About Kevin Jones - Pro BMXer Profile, Biography and History

Kevin Jones: The Godfather of Flatland BMX

If you’ve ever dipped a toe into the world of BMX flatland, chances are you’ve heard the name Kevin Jones whispered with reverence. He’s not just a rider—he’s a pioneer, a visionary, and arguably the most influential figure in the evolution of freestyle BMX. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this enigmatic legend.


🧒 Early Life & Origins

Kevin Jones was born on May 12, 1967, in York, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a small town far removed from the BMX hotspots of California, Kevin’s journey into the sport was anything but conventional. He started riding BMX at the age of 11, initially drawn to racing in 1982. But the rigid structure of racing didn’t quite suit his creative spirit, and he soon gravitated toward dirt jumping and freestyle.

In 1983, Kevin formed a breakdancing crew called the Cardboard Lords with fellow BMXers. Their performances won local competitions and even earned airtime on York’s cable TV. But as breakdancing faded from the spotlight, Kevin’s focus shifted back to BMX—this time with a freestyle twist.


🚴 The Plywood Hoods & Flatland Awakening

Kevin’s BMX renaissance began when he joined the Plywood Hoods, a tight-knit crew of riders from York who were pushing the boundaries of flatland riding. With influences from fellow Hood Mike Daily and filmmaker Mark Eaton, Kevin began experimenting with new tricks and techniques. The introduction of pegs and cable detanglers opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and Kevin dove in headfirst.


🔥 Trick Innovations That Changed BMX Forever

Kevin Jones wasn’t just good—he was revolutionary. He invented dozens of tricks that became foundational to modern flatland BMX. Some of his most iconic moves include:

  • Hang Glider Boomerang

  • Chicken Hook Switch

  • Insanity Roll

  • Locomotive

  • Trolley

  • Standup Infinity Roll

  • Elephant Glide

  • Dump Truck

  • Hitch Hiker – This trick, introduced in 1988, was a game-changer. Standing on the front pegs with the bike upside down, rolling on the front wheel while holding the rear tire—it was one of the first two-footed rolling tricks and remains iconic to this day.

Kevin’s approach wasn’t just about inventing tricks—it was about linking them seamlessly. He and Chase Gouin famously trained to master every trick in both “regular” and “switch” modes, aiming to create infinite combinations.


🎥 Dorkin’ in York: The Video Legacy

Mark Eaton’s legendary video series, Dorkin’ in York, captured Kevin’s riding in raw, unfiltered glory. These underground tapes showcased not just tricks, but the culture and camaraderie of the Plywood Hoods. Over ten volumes, the series documented Kevin’s progression and influence, becoming a cult classic among BMX enthusiasts.


🏆 Sponsors & Signature Frames

Kevin’s impact wasn’t limited to riding—he helped shape the very bikes people rode. He was closely associated with Hoffman Bikes, where he helped design the iconic Big Daddy frame. Later, he worked on the Strowler, a modern evolution of his original design.

Other sponsors over the years included:

  • Wilkerson Airlines – He toured with them in 1990.

  • Kudos Granola Bars – Yes, Kevin even appeared in national TV ads.

  • Hoffman Bikes – His long-standing relationship with the brand led to multiple frame designs and reissues.


🧠 The Enigma of Kevin Jones

Despite his fame, Kevin remained a mystery. He never chased the spotlight and often retreated from the public eye. After the early ’90s, he largely disappeared from the contest scene, choosing instead to ride privately and focus on personal progression.

His prototype Big Daddy frame even became the stuff of legend—lost, repainted, and rediscovered decades later in a backyard in York. It was lovingly restored and now stands as a symbol of BMX history.


🕰️ What’s He Up to Now?

Kevin Jones still resides in York, Pennsylvania, and while he’s not active on social media or the contest circuit, he continues to ride. Occasionally, he’s spotted at local jams, quietly practicing in parking lots or making surprise appearances at gatherings. In 2022, he was inducted into the BMX Hall of Fame—a long-overdue recognition of his monumental contributions.

He remains a humble figure, more focused on the purity of riding than fame or accolades. For those lucky enough to catch a glimpse of him riding today, it’s like watching history in motion.

OHIO AFA 1987 Kevin Jones BMX FREESTYLE

Kevin Jones // Dope Ammo 665 1/2 // 1992

Kevin Jones Dorkin' 10 Segment

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