Edgar Plascencia: The Flatland Maverick Who Defined a Generation

In the golden era of BMX flatland, few riders captured the raw spirit of the streets quite like Edgar Plascencia. With a style that was both gritty and graceful, Edgar carved out a legacy that still echoes through the underground BMX scene today.

🌆 Origins of a BMX Icon

Born in the early 1970s in Southern California, Edgar Plascencia grew up surrounded by the vibrant skate and BMX culture that defined the West Coast. It wasn’t long before he found his calling in flatland BMX—a discipline that demands creativity, balance, and relentless dedication. Inspired by the pioneers of the sport and fueled by the DIY ethos of the 1980s and early '90s, Edgar began honing his craft in parking lots, alleys, and local contests.

🔥 Breaking Ground with Style

Edgar wasn’t just another rider—he was a stylist. His signature move, dubbed “That’s How Ghetto I Am,” became a cult classic after its debut in Props BMX’s BS Kansas video in 1994. It was a bike flip that defied convention and showcased his fearless approach to riding. His tricks were often raw, technical, and infused with street flavor, making him a standout in any lineup.

He was known for his smooth transitions, intricate scuffing techniques, and an ability to link tricks in ways that felt more like dance than sport. His riding was timeless—so much so that BMX legend Martti Kuoppa once referred to Edgar as one of his childhood heroes.

🏁 Sponsors and Support

Throughout his career, Edgar was backed by some of the most respected names in BMX. He rode for Morales, a brand known for its innovative flatland frames, and was often seen repping Graveyard products—bars, pegs, and stems that became synonymous with mid-school BMX culture. His setup was always dialed, often featuring custom components that reflected his unique riding style.

He also competed in events sponsored by Play Clothes, Chuck’s Bike Shop, ESPN2, and the NBL, further cementing his place in the competitive scene. One of his most memorable contest appearances was at the 1994 Shimerville, PA Play Clothes comp, where he took second place in the Pro Flatland category.

🎥 Video Sections and Legacy

Edgar’s riding was immortalized in several iconic BMX video magazines, including the 20” Video Magazine and various Props BMX issues. These segments captured not just his tricks, but his attitude—laid-back, confident, and unapologetically authentic.

His appearances in underground tapes and East Coast Destruction Crew videos helped spread his influence beyond California, inspiring riders across the U.S. and even internationally. His style was often described as “timeless,” and his footage remains a go-to for flatland enthusiasts looking to study the roots of the sport.

🧠 What People Love About Edgar

• Authenticity: Edgar never chased trends. He rode for the love of it, and it showed.

• Innovation: His tricks pushed boundaries and inspired new generations of riders.

• Community: He was part of a tight-knit crew that included legends like Jesse Puente and Richard Zabzdyr, contributing to the culture as much as the sport.

📀 Where Is He Now?

Though Edgar Plascencia isn’t as active in the contest scene today, he hasn’t disappeared. He occasionally shares footage and setups on YouTube, revisiting his Morales prototype and reflecting on the gear that defined his era. His influence continues to ripple through the BMX flatland community, especially among collectors and mid-school aficionados who treasure the gear and style he helped popularize.

Edgar Placencia // West Coast 4130 // 1993

Edgar Plascencia 2nd place Pro flatland Shimerville, PA 1994 Play Clothes comp

Edgar Placencia’s Prototype Morales // 1994