Shajn Raines 3/5/23 Shajn Raines 3/5/23

Pareidolia Kadavar Cruising

Andrew Stadnik portrait from filming for Kadavar Cruising.

Pareidolia newest edit of crew and friends shredding all over the North East. Trails, parks and street all rode to Kadavar “Spanish Wild Roses” and our classic “it puts the lotion on the skin” soundtrack. Enter the Surreal!

Huge thank you to all that help and support with everything we do. Thank You!

Shajn Raines 1/30/23 Shajn Raines 1/30/23

Poaching or Helping? Filming in the Age of Cell Phones

The cell phone. Every person young and old possess this modern totable marvel. A device equipped with an endless array of apps and gizmos that can fit in your pants pocket. Each one possessing ways to connect, buy things, zone out on an endless sea of lackluster entertainment or if you’re so inclined even get laid. All of which include a state of the art camera in some shape or form. The ability to document right in the palm of your hand. Not the crap grainy pixilated ones of old. 4K wide format on every device, for every person no matter there knowledge or interest in possessing or documenting with such a refined gadget. Picture or video it’s there none the less at your disposal. I should be amazed but if I'm being honest I’ve grown a bit of distain at this new ability that everyone seems to possess and exercise. No moment goes undocumented or unseen in this new world. No moment is yours its everyones ripe for the taking. I know I’m most likely coming off as a hypocrite. In fact I used my camera phone two seconds prior to sitting down to start typing this. My aggravation although totally hypocritical in some regard, in-fact comes from a particular ongoing circumstance. This one reason alone is the root cause of my distaste and that reason, poaching. Yes poaching as I have dubbed it. No not the delicious way to cook eggs or even the illegal way to kill protected delicious animals. More so the theft of creativity in real time. Any serious filmer has in some regard experienced this. Your filming (with a camera of some kind) for an edit or bigger project. Perhaps you're out with a crew or a rider and once your camera is out, everyone is set up and the documentation is about to go down the cell phones come out. As a filmier working on projects this is alarming. Maybe you make a stance and say something in the moment. Things are awkward but this may be your best bet to diminish your worry and prevent a loss of the footage. In other situations maybe you say nothing and the next thing you know its online in someones social media page being bounced around in some algorithm for the world to see. Said documentation you were saving for a project is now lost, stale, used and no longer secrete or safe aka “Gandalf” for the non indoctrinated. To myself this is the worst case scenario. The hard work of the rider and filmier spoiled by a cell phone. This thought is a growing concern every time I film with strangers present or in a large group. That said my brain wondered what others thought of this. So I set out to ask a handful of talented people who produce all different types of BMX content their thoughts on the matter. At the start of this article I really wanted to get both sides of this discussion. Sadly I did not accomplish that. These interviews although all different in response do seem to steer towards the notion that this matter is a concern they have all had to deal with. Below is a series of questions all asked to people producing BMX content today. These are riders and film makers I have a high amount of respect and admiration for. Collectively their bodies of work speak for itself and solidify their opinions and thoughts on any matter in the world of documentation. I hope you enjoy reading it.

-Shajn Raines

Ryan Martin NEBB North East Bad Boy bmx northeast — NEBB’s very own Ryan Martin getting down getting clips of the crew. Ryan is an underrated rider and creative type in the North East. Word has it they have a DVD in the works. If these rumors are true we here at Pareidolia are very excited and wait its release… Hint, Hint Ryan…

Name: Ryan Martin

Age: 34

Years Filming: 12ish

List of Projects: Obsolete Vol 1, 2, 2.5 (3 was a book), a bunch of NEBB stuff especially the longer videos that have been put to music such as "Socially Distant Vermont", and had helped film clips for a local vid called VideoTron and Joshua Lyford's Scenic Route project both around 2010 I believe.

Just to let the reader of this article get to know you and your filming style, if they aren’t familiar I’m just going to ask you a few questions before we dive into the main topic at hand.

How would you describe your filming style?

Ahh If I had to narrow it down i'd say im kinda just a journeyman. Not super particular about the finer details as long as it works. I definitely do like up close and quick clips with motion going on. I enjoy editing to punk and hardcore music so it kinda works well to keep it things moving.

In regards to filming, editing and even the overall encompassing task of making say a full length video who were your early influences as well who are some present day influences?

Definitely influenced by FBM videos in the sense that they are not perfect but just really capture a feeling. Half and Half might be my fav vid of all time. Anthem 2/ Stew for sure. Although I shoot with mostly prime lenses I really appreciate his zoom game. I edited Obsolete Vol 1 in black and white as a nod to anthem. These days the Fast and Loose dudes are ripping the more classic style of filming/editing and its rad. Also love me some Joshny Babu produced stuff. His work on the latest Relic vids has been really great. Also enjoy when you can tell someone actually edited to a song and didn't just slap it on a timeline. It makes for really memorable stuff.

How do you view the over abundance of content that comes out daily? As well your take on the easy accessibility of streaming said content? Do you feel there is something lost in the casual nature riding of all levels these can be documented and viewed these days? Or is this new accessibility a breath of fresh air?

To be honest in the last 2 or 3 months ive become burnt out on a lot of it. You cant even appreciate stuff anymore. Accessibility wise its great since the internet has become this vast catalog of videos/content. I have shoe boxes of dvds that I don't even know their location at the moment so it helps with that. Its great but needs to be done in moderation instead of tossing crap out there to feed the algorithm. We don't need 8 Colony vids a day.

Most riders if not all possess a phone with the ability to document at a high visual quality. I see high caliber content being posted via social media daily rather than being saved for say a bigger project. I have witnessed it first hand especially with the younger generation of riders ( and even some older) in my scene filming amazing riding and uploading to their favorite platforms. That said high quality cameras of all types are more affordable than ever. Yet I see fewer and fewer riders diving into the classic route of documentation and getting out to the masses. Of course there are outliers but the majority document via phone and share content via a social platform instantly. What is your take on this? Do you think this is the new way? Do you see a decline in the future of documentation in regards to thought out well crafted projects?

Bmx has a huge lack of actual filmers, at least in my area. So if a kid can film some stuff and edit on an iphone and that plants a seed to pursue it further then i'm all for that. Quality wise a phone is extremely dialed these days and it just fits in your pocket. I just think there's something special about lugging around a heavy camera bag that just can't be beat and the feeling of it coming out of the bag knowing somethings about to go down. Well crafted projects will come around again, we're already seeing it start back up again. Everything happens in cycles.

Do you find that the “film it put it out immediately” way of documentation has lead to a desensitizing of great riding from the viewers perspective? Or do you think over all this is the new way and only positive growth of the art that is BMX will come from this? I know personally I think the progression/ growth of riding at least on a technically level has sky rocketed since riding can be easy viewed. What are your over all thoughts?

Ya progression wise it has helped rocket things upwards but damn these reels are killing me.

Now to get into the topic of the article. I think to broach this subject and get your thoughts on the matter its best to set up a scenario that way our readers can say walk a mile in the shoes of anyone and everyone who has experienced this.

You’r in a new city with a rider or group of riders working on a new project/ video. You have enlisted a local to show you around and said local has brought two friends to join the session for the day. Although you are familiar with your tour guide you are not that close with his two companions who have joined him and your crew for the day. No worries they seem like great guys so they are welcomed into the fold for the day. The three begin to cart you and your crew around the city to different spots that they think the rider or riders you are working on the new video/ project with would like to ride. You finally find something that one of the crew wishes to film. You begin to set up. Pulling out multiple cameras, checking angles, white balancing, and over all dialing in your production equipment to produce the best product of said riders riding on this particular setup. You’r finally ready. Check with the rider he’s ready and you proceed to start the dance know as filming. When you look over you notice the two companions of your tour guides have thier cell phones out pointed at said rider and set up ready to film their own version of what’s about to take place. What are your thoughts in this moment? Please feel free to go into detail.

I'd say if they are just doing it to send it to you afterwards as a courtesy that's cool. Sometimes it's nice to have that iphone clip to hold you over till the actual video drop if youre the rider. If it's some super legit bigtime stuff that's gonna be wild just keep the phone in the pocket and watch the moment unfold. Let the rider/filmer have their space.

What type of person do you think would do something like this? Do you think there is a lack of awareness? Do you think their helping? Describe your take on this person.

Like I mentioned before it can be helpful as a little keepsake thing if they send it to you. Maybe on the other hand lacking some respect for the situation, some riders don't want to have all eyes on them but if people are taking their phones out to get their own piece of the action the rider/filmer can advocate for themselves if they aren't comfortable with what's happening.

Would you mind sharing a story of a time this happened to you? Please feel free to go into detail.

Honestly I cant recall, when my friends and I film we are usually on missions by ourselves and don't have a lot of people around. This is indirectly related but one time in the Ray's parking lot, my friend Toby and I were funnelling beers through dorito bags and empty busch cases and someone filmed us and the next day we randomly saw it on instagram. They had made a whole Rays trip edit and tossed in our shenans to give their vid the extra edge. It was hilariously weird.

Both had watched as you had set up multiple cameras what are your feeling on the behavior of this unsolicited documentation? Please feel free to go into detail.

f I was the one tagging along watching all this happen I would just ask the people involved if it's ok if I just capture a lil phone angle.

Are there concerns running in your mind about them having the documentation of said trick or stunt? Please feel free to go into detail.

Maybe if its banger material for a long form project, dont want it leaked. I just feel like if you've never met the person before just chill and keep the phone in the pocket.

How do you go about dealing with this situation? How do you handle this situation when said person or persons don’t seem to get the concept and persist.

Id probably let it slide the first time and afterwards just say "hey I kinda don't like other people filming me it makes me feel weird" or something and see if they get it then. If not maybe then just curbstomp their phone.

In regard to the unsolicited filming in those moments what’s one message you would like to convey to help them understand the serious filmmakers plight and say make things less awkward moving forward?

Would just say hey were trying to make something cool here is it alright if we all keep the phones away?

Shaun Gingras films Chris Childs for one of his many edits and video parts they have made together. Shaun and Chris are an amazing argument for every rider having their own personal filmer. Shaun’s body of work is amazing and unique which I feel stems from the fact that he’s in front of the lens as well putting as much effort into his riding as his filming. It’s simpatico.

Name: Shaun Gingras

Age: 29

Years Filming: 10?

List of Projects: BCAVE 1/2, Chris Childs welcome to Merritt, Chris Childs Welcome to S&M Pro, Chris Child’s Running out of Daylight, plus various mix edits throughout the years.

Just to let the reader of this article get to know you and your filming stye if they aren’t familiar I’m just going to ask you a few questions before we dive into the main topic at hand.

How would you describe your filming style?

Raw and gritty with a side of shaky.

In regards to filming, editing and even the overall encompassing task of making say a full length video who were your early influences as well who are some present day influences?

Early influences are Ed Allen, Mike Manzoori, Stew Johnson, and Navaz. I think that Navaz is the best BMX filmer/editor of all time. For newer influences, Rich Forne and Trent Lutske.

It can definitely be overwhelming, but when I was growing up, the only footage I saw was pro-level riding. It was hard to relate to it. Now kids can see all levels of riding, and I think that’s a good thing for motivation. It is unfortunate that people don’t seem to care about the quality of their clips though. I don’t see a lot of variety when it comes to tricks/spots, and there is an absurd amount of plaza footage.

I can definitely see the appeal of posting stuff right to Instagram. When I was growing up I saw dudes like CB Coombs and Chris Zep filming sick ass videos and I got a lot of motivation from them. The younger generation that doesn’t have that kind of influence, especially in the Boston area. I think the decline has already happened, but the people who care about full-length parts and full videos will keep filming them. I do wish that the younger generation would try filming more thought out full parts. There is no better feeling than finishing up a part you spent months/years working for. People are just too eager to show everyone their sick new stunt.

Oh it is absolutely desensitizing.. I think that riding will be more progressive because of this, but I also think that a lot of riders are doing very similar stuff lately.

What are your thoughts in this moment? Please feel free to go into detail.

Honestly, I kind of expect people to pull out their phones and start filming. It’s just the way things are. I wouldn’t be frustrated unless they were in the shot or something.

What type of person do you think would do something like this? Do you think there is a lack of awareness? Do you think their helping? Describe your take on this person.

It really depends on the person. There are a lot of riders who ‘don’t get it’ in terms of filming a project, so I would say it’s a lack of awareness in that circumstance. A lot of people do it to help though. Maybe they are getting a cool birds-eye shot from above? It really depends on how much the person understands the situation.

Would you mind sharing a story of a time this happened to you? Please feel free to go into detail.

Chris Childs, Walter Pieringer, and I went out to Fall River to finish up Chris’s welcome to Sunday part. My buddy Kyle lives there so he tagged along. We had some heavy shit in mind and when you’re filming with Chris, things usually go pretty quickly. He was doing a barspin off this huge retaining wall into a crusty ass bank. I think he was hesitating because the landing was completely blind. Anyway, this process took about 45 minutes which is a lot longer than it normally takes. After he landed it, we left the city and went home, stoked to get a few clips. Later that evening, I noticed that my friend Kyle posted the clips of him trying, and then landing the bar. I hit him up and was like dude, you’re a dumbass, delete that shit. He was a dude who didn’t get it. He had never gone through that process before and didn’t realize it was a big deal to post it. He was like ‘ah shit my bad I didn’t think it mattered since I don’t have that many followers who ride.’ I was like ‘yeah whatever fucking delete it’ haha.

Both had watched as you had set up multiple cameras what are your feeling on the behavior of this unsolicited documentation? Please feel free to go into detail.

I think there is a general lack of understanding for filming etiquette. In most cases, they just don’t understand how passionate some people are about filming. For me, filming for a part and filming a clip for Instagram are two different worlds. That line has been so blurred for a lot of people who grew up riding with a smart phone in their pocket.

Are there concerns running in your mind about them having the documentation of said trick or stunt? Please feel free to go into detail.

I guess it depends on what’s going down.. If homie does a backflip down El Toro you bet I’m doing my best to make sure no one leaks it. In the moment, I’m concerned about making sure I get the shot as well as I can.

How do you go about dealing with this situation? How do you handle this situation when said person or persons don’t seem to get the concept and persist.

I would approach the situation after homie lands the trick, unless they say something. I don’t like to distract the rider in any way when we’re trying to get shit done. I would just explain that we are working on a project and would appreciate it if they didn’t share the clip. If the person is persistent and weird about it, we’d probably just tell them to fuck off and continue the day without them. I think most riders would be cool about the scenario, but maybe I’m naive?

In general, I think that the best thing you can do as a filmer is to be cool about explaining the situation to people who don’t get it. Always try to include people who don’t film with a real camera. It’s awesome to see someone’s reaction when you show them their first fisheye clip. A lot of people don’t know what it’s like to film on a real camera, so they don’t realize how much better things come out.

Dante Marcoccio bmx street rails — Dante Marcoccio taking a break from filming to slide this green gem. Dante’s filming is like his riding raw, amazing to watch and in the streets.

Name: Dante Marcoccio

Age: 23

Years Filming: 10

List of Projects: Crunch Time bmx dvd, Off the grid “OTG” video, Lowell, Ma, Rogue east vol 1

Just to let the reader of this article get to know you and your filming stye if they aren’t familiar I’m just going to ask you a few questions before we dive into the main topic at hand.

How would you describe your filming style?

I would say my filming style is primarily fisheye and wide angle clips getting as close to the rider as possible but still trying to show the overall spot and usage of every clip.

In regards to filming, editing and even the overall encompassing task of making say a full length video who were your early influences as well who are some present day influences?

My early influences in filming and editing full lengths would definitely be watching animal videos mostly filmed and edited by Bob Scerbo, 90 east videos filmed and edited by Lino Gonzalez and the deadline crew dvd filmed and edited by Tony Ennis that one was a game changer and huge influence for me! As for present day influences fiend videos always are sick filmed by Tony Ennis aswell as Darryl Tocco for what he does with the kink full length dvds.

I view it for what it is and just look at it as Instagram clips and that its just social media, it’s definitely something lost since a lot of people would rather just film all there clips for there Instagram rather then taking the time to film an edit or a part in a full length.

Yeah I definitely see this alot it’s kinda like insta gratification posting your best clips you film as soon as you get them and I can see that not alot of the newer generation wants to sit on there best footage over the course of some time to make an actual project and just want people too see there best riding instantly so I think it’s a decline in the future of documentation for filming actual projects and has been for awhile.

Yeah I think the progression of bmx technically has sky rocketed for sure being able to see the best clips being filmed by different people on a daily basis and helps the progression of riding for the next generation being able to see what’s possible and new tricks/styles everyday so easily.

What are your thoughts in this moment? Please feel free to go into detail.

Okay so this has happened to me and my crew plenty of times, but my thoughts in this exact moment for this scenario would be to keep filming what I was filming and if they were in the the shot I would ask them to get out of the shot and when I’m done filming the trick if I think there unaware of the whole filming for a full length/ dvd I would make sure to tell them that we’re filming for a full length project and make sure they know not to post it on any social media or spoil the clip in anyway.

What type of person do you think would do something like this? Do you think there is a lack of awareness? Do you think their helping? Describe your take on this person.

I think a lot of the time it’s a lack of awareness and they don’t really know too much about filming for projects, and they think the tricks are cool and want to film what there seeing, also sometimes it’s people who do know and want to help, I’ve been in the same situation and that person would be like “hey I filmed an i phone angle if you want me to airdrop it to you just so you can have another angle I’m not going to post it or anything”

Would you mind sharing a story of a time this happened to you? Please feel free to go into detail.

Whenever I film with the crew for projects it’s usually a light session with just people In the crew or at least associated with the crew or have knowledge of filming projects so it’s usually not a problem and everyone knows what we’re doing but one time we were all filming for a project with the usuals and a couple other homies we ride with sometimes, and one of there homies brought one of there friends who we all didn’t know, this person literally filmed everything we were filming on the real cameras on his iPhone and we thought he knew we were filming for a project so we didn’t think much of it but the next day we saw an Instagram edit of all our clips we battled for mixed with just a few of his clips he filmed on his phone of himself it was pretty disappointing seeing all our clips spoiled for his Instagram edit like that.

Both had watched as you had set up multiple cameras what are your feeling on the behavior of this unsolicited documentation? Please feel free to go into detail.

Are there concerns running in your mind about them having the documentation of said trick or stunt? Please feel free to go into detail.

Before I wouldn’t of had much concerns but after having seen stuff we were filming get spoiled before the video even dropped due to the person posting the clips on Instagram I would handle the situation by talking to them and making sure they know not to post the clip any where.

I would say you should always ask if you can film an angle and not film someone’s riding that there filming with real cameras on your phone without asking if you don’t know the rider/filmer or crew that well.

Chain hops are dangerous anyone that knows knows. Matt West with a deadly hop somewhere in the North East in between documenting his scene. I have a lot of respect for Matts work because it’s a true representation of his lifestyle. From the riding he and his crew produces to the feel of his productions. Pic by. Adam Bayoussef (@adambaybmx on IG)

Matt in true originality decided to condense his answers in a few well worded paragraphs. Because of this I did not include the questions for his responses. The questions for him were the same so by now as the reader you get the drift. If not refer above or below matts interview to remind you of the questions.

Name: Matt West

Age: 24

Years Filming: about 8 years

List of projects : LowerAllstonStankCrew(2016), LA Ventures 21’, Countless IG edits for me and the homies (BostonBmx)

I would describe my film style as more of a Documentary of my perspective , unique , grimey , and street esk. I like to capture the things going on around and the events encountered during sessions. Especially the wild shit that you see going on in and around the city.

Some of my biggest influences include Skavenger FYL , Props Road Fools , FBM All Time Low , Animal bikes QSS’s , BoneDeth Surfin For Ugly Broads , 90east Sound of the city , Orange Line Projects.

It’s great to be able to see so much content being produced , but it also seems somewhat counter productive to real video parts. At the same time it’s pushing the boundaries of said riding. The clips people are putting on IG at this point can most of the time be full length video worthy in my opinion. This pushes the overall level of riding expected in full lengths. It seems to take some of the hype and anticipation away from somebody having a full length video part though . Especially when you can hop on IG everyday and see them doing something new. Also I feel like some people out do themselves with what they are posting as “just a jib”. Making a video part feel almost lackluster. I don’t necessarily see a decline in proper bmx documentation because those who love it will continue to do so. Personally I love the idea of putting in some work and spending time with the homies to produce a well thought out project. It holds more purpose and gives me a reason to try some of those bigger set ups for a bit more of a sense of accomplishment , compared to a simple IG post.

Scenario response - If I’m in another city and some random riding homies pull out phones to record something that is obviously being filmed for real (with multiple angles and real cameras) I’m going to check them on that. If it’s a simple IG jib and they are just grabbing an alt angle that’s cool but if I didn’t ask or they didn’t offer I would definitely have to say something. Especially if what is being filmed is intended for a bigger project. We’re all grown adults and no one should have an issue with you speaking up or speaking your mind. This could come from lack of awareness , or even a place of genuine respect. Either way it should be communicated about. Some dudes might just wanna hook you up with what they thought was a cool angle or perspective. Or it could simply be they are trying to flex association for social media! Social media is weird like that. This has happened to me before with many people who want to be seen as a filmer or for their own social media gain. But most of the time it’s dudes who are genuinely trying to help out and they communicate that! Now if it’s more of a case of unsolicited documentation then it’s something completely different, especially if they disregard your request to not film something. I personally know that if I’m filming at certain locations or a specific clip that I want to keep low key for a part. I’m going to be selective in the crew that’s present. Other times you can’t control that and just gotta roll with the punches. Technically speaking it’s the same as some random crowd walking down the street and someone wants to film you doing some crazy shit. They have every right to do so. But if they are hip to the culture I don’t think that will be the case. Also if you don’t speak up for yourself , that’s your own problem at the end of the day. If someone persists in trying to film something you asked them not too , I guess that’s for the individual to decide how they approach that situation. Me personally, I would just take note of the spots and try to come back with my selective crew and get it done without said individuals present. You win some , you lose some. Make the right decisions and choices where you have the ability to do so…

Mike has an eye for creativity both in front and behind the lens. The latest Ride video he created is one of my favorites in a long list of Ride productions. Right up there with Thunder and Insight for myself.

Name: Mike Mastroni

Age: 33

Years Filming: 15-20

List of Projects: For full length stuff I've filmed & edited we got: OSS “Football”, OSS “Denver Nugz”, Volume “The Finer Things”, Volume “Volume 1” & “Volume 2”, & RideBMX “Headlights”. As for shorter web projects I’ve definitely lost count, but I’ve done a whole bunch of videos for my friends over the years which encompasses most of the major brands in BMX. Some more recent ones are Jake Seeley’s X-Games “RealBMX” Part and Tate Roskelley’s GT "Wait What?” part.

Just to let the reader of this article get to know you and your filming stye if they aren’t familiar I’m just going to ask you a few questions before we dive into the main topic at hand.

How would you describe your filming style?

I’d say pretty clean & controlled, but also up close & personal. I love getting up in the club with the fish and make sure to focus long lens filming on complimenting the trick as well as the spot in some sort of harmony.

In regards to filming, editing and even the overall encompassing task of making say a full length video who were your early influences as well who are some present day influences?

Early influences in BMX were honestly just other kids my age. I’d see the George Boyd’s V-Club stuff coming out of Texas, or just like kids in my area getting a clip or two in a Shook video or something. Stuff like that made filming seem a lot more accessible and it was a really new, exciting, and inspiring direction to go for me. Fast forward to present day I feel like there are SO many good filmers out there in BMX, Skateboarding, and beyond. These days I mostly watch Skate & Snow videos to get hyped to go ride/film.

I think it’s kind of a double edged sword. On the one hand it’s cool because the rate of progression all over the world is ramped up exponentially. Like, some Canadian kid could do something crazy on insta, and the next day you’ll see another kid half way around the world doing the same trick, which is awesome for the overall growth of BMX.

What I do think is definitely lost in the mix is intent & artistry. I’m not saying it’s totally gone because obviously people are still making good videos, but personally I feel like the whole process of just “getting a clip for the gram” is so boring. As a video maker and as a rider, I think there’s something really special about being super selective with your spots, filming things a certain way, choosing the perfect music, etc. It’s almost like its about what you aren’t showing just as much as what you’re showing. All that stuff is intent, and it’s the whole package ya know?

I think it really just comes down to instant gratification and need for attention winning out over any sort of artistry and longevity. It’s also just way easier. Like, it’s definitely a bit of a learning curve and a huge commitment to invest in camera equipment, computer, editing software, tripods, camera bag, etc..when really if getting your tricks out there is really the only end goal…then yeah why not just film with your phone? It’s also just what’s in front of everyone’s faces all the time. I honestly would probably rather see clips filmed with a phone if I’m looking at Instagram, vs “real” camera stuff cropped down and square pegged into a round hole ya know? The phone is just the tool for the job for insta, and the video camera is the tool for the job of an actual video part destined for YouTube or DVD. I think there’s still plenty of room for both…if anything the current landscape is making it even easier for people who do care about video parts to stand out, because there are less and less people putting fourth the effort to the more traditional route…at least in BMX. Now, weather or not those “real” videos do the same view numbers as they used to is definitely up for debate haha.

I think it can definitely be desensitizing, as well as overwhelming for sure. I get overwhelmed looking at Instagram as someone who’s been in the mix for a long time, so I can only imagine how a young up and coming rider or filmer would feel. I think it’s like anything tho…we just live in a more rapid fire information digital landscape these days, and at a certain point it’s kind of up to the individual to decide how they navigate that. My suggestion, just go ride and have fun…instagram isn’t real life.

What are your thoughts in this moment? Please feel free to go into detail.

I think it kinda depends on who these people are and their level of awareness with what’s going on. If they’re in the know, I don’t even think i’d have to say anything…and stuff like that is cool because then when the video comes out, the rider might have a little BTS phone angle for the gram or whatever. If it was maybe some younger riders or guys I don’t really know or something I’d probably just be like “hey guys, just keep it off the gram” or something along those lines, and make sure they understand clearly that they can’t post anything or show everyone they know the clip. If its like really, really young kids who can’t be trusted, or some random passerby’s or something I usually just straight up just tell them to put the phone away…usually they understand and are totally cool with that.

What type of person do you think would do something like this? Do you think there is a lack of awareness? Do you think their helping? Describe your take on this person.

I think it’s just an awareness thing for sure. Some BMX dudes are just hyped, maybe they don’t have pros or video project type guys coming around a lot and they’re just living in the moment, while the guy’s trying to film for the project are actually kinda living in the future haha. I don’t think that necessarily makes them a lame person or anything like that, it’s just that their version of BMX hasn’t led them down a filming type path up until this point. Maybe this is their first time being in the mix with this type of environment, or maybe on the flip side they’re contriburing some hype from behind the scenes which his helping the rider get the trick…I think each situation is unique and should be treated as such.

Would you mind sharing a story of a time this happened to you? Please feel free to go into detail.

I honestly can’t think of one off the top for those particular circumstances. I think overall tho, the only time it REALLY bothers me, is when it’s a spot that I found or put in the work to make rideable, then brought my guy there to get a real clip on for a project, and then some random we don’t really want on the session decides to show up and get in Instgram clip on it. That shit drives me nuts…probably the reason I don’t really ride with big crews these days haha.

Both had watched as you had set up multiple cameras what are your feeling on the behavior of this unsolicited documentation? Please feel free to go into detail.

I mean yeah it’s definitely a little rude in principal. It’s not like you walk up to an actual movie production and pull out your phone to get a clip of you favorite actor or actress…but with stuff like that there’s also plenty of security measures in place to ensure you can never get that close either. BMX or Skating or whatever is obviously more raw, DIY, and in the moment…so it’s definitely pretty easy to see where the lines can be blurred.

Are there concerns running in your mind about them having the documentation of said trick or stunt? Please feel free to go into detail.

For sure, especially if something gnarly get’s leaked. Again if it’s a couple of pro riders or industry guys, I already know that they know better and I don’t feel the need to say anything. If it’s kids I’ll be really clear that they either need to put the phone down or keep it to themselves until after the video comes out…all situation dependent.

How do you go about dealing with this situation? How do you handle this situation when said person or persons don’t seem to get the concept and persist.

I mean, if someone persists after I tell them to put the phone away….I have no idea haha...definitely never had to cross that bridge. I think most people are pretty reasonable and would understand with that stuff…if they aren’t they’re definitely not getting invited on the session again that’s for sure.

I think just better communication is key. If you’re a filmer or in a crew being affected by this regularly you’ve gotta speak up and draw clear lines with this stuff. If people for some reason are continuing to violate your boundaries, then I guess they need to somehow strongly get the message that what they’re doing is disrespectful, and that they aren’t welcome around your crew. Again, I feel like most of these situations can be resolved with a friendly, straightforward conversation.

Stew Johnson twisting one up in between film sessions. Stew doesn’t know this but Lights Out was the first video I got when I started riding. He was one of the first influential people in BMX for me. Loved that he rode and filmed/ made videos. For evidence find and watch the ride video Role Models for proof of 9th street shredding by Mr. Stew.
Pic by. Steve Crandall

Name: Stew Johnson
 Age: 48
 Years Filming: 27 years.
 List of Projects:
Scum 1201, Scum Lights Out! Anthem Home of the Brave, Anthem II, too many Props Video Magazine/Road Fools/Megatours/Year Ends and Special releases to mention. Various projects for Trend, MacNeil, FBM, Etnies, Vans, FitBikeCo. S&M, Tree Bicycle Co., 2-Hip, Dig, Ride Magazine, Producer of X Games Real BMX TV show, and probably a whole lot of projects that i’m forgetting.
 
Just to let the reader of this article get to know you and your filming stye if they aren’t familiar I’m just going to ask you a few questions before we dive into the main topic at hand.
 

How would you describe your filming style?

Not really sure. I guess i just try to make my videos pretty straightforward and simple with what i think is good music. ha. I dunno, you might get a better description of my style if you ask someone other than me.
 
In regards to filming, editing and even the overall encompassing task of making say a full length video who were your early influences as well who are some present day influences?

Early influences would definitely be Eddie Roman and Dave Parrick, they're the masters. Modern day-ish? Navaz always made great stuff. Peter Adam, Darryl Tocco, Ryan Chadwick, Justin Benthein and Rich Forne have all made great full length videos. Too many people to mention, really.
 
How do you view the over abundance of content that comes out daily? As well your take on the easy accessibility of streaming said content? Do you feel there is something lost in the casual nature riding of all levels these can be documented and viewed these days? Or is this new accessibility a breath of fresh air?

There is way too much daily content to keep up with, that’s for sure, but who am i to say that’s a bad thing? I don’t want to watch an hour’s worth of new content every day, but i don’t have to. I do like that the playing field is kind of levelled now and that if you’re a new guy and you make good stuff, people will share it and it will be seen. You don’t need to have any connections or be in with the right people to get your stuff out there now and I absolutely love that part about the internet.
 
Most riders if not all possess a phone with the ability to document at a high visual quality. I see high caliber content being posted via social media daily rather than being saved for say a bigger project. I have witnessed it first hand especially with the younger generation of riders ( and even some older) in my scene filming amazing riding and uploading to their favorite platforms. That said high quality cameras of all types are more affordable than ever. Yet I see fewer and fewer riders diving into the classic route of documentation and getting out to the masses. Of course there are outliers but the majority document via phone and share content via a social platform instantly. What is your take on this? Do you think this is the new way? Do you see a decline in the future of documentation in regards to thought out well crafted projects?

This new way just is what it is, you can't stop technology or change. Lots of riders don’t want to sit on footage for a year or two and they don’t see much value in trying to put out a well edited part. And on the flip side, you’ll always have crews or riders that have a legit filmer and are all into making a project that shows off their scene or friends. It’s fewer and further between, but i think that’s something that will always be around to an extent, just a lot less than it used to be. Plus, i don’t think many people realize how much time and energy really goes into making a full length. It can be exhausting. Not everyone is cut out for it.
 
Do you find that the “film it put it out immediately” way of documentation has lead to a desensitizing of great riding from the viewers perspective? Or do you think over all this is the new way and only positive growth of the art that is BMX will come from this? I know personally I think the progression/ growth of riding at least on a technically level has sky rocketed since riding can be easy viewed. What are your over all thoughts?

There’s no doubt that we’ve all been desensitized to insane riding by seeing it every hour of every day. Lots of people just want to crank it out, be it for the purpose of getting credit as the first person to pull a certain trick, or even just posting it for the sake of keeping their sponsors happy. Some riders do try to put a little art into the shorter one or two clip videos, and i really appreciate that, but for the most part there just isn’t a whole lot of thought put into it. The film it and put it out immediately way has definitely pushed technical progression, just in the same way that full length videos did when they came along. People see other people doing something new and it breaks down that invisible wall of “that trick isn’t possible”, then before long, everyone is doing what seemed impossible a year ago.
 
Now to get into the topic of the article. I think to broach this subject and get your thoughts on the matter its best to set up a scenario that way our readers can say walk a mile in the shoes of anyone and everyone who has experienced this.
 

You're in a new city with a rider or group of riders working on a new project/ video. You have enlisted a local to show you around and said local has brought two friends to join the session for the day. Although you are familiar with your tour guide you are not that close with his two companions who have joined him and your crew for the day. No worries they seem like great guys so they are welcomed into the fold for the day. The three begin to cart you and your crew around the city to different spots that they think the rider or riders you are working on the new video/ project with would like to ride. You finally find something that one of the crew wishes to film. You begin to set up. Pulling out multiple cameras, checking angles, white balancing, and over all dialing in your production equipment to produce the best product of said riders riding on this particular setup. You’r finally ready. Check with the rider he’s ready and you proceed to start the dance know as filming. When you look over you notice the two companions of your tour guides have thier cell phones out pointed at said rider and set up ready to film their own version of what’s about to take place.
 

What are your thoughts in this moment? Please feel free to go into detail.

This type of situation is a little bit of a bummer, but I just assume they don’t really know or understand the etiquette involved with filming for a project, so I just ask them politely not to film. If they don’t get why, I calmly explain that we’re spending time and money traveling and working on this specific project and that the project will have a bigger impact if the general public hasn’t seen the footage already. Obviously, my concern is that the footage would get leaked to the public before our project came out, and that’s kind of demotivating.

Like I said, I don't think many people have experienced filming for a full length project and understand all the hard work that goes into it. Pulling the cell phone out doesn’t instantly make them a bad person, they just don’t understand how important this is to you, and it probably just means that they’re stoked to see this particular trick go down in their presence and I totally understand that. If I ask that they put their phones away, I just say ‘thanks for understanding’ and then we continue on filming the clip. I don’t consider it a big deal, unless they escalate it into one.

I honestly don’t remember a specific instance where this scenario happened to me, although I'm sure it must’ve happened a time or two, but if it did, I'm sure the person understood where i was coming from and complied with my request to not film it.

Now, if they don’t want to put their cell phone away, i’m going to either talk to the friend that’s showing us around, or one of the riders and have them convey to the cell phone filmers that we don’t want them filming it. If they STILL don’t get it, then we’re just gonna cruise the city without these guys. Chances are by now they’ve already killed the vibe and we’re not interested in being around them.

 What type of person do you think would do something like this? Do you think there is a lack of awareness? Do you think their helping? Describe your take on this person.

 Answered above.

Would you mind sharing a story of a time this happened to you? Please feel free to go into detail.
 

Answered above.

Both had watched as you had set up multiple cameras what are your feeling on the behavior of this unsolicited documentation? Please feel free to go into detail.

Answered above.

Are there concerns running in your mind about them having the documentation of said trick or stunt? Please feel free to go into detail.
  

Answered above.

How do you go about dealing with this situation? How do you handle this situation when said person or persons don’t seem to get the concept and persist.
  

Answered above.

Not sure i have a specific message for them, other than please respect the rider's wishes, they're the one putting their ass on the line. Their response and actions are what will determine if things are less awkward moving forward.

Shajn Raines 10/14/21 Shajn Raines 10/14/21

THE NEBB INTERVIEW

Secret Jam in Covid Times at NY Pool by Ryan Martin

Who’s to say what is really authentic. I know that humor is a good judge of authenticity. The truly funny things in life come from a real place usual from real people. At least the stuff that gives me a chuckle. This was something I feel was in spades throughout the BMX world when I first started riding. Antics, shit talking and humor were in the brands and videos of my generation as well as every session. Although the riding has progressed beyond what I thought was even possible sadly the hyjinxs have stopped for the most part. Bmx is taken seriously, from the riding, cinematography and even down to the clothes that riders wear. I would be lying if I didn’t admit that parts of these evolution didn’t tickle my fancy as I am a bit of a self proclaimed cinematographer whore. I do feel sad in a nostalgic way for the days of old from time to time. Which brings me to our latest interview. The North East Bad Boys, NEBB for short. They have all the nostalgic qualities of old with just a sprinkling of modernity. Hyjinx, shit talking, amazing riding and riders and most of all they are having fun. They in my mind might be one of the most authentic collectives in the North East. In fact I dare say humor, fun and authenticity might be their actual ethos. I’ve been a fan from a far for a long time now. I’m not sure who is totally apart of NEBB, if its a brand or just a bunch of crazy dudes doing and making cool shit together. I will warn you now this interview doesn’t clear any of those things up either. If this is the first time for some odd reason your hearing about the NEBB then do yourself a favor and look them up. Not only will you be inspired to start creating cool things with your friends, riding your bike and getting out and seeing the world around you, you will indeed most certainly have a laugh or three. I give you the NEBB Interview.

-Shajn

Side Note: The questions in this interview come from a few Pareidolia riders and friends so questions will be labeled. As well each question was answered by three founding members of NEBB. A key below will help with clarifying. We have labeled each response with the letter of their first name to each question to indicate who the answers are coming from as shown below. I hope you all enjoy the interview.

KEY:

T: Tobias Pettinelli @tobiaspettinelli

B: Andrew Beaupre @booptroop

M: Ryan Martin @rmartin978

Al Borelli riding Ski Jump by Conor Hobbs

Who and what are the North East Bad Boys? Give us your list of crew members and a little run down of what may be the “manifesto” of the NEBB.

T: NEBB is anyone who lives in the northeast and doesn’t give a fuck.

M: Good Question...according to the instagram bio we are your favorite crew's least favorite crew. Which is actually a total lie cuz we become your favorite crew whether you like it or not. The crew list is kinda long and we like being vague so if you do a little research you can kinda figure it out. One time someone messaged us asking who we were and we responded with a picture of Slipknot. That didn't go over very well. I don't think this was a very helpful response lol. We do have a pro team tho....

B: Just have fun riding with the boys. Don’t take anything too seriously.

Your crew individually has been involved in the BMX scene for a long time. You’re clearly lifers. How did it start to become more organized with the branding?
-Brandon Christie

T: A bunch of us started riding together more often in the last couple years, planning trips and filming more and more. Realizing that a lot of our friends are talented outside of BMX as well we got some shirts designed and printed and they went over super well. shoutout to @antilogydesign in Kingston NY.

B: It definitely wasn’t something we set out to do. I think it was Toby who would always say “look at this frickin bad boy” that somehow turned into New England bad boys which was Changed to northeast bad boys to accommodate Toby being from New York. We definitely didn’t plan on doing products when we were running around the woods calling each other bad boys…. We are aware this is a pretty corny name but honestly this whole thing was a big joke at the beginning. It took us 3 years to make any sort of product. We actually had frames before T-shirts.

M: Yea we kinda just started hanging out more, catty/posh trip and a cranx trip kinda started to set the scene of hanging out with Tobias more. Definitely a day of being total idiots with a brilliantly played joke of Matt Gaspar getting a phone call from Teeto to pick up beer for the sesh and showing up with only a 6 pack of Bud Light Lime. That was also around the time Al and Gaspar tossed around the idea of getting the ideal custom trail frame made. Some of us liked the box of the frame but personally couldn't ride a back end longer than a month of Sundays so we ended up with 2 frame models. John Corts happened to be down to do some customs and next thing you know the greatest fake bike company to ever exist, existed. Also we're just big fans of boats. Bust out another thousand.

Brands, crews and projects start intentionally and organically. For example comparing a brand like Eclat to say Fast and Loose, both are awesome but one was intentional and the other were homies riding and starting something based off there antics and ideas. To touch on the previous question Brandon asked what was the case for NEBB? Which style do you find more appealing the intentional or the organic? Please feel free to go into detail.

M: Both categories are appealing but in order for me to back them they must come from a genuine place. I'll use both of those previous examples as I like both. Eclat makes parts but they go all in on the design aspect to make products that are either super strong or bring something new to the table. Fast and Loose is just as organic as it gets. Dudes that met up at contests, became good friends, and wanted to keep the dream alive. I'm going to toss money their way every time they offer a product because I want them to continue on and I love seeing what they come up with. Nebb is basically a harbor freight fast and loose. It comes from the same place and ideas we just air 8ft lower.

B: 100 % Organically. I don’t really think you can force a crew type of thing. A company has riders to pay and demand to create and keep up with if they want to be successful. For ourselves things just sort of snowballed. A few guys were very interested in making a frame with trails specific geometry and Toby is friends with Corts who was starting to do his own frame building thing. So that’s how we ended up with actual products. We are not trying to make money just trying to make products and designs that our friends are psyched on.

T: I could be wrong on the timeframe because my memory is shit, but after we had some shirts printed and some stickers made and a bunch of us were looking for new bikes... We reached out to a longtime buddy John Corts @jcortsmetalworks who was immediately down to make a batch of frames. We ended up with two of the best frames to ever exist with the Enduro and the Woods frames. They’re sweet and always sold out. Very rare.

Tobias Pettinelli downside whip Sayrville by Ryan Martin

As a admirer of all the stuff you guys do would you mind talking a bit about your approach to coming up with the content, products and events you guys put out? I myself image these creation start with a session of NEBB crew members around a fire, beers in hand and ideas flowing until one sticks, is this accurate? Feel free to elaborate on your creative process for all the creative types that may read this.

M: In general we try not to force anything. After all I kinda see this as a passion project since most of us are tied up with real life shit. You are pretty close on that guess though. A lot of our content is based off trying to make each other laugh or fucking with each other and if you like it, thats cool. Products or events are kinda the same way. Picture a *hits blunt* meme except the next morning one of us will be like yeah but for real lets do that. That's how you end up with a jam flyer with a fishbras girl inside a bowl with the 1st place trophy being a cooler filled with a nos ugp wallet and a slightly below average sized rubber object.

T: Honestly… pretty spot on. Sometimes it’s just a group chat joke or a cloudy late-night idea but yeah usually some beers and a joke that gets taken too far. The designs by my buddy Ryan @asubtledifferencedesign and Conor Hobbs (in house design dept) have come up with so far have been insanely good and I can’t thank them enough for their time and effort. If you have an idea that you think is cool, run it.

B: That’s pretty accurate. We all bounce ideas off of each other. Usually we’re on the same page. Like I said earlier we’re really just trying to do things we’re into and get our friends psyched.

There are plenty of crews that ride daily or weekly together that don’t create videos or products. They just meet up and ride. I myself love the whole process of taking my ideas or one of the dudes in our crew and bringing it to life. I feel this is a shared experience with all creative types of all different styles especially BMXers. How important is creating things as a group? Is this a shared feeling by all the NEBB dudes or is there one or a few members that desire to create and share said ideas?

T: That’s a shared mentality. We all kind of feed off each other when riding. Cameras usually come out. Sometimes they don’t. Time constraints and weather are a factor as well. Northeast weather does not abide.

M: At the end of the day I think we all just enjoy riding and being in each other's company. I often think the riding comes secondary. With that said I definitely have my camera bag around at all times in case something strikes. As bmx riders I think we are all creative minded people but we all do it differently. Personally I think it's fun to make edits or get some photos here and there if someone feels like throwing down. It gets me pretty motivated.

B:I have to give a ton of credit to Marty here. He’s amazing on a bike obviously but is just as talented with a camera. He has no problem putting his bike down to get a shot or film a clip. That’s really where most of our “content” comes from. As far as products Marty and Al are very interested in bike specs so they have a lot of input and I kind of go on the assumption that what they come up with will be sick.

Andrew Beaupre curved wall by Ryan Martin

NEBB seems from an outside observer looking in to be a proponent to the ride everything mentality. Even your crew members known for “street riding” can ride all terrain really well. This is really rad this day and age with riders going more discipline specific not even interested in riding trails or ramps or vice versa. Do you guys find that even though riding levels in these disciplines are higher then they have ever been the ride everything rider is a dying breed? Or do you say see a future resurgence with the sudden spike of transition and trail riding in the BMX industry? Please feel free to elaborate.

M: Ya I think as a rider from the northeast a lot of us in level 3 age bracket were kinda groomed into the ride everything mindset. It was easy with the states being so small you could literally hit a couple skate parks, trails, and drive into a city to ride street till midnight all in one day. Heck we even had a 14ft tall vert ramp until recently (RIP Rye). I take pride in that riding everything mindset. Nebb literally has the Enduro frame for that reason. Also I do think a lot of riders these days are missing out. Its better to have a multi tool than a single blade knife. I will say that with the Vans Pro Cup I have seen a little shimmer of light in that all around aspect. Jamie Cooper Ellis is a younger rider who totally embodies that northeast ride it all mentality. Also, have you seen Cam Childs ride these days?! Fuck. Perfect example that it still exists. I think in the end it'll come back around. Bmx is like fashion.

B:I think the ride everything mentality is from the era of bmx we grew up in. All my favorite riders growing up rode everything. Some of our crew is more into trails but everybody is down to ride anything. As far as bmx as a whole I think there is a little more emphasis on riding everything. Things like fast and loose and the vans pro cups have done a really good job of showing how many possibilities there are at parks. I definitely think that’s inspired some people to explore the bowl and not just the skate plaza. Riding your bike is fun no matter what you’re riding. There are so many more things to ride compared to 20 years ago when we started. I think that’s also a contributing factor to the resurgence or transition and dirt riders. Public cement parks and pump tracks are popping up everywhere so kids can easily explore their options. I don’t think people should label themselves as a specific type of rider. You do you bro. Ride what you think is fun don’t worry about anything else.

T: People should ride whatever they like to ride. The ease of access to riding plazas, ledges, and street is unavoidable. You usually can’t step onto a BMX bike and drop into the deep end of a bowl or just start riding a set of jumps right away. Knowing that most top street riders can kill it at the trails and skatepark but will only film pure street stuff is kind of a bummer to me but I get it. But in the wise words of Bart Simpson, “If it feels good, do it”.

The age of the internet brought a lot of negativity along side its contributions to growth and popularity. What are your thoughts on the new wave?

-Brandon Christie

B: I think there was a learning curve as far as bmx and the internet. One website almost had a monopoly on the content that was seen. I think it took a few years for the industry to catch up but I think mainstream bmx is in a much better place than it was in the early 2010’s. Dig and our bmx do a pretty good job of showing all aspects of bmx. At this point with Social media and YouTube you can really find whatever you want.

M: David Bowie back in like 99 stated that the internet will be the best and worst thing for us and so far he's been spot on. As far as riding goes it's cool to see some really motivating stuff on the daily from some really creative people. As far as brands go I don't care to see the same stuff reposted in my feed 27 times. I'd rather see one original post a week than the same reposted thing multiple times in the same day. I get why it is needed though with algorithms and what not. Then we have comment sections and people standing on their soap boxes to spew hot garbage. Also the new wave can't read, detect sarcasm, pick up on context clues, spell, or use google to get an answer for themselves which creates a bunch of unneeded problems. So yeah to answer your question Brandon the new wave isn't one I really want to ride but somehow I still find myself paddling out.

T: I think we’ve all fallen victim to that at some point. I sure as hell have. In my experience the same people that have strong opinions in BMX usually fade away shortly after.

BMX is special in a sense that all BMX brands were at one time the same as say a DIY brand such as NEBB. At the same time industry aside BMX’s popularity is growing. BMX when I started riding was primarily made up of outcasts and creative art school types with a love or need for creative physical challenges. Where as to day all different personalities participate in BMX from the types i listed before all the way to your high school jock who leaves the football field to catch a session at the skatepark. Now with the internet I see more and more brands, crews and projects popping up more then ever. I also notice more people are dipping their toes into the DIY creating process. Making bikes or parts, clothing, videos and zines rather then just purchasing whats currently available. With popularity and growth of anything people look for the macomb and the less mainstream. In the way with music people will ditch the latest pop radio hits for the unknown local band. Very similar to the early days of BMX and the birth of say S and M and Standard over the popular brands during that time. Do you see the future of BMX leaning more to circling back to the birth of the current heavy hitters of the BMX indusrty? Will riders in the future say lean more to supporting more DIY crews and brands like yourself? The luxuries and abilities of the internet will we see a majority of riders in the future starting there own companies and brands over supporting the current industry?

T: Everything’s cyclical and almost impossible to speculate. If a company is doing cool shit the best way to keep them alive is to buy their stuff. Add a shirt to that set of bars you're buying. It all helps.

M: I feel like the support of the DIY/Core brand stuff might have to do with age. Maybe younger kids will gravitate towards the what's hot now brands and products or the usual suspects whereas older riders are more selective on what they ride. Who knows that could be totally false. I know right now there are more older riders out there who like to invest their money on cool shit and you'll most likely find them on an S&M/Credence/FBM/T1 or riding a custom or obscure frame. My last few frames before NEBB were T1's and an FBM. There's definitely a lot more diy stuff popping up, John Corts with Work, WHTHOUS, Derrick Girard with DRG and I see some other brands or crews coming up. It could be that it's really the same as it's always been with diy but now with the internet those smaller things have more reach. NEBB wouldnt be shit without instagram that's for sure. There's still gonna be riders wanting to support pros and buying their products who are on bigger brands so that will always exist and it needs to exist to be honest. DIY is a reaction to the mainstream.

B: You can’t fake it. People know what’s real. So the brands who are making quality products and have the right intentions will last.

Jamie Cooper-Ellis table Burlington by Ryan Martin

Do you think if that DIY mentality does take hold over the current BMX industry do you think that will lend to the death of the youths obsession with being "Pro" ? How important is that mentality in the long run? I'd love your groups perspective because unless I'm mistaken you have several crew members that were or are Pro riders?

M: Ya Id say Jamie Cooper-Ellis is the stand out pro in the group (YO COMPANIES OUT THERE HOOK THIS DUDE UP MORE) and a few of us came up under the Eastern Boarder team umbrella while that was around with some other hookups too but those ships have sailed for the most part. But yea, I think there will always be a "Pro" designation even if things are more diy. Maybe it just takes on a different term and becomes more of a "team" thing. Kinda like how Relic does it, not a hard line designation but you know the dudes on the team are basically pro. There should always be a little bit of structure but it would be kinda cool if the obsession of "PRO" died. I don't think the younger generation realize it's not about how good you are on the bike.

B: I’m sure kids will always want to be pro because free bikes and travel seem awesome but if that’s the only reason you’re riding then you’ll burn out pretty quick.

T: The “I want to be pro” mentality is so foreign to me so I have no idea how to answer that question. I have and probably always will love riding my bike. Even getting into other types of riding to keep it fresh. Getting paid for your hobby will probably make you hate it.

Since being so saturated these days do you think BMX as a whole is starting to level out? Growing up riding was about community and camaraderie first skill level second. Are we seeing that come full circle? Or is the past the past?

-Brandon Christie

B: I think that bmx is progressing faster than ever but the availability of content numbs people to the level that people are riding at. I think people figure new things out every day and now have a platform to share it immediately. As far as camaraderie I think that comes with Age a little bit. At this point I look at anyone over 25 still riding bmx is someone who loves it. If you are a cool person we’re stoked on you. Our buddy Brad doesn’t ride at all but will still come on very bmx specific trips with us. We really just want to hang out with people who want to have fun.

T: I’ve always ridden with people I can hang out with when a BMX is nowhere in sight. The bike is just a reason we met most of the time.

M: Its kinda always been there. Ive seen people who killed it on the bike but never went anywhere because of their off the bike personalities. If you're having a sesh do you wanna hang with the people having a good ass time or the butthole surfers out there being too cool for school. Not sure where I was going with that but the Butthole Surfers popped in my head so I figured I'd use it.

Shit talking has always been a part of the lifestyle and I know your crew likes to indulge. Do you think the younger generations get that humor? Or do they ruin a good thing by being to sensitive or trolling for evil?

-Brandon Christie

T: I’m from Albany and that’s just how we communicate.

M: Oh man. Yeah it definitely gets ruined but might be because they are coming up in the internet age and don't really know the ropes or art of it if you will . Our shit talking is almost like a weird way of flirting with each other lol. It's all coming from a good place. A lot of "shit talking" these days I feel is people just being total dicks and when called out just use "shit talking" to cover themselves. Just do it in real life its more fun that way.

B: Shit talking is the best in person BUT does not translate well to the internet. Our crew has known each other for at least 15 years now so we’re very comfortable with each other and can definitely get after each other pretty hard because we have that 15 year backlog of material. I’m definitely coming to learn that the newer generation doesn’t quite have the grasp on sarcasm that we have but our dudes are learning. Basically if I actually don’t like you I’m not going to talk shit to you.

2020 Nebb frames in John Corts Shop by Ryan Martin

Future products, projects, trips or videos? I’ve seen many photos of stunts being preformed with video cameras out. Can we expect a video or edit in the future? Please feel free to go into detail about any and all things to come for the NEBB. If you rather keep it secrete we sadly understand.

M: Got some hard and soft stuff, maybe another jam if possible. Nothing is officially official but a few of us agreed to try and go in one last time. Were all in our 30's mostly, have legit jobs, businesses, wives, kids, etc so it's not as easy as 10 years ago but that fire is still there. Kinda seeing how much we can get logged in 2021 and tossing a video together but who knows this year has kinda been hit or miss so far.

T: There’s been talks of making some more hardgoods but nothing concrete. We have some new shirts and some new frames coming soon. Working on a full-length video but no deadline I’m aware of.

B: All of the above really.

Will there be a reissue of the Enduro Frame?
-Spencer

M: We have some V3 Enduros coming out very soon that could be already sold. Maybe. Will have to talk to the sales department. Also have a new model coming out too which will be available. Details are under wraps but very very spicy. Hopefully have those around the time this comes out.

B: Yup!

T: Super limited quantity. You want one?

How important were magazines and videos growing up for the crew? Give details on there impact if you wouldn't mind.

B: I started riding in the late 90’s and magazines and videos were everything. Coming home from school to a new Ride was the best and props was the video version of that. If I had to nail down a specific moment I knew BMX was something I wanted to be a part of it would be freshman year in high school when my buddy josh let me borrow Albert st. And seek and destroy. Watching those videos back to back definitely was a huge turning point for me.

T: Magazines and videos were all we had growing up. I’d watch Trail Blazin’ or empire East before going to dig/ride after school. Nerd shit.

M: They were literally everything. Spending hours getting lost in the pages, going out every week waiting to see what hit the shelves, and hearing songs on the radio and recalling all the parts where there should be bike noises. So cool to see what was possible and having your mind blown with videos and getting to know bmx on a more personal level in the magazine with interviews etc. For me I really loved watching videos for the music. I was kinda sheltered a little bit growing up and raised on 90s radio country so hearing this whole new world of underground stuff was so cool to me.

If as a crew you had to pick one video or specific riders part from a video that was talked about or referenced the most. Who or what video would it be? If both apply feel free to mention both as well if there are many feel free to list as many as you like and give detailed reasons why.

T: My vote goes to Yeagle in Who Brought The Dicks? For obvious reasons

M: Hmm. Probably the Impetus of Cleatus.... Yeagle in "Who Brought the Dicks?" and Albert Street are def up there as crew favs. I'm partial to Forward and Half and Half as well. H&H is just so chill and relatable, good music and its Ape City, USA.

B: We’re all into old fbm videos and stuff like that. Who brought the dicks is probably the go to when we’re looking for something to put on. Yeagle's part is still so good. All those videos show a bunch of dudes not necessarily a team. It was really cool to see people like Ruben, Van Homen and Chris Stauffer in Albert st. It made it seem like all your favorite bike riders were friends.

With the internet riders can live online, put out content and interact with riders from all over the world that they may never meet. What are your thoughts on the importance of being a part of and also contributing to your local scene?

M: It's great for reaching out to people. I've been doing that more lately trying to link up with people. However, the internet isnt real life. With your local scene you are establishing real connections/relationships with those around you. Personally I don't like riding by myself so if I relied on the internet as my scene, my actual riding sessions would be really boring for me. Contributing is also huge. Help the younger riders at the skatepark when their bike breaks, toss em some good hand me down parts, take some pics, give some first bumps when someone does a trick, bring some food for the sesh, offer to drive, lend a hand if you can in any way shape or form. That's the glue that holds scenes together. On a side note....If you measure contributions by how many shovels of dirt someone moved you aren't contributing to your scene you are destroying it.

B: The internet has made it very easy to connect with riders everywhere which is pretty cool. It’s much easier to share spots and communicate. You attract like minded people and grow your own circle. The local scene is everything.I honestly wish there was a bigger one around us but it doesn’t seem to be as big as it used to be. We definitely want to contribute as much as we can and just show kids how fun bmx be. Hopefully some new parks popping up will get more kids into it.

T: Taking advice from me about contributing to your local scene is not a good idea. I leave town every weekend. You probably should contribute though. You’ll have more stuff to ride and more people to ride with. Idk.

Let's talk travel and the importance of it. Maybe this thought is not shared by everyone who rides but to me the main lifestyle feature to being a BMXer other then riding is adventure and travel. Your crew seems to always be on the road.How importance is travel to all of you both as riders and as humans?

T: I feel restless just watching TV and I sit at a computer all day for work so as soon as I shut my laptop, I’m fucking out. I get a bunch of vacation time from my job, so I usually say yes to travel plans. Who’s trying to go to Nova Scotia?

M: Dude. Insanely important. Beaupre brought up the other day in hindsight we really blew it on traveling more when we were younger. I can't describe the feeling of just driving down the road and not giving a shit about what's going on in your life and just taking in the scenery and the people you are with in that moment. The riding aspect is cool too but i'd never trade in that feeling of packing the car with bikes and the homies and setting sail. As humans I feel you need to travel. Like I mentioned before I was kinda sheltered and once I started traveling it was so eye opening. Take in as much as you can. My wife and I have probably pushed 30k miles on the road in recent years nevermind being in planes. Sometimes I have my bike but most of the time I don't. I find those trips to be a nice reset. As a kinda sorta photographer I love having new scenery in front of my lens but also just learning about what's out there is super cool too.

B: I love traveling and wish I could do more of it. I think you learn a lot about The world by actually getting out and experiencing it. And I think driving for hours on end with your boys really only strengthens friendships. Work and family commitments have me pretty tied to central mass for now.

Do you think on just a riding level say with progression does traveling riding with riders you don’t know and riding unfamiliar terrain inherently makes you a better rider? If yes please feel free to go into detail.

B: The more stuff you ride the more comfortable you are on your bike. The options are endless. Getting out of your neck of the woods and going to a different set of trails or city is what keeps things fresh. It’s like you can take something from your experience riding other things and bring it back to your local spots.

M: Ya i've really learned that a lot lately. You can vibe out with other people, get a new outlook on things, get inspired from some fresh faces. Same thing with terrain, open yourself up a little and adapt to the new surroundings it'll make you way more well rounded.

T: Riding new trails is always an experience. I usually just follow whoever looks like they know what they’re doing. Every time I ride concrete my confidence goes up slightly. We went to 9th and poplar in philly and those dudes are building some fun and hard as shit stuff to ride. I need to ride more shit like that.

Ryan Martin tranny carve over gas meter in Jersey by Andrew Beaupre

That being said, what would you say to a rider that never leaves their neck of the woods? How would you convince them to leave their home and spread their wings so to speak?

M: You think you know but you have no idea....get out of your comfort zone and you'll be rewarded for it.

T: Invite them on a trip? Kidnap them?

B: You don’t know what you're missing! The perfect hip or handrail could be in the next state over go look for it.

As a crew and individually all of you shred. Almost everyone in your crew I’ve seen in person or via video or photo doing dangerous things on a BMX bike with style and ease. A ease and style that only comes from repetition and comfort. What do you think is the cognitive difference as humans that make risk taking an integral part of all our lives? Outsiders looking in the answers are always the same. You guys “BMXers” all have a screw loose your crazy etc.etc..take your pick. As a rider myself I know theres more to it then that. What do you think is the deeper meaning behind why all BMXers put ourselves into harms way for fun on a regal basis? Is there a deeper more profound reason for the risk taking?

M: I think some people are just wired differently. Some people are content with the regular ways of life khaki pants blah blah and others need that bit of excitement to make them feel something. Bmx riders I think are just creative people who are always looking for the next way to express themselves and most of the time it involves some risk. I love casually cruising but can't lie I need that adrenaline every once and a while. If you land what's been haunting you for a long time that sense of accomplishment kicks ass. Ya you're gonna pay for it every once and a while but some people blow their back out from sneezing so why not take a walk on the wild side.

B: I think when you start riding at a young age your brain almost progresses with your riding. Somehow it knows what you are capable of and you develop confidence. Think about someone who plays professional baseball, they didn’t just walk up to the plate at 22 and start trying to hit 95mph fastballs. I think bmx is the skill we’ve trained our brains to focus on so that’s why it’s wired the way it is. This even varies from rider to rider, what scares one person about a certain set up doesn’t phase another. We all develop our own skills and confidence.

T: I’ve gotten that question a lot growing up and I honestly have no idea. BMX is super fun, i've learned a lot about who I am because of that thing, good and bad. I’d rather be out for two months with a broken hand every once in a while, than have my main hobby be brunch.

What are your thoughts on the overall growing culture that is BMX?

B: I think there is a lot to get into with that question because bmx is different to everyone. There is a competition culture, trails culture, street culture. Every aspect of bmx has its own little nuances. I think some people get too wrapped up in trying to fit into a certain “culture” that they lose sight of the fact that we’re all just trying to have fun on bike. We’re not spending hours riding a Resi or flat ledge but if that’s what you want to do go for it. Like I said earlier you do you.

T: Redistribute the wealth. The people that need to hear that are never going to see this.

M: Insert salty ass old dude here: .......SIIIIKE. It's great to be honest. Keep it coming. I don't want to show up to the skatepark and have no one to ride with. Although if the 4 peg brakeless camo tire rider could at least say what's up to me and my no pegs and brake cable that would be cool... My only real complaint would be bmx needs to promote itself in a better light, skateboarding does a good job of it. Some pretty wack shit gets some shine that makes it look like bmx riders are total idiots. Which we are, but like maybe as a whole we need to do a better job at controlling it.

How does the Northeast in particular the New England BMX scene culture differ from the rest of the USA and World? Please feel free to go into detail.

M: It's hard to say because I've mostly experienced other scenes in passing but I'd say that because our states are so compact there's so many pockets of varying scenes spread throughout which bring lots of variety to the table for those involved and those visiting as well. If you are looking to ride certain things you can pretty much ride it all here. There's even a few committed flatland riders too.

B: I think the northeast scene is really unique. If you list off the riders that have “made it” from the north east most of them left the area and shortly after got the recognition they deserved. I think we’re just doing our own thing up here. We’re far away from any “industry” aspects and we’re just trying to ride. I think back to the early 2000’s and how crazy the indoor skatepark scene was. You would see the same people 3 times a week at 3 different parks for bike nights. The scene was and still is pretty tight knit I think. We all know what it’s like trying to get through a winter and just want to ride something.

T: The weather is ass and the people that live here are some of the most genuine people i’ve encountered. You really have to want to ride and get creative with winter and how much it rains. Proud to call this place home.

Back to the creative process, do you feel it's important to create with no preconceived intent? No end goal other than creating to create. Or do you feel having a goal with say an idea makes it better and brings it to life faster if say there is an underlying reason behind the process?

T: “If it feels good, do it”

M: In my experience it always stems off of a thought or idea. The final product might not be fully imagined but there is a definite spark. Not to say things don't happen out of thin air that are totally awesome cuz it does occur but ya for me there is mostly an idea or goal in mind. With Obsolete I made a video in response to being burnt on a (in my mind) failed video of our scene and an overall departure from the "classic" style riding I loved. Hence the name obsolete. It started with just one video but then came 2 more and a hardcover book all from that one idea. With NEBB it's usually something that has some sort of thought behind it, typically joke based.

B: Umm a little of both. It’s good to have direction and a goal but you can’t force the process. We try to come out with new designs in the spring and fall but they have to be things we’re into. We’re not going to put something out we’re not stoked on just to have something out there.

In reference to the intentions of creating in BMX do you feel the internet clouds a persons intentions? Instant gratification seems to be a underlying thing i see more and more in regards to do find the internet is mudding the waters of the reason of why people pull out a camera or phone to document? Or has it only improved BMX? Good or bad what are your thoughts on the sudden explosion of BMX content and easy access to vast amount of riding?

B: The availability of content has definitely numbed us to the level people are riding at but it’s also cool it’s so available. When I was 13-14 years old I would watch B3 rollerblading on espn just to see the courses and think about riding them. If YouTube was around then I would have been pumped. It’s not what we grew up with but it's very easy to access and hopefully shows how fun bmx can be.

M: Instant gratification is there for sure. But if that clip makes someone feel good, who am I to hate on it. I do miss the days of waiting for a video or magazine to come out but at the same time I do get pumped when I see a homie post something sick on a random tuesday. I do prefer quality over quantity and there is definitely a barrage of trash especially when a certain trend gains popularity but I guess you take the good with the bad. Who knows, maybe in the grand scheme of things that content I think is terrible is something a non rider sees and makes them buy a bike.

Who creates most of the content you guys put out? I assume everyone in the crew gets involved has input or final say but who or whom are the driving force behind all things NEBB related that the public sees?

M: There's like 5ish of us who have the password with 3 of us (myself included) for the most part that would do the day to day which a couple years later has turned into week to week content. Its so easy to get burnt on it trying to post original content every other day. I try to have something thoughtful to post at least once a week to just keep things moving but when dudes are hurt, its 90 degrees out and riding is a chore, or some jokes are just old it gets hard. I personally enjoy the couple times a year when Ever Peacock hops on and blesses us with that fuego content. Side note: if you've ever direct messaged us and had a convo sometimes theres multiple people responding to you but we are all good at mocking each others vocabulary which is pretty entertaining for us cuz you might be thinking you're talking to one person but it can be like 3 people.

T: Usually Marty, Beaupre, Al, Gaspar, Conor, and Myself for the most part.

B: Marty is definitely responsible for most of the riding content we put out. Al and Toby also help out big time. The designs are a pretty big group effort. Basically the 3 of us and al are the ones who sign off on what we put out.

As riders get older and continue to ride its more and more apparent that our sport / is fully a culture and lifestyle rather then a young mans hobby.For the older members of NEBB what role if any do you guys want to play in aspiring older riders to keep pushing personal progression and creating art and memories on the bike?

B: We just want to show what we think is fun. If it inspires anyone that’s awesome. Bmx is still just as fun in your 30’s.

M: I actually kinda see NEBB as like the blue collar riding group for the everyday person. Just something that can be super relatable for people in their mid 30's. I will say this though. Don't be the "in my day" dude. Bmx is always evolving but the one constant is you can still have fun riding your bike doing what you think is cool. At some point we all peak so you can either get bummed or salty or just let it ride and do you. Most of the fun with bmx is the stuff not on the bike so even if you don't think you can keep up or you're afraid of being injured at least hang out for sessions, who knows what'll happen. But honestly, im 33 and even though my body is failing me i'm a better bike rider now than I was 10 years ago. Also if you are losing that fire just bomb a hill. That feeling will never fade.

T: It’s still fun is usually what I tell people. You don’t have to go nuts. Progression will come naturally if you keep with it.

The BMX lifestyle mirrors that of a musician as it can be all consuming involving weeks of travel and almost living a nomadic lifestyle.An easy life for a young man living at home. I think this is a key factor of why you see so many amazing riders put down the bike when regular life gets hectic. That said how does everyone on NEBB juggle the demands of real life and the obsession of two wheels? Strategies and advice for our readers? As well any tips to a younger rider that may be hitting the real world that doesn’t want life to derail his time on the bike? Please feel free to give details.

B: This is a really tough one to explain. When you’re a kid bmx is your life but as you age it sort of becomes a hobby that you're passionate about. Life just gets busier. I’ve talked with Marty about scheduling. We used to have our wives work schedules memorized and be able to plan trips all the time. Now it’s a little more complicated but we still manage. My advice would be if you want to ride you’ll make it happen. It might not be an all day session but a quick half hour after work once a week is sometimes all you need. Myself I definitely went through a few years in my mid 20’s where I was getting really frustrated with riding because it almost felt like I was regressing because I couldn’t ride as much but eventually I realized I was doing this as an escape from the stress of everyday life. I also think finding this crew really helped motivate me again. We’re really lucky because we all kind of have the same schedules so we can make it happen.

T: There are inevitably other things that will take your attention later in life. Just try to prioritize what you care about as best you can. Easier said than done though.

M: In general I think we have an understanding that the more we get older that the life stuff does come up and you just need to navigate it accordingly. Al does a good job of trying to make a dedicated weekend for the trails in advance that way the more busier people can mark their calendars. It's funny some people got the idea that we are just full time reckless idiots but the reality of it is most of us are married, legit careers, have kids, own property etc. If you love something enough you'll make time for it. I think it's mostly time management for dealing with the real life stuff. I personally struggle with it and have been trying to fine tune being a husband, running an hvac business, house stuff, and a fire that still burns bmx. I will say if you're an up and coming rider don't be short sighted. Bmx doesn't owe you shit. If some cool opportunities come up, take them but you should have a back up plan for real life stuff. Time is undefeated so eventually this all ends. As much as you don't want life to take away time on a bike, time will do that for you.

Injuries are part of BMX. They make the best riders pull back on there riding and even hang it up all together. As taking riding a bike on as a lifestyle rather then a hobby you have to come to terms with this fact and navigate its pitfalls and the effects injuries have on the other aspects of your life. What are your thoughts on this aspect to riding? How do you handle this factor when injuries happen? Does it limit your riding?

M: Ive for sure gotten rocked on the bike but honestly I don't really think about it. The worst injuries are the ones you never see coming so why bother stressing over it. Thanks to my wife I have really good health insurance but Ive also spent a winter riding vert when I didn't have it. If you've made it this far you know the nature of the beast. However I feel the older you get you become a little more selective with what you ride/how you ride to try to avoid certain injuries.

T: I’ve been hospitalized for weeks at a time and stuck not being able to walk for months. Its not ideal but my desire to ride outweighs those negatives.

B: Injuries just come with the territory. Everyone has their own way of dealing with them. As much as work may suck when you’re limping around on a Monday a little piece of me is reminded that it was a fun weekend. As you get older you may not take as many risks but you appreciate the feeling of flowing around and progress in your own way.

Outside looking in this seems like a weekly occurrence but how often do all or most of the NEBB crew get together and ride?

M: It gets harder as life goes on but since we are a decent sized crew we kinda have sessions semi weekly with different rotations of people. I personally will try to sneak out like twice a week if I can. During the hot months it slows down for sure and nagging injuries yadda yadda.

B: I wish we rode once a week but realistically it’s probably more like once a month. We’re a little spread out so we can’t all get together that often. We try to do a few trips a year with a big crew. Work schedules and family commitments kind of take most of my time, fortunately Marty lives 5 minutes away so we can catch quick sessions when I get a free hour or two

T: I plead the 5th.

Your crew as whole and each rider individually are some of my favorite riders to see riding content from? How important is progression to all of you? Feel free to elaborate.

B: At this point progression just means feeling comfortable on my bike. Finding new lines things like that. My new trick days are probably behind me.

T: We all have things we would like to get done lately and we kind of try and motivate each other as best we can. I try new shit when im feeling decent but know when to pull back and take it easy… for the most part.

M: I'd say when you're in your mid thirties progression is awesome to keep that fire going but don't force it. We all kinda know where we are at these days so if a trick happens or a maneuver is improved upon that's badass but not a big deal if you kinda level out for a bit. Having fun with your friends that's the most important part.

On the progression topic, how important is the progression of the brand that is NEBB? Is growth important or is it solely an outlet for creativity and what happens happens? Feel free to elaborate.

M: Definitely the latter. We've never had any structure with this since it was based off a joke. Wanna do more frames? Sure? Hey would you be down to make a sprocket? Sure. We've definetly taken some people up on oppurtinities but they were super organic. If it becomes anything more than that we'd probably end it haha. With that said if any companies out there want to buy us out to have a shitty grassroots style brand our lawyers are ready to pick up the phone.

B: I would say what happens happens. I’d love to keep it going and Continue with products and events but realistically I have bigger priorities in my life. Marty and Tobias definitely pick up my slack. I try to contribute what I can. As long as we’re having fun with it and the boys are psyched I don’t see it going anywhere.

T: Definitely what happens happens. Most things we’ve done up until this point was kind of organic.

Hyjinx is one of my favorite parts about NEBB. Don’t get me wrong I love all the riding content. Everyone on NEBB shreds and the riding seems to be the main driving force behind what you guys do. That said do you feel that most of the BMX industry and even the DIY brands and crews takes themselves to seriously? Would you like to see more hyjinx or is it better that its few and far between and when we do see it its special and rare?

T: NEBB is not a meme page, that’s for sure.

M: Ya we all love to ride it's what we all have in common but ya bustin jokes or just trying to one up each other on the laugh meter is where it's at. To each their own on how they want to operate but I personally gravitate towards the groups of people who are just out there having a good ol time. Shout out to Busch Heavy Boyz. Obviously Fast and Loose as well.

B: We’re not riding 24/7 so in the down time we generally entertain ourselves by drinking and peeing. Hyjinx has to be organic too I think. You can’t force funny.

Zach Andringa opposite Table in VT by Ryan Martin

How much of the content from branding of hard goods, clothing and media is based in satire and how much is serious? Is humor always the muse behind ideas?

B: 50/50. I’m sure the other guys elaborated on this. Most of what we do is pretty tongue in cheek but some of the designs are very planned and worked and reworked several times. Our dude Conor is very talented and patient with us. He gets a ton of design credit.

T: There are underlying jokes in everything we do. Goose eggs if you will.

M: I'd say most of the stuff we do is satire/humor based. There's usually an inside joke or light hearted jab in anything we do. A lot of it goes over peoples heads though and that's fine. That being said, we are a little more careful these days. We've found some people take our jokes seriously or use them in the wrong manner and that kinda sucks.

Collaboration is awesome when it works. When minds different or similar can come together to build or create something it is an amazing thing. What do you all love about BMX? What attracted you to BMX and then ultimately to one another as a crew working together on ideas?

M: Id say friendship/stories/memories that come along with it. Come for the action, stay for the people. Ive ridden bikes since I was 2 and have grown to realize it's the freedom that a bicycle gives you that's the best feeling and I got into bmx due to the fact you can catch some air. Huge monster truck fan as a kid so jumping things with wheels holds a place in my heart. NEBB exists because we just love hanging out with each other, it's just a vehicle for us to do fun shit together.

B: I think right now we’ve just found the crew that we’re all stoked on so we’re doing it for each other. Everyone is bringing something different to the table and we’re just having fun.

T: I got into BMX because this older kid Ryan on my school bus had a box jump in his front yard and he’d be riding it when the bus would drive by. It looked awesome. That was 22 years ago. Growing up where I did, there wasn’t too much to ride so I'd always travel to skate parks and trails around New England with my older brother and his friends. I’ve been going out that way ever since.

Conor Hobbs (our in house graphic design dude and secretly best rider) by Ryan Martin

Final words, are there any quotes saying or even thoughts you like to end with for the people reading this?

NEBB: Thanks to you Shajn for being the first one to pick our brains. Shout out to anyone thats fucked with us, purchased anything, shared a sesh with, or just in general been pumped on something we've done. If you made it this far down the article thank you for taking the time to read it. Shout out to Vic from Circuit for always being super cool and supporting us and the whole northeast scene. Also Shout out to Jay at Full Circle for carrying some of our stuff in the shop as well. Shout out to us too.
B: Have fun. You do you bro.
M: "Its is my life" - Jon Bovi

T: “If it feels good, do it”

Shajn Raines 3/28/21 Shajn Raines 3/28/21

Words of Wisdom Vic Bettencourt

Vic Bettencourt whether he knows it or not is in my top favorite riders I grew up looking up to list. This is not said to pander, blow smoke or charm it’s just the truth. I know with out any doubt, I’m not alone on this either. Bring him up in any conversation and the words of positivity will flow. There is a reason he’s one of the most well respected and longest standing riders in the North East. His influence spreads far and wide, and for myself opened my teenage eyes to a way of riding that far exceeded the first held interpretations I downloaded from years of DVD’s as a kid. Seeing Vic ride in person most specifically the Island (Skaters Island Skatepark) as a youth made me think go faster, higher and smoother was the way. Fast forward to today and not much has changed. Vic is still ripping the BMX, influencing the masses on and off the bike and I’m still a huge fan. I felt honored Vic agreed to answer a few question for the Blog. So give this a peak and hopefully his answers will influence you to look at and treat your scene a bit differently. I also want to give a special thanks to Cara Bettencourt for helping with the finial editing on this particular article and for kicking ass with our North East BMX scene on the daily, you rule Cara. I hope you enjoy the read.

-Shajn

Name: Victor Bettencourt

Age: 45

Occupation: Owner/Operator of Circuit BMX Shop

Years Riding: 33

Like the spools of wire behind him are plentiful so are the years of BMX and radness with Mr. Bettencourt.

Q: You've been riding and a part of the NE BMX scene for a long time. As well involved with the industry of BMX for many years. I'm sure you have seen many friends, riders, brands, shops and crews come and go. What keeps you motivated to stay involved and can you talk a little bit about your thoughts on longevity with this thing called BMX?

Oh yeah, It’s crazy to think how many riders come and go. It would be rad if everyone that you’ve ever rode with would stay involved but to some people BMX is just a fad or maybe something else pulls them away. I don’t really rely on people for motivation to ride. For me, it’s what I’m truly passionate about so it’s something I’m naturally driven to do. I feel bad for anyone that doesn’t have something in their life that they aren't passionate about, so much that they would commit their life to it. BMX is just that for me. It’s who I am and it’s all I want to do. Building jumps and riding them is what I’ve been doing since the late 80s. Can’t imagine it any other way. As far as longevity goes, you just have to keep pushing to make it happen. My body is in constant pain but I always push through and get out and ride either way. Now that I'm 45 and climbing the ladder I cherish every minute I get to spend on my bike. I never have a bad session unless I'm having emergency knee surgery. To answer your question about what keeps me motivated, it’s just the constant chase of that feeling I get when I'm riding fast and pulling up. That's what keeps me motivated. It’s hard for me to relate to people who stop riding because I’m in this for life. I remember Zac Costa saying to me after hanging out one night. “I'll see you around one day, we are in this for life”. Damn, that struck me. I probably won't see Zac for who knows how long but the bond that BMX creates is like no other.

Q: Do you think those practices for keeping the flame alive and burning with BMX translate into other areas of your life that are non-bike related?

Good question. I look at most obstacles in life as if I were building a set of trails or building a scene. Everything takes time and patience is a virtue. BMX has unintentionally taught me a lot over the years. And at the same time, there isn’t much in my life that isn’t BMX related. My life revolves around it. When I started Circuit I looked at it as if I were starting a set of trails from the very first shovel. I knew it would take time to build a solid set of trails just as I knew it would take time to build a solid establishment. It started small and incrementally got bigger each year.

Over and Under doesn’t get much more BMX then this.

Q: In the same vein you have had your ups and downs with injuries over the years. How do you reignite that love and motivation for BMX when the dust has settled and you're healed?

The hardest part about riding is getting injured and spending time off the bike. It’s inevitable! I’ve had 5 too many knee surgeries spanning the past 25 years. During my down time the main focus is getting back on the bike. The flame is always burning so there is no need to reignite. It’s all I think about. I’m fortunate enough to be surrounded by it at work so I usually live through all the riders that are coming in and telling me about their sessions and good times. I'm also motivated by guys like you who have gone through it over and over again. I know you are working your ass off to get strong and healthy, that motivates me for sure. Love it!

Q: I may be asking this for my own personal benefit but time and time again you return to BMX after injuries the average person would throw in the towel on. What's your thought process once it's time to ride again? Is it organic or thought out like a strategy? If you wouldn't mind for the readers just giving them a bullet point rundown of the injuries you have overcome in your years riding. I think this would be beneficial for anyone out there currently healing and questioning their love for BMX.

Great question.It’s totally organic. Of course I always ease into riding. Even when I’m riding on a consistent basis I never ride anything I’m not comfortable with. I’m far beyond the days of going outside my comfort zone. That’s part of being an “older” rider and wanting to do it for as long as possible. You have to pace yourself. And for those that “toss the towel in” you always come back. Or at least think about it constantly. I’d rather live and enjoy my life on my bike while I can. To me, there’s no other feeling like it. I know I won't be able to ride the way I want to or used to forever so even when I'm 60 and I'm cruising a pump track I'll be stoked. I take healing and recovery pretty seriously. I go to PT, try to eat well and things like massage and acupuncture help me when I’m really hurting. I’m always searching for something to help manage my pain at home. Scattered around my house are heating pads, cups (for cupping), muscle rubs, a TENS unit, and stuff like that. I’m never not trying to get rid of some pain. I've had nothing but knee surgeries.

1 ACL

1 Scope

HTO (High Tibial Osteotomy) sawed my leg off and took out a wedge to realign it so the

pressure was off the meniscus.

Full Knee Replacement

Fractured Knee Cap

Broken collar bone

Numerous dislocated shoulders

Broken wrist

Major back issues

Concussions

Q: What drew you to BMX or in a more cheesy form what do you love about it?

I’m going to go way back to 1986 when I got my first real bmx bike and discovered there was a bmx track in my city. I didn't have any close friends that were BMX riders, I only knew that I wanted to be on that track jumping shit and dying. Even though it wasn’t too far from where I lived, It might have been well over 100 miles away. I had just watched Rad and was like, “I have to go to the bmx track.” Even though the track in Rad was nothing like an actual BMX track. It was never about winning races or being number one. It was always about riding the jumps on the track. Riding that track was the best thing that ever happened to me. What I love about BMX is the feeling that it gives me. I could be having a shit day at work or in life but once I get on my bike for a session all that stress from the day is gone. I get to create what I want to ride my bike on as well. BMX isnt always about riding my bike, it's also about building trails, creating lifelong friendships and growing as a person. These other aspects of BMX give me just as much joy as riding. With building trails, knowing that I’m putting all this work into something I’m going to put my tires on is very gratifying. I’m not sure how many people have that type of release in their lives. I know it exists in other forms but there aren't many ways to clear the mind like that. From as early as I can remember, 6/7 years old, my bike was my release. I love that fact that it's always there for me. BMX isn't going anywhere, it's always there when I need it.

Q: Outside looking in I would describe you as an all around rider with a heavy love affair with flow based riding. I know I myself love to watch you ride trails as well as ramps as far back as I can remember. Am I correct to say that's where your heart lives when it comes to the 20 inch? I think I know the answer to this but do you prefer trails or parks?

Ya, I prefer dirt but also enjoy riding concrete in the off season. Growing up racing created a passion for going fast and the want for it to be on dirt. Just the simple feeling of pumping a bowl corner or a landing. That feeling of propulsion. It’s my favorite part about riding BMX. It's a cathartic release for me.

Q: Thoughts on park etiquette and how do you deal with negativity in these environments when they arise?

Well I usually avoid park etiquette by going to the parks before anyone gets there. I avoid negativity by riding with one or two people at a time haha.

Q: Thoughts on the growing number of cement parks now being built in the NE ? Although any park is great for the scene do you think these towns are missing the chance to build transitions and obstacles that are bigger in size and scale ( size of ramps themselves) ? The old saying is you can ride a big park small but you can't ride a small park big. Do you think this limits progression of say riders more interested in flow style riding and blasting quarters doing gaps etc..? Feel free to elaborate and go into detail if you like.

From my experience, it’s the insurance companies that are limiting the height of ramps. They view larger ramps as riskier. In New England towns can be sued by individuals so it’s in the town’s best interest to reduce their risk (in their view) by having small ramps. Sometimes conversations with parks departments can get you past that, but insurance companies can make whatever rules they want and hold towns to them. We started working with the city of Providence years ago and we've made some amazing progress with them. And they are very receptive to what we discuss in meetings. It's not always a hit but just get involved with your community and make things happen. You only need one person on your side to represent the entire community. Whether you want to get a park or pump track built the only way to do it is to try.

Start them young we say! This Photo rules!

Q: Thoughts on the trail scene in the NE, the trail culture here and as well your thoughts on "trail salt" all over? Do you think the drama is warranted and how do you personally deal with trail drama now or in the past at the number of spots you have been responsible for developing and growing?

The N.E.Trail scene is rad. There are spots everywhere. Everyone’s making it happen. Stoked on that. I love the salt but in a fun kind of joking way. When it goes too far and feelings get hurt you gotta pour some sugar in it. Salt happens!! I've been on both ends of it throughout the years. Emotions run high in the woods. There's a lot of heart that goes into those piles of dirt . But sometimes the slugs dry out and move on and you're left with their snail trails everywhere.I've had my salty moments over the years but that stuff is far behind me. I don't have time for that. Mentally, Cumby getting plowed was the best thing that ever happened to me.I was a major stress case over that place. If a spec of dirt was out of place it would upset me. But anytime you put a group of strong willed people together there’s bound to be conflict. It’s inevitable. It’s just like any type of relationship, there will always be bumps in the road. We had a decent amount of conflict at Cumby. I guess that is why we had 8 functioning lines. Everyone wanted their own. And somehow we made them all work as one. Building trails is the best. To address the whole “No Dig, No Ride” attitude. That shit needs to go away. I know it's easier said than done. This guy doesn't have as much free time as that guy. Most people have full time jobs and families. Life gets in the way of digging. I know most builders are protective of their spots and that's totally cool but we all need to learn from our mistakes and that attitude is just ugly. I feel like it didn't get us anywhere 20 years ago so why not try a different approach. Now every trail spot is unique so this may only apply to some and not all. Trails spots will always have their core group of builders, some will come and go and some will grow with the right attitude. Personally, I’ve moved beyond that salty attitude and I’m willing to give the come one, come all movement a try. Even when I felt differently about digging I was always willing to give anyone a shot. You gotta give a little to get a little, that rings true with everything in life. It's a slippery slope, obviously you don't want it to be a free for all out in the woods. There has to be some structure. It's truly a hard environment to balance out. There are a lot of people that get turned off by trails for that one reason. People will complain that trails are dying out because no one digs but in reality, trails will never die out and are thriving now more than ever. Trail spots need to move beyond salty white dudes in the woods. No wonder why no one wants to come out to dig and ride. There is so much machismo out there. It's rad that we are seeing the shift with organized dig days, jams, and the inclusion of women and kids. If we want the scene to grow then things need to stay in this direction. I'm all for it.

(I may have contradicted myself numerous time here)

(Pareidolia: Couldnt agree more. Well said.)

Q: If you have one, tell everyone a fun skaters island story.

Man, every session at the Island was a story. Cold Beers and BMX! That was the Island for me. Having a session with Ruben at the island was a highlight for me there,he was stoked on the snake run. I recall him saying that it was the best bowl he had ever ridden. Mind you this was the Etnies Forward era.

Vic’s and his families home turf is amazing only a few steps out their back door to BMX sessions, BBQ’s and good times.

Q: You have traveled and possibly lived elsewhere for a period of time. If I recall from stories maybe Florida for a period. I feel with your drive and talents you could make Circuit and life both on and off the bike work anywhere. What is it about the NE life wise and BMX wise that keeps this place as your home base?

Ya, I lived in Florida for a number of years and it was great but it was never home. I lived in Brooklyn for a few years where I met Cara while she was attending Pratt Institute. I just don't know what it is about N.E. and BMX up here but it's always been home and it just feels right. There's just a real sense of community up here and opportunity to continuously create and work with the evolving scene. And Spring,Summer and Fall in N.E. are just the best. Winter ain't so bad either. I always look at it as a time to recover and plan out the next season.

Q: You have thrown jams, contests and events since I was a young kid. They're always awesome. Was the drive to throw these events out of a lack of others doing so or where they were influenced by others before you? If yes, what was one event when you were young that sparked the idea " yeah I'm going to do that, I'm throwing an event of my own"?

When I was a kid, I don’t remember the year. Maybe 90-91 there was a small listing in BMX Plus for local jams and I noticed that Natick Mass. (Pig Pen) was having a dirt jam. There was a number to call for directions. It was Rich Days home number. I called and talked to his mom about the jam. I don’t remember if I ever got the directions to the jam but I never made it,not being able to drive was probably a factor. But that was a major catalyst for me wanting to organize my own jam. We always had big sessions at Dumont but I think our first real jam where we made flyers and sent them out to shops was maybe 95 or 96.

Pull it back and let it whip, Vic is no stranger to this.

Q:I'm not the only person to think or say this but yourself and family have definitely been a major reason for the growth and continued thriving scene in Rhode Island. As far as I can see you're someone at the forefront leading a lot of people in a positive direction. What are one or two things you would like to say to the NE scene? It can be a message or even a request. Any pearls of wisdom to the BMX masses in the NE?

Well that's a huge honor coming from someone that has done plenty in his day, so thanks. Everything that Cara and I do for BMX locally is because we truly love it. We love it like it's a family member. I would do anything for it. And we try our best to represent the community in a positive light. I like to think we all ride BMX because we love the way our bikes make us feel while we are on them. Not because we want to win the X-Games or be the next top BMX Pro. I mean there is nothing wrong with aspiring to be that but "the passion of the bike" is first and foremost. Keep ripping Y'all!!

Some of the best fold in the NE. Proper fold, proper style and a picture perfect clear day in cement country.

Shajn Raines 2/8/21 Shajn Raines 2/8/21

Stay Local Kyle Erickson

Kyle (on the right) giving out a high air win to Colton Civitello at his last “KEEP US ROLLING JAM”

Here at Pareidolia we do not shy away from long format content. The idea behind this post is to grab a rider in the scene and ask them a few questions. They may be someone you know or don’t. They may be a rider on our team or an owner of a shop or head honcho at a set of trails. Sky is the limit so to speak. To kick things off we sent some questions over to active North East local Kyle Erickson and asked him a few off the cuff questions to get to know one of Massachusetts most positive minded locals. If you follow him you know all about him as he runs a loose formate, almost Vlog style talks on his Instagram stories loaded with positive vibes always. So scroll below to hear some thoughts from Kyle.

-Shajn

Name: Kyle Erickson

Age: 33

Occupation: Carpenter/site manager working for SPS

Years riding: 30 on a bike jumped my first jump summer 1994

Years in New England: 33

What does BMX or Riding mean to you?

Bmx means everything to me. Its that one constant in my life that lets me do what I want where I want with who I want. Bmx is LIFE its expression, art, exercise, a way to test my limits, break the rules, explore my surroundings in ways that can't be explained only experienced. Its not just the ride for me I'm so intrigued just watching other people ride, progress, get hyped to show off a new learn whatever edit or video they put out I get caught up at every sesh watching everyone else shred that ill spend the entire day at the trails or the park and maybe ride 1/3 of the time. I definitely have the same passion for Bmx now as I did when I was a little kid watching my neighborhood paper boy pop wheelies and J HOP the curb.

What does your scene mean to you, and how does that play a role in life on two wheels?

My scene means the world to me. Its forever evolving, expanding, and giving me a unique perspective on not just Bmx but life and the different people that are brought together just for the love of riding bikes doing stunts. The folks I ride with and the people I have met over the years are awesome. I can go on and on about the New England scene but I have met riders from so many different places that have traveled to the north east to ride and they all have the same look in their eyes. Its a passion unlike anything that drives us all to explore.

Are you from the New England Area? If yes have you lived here your whole life and did you ever spend any considerable amount of time outside of New England?

I'm from Massachusetts born in Attleboro. I spent from 19-22 bouncing between Mass , Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire for work but I always tried bring my Bmx along to explore different places ( no camera) doesn't count New England is Home.

As someone I perceive to be completely content in there current location, how important is travel beyond the borders of New England to you?

The importance of Traveling is growing within me as I get older. When I was younger I was totally content exploring the area around me and using convenience and cost to dictate where I'd go. Big mistake Traveling is awesome I have experienced more in my late 20s early 30s that I totally regret not making a reality sooner in life. So moving forward I have plans to explore a bunch of places outside the country now that I have a passport and a solid job.

New England BMX seems to me to be something that value and openly show a lot of praise for? What are some top 5 things you love about BMX or life in this area?

5 Favorites:

1. My BMX family from the North Attleboro YMCA park days that still ride bikes has to be number one in my favorites list those dudes get me hyped.

2. The folks that don't give a shit what or where we end up riding they make every sesh better full send off everything.

3. The North East trails scene more the people than the spots but yeah you folks are constantly changing my perspective on shit.

4. Getting to watch my friends learn something new or conquer something at a spot that's been on there mind.

5. How involved shop owners in the northeast are with the scene itself they make it better for all of us and I'm grateful for all of them ( Circuit, Maul’s, Tony's and Fat Trax ).

Top three changes you would like to see?

3 Changes :

1. More public Bike specific parks pump tracks etc.. in Massachusetts and all of New England.

2. More collaboration between the local film guy's and crew's to put out higher quality edits we gotta stop blowing all the unique riding on instant social media posts. Let's get together make some cool stuff and post highlights after.

3. Another indoor park in New England, Rads gone, Rye's gone and we need these places to get through the winter and rainy days.

How would you compare the New England BMX scene to others you have visited over your time on two wheels?

I honestly haven't experienced enough of the other scene's outside the East coast to make an informed comparison but I will say this from Maine to Florida and Cape Cod to Ohio there are so many positive encouraging individuals thats ride bike's and get involved in the scene in a proactive way.

What are some of your favorite Scenes and crews in New England to hang and ride with in the area? Feel free to elaborate.

This is a good one I'm definitely gonna forget to mention someone or something but ill start with anyone who ever got behind the Ride 4 Life Bmx crew

From the og north attleboro homies (too many names you know who you all are) to everyone that road with us along the way and said they would never stop riding because of their age. Everyone at skaters edge, the Pareidolia guys and PineWood trails definitely live and breathe BMX , all the homies at Oakwoods and Stoneybrook trails, Scituate Bmx ,Tribe Kush aka Ox and the boys, Eat BMX ( Corey Champagne) he is always fun to hang with, the crazy folks on long Island that take the trek to the mainland just to get loose and hype everyone up on trails, all the dudes affiliated with Team East , and last but certainly not least its no surprise to me they all are currently shop riders for Circuit BMX , Bobby Proctor, Chris Childs, Cam Childs, Jonny Capps, Matt Tavares any one of them show up I'm sitting back for a minute and watching them kill it then feeding off that stoke for the foreseeable future..

You threw a pretty awesome jam a few years back. What inspired you to put that together?

THE KEEP US ROLLING JAM

The JAM was something I rattled around in my head for a long time before even making a single solid move. I guess it started with going to a comp at the north attleboro ymca in 2001 or 2002 I can't remember but the dudes that put it on brought so many good riders to the event I hadn't seen riding that good in person in a few years after being a spectator at Gravity games in Providence. RI. I went every year they held it but thought that comps were only something big companies could organize. Not knowing the roots of Bmx and competing started in people's backyards. It wasn't until a few years later when I went to my first "Mauls Brawl" at Skaters Edge in Taunton Massachusetts in 06 or 07 that i really started seeing the possibility in Bmx from every angle not just make jump,hit jump, do trick, repeat until you get sponsored and maybe go "PRO" from that day forward I stopped thinking of other good rider's as someone I'd wanna be better than and tried making them someone to ride with and progress organically. Knowing ill probably never hold a real deal BMX sponsor that wasn't going to stop me from creating bonds with other rider's so I'd always have someone somewhere I could call or run into and have an amazing session riding bikes. After years of procrastination and self doubt I pulled the trigger and asked a few Key people I'd consider friends within the industry of Bmx, first off I reached out to local brands ( Pareidolia, Eat and Tables n Fables) if I secure a venue and hold a jam will you guys back me up? They pushed me forward and I then contacted others to sponsor this event shout out to Chuck at blackout distributions ( Kink, Cinema, Merritt)

Vic at Circuit BMX shop, John Maul at Mauls bike shop . I was amazed everyone was so supportive of the idea. I chose to do the jam at Skaters Edge for a few reasons, one because winter is a bitch in New England and having an event to look forward to always helped me in my early 20s and nothing was planned for edge in quite some time. Lastly because when north attleboro park got taken down i definitely consider myself a skaters edge local. And the trails scene was on fire for jams yet skatepark stuff in the northeast was dying. Still can't believe how much fun I had doing that from organizing, making the trophies in my basement with Peter Cardin or including my closest friends to help out however they wanted to from making shirts (Theo Desjardin) helping judge (Benny Fratus) or the hype man (Bryan Viveiros) . The real highlight was seeing the younger kids competing so hard some for the first time,and the older dudes( 30+) going at it like they were in high-school all over again.

Yes I'm definitely going to organize a few different things in the future. Not dates yet because of the Covid. Sooner than later I already have a bunch of trophies prepped so stay tuned.

Lastly what would you say to a fellow rider who complains about his scene or BMX circumstances?

If you complain about your scene stop for one minute and open your eyes. Its your scene you make it good or bad .if your local sucks sit in a town meeting find out what kind of situation your towns economy is. If its a good community then start Spreading the word that a proper park work benefit the community. Next you gotta get involved with raising fund's. If that's not your deal start Traveling until you find a place you really like. Or go old school and hide in the woods dig until you have the trails of your dreams. All of these things are not only obtainable but I have achieved more than I ever thought I could just by trying a little bit . I could only imagine what I could do with maximum effort. Turns out everything Is possible but nothing good comes easy.

Shajn Raines 1/27/21 Shajn Raines 1/27/21

“Youthful Memories and Riding Art”

Sam Lawson….Oak Wood Trails….Photo: Shajn Raines

Trails have always been my favorite type of riding. I’m not sure exactly what it was that drew me to it; thinking back it seems rather serendipitous seeing as I was exposed to every discipline of BMX from the get-go. I have fond memories from the summer after seventh grade of a neighborhood kid sliding a VHS tape of the very first BMX film I saw -- “LOW FAT 2” -- into the VCR. The film was from an era of videos in the early ‘90s where every discipline of riding was present. Street and flatland were right alongside ramp and dirt riding with a touch of competitive racing in there as well -- a far cry from the discipline-specific videos of today. I was mesmerized and downright infatuated by the acts performed for me for the first time on my friend’s television. A light bulb went off in my head, and I remember clearly thinking I wanted to do that. Looking back at the memory now, the activity itself (BMX) clearly had everything I was looking for as a budding, hormone-ridden, angry youth with a disdain for authority and a growing desire to pursue something outside the norm. BMX was rebellious, artistic and, most importantly, physically demanding. Something I realized later in life was a guiding compass to quell the growing aggression in my brain. I remember being glued to the screen, speechless, and, though almost drunk with intrigue, I do remember right away being drawn to anything dirt-jump- or trail-related from the video. Not from previous experience, however, but that it just spoke to me. Every aspect of it: the way the bike moved through the air, each rider’s individual style and aesthetic, the terrain and jumps that would compose each individual set of trails. These are what started to and still keeps my attraction going well into my late 30s. The first video I personally owned was the Ride BMX film “Thunder.” Apart from all the amazing sections, great soundtrack and, of course, the giant channel gap across the pond in
England, I for one could use more Marvin Lottery riding content in 2021 this video would have a major impact on me. There was one part in the video that forever changed BMX for me, and that was the “PUSH and POSH” section. 
I’m not sure if it was the smooth riding; lush, green foliage; or, for the time period, perfectly cool sculpted jumps with their wet, dark-orange soil that drew me to the trail’s calling, but that section most certainly solidified my ongoing love affair with the dirt waves. I remember going to our local jumps immediately after watching to start reconstruction of our little trail spot nestled in the woods behind a small house in the town of Plympton, Massachusetts. Our spot was a far cry from the sea of jumps I saw in the video, but I wanted to have a spot of my very own that was just as cool. Although most of the locals quit that year, and I did most of the digging solo, I was able to get one PA-looking line stacked, packed and ridable that season. I even cut chunks of grass out of a nearby yard and transplanted them to the backs and sides of the jumps to give it that POSH feel. I felt like I was making headway, until tragedy struck and within the following year they were plowed for yet another cul-de-sac. My dream was postponed as I set out to pedal to other trail spots in other towns to find a new home. I was lucky, as there were the famous WB trails only a 45 minute bike ride away, and they became my local spot with a handful of other devoted trail rippers of that era. Sadly, the quitting trend continued in the years to come and most of the locals stopped riding, moved or moved on to doing other activities, such as surfing, college and everyday life. The trails were destroyed, yet again, after a greedy, redneck neighbor of the trails cut 40 trees down on town land to make his yard bigger, crushing and destroying the jumps in the process. Fast forward to today, and once again I have found a home at the PineWood Trails -- where I couldn’t be happier. Multiple locals gather to ride and build jumps of all shapes and sizes, all of likeminded goals and ideas, not to mention being accepting of your ideas even if they don’t see your exact vision. There are more “let’s try it out” conversations rather than heated trail-local
arguments, which is refreshing and somewhat unheard of in comparison to other trail spots. A “put your money where your mouth is and dig if you want to make that feature” is the general attitude and vibe down at PineWood. Most importantly, without ever a single discussion about our own personal trail look or influences, we all share a common “keep the jumps as dialed as possible” attitude with the whole crew. This attitude results in not only really fun jumps to ride, but also jumps that look like pieces of art rather than just commonplace piles of dirt to hurl yourself toward. While walking around PineWood the other day, my mind was catapulted back to a high school ceramics class taught by a Mr. Sarrento. He was known to be a no-nonsense, no-bull-shit type of teacher who would grab desks with rude high school students still in them and slide them across the slick, sealed cement floors of his giant ceramics studio when they weren’t paying attention. I loved his outbursts, very entertaining indeed, if you weren’t on the receiving end, but more importantly, I loved working with clay. Scoring a piece to join it to another, creating what I saw in my own mind. It reminded me, in a way, of the very first aspect of BMX that I fell in love with: Trails. Like in Mr. Sarrento’s art class, the trail riders and builders all over the world who spend hours upon hours at their trail spots every year will most likely agree with this statement: Trail riders create pieces of art to ride. A perfectly sculpted dirt jump is no different than a perfectly sculpted vase. Both are created for a reason; both are artistic and beautiful. Riding and building trails are one of the only disciplines in BMX where the creation is made for one main
purpose, and, as well, is a piece of art all on its own. So next time you find yourself at a new trail spot, whether you’re a trail rider or not, stop, take a moment and look around at everything that the locals have created -- the jumps themselves, the decorations, the drainage, etc. They all tie in to make a full experience. Take a moment to look around and appreciate the ridable art gallery
you’re about to drop into. Happy laps everyone.
-Words: Shajn Raines / Editor: Luke Hayden

Brandon Christie….PineWood Trails….Photo: Peter Jamison

Nate Caron….PineWood Trails….Photo: Sam Lawson

Cody Diggs….Scituate Trails….Photo: Vic Bettencourt

Mike Pomerleau….Scituate Trails….Photo: Jonny Nemecek

Step Up Main Line….PineWood Trails….Photo: Mike Pomerleau

Shajn Raines 12/28/20 Shajn Raines 12/28/20

A Glimpse Into the Work of John Capps

When the word driven or self motivated comes up there are few people more deserving of the title then John Capps a.k.a Cappsie. Out solo filming himself doing technical and crazy maneuvers on the bike or pointing the lens at a fellow rider Cappsie is always creating something. We asked our newest team member to gather some of his favorite photos he has shot over the years and give a little insight into each one. Below is the words and photography of John Capps, we hope you enjoy his work as much as we do. Also hit up our crew page on this site to see the man in action on the bike and to follow him on all his personal social media outlets. You will not be disappointed.

-Shajn

Words and Photos by John Capps

We’re quickly approaching the shortest day of the year in New England and sessions are becoming scarce. Some are braving the weather, some seeking indoor alternatives, others are recovering for the season ahead. No matter what you’re doing, like me, you probably have some time on your hands. I have been healing, getting my solo sessions in, and digging through some drives while the cold is upon us, looking for those photos that sum up the feelings we all miss around this time of year.

Paul Gingras in the capsule. Growing up with a park like Edge in your area is a luxury not everyone who rides gets to have. It’s an even bigger luxury to have one with a capsule this big. I helped Paul’s step dad pick out his first bike and immediat… — Paul Gingras in the capsule. Growing up with a park like Edge in your area is a luxury not everyone who rides gets to have. It’s an even bigger luxury to have one with a capsule this big. I helped Paul’s step dad pick out his first bike and immediately he took to riding with speed and style. One day we were riding the back section and he ripped around the capsule higher than anyone I’d ever seen in person. He was 15 when we shot this photo.

Harley Redfield on the ground. One day Harley and I were out riding and filming with Mathew Tavares and we stumbled on a fairly large “railhop” style drop. It was a little foot high ledge you had to hop over to an over our head height drop and me be… — Harley Redfield on the ground. One day Harley and I were out riding and filming with Mathew Tavares and we stumbled on a fairly large “railhop” style drop. It was a little foot high ledge you had to hop over to an over our head height drop and me being a fiend for jumping off stuff we stopped to get some clips. After my clip we convinced Harley to hit this thing, and it being probably the biggest drop he’d touched at the time, he ended up bump jumping it. Perfect two tire landing. It could not have been better but landings like that tend to wreak havoc on the joints. Harley pulled it but circled back, dropped to the ground to hug his now toast ankle. I came right up to shoot it admitting “you’re going to hate me but this looks cool”.

Mathew Tavares hop bar. Long trips, big contests, and bad crashes all have their place but just enjoying a session cruising with your friends will never get old. The meat of BMX is nothing more than that and the simplicity of it is the best part. Th… — Mathew Tavares hop bar. Long trips, big contests, and bad crashes all have their place but just enjoying a session cruising with your friends will never get old. The meat of BMX is nothing more than that and the simplicity of it is the best part. This photo is a result of just one afternoon doing exactly that.

Dennis after a face plant. Once in a blue moon you can coax a foxy local to leave that park and come riding. Circuit jams at the pump track are the perfect reason so Dennis and I drove down. Deneye knows his way around a jump but it being his first … — Dennis after a face plant. Once in a blue moon you can coax a foxy local to leave that park and come riding. Circuit jams at the pump track are the perfect reason so Dennis and I drove down. Deneye knows his way around a jump but it being his first time at the pump track threw a helmet on. Luckily so as his 2nd lap of the day knocked himself out. After coming back to us, Dennis checked himself over. He was good to go and posed for me to document the damage.

Derek Klegreaf jumps his own car while Mat does a burn out. I stopped by Derek's shop one day after he had just finished getting his motorcycle powered mini cooper running, and yes it’s as crazy as it sounds. He had the idea of jumping it so we set … — Derek Klegreaf jumps his own car while Mat does a burn out. I stopped by Derek's shop one day after he had just finished getting his motorcycle powered mini cooper running, and yes it’s as crazy as it sounds. He had the idea of jumping it so we set up and started ripping tires. He did it a few times to get the perfect timing, before blowing a coolant line and mat smoked out the whole shop. Stuff like this just makes you feel like a kid again.

Tales of Swampfest past. There’s not much to say about this photo or Swampfest except if you’ve been you know and if you haven’t you have to go. The ramps are janky and the set ups are not meant for a session. They’re set ups to send. There were dir… — Tales of Swampfest past. There’s not much to say about this photo or Swampfest except if you’ve been you know and if you haven’t you have to go. The ramps are janky and the set ups are not meant for a session. They’re set ups to send. There were dirt doubles with coffins for tabletops, 360 wallrides, a loop to open loop. At the end of the event the ramps were burned, as well as 2 cars, and any scrap of wood that could be grabbed was tossed into the bonfire.

Declan Murray fast plant 3. Sometime in October of 2018 some of the Circuit boys, Mathew Tavares, Bobby Proctor, Mayo, and I loaded up my busted old Acura to make the trip to the FBM DIY world championship. Somehow we made it the 8 hours down to Ric… — Declan Murray fast plant 3. Sometime in October of 2018 some of the Circuit boys, Mathew Tavares, Bobby Proctor, Mayo, and I loaded up my busted old Acura to make the trip to the FBM DIY world championship. Somehow we made it the 8 hours down to Richmond without a hiccup. We were treated to the hospitality of all the Virginia boys (thank you billy for the couch!), Bobby slept in the woods, we blew up pumpkins, and finally we went to the FBM Jam. The scene down there is full of some serious riders with the best attitudes. Fun first. It created an atmosphere for some serious stunts. Declan did some wild maneuvers the whole weekend but watching him stomp this fast plant 360 to flat was beautiful.

Shajn Raines 4/24/20 Shajn Raines 4/24/20

WHY ARE KIDS THIRSTY FOR GIANTS

If BMX is your life, you most likely pay attention to all aspects of it, whether it’s your local BMX scene or growing mainstream BMX. The BMX media landscape has changed. We receive content from around the world as fast as our fingers can hit keys. The days of magazines and even DVDs have been replaced by internet videos, hashtags and the dreaded, yet ever-growing, vlog. Global communication is easy, and releasing content to a bustling community of riders and like-minded individuals is just as simple. The downside is over-saturation. Even when the caliber of said riding and rider is on par with whatever the current standards are, riding and riders will still go unnoticed – a shame when you think of the sea of talent currently in every corner of the world. This, in some regard, may explain the current approach of releasing an overabundance of repetitive content daily to the public. As the BMX media landscape changes, the overall need for attention has increased exponentially. Even during my youth there was always the rider thirsty for attention inside their scene. Whose attention is being sought after, however, has drastically changed. Riders have gone from wanting the admiration of local shredders, shops, shop employees and occasionally a local pro to now seeking the attention of corporate giants and pros from across the globe they might never meet. It’s possible that this is just the nature of expansion and growth in a global and openly communicative media landscape, yet it makes me miss the days when this thirsty behavior was looked at as a bit desperate. I would, in fact, be lying if I myself did not admit to daydreaming of photos in magazines and filming video parts in cities around the world. These desires, are normal with anything you love to do. But the fake-it-til-you-make-it mentality that seems to be the norm today has riders everywhere missing the general notion that they don’t have to be a famous pro to live the lifestyle of one. Even though the DIY mentality that built our culture is not dead by any means, I see fewer and fewer riders realizing the rewarding parts of BMX -- “pro lifestyle”— travel, being sponsored (which is essentially being part of a crew but with free shit), the photos and video parts -- can be achieved by themselves with a little ingenuity, a camera and good friends. I see fewer local, more-refined projects that were a major part of any local BMX scene until several years ago, projects that are now drowned out with the quickest form of attention-seeking and internet pandering. Great content from local riders, poorly filmed on phones, is posted and lost in the ever-growing sea of internet obscurity. It’s sad to imagine that kids may think that you need to be sponsored to dive into the more-refined projects. Shooting photos, making a video or a zine, or even starting a local brand with your friends are hard work but attainable. If this type of attention seeking is normalized by riders every where, then why not use that desire to create something you can look back on, be proud of and others can view to be inspired. That said, times have changed; kids seem hungry for attention now more than ever and have the technological means to get the attention of the biggest brands and names in BMX. So who would blame them for going after that great dangling carrot of enticement by whatever means. Again, I was no different, but park-stalking Bettencourt, Rotondo and Choquette around Skaters Island to learn how to possibly ride a bike with steeze, style and ease is a lot different than the attention-seeking of media giants I see from people today. Energy drink shout-outs, bike companies with roots in God knows what, whose on-going color-ways are a rotating spectrum of oil-slick transparent garbage. Nothing against oil slick and oil-slick lovers but seriously this is still a thing? The heavy pocket brands who sponsor the biggest names in the sport of BMX seem to get the admiration of the riding communities these days. I understand the attraction and even their cries, in the form of hashtags and shout-outs. A desire to be a part of something you admire and bigger than the current world around you. I, as a kid, would have loved to have been asked to be a part of something bigger than myself or my group of friends. I ask only this: Why the giants? Why not local shredders, local brands and most importantly local shops? The true backbone of any scene. Why is every young kid tagging an energy drink? I can guarantee these corporations don’t appreciate the gesture. The local shops, however, need your support, as do the other local aforementioned. These are the people who create the scene around you. They build the trails and backyard ramps. Get a skatepark built by your town, and are there with a high five at the session. I can’t remember the last time any energy drink trued my wheels. Don’t get me wrong, there are kids tagging shops, supporting core companies and the scene around them. If you’re reading this, however, and any of this is hitting home no matter your age, please remember that you hold the power. You can make a video or a magazine, you can get friends together to take a road trip, build trails or a ramp, and support the things that will actually have an impact on you and the people around you. You can even start a bike company. Most of the ones you look up to were no different than you and did just that. Yes, the flashy lifestyle of a pro rider and the bottomless pockets of corporate giants are attractive. But attractive for reasons that you yourself could achieve. Travel, shooting photos, filming and living the lifestyle of a BMX rider? These are the underlying reasons that you’re tagging these giants, possibly in hopes of being noticed, getting sponsored, and being a part of something. Why wait or rely on them, you hold the power to create all those amazing parts yourself. So be sure you’re supporting the right things and watch those hashtags. I mean it’s only your passion, ask yourself if you are sure you’re supporting the things that matter.

-Shajn

-Edited By: Luke Hayden