Pete Augustin: The Soul of Street BMX

In the world of BMX, few riders have left a mark as raw, soulful, and enduring as Pete Augustin. Known for his fearless style and deep commitment to the essence of street riding, Pete carved out a legacy that continues to inspire generations of riders.

Early Life and Entry into BMX

Pete Augustin was born in the United States—though the exact date and place remain elusive, what’s clear is that his BMX journey began in the vibrant scene of Southern California. Growing up in San Diego, Pete was immersed in a culture of skateparks, dirt trails, and urban landscapes that naturally fed into his passion for freestyle BMX. Inspired by pioneers like Dave Vanderspek, Pete didn’t just ride—he redefined what it meant to ride street.

Breaking Ground with Style

Pete wasn’t just another rider doing tricks—he was an innovator. He brought a gritty, soulful energy to BMX that stood out in the polished world of contests and magazines. His signature moves included wallrides, pedal pick grinds, and nose wheelies that seemed to defy gravity. He was one of the first to truly embrace the street as a playground, using architecture and terrain in ways that were unheard of at the time.

His riding was never about flash—it was about feel. Pete’s style was raw, deliberate, and deeply expressive. He didn’t just perform tricks; he told stories with his bike.

Sponsors and Crews

Throughout his career, Pete rode for several iconic brands. He was associated with Schwinn and CW in his early years, and later became a central figure in the Dirt Brothers crew—a group that embodied the underground spirit of BMX. The Dirt Bros weren’t just a team; they were a movement, pushing back against the commercialization of the sport and keeping the soul intact.

Pete also had ties to UGP (Underground Products), a brand that matched his ethos perfectly. His presence at events like the UGP Roots Jam in Orlando was legendary, and he was often seen riding with other heavy hitters of the era.

Video Sections That Shaped a Generation

Pete Augustin’s video appearances are cult classics. His section in “Hicks In Action” from 1991 is a raw showcase of his street prowess, filled with wallrides and pedal grinds that still hold up today. He also appeared in the legendary “Aggroman” video alongside Craig Campbell and Craig Grasso, further cementing his place in BMX history.

Another standout moment was his wallride contest battle against Craig Grasso in 1988—a gritty, no-holds-barred display of street riding that captured the rebellious spirit of the time.

The Philosophy Behind the Pedals

Pete wasn’t just a rider—he was a thinker. He often spoke about the importance of having “soul” in your riding, rejecting the circus-like atmosphere that BMX sometimes drifted into. He believed in authenticity, in riding for the love of it, not for the trophies or the spotlight.

His approach was deeply personal. He didn’t chase trends or follow the crowd. Instead, he carved his own path, often going against the grain and challenging the norms of the BMX industry.

What’s Pete Up to Now?

Today, Pete Augustin remains a powerful voice in the BMX community. He’s embraced a healthy lifestyle, focusing on diet and wellness while still riding and participating in street rideouts. He’s been featured in interviews and podcasts where he shares his insights on BMX, life, and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Though he may not be in the contest circuit anymore, Pete’s influence is stronger than ever. He continues to ride, connect with fans, and speak out about the direction of BMX. His legacy isn’t just in the tricks he did—it’s in the attitude he brought to the sport.

Pete Augustin // Hicks In Action // Dirt Brothers // 1991

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

The Pete Augustin Interview with RL Osborn: Talking Diet & Health | BMX Street | Rideouts & more