For those who don't know there is a group of kids around the Temecula/Murrieta area that ride extremely hard and they (or we i should say?) call themselves "HEATHENS" or Heathen Bicycle Firm. We all know what it's like out here with the heat and hills everywhere, but that doesn't stop these kids from bombing hills in the de luz mountains that people are afraid to drive down or mashing through a busy intersection with a 75% chance of getting hit by a lifted truck, but it's all in good fun. It in no way, shape, or form is a "crew" that would get heated if anyone was to talk shit nor do they go to parties to drink and fight (to get that out of the way), They're just friends and they like to ride...that's it. Anyways these kids are fun to ride with they are also all my best friends. there will be a section on them in the upcoming issue as well. If you live in the Temecula/ Murrieta or even San Diego area and want to ride with us feel free to contact me at Rhetoricnoise@hotmail.com we ride everyday and love meeting new people.
Seamoose (ANDY),
ReplyDeleteI have an announcement to make, I am bringing this to your attention because I have heard negative perceptions about Heathens, that they talk trash on amateur riders without "adequate" or "nicely new" fixies. That on even small rides their motives are not on a collective scale of comradery, but selfish terms.
I am in no way enemies with the group "Heathens" but I am bringing this to the table to gain awareness, and to promote change.
Any bike coalition, or bike "gang" if you want to put it that way should be based on fundamentals that promote equality, sensibility and scared kinship. Bike groups usually start as a group of friends, and it is found within the manifestation of the "gang" they bond closer together in this friendship. A fellow rider should be like a BROTHER, regardless of level of skill, or bike status. If a member is injured or encounters an accident, the members are inclined to assist and aid. Because you are friends, because you are..."Heathens", if you will.
It shouldn't matter what level of skill a rider possesses, all cyclists connect on the same level because they simply love riding. It is the institution of a club or gang to take new riders under their wing and show them love, not words of negative criticism and judgment. If a gang is more open and approachable it's status by the community will be seen as a positive association, rather than one that causes havoc and interrupts the flow of the community.
The main subject I would like to bring to attention is that remember a member of the group, or not all riders shouldn't have to face discrimination or intimidation by social groups. A fellow rider is a friend, never a subject of even "playful" ridicule.
--A