Scotty Cranmer: The Bulldozer Who Rebuilt BMX From the Inside Out

If you’ve spent any time immersed in BMX culture—especially the park scene—you’ve likely heard the name Scotty Cranmer spoken with a mix of awe and affection. Born on January 11, 1987, in Jackson Township, New Jersey, Scotty didn’t just ride BMX—he redefined it. From groundbreaking tricks to a life-altering injury and an inspiring second act, his story is one of relentless progression, resilience, and reinvention.

🛹 Early Days: From Jersey Streets to Global Podiums

Scotty’s BMX journey began like many others: a kid with a bike and a dream. Growing up in suburban New Jersey, he was drawn to the skateparks and dirt jumps that offered a canvas for creativity. But unlike most, Scotty’s progression was meteoric. By the time he graduated from Jackson Memorial High School, he was already turning heads with his technical precision and fearless style.

He turned pro in 2005, and within a few short years, he was stacking medals at the X Games and Dew Tour, eventually tying with Dave Mirra for the most BMX Park medals in X Games history—nine in total, with three golds, three silvers, and three bronzes.

🚴 Signature Style & Game-Changing Tricks

Cranmer was never just another park rider. He was a technician with a flair for the impossible. Among his most iconic contributions:

• Frontflip Tailwhip: He was the first to land this in competition, a jaw-dropping combo that fused power and finesse.

• Seat Stand Front Flip: A YouTube-era stunt that showcased his creativity and control.

• Wallride to Whip Variations: Scotty’s park lines often included wallride combos that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in tight quarters.

His nickname, “The Bulldozer,” wasn’t just about brute force—it was about his ability to plow through limits and redefine what BMX could look like.

🧢 Sponsors & Industry Impact

Scotty’s influence extended beyond the ramps. He was backed by some of the biggest names in action sports:

• Vans Shoes

• Hyper Bike Co.

• Fox Clothing

• Monster Energy

• Pro-tec Helmets

• Snafu

These weren’t just logos on a jersey—they were partnerships built on mutual respect. Scotty didn’t just rep brands; he helped shape their identity within BMX.

🎥 Video Sections & Digital Legacy

While his contest resume is stacked, Scotty’s real cultural impact came through video. His YouTube channel, launched in 2015, became a hub for BMX creativity, humor, and community. With over 1.7 million subscribers and hundreds of millions of views, the channel features:

• Park sessions with his crew (including his brother Matty Cranmer)

• Wild challenges like the “Flat Tire Death Gap”

• Behind-the-scenes looks at BMX life, car culture, and recovery

His sections in films like Hella Crazy and Next X also helped cement his status as a rider who could blend technical mastery with storytelling.

💥 The Crash That Changed Everything

In October 2016, Scotty suffered a devastating spinal cord injury during a filming session. Despite wearing a helmet, he landed headfirst after rolling into a hole post-trick. The crash left him partially paralyzed, and for many, it seemed like the end of his riding career.

But Scotty Cranmer doesn’t do endings—he does reinventions.

🔁 Life After Injury: A New Kind of Ride

Though he no longer competes professionally, Scotty remains deeply embedded in BMX. He’s:

• Running SC Action Sports, his bike shop in Howell, NJ

• Mentoring younger riders and supporting adaptive BMX initiatives

• Commentating at major events like the X Games

• Continuing to ride recreationally and perform basic tricks despite partial paralysis

• Creating content that blends humor, education, and inspiration

His motto, “Can’t Slow Down,” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a philosophy. Scotty’s journey from elite athlete to mentor and media creator is a testament to the enduring spirit of BMX.

FOX BMX - SCOTTY CRANMER - MADE FOR THIS

Scotty Cranmer // Sentenced To Life // 2006 (BMX)

SCOTTY CRANMER: The Best of Scotty Cranmer | World of X Games