Mike "Rooftop" Escamilla: The Maverick of BMX
If BMX had a Mount Rushmore, Mike "Rooftop" Escamilla would be chiseled into it with a crooked grin and a pair of scuffed-up Vans. A pioneer, a daredevil, and a storyteller on two wheels, Escamilla has carved out a legacy that transcends the ramps and rails he’s conquered.
🧒 Origins of a Rooftop Legend
Born on August 3, 1977, in the sun-soaked city of Los Angeles, California, Mike Escamilla grew up in the heart of skate and BMX culture. Like many kids in the '80s and '90s, he was drawn to the thrill of riding bikes, but it wasn’t long before he realized he wasn’t just riding—he was rewriting the rules. His nickname “Rooftop” came from his penchant for riding on, yes, actual rooftops, a nod to his fearless creativity and refusal to be boxed in by convention.
🚴 Breaking Into BMX
Escamilla’s entry into BMX wasn’t through polished skateparks or structured competitions—it was through raw street riding. He was part of a generation that saw BMX not just as a sport, but as a form of self-expression. His early video parts showcased a rider who wasn’t afraid to take risks, blending technical precision with jaw-dropping stunts. He quickly gained recognition for his unique style and bold approach, and the BMX world took notice.
🔥 Signature Tricks and Style
Mike Escamilla is best known for pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible on a BMX bike. He helped popularize wallrides, massive gaps, and roof-to-roof transfers. His riding was aggressive yet calculated, and he had a knack for making the impossible look effortless. One of his most iconic moves was the “feeble cut,” a variation of the feeble grind that showcased his ability to innovate even within established trick formats.
🤝 Sponsors and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Escamilla has been backed by some of the most respected names in BMX. He’s ridden for brands like United Bike Co, which embraced his rebellious spirit and gave him the freedom to create signature frames and parts. His collaborations often reflected his personality—bold, functional, and built for riders who wanted to push limits.
🎬 Video Sections That Shaped a Generation
Escamilla’s video parts are legendary. From early appearances in influential BMX films to his own projects, he’s always treated video as a canvas. His segments in “Etnies Forward” and “Props Road Fools” are etched into BMX history, not just for the tricks but for the storytelling. He didn’t just ride—he performed, and every clip felt like a scene from an action movie.
🎥 Beyond BMX: The Renaissance Rider
Mike’s talents extend far beyond the bike. He’s worked as a stuntman in Hollywood, appearing in films and TV shows where his athleticism and fearlessness were put to good use. He’s also hosted travel shows, bringing his charisma and curiosity to audiences around the world. Whether he’s jumping off cliffs or exploring ancient ruins, Escamilla brings the same energy that made him a BMX icon.
🧭 What’s Rooftop Up to Now?
These days, Mike Escamilla continues to ride, create, and inspire. He’s active in the BMX community, mentoring younger riders and staying involved in brand development. He’s also a podcast host and content creator, sharing stories from his wild career and offering insights into the culture that shaped him. His Instagram is a mix of travel, BMX, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into a life lived at full throttle.
Mike 'Rooftop' Escamilla, Bike 99, Birmingham
Mike 'Rooftop' Escamilla spinning his wheels of steel - MTV Sports & Music Festival Memphis, 1998
Mike 'Rooftop' Escamilla - Episode 9 - The Union Tapes Podcast