Craig “Grassroots” Grasso: The Wild Spirit of BMX

In the world of BMX, few names evoke as much raw energy, rebellion, and pure street-style innovation as Craig Grasso. Known for his unfiltered personality and boundary-pushing riding, Grasso didn’t just ride BMX—he redefined it.

🌱 Origins of a Freestyle Maverick

Craig Grasso was born in the late 1960s in Southern California, a region that would become the epicenter of BMX culture. Growing up in the sun-drenched suburbs of LA, Grasso was drawn to the freedom and creativity of BMX riding at a young age. He started out like many kids—riding ramps and experimenting with flatland tricks—but it didn’t take long for his style to stand out.

By the mid-1980s, Grasso was making waves in the freestyle scene, not just for his technical skills but for his attitude. He wasn’t interested in polished routines or corporate sponsorships. He wanted to ride on his own terms.

🔥 The Tricks That Turned Heads

Grasso’s riding was a blend of punk rock ethos and street ingenuity. He was known for:

• Footplants on shopping carts

• No-handed fakie tree rides

• Cancan wallrides

• Creative use of urban terrain—from curbs to benches to alleyways

One of his most infamous moments came in 1987 at the 2hip King of Vert contest in Leucadia, California, where he rode his run completely nude to earn $200 to fix his broken-down Honda Civic. That stunt got him dropped by his sponsor but cemented his legend status in BMX folklore.

🛠️ Sponsors and Style Evolution

Grasso’s early sponsors included General Bicycles, Vision Street Wear, and Diamond Back. His style evolved rapidly—he ditched the flashy uniforms and gyro setups for stripped-down street rigs. Eventually, he joined Ozone, a brand that aligned more closely with his raw aesthetic.

He was one of the first riders to embrace a minimalist setup: no pegs, no gyro, just a straight rear brake cable and a frame built for street abuse. His dreadlocked hair and unconventional fashion made him a visual icon as much as a riding innovator.

🎥 Video Sections and Media Presence

Grasso was featured heavily in Freestylin’ Magazine during the late '80s, especially as the publication was based in nearby Torrance. His riding was captured by legendary BMX photographers and filmmakers like Spike Jonze and Windy Osborn, helping to usher in a new era of street riding.

While he didn’t have the polished video sections that riders today enjoy, his appearances in early BMX tapes and magazine spreads were enough to inspire a generation. His raw clips and candid interviews became cult classics among BMX purists.

🎸 Beyond the Bike

As the '90s rolled in, Grasso began to drift from the BMX spotlight. He moved to San Francisco, played music, and worked as a bike messenger. He occasionally joined 2hip tours with Ron Wilkerson, but his focus shifted toward personal expression and alternative lifestyles.

His influence, however, never faded. Riders still cite him as a pioneer of street riding—a figure who helped BMX shed its corporate skin and embrace authenticity.

🕵️ What’s He Up to Now?

In recent years, Grasso has lived a quieter, more enigmatic life. He’s been spotted in Vermont and Las Vegas, sometimes making headlines for less-than-glamorous reasons. At one point, his only bike was stolen, prompting fans to rally and build him a new ride. Despite a few brushes with the law, his spirit remains unchanged—unapologetic, free, and deeply rooted in the culture he helped shape.

Craig Grasso // Beasts Of Burden // 1992

Where The Boy's Go // Craig Campbell, Craig Grasso, Pete Augustin & More // Aggroman // 1989

Pete Augustin vs Craig Grasso // Wallride Contest // 1988 (BMX)