Too young to drive, a group of Trinidad-born kids now living in Queens, New York decided to pimp out their bikes just like their big brothers' cars. Calling themselves the Stereobike Crew, they worked hard to fit huge stereo sound speakers on their BMX bikes.
Not to be outdone by their older brothers, these are really car stereo speakers and are also seriously powered by actual car batteries. That the bikes are now huge and heavy to ride on is the least of their concerns. It's about being cool and about making impressions. It is about "outrageous impromptu music and a dance party on wheels." Even the names for the bikes like Tinnitus Rex and Frankenbike show their ingenuity.
Their story has been immortalised in the documentary "Made in Queens" which premiered at the 62nd Edinburgh International Film Festival in June 2008. The film was directed by Nicolas Randall and Joe Stevens.
Pimped BMX Bicycles With Subs
"Made in Queens" Stereobike Crew
Trend Themes
1. Bike Sound Systems - The trend of installing car stereo sound systems on bicycles creates an opportunity for innovative audio technology companies to develop compact and lightweight speakers.
2. DIY Bike Customization - The trend of young individuals customizing their bicycles with unique features like car batteries and speakers presents an opportunity for creative DIY accessory companies.
3. Mobile Street Entertainment - The trend of turning bicycles into mobile dance parties with music and lights opens up opportunities for event production companies to create unique urban entertainment experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Audio Technology - The bike sound system trend offers disruptive innovation opportunities for audio technology companies to create specialized speakers and amplifiers for compact and mobile applications.
2. DIY Accessories - The trend of DIY bike customization creates opportunities for accessory companies to provide unique and customizable parts for bicycle enthusiasts.
3. Event Production - The mobile street entertainment trend presents opportunities for event production companies to create experiential events that combine music, dance, and urban cycling culture.