Midnight Ridazz Bomb Squad
From ibikeu Wiki
Contents |
Concept
The idea of bomb rides has been around for a while, the most notable of which being Zoobomb in [Portland]]. Following the MR trip to Portland, enthusiasm was generated to create a bomb ride in Los Angeles, akin to that of the Ridazz' Zoobomb experience.
Controversy
Tension arose between two Ridazz on the forums regarding the conception of Los Angeles's first bomb ride. Both wanted to start a ride, but both had different approaches and ideas of what that would entail. Unable to reach a settlement on the common goal, both Ridazz took offense to each others' "hijacking" of the ride. Eventually, one conceded and withdrew his support and involvement altogether.
Organization
The MR forum thread concerning a potential bomb ride was gaining activity, as well as naysayers. Many people expressed their similar desire and eventually, a ride was planned for Sept 16th, 2007. The original ride posting read:
| "Inspired by Zoobomb we'll be blasting down dangerous hills on kiddie bikes. It's going to be at Elysian park. Meet at Pioneer Chicken in Echo Park at 9pm. We're still working on the blingy cool logo! If you are able to drive, please advise (on the Midnight Ridazz BOMB SQUAD thread) as we have no Metro train to take us to the top of this hill." |
Difficulties
The Los Angeles Metro Area has a much different geography than that of Portland; thus, finding a suitable place for a bomb ride proved to be difficult. Many potential routes were sought and scouted, yet most proved to be undesirable for reasons such as inadequate grade, poor road conditions, too much vehicular traffic, etc.
Also, as is not the case with Portland's Zoobomb, mass transit is not available to shuttle Ridazz back to a starting point. Support vehicles were then needed to fill that need.
The Inaugural Ride
As per the ride posting, Ridazz converged upon Pioneer Chicken in Silverlake. About 30 Ridazz amassed to participate in the ride. However, the majority of these Ridazz came with their fixed-gear bikes, not fully understanding the concept, therefore making bombing not only difficult, but impossible. After an ordeal of route changes and searches, only four people (the only four with mini bikes) successfully made the ride, completing three runs. No injuries were sustained, although a couple wet, tight corners made for quite a few close-calls.
Route Problems
The intended Route, down and through Elysian Park turned into a bust because of the park's closure at night and Park Police presence. With a lack of an alternative route, hope of the ride actually coming through was vanishing. Last-minute decisions were made to scout the Hollywood Hills in the areas above West Hollywood and Hollywood, particularly around Laurel Canyon.
Eventually, a route was found on Sunset Plaza Drive, starting at the top of the Hollywood hills, running through the residential neighborhood and leading to Sunset Boulevard. This route turned out to be ideal, and thought by some, to be the closest to that of Zoobomb's that could be achieved in Los Angeles. A van was used to shuttle Ridazz back to the top.
Ride Two
Although in the concept phase, a proposed route has been found in the Studio City area. A date has yet to be set for this second Bomb Squad Ride.
