Wow where to begin with this story!? For the few in the continental US who aren't familiar with these guys let me introduce them. They go by a couple of names... Wild Out Wheelie Boys, 12 o'clock boys and another or two I'm sure I'm forgetting. Google or You-Tube any of these names and they will pop up instantly.
Let me set the tone. Inner city youths in Baltimore, MD have been ripping it up through the streets over last few decades on dirt bikes. As a result it's now illegal to ride one in B'more. Police chases have resulted in unfortunate accidents and they are no longer allowed to chase after them. Fast forward and we now have a stage set for 'anything goes'. In fact an independent movie was made last year chronicling a youth trying to make the cut called "12 O'clock Boys". It's really nice I watched it twice.
Underground clubs have been formed and its like a badge of honor to get accepted into one of them. During the summer months they roll out in groups and showcase their stunting abilities. Its become a way of life here and the locals are used to it. As a fellow biker I can relate.... to a point.
Once in awhile the gathering amasses such a large group that law enforcement has to be called in, such was the case here on WBAL TV 11 News. The city has offered to build dirt bike parks but I doubt it will fly. It's like putting a wild lion in a zoo. Yes he'll be able to roam and feed in a controlled environment but its not the same as free styling and getting the adrenaline rush as being outdoors.
-James
Let me set the tone. Inner city youths in Baltimore, MD have been ripping it up through the streets over last few decades on dirt bikes. As a result it's now illegal to ride one in B'more. Police chases have resulted in unfortunate accidents and they are no longer allowed to chase after them. Fast forward and we now have a stage set for 'anything goes'. In fact an independent movie was made last year chronicling a youth trying to make the cut called "12 O'clock Boys". It's really nice I watched it twice.
Underground clubs have been formed and its like a badge of honor to get accepted into one of them. During the summer months they roll out in groups and showcase their stunting abilities. Its become a way of life here and the locals are used to it. As a fellow biker I can relate.... to a point.
Once in awhile the gathering amasses such a large group that law enforcement has to be called in, such was the case here on WBAL TV 11 News. The city has offered to build dirt bike parks but I doubt it will fly. It's like putting a wild lion in a zoo. Yes he'll be able to roam and feed in a controlled environment but its not the same as free styling and getting the adrenaline rush as being outdoors.
-James
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