Rochester Riders
On most Sundays, when the weather is warm, anywhere from a small group of three to 30 riders meet up at the Maplewood Rose Garden in Rochester, N.Y. They hang out and tear up the grass practicing their stunts. The bold colors of their bikes and clothing contrast against the lush landscape. The pride fits that though, the sunlight
reflecting off their shiny bikes. The group brings together guys from different generations. Riding a dirt bike in city streets is dangerous and illegal in Rochester. The sport is frowned upon by some residents and cheered on by others. In April of 2021, the Rochester Police started seizing dirt bikes and ATVs due to public safety concerns after two back-to-back fatal crashes. There is a certain beauty in the danger of the sport where on a hot summer afternoon the pack goes by showing off their stunts to a group of young kids.