Lowrider Bike Program Cruises into its Third Year
ALBUQUERQUE – The Lowrider Bike Program is in its third year for the Duke City Chapter. This year’s class includes more trade skills training and stronger mentorship connections between youth, the lowrider community, and law enforcement. The Lowrider Bike Program is led by Rob Vanderslice of Vanderslice Kustom Shop, and his extensive knowledge of lowrider painting and fabrication is second to none. With the help of his team, students will learn trades like welding, leatherwork, upholstering, paint and body fabrication and pinstriping.
“I want to learn more about the Lowrider culture and continue learning from the mentors to be able to put my art on a bike,” said third year student Andres Riboni. “The Lowrider mentors are really smart and respectful and when I see the officers out, they recognize me and talk to me. I am looking forward to this year’s program and learning more skills.”
“This program is just the vessel for something bigger,” said Program Facilitator Rob Vanderslice. “To build stronger relationships between the youth, law enforcement and the lowrider community is the main goal, and I am blessed to be able to pass on what I know to the next generation and really set them up for success in life.”
“The Lowrider Bike program is a vehicle for positive change in our community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The lowrider community is an important part of Albuquerque culture, past and present, and this program teaches youth new skills and connects them to mentors while they create their own one-of-a-kind lowrider bike.”
“My parents signed me and my siblings up for this program, but I wanted to be here as well,” said first year student Kalaiah Gallegos. “I like to try new things and have new experiences so I am excited to design and paint a bike this year.”
This year the program had doubled in size to about 60 students from last year’s 25. With added days during the week, the program can focus on the mentorship portion of the program. Rob and his team have plans for the students to not only learn all the trades involved in designing their own lowrider bike but will also be helping the kids with public speaking, collaboration, teamwork, financial literacy, resume building and job search skills.
"I launched the City's Lowrider Bike Program to foster trust between our youth and law enforcement through the rich tradition of Lowrider culture,” said Councilor Peña. “With over 60 students now participating, this program is creating meaningful connections that empower our young people and strengthen our community.”
The program has a few spots available and we are always looking for mentors from law enforcement or the trade and lowrider community. If you are interested in getting involved go to www.cabq.gov/lowrider-bike for more information.