Youth ride for peace

I recently had a chance to interview Tyrone Stevenson Jr., aka the "Scraperbike King.'' He and his crew of young men ages 11-24 are participating in the Bike for Life, Riding for Peace event at Lake Merritt on Sunday 7/13.

Stevenson, 19, is the founder of the scraperbike movement and says the bikes are “art on wheels,’’ and a vehicle to promote peace. Scraperbike riders typically ride in large packs similar to motorcycle clubs. Stevenson’s Scaperbike group gained popularity through their video which was nominated as one of YouTube’s Top 20 Best Music Video’s of 2007.

The ride organized by Bikes for Life organization is aimed at educating young people around the importance of bringing a gun truce to their communities. So, far this year Oakland has seen 71 homicides compared to 59 at this time last year.

“There’s a lot of people dying from gun violence,’’ said Stevenson. “Scraperbikes gives kids a positive outlet and fixing or riding bikes can be a hobby .’’

For more information about Bike for Life Riding for Peace, call 510-238-8080 ext. 310 or visit www.scraperbikes.net

By Kamika Dunlap -- Oakland Tribune

Tyrone Stevenson Jr. "Scraperbike King": Preston Badger, 18, left, Tyrone Stevenson Jr., 19, Fred Rogers, 18, Eduardo Ochoa, 17, and Luis Medrano, 19, ride their scraperbikes on Santa Rita Street in Oakland.The teenagers will take part in Bike for Life, Riding for Peace event around Lake Merritt