A sometimes misunderstood culture, a lowrider lives and breathes with nearly 100 entries checking in for the day. Veteran car clubs like Dukes and Viejitos drove a stylistic barrage of cars that were painted all the colors of the rainbow with metal flakes, pinstriping, and clearcoats mixed in to preserve both the paint and a social part of history. If cars are the father or big brother of the lowrider scene then there's usually a little brother following along, which is where lowrider bikes take their cue-being the little chavalito and looking up to dad. Along the plaza walls, kids, in a glorious attempt to follow in dad's tire tracks, displayed their painted and modified Schwinns (which are now hard to come by) with molded frames, twisted parts, upholstered seats, and lots of chrome. It's a way of creating the same kind of cruising cool, only these two-wheelers glide down the sidewalk, occasionally scraping a pedal.
In reflection, bringing to light the rich history of San Jose's lowrider scene reminds us of the automotive industry's only culture and its ability to inspire those who wish to keep the trend on the road for lowrider lovers everywhere.
For more information, please contact the Mexican Heritage Plaza at 1700 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112, 408.928.5524.