Radical Rick Allison: The Unsung Hero of BMX Freestyle

If you’ve ever flipped through a BMX magazine from the 1980s, chances are you’ve seen Rick Allison—whether you realized it or not. A staple of the golden era of freestyle BMX, Rick carved out a legacy that’s equal parts underground legend and mainstream marvel. Though he may not be the first name dropped in BMX history conversations, those who know, know: Rick Allison is the real deal.

🛹 Early Life and Entry into BMX

Rick Allison was born in the United States, likely in the early 1960s, placing him in his prime during the explosion of BMX freestyle in the 1980s. Like many riders of his generation, Rick’s entry into BMX was fueled by the raw energy of the sport’s early days—when kids turned sidewalks into skateparks and every curb was a launchpad. He was drawn to the creativity and individuality of freestyle riding, and it didn’t take long before he was turning heads with his unique style.

🔥 Signature Tricks and Riding Style

Rick was known for his flatland mastery and old-school freestyle moves that blended technical precision with flair. His trick list reads like a time capsule of BMX’s most iconic maneuvers:

• Vanderrolls off tables

• Boston Back Breakers (a handstand-style move from the late '80s)

• Bar rides and seat grinds

• Speed surfing and frame stands

Even into his 50s, Rick continued to perform these tricks with the same energy and finesse that made him a standout decades earlier. His riding was never just about the moves—it was about the attitude. Rick had a punk-rock spirit on two wheels, and it showed in every performance.

🧢 Sponsors and Career Highlights

During his peak, Rick was featured in countless BMX advertisements and was a regular in the BMX Plus! magazine scene. He rode with the legendary Curb Dogs crew in Golden Gate Park, alongside names like Maurice “Drob” Meyers and Hugo Gonzales. His sponsors included:

• Hutch BMX, famously associated with his baby blue bike featured in a Vans advertisement

• Perfection on Wheels, for whom he performed thousands of shows

• Various solo gigs, including events for Nancy Reagan’s “Say No to Drugs” campaign

• High-profile venues like SeaWorld, Disneyland, and Phantasialand in Germany

Rick wasn’t just a competitor—he was a showman. His performances brought BMX to audiences far beyond the skatepark, helping to popularize freestyle riding across the globe.

🎥 Video Sections and Media Presence

Rick’s riding was immortalized in several video segments, including:

• A 1984 Huntington Beach BMX competition where he battled for the top spot with teammate Rich Avella

• Appearances in the BMX DVD “Rollin’ Back BMX”

• A treasure trove of YouTube videos showcasing his tricks from age 50 onward, including “Radical Rick’s 60th Birthday Extravaganza” and “Best of Rick Allison from 50–56 Years Old”

His online presence is a testament to his enduring passion. Rick’s videos are raw, nostalgic, and full of heart—just like his riding.

🌟 What’s Rick Up to Now?

Today, Rick Allison is still riding and still inspiring. Now in his 60s, he continues to post videos of himself performing classic freestyle tricks, often with a cheeky grin and a dose of old-school swagger. He’s active on social media, sharing his life and riding with fans who’ve followed him for decades—and new ones discovering him for the first time.

Rick Allison, Tizer Worlds Flatland BMX Freestyle competition in Manchester in 1987

Rick_Allison_May_1988 Hutch Demo

Rick Allison bmx freestyle Tampa Fla 1988. at afa contest