wheels.


#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

I first got into riding by homie who raced. Got a wack ass bike & went straight to the trails. The old 420 trails in vallejo was the first place I ever rode. The locals told me they would bury me in a jump if I didn't hit em.Trails are where I started & still my favorite thing to ride. I don't ride them as much as I'd like to anymore.Staying in the streets as of late.

#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent memories of spots you enjoyed?

Hoodgames,Lurkside,Oakland tech,The dragon.The hollis ledge when Bama almost took the skaters head off.


#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why?

I wouldn't change shit. Anytime I ride I enjoy it. I could care less about the industry and what's happening in it.


#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?

Garrett Burns. Joe Rich. Punjab. Dave Jacobs. Taj.


#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?

We need more trails. People are lazy.


#8.Would you like to give any shout outs?

Shouts outs to Jase,Bama,Farty,Yoder,Sal,White boy Paul,Aaron Huff,Stephan,D Block, Scuba Steve,Eric Mesta,The Rich and Sweet sweet Cali dro.

                              Kyle being creative with a gap to nosebonk on Mr Magoo's whip.
                                                          Photo Credit- Stephen Hawk



Check out Kyle's recent edit that Eric Mesta cooked up. It is a good watch, Especially showcasing Kyle's skill. Also check out Stephen Hawks Photography. He has amazing skill with a camera.Check out his site and portfolio here


 

Kyle Frazier 2011 from Eric Mesta on Vimeo.

Chad Bautista Q&A

 

                                Chad cranking the living shit out of a Turndown at Aaron Day's
                                  trails which are no longer with us. Photo Credit-Larry Poe



The Bay Bmx is yet again stoked to do a Q&A with the North Bay area's shredder Chad Bautista.
Chad is definitely a bad ass dude.I saw chad for the first time on Norcalbmx.com years ago. Him and all the other north bay dudes were doing some crazy shit on their bikes. They had pictures of them shredding rails,Doing crazy shit at skateparks and blasting trails. It was apparent to me then
that the north-bay has a knack of bringing up some amazing riders, With Chad being no exception.


When it comes to riding trails and flowing a skatepark, Chad makes his riding look smooth, Stylish and effortless. He has been referred to by most as the "Nor-Cal Aitken".And that to me is a well deserved compliment.Chad is no stranger to riding any kind of terrain. He has grinded rails and ledges in his time. But he truly would rather flow a set of trails and park with style and control these days. It's because that's what he enjoys and who could argue with that? He has a good sized bag of tricks up his
sleeve as well. His Turndown's in my opinion is one of the best in the game so you better look out
Chris Doyle.


Chad is not one to follow bike trends, He does what he wants and keeps his bike set up super dialed, Lightweight but strong, And has Brakes. Chad loves hauling ass and annihilating whatever is in his path on his bike. To him there's nothing better then hanging out with the homies, Having a cold beer and roasting trails after a long week of work. Ever since he started riding Chad has been keeping it real. So with all that being said, Here is what chad had to say when i sent his questions.Thanks again dude.

       Chad Styling out a Euro Table at one of the North Bay's Staple spots,The Petaluma Skatepark
                                                          Photo Credit-Aaron Haggerty

          Here is Chad Hanging out at the Infamous Chill Spot, The Clocktower In San Francisco
                                                               Photo Credit Terry B

                                  Chad doing an Over pedal and back on a hip's quarter.
                                                        Photo Credit-Kyle Emory Peck




 

1. What's your Name, Age, And where do you currently reside?

Chad Bautista, I'm 28 years young, From Rohnert Park California! "North Bay Steez"

#2. Do you have any hook ups?Also What is your current bike set up? 

FITBIKECO/S&M/The building distribution, ODDWS, P.O.W flow:) and ALIENATION Rims. 

My Setup -21" FIT S4, Fit High bars, Fit Blade forks, Fit top load stem, Fit eccd original seat with RAILED post(for life), Profile 180 cranks w 30t ZBC sprocket, Macneil pedals, Odyssey hubs w 10t laced to Alienation Delinquents, Wrapped in AITKEN tires and ODI longnecks for the man paws, BOOM!

#3.Tell us a little how you got into riding and what kind of riding do you enjoy most?

I started racing in like 96 in NAPA at Napa valley bmx(ca15 i think)..  After 5 years I Faded outta that cause the competition atmosphere just wasn't me..Been hitting trails and parks ever since but feel at home in the dirt!!

#4.Do you have any favorite spots?Also any recent memories of spots you enjoyed?

Id have to say that my favorite spot WAS Aaron Days Trails in Central Valley! RIP!! Fuckin amazing!! Hats off to Aaron and the POW crew.. Next time you see Aaron, Smoke him out.. PHAT! Hands down some of the best times ive had on a bike.

#5 If you could change anything about bmx what would it be and why? 

Internet haters.... Bring back the fun. It's called freestyle for a reason, There is no rulebook in BMX. 

#6. Who inspired your style of riding and who did you look up to coming up in the game?

Obviously Aitken and a lot of the ANTHEM crew. Im into originality and flow, Fuck a stunt! I grew up looking up to the local dudes up here! Nick Hammer,Brian Spencer, Kurtis Elwell, and dudes i used to love watch..( no h) Garrett Byrnes, Kris Bennett, Brian Foster.. Too many!

#7.How do you feel about the Nor-Cal bmx scene?

 Its awesome i think... All the good "trees" up here keep a lot of dudes including myself a lil un-motivated at times but were holdin it down... A lot of good dudes have made a name for themselves here!

#8.Would you like to give any shout outs?

Big ups to FIT/S&M, Chris Moeller and Dylan ambrose. My family, Rob Morgan and the homies.



Chad has some bad ass clips in both of these 2011 Hella Track edit as well as Aaron Day's trail jam.
He also has some pictures on the 2011 Hella Track article on The Least Most