Bikers are urging the government to establish a dedicated track for motorcycle enthusiasts, warning that a lack of proper facilities is pushing young riders to perform dangerous stunts on public roads. The call comes as the biking community seeks to shift the narrative around their sport, emphasising its potential for youth development and professional opportunities.
Speaking at Sharon Primary School, Sergio Blackett, a representative of Bike Life Culture in the Caribbean, said biking can be a positive career path if young people are given proper training and a safe environment to practise. He believes a purpose-built facility could help change the negative narrative surrounding the biking community and ensure that riding is done responsibly and safely.
Pupils at Sharon Primary were treated to a demonstration of stunts and techniques by several representatives of the group on Tuesday.
“This event is to show the youths that there’s a different way to use motorcycles — development, empowerment, an expressive way to show yourself,” Blackett explained.
“Not the negative narrative like most people see, but to give a different perspective on what we actually do, instead of the stereotyping,” he continued.
Blackett said that while riders currently have a few informal spots to gather, a designated track or park would help guide the younger generation away from performing risky stunts on public roads. He made it clear that the problem is not the bikes themselves but the mindset of some riders who operate dangerously because they lack proper outlets and training.
“If you show them a better way, you can go very far with it. I’ve travelled all over through bike life — Dominica, St Lucia, the Cayman Islands, Miami, Paris, New York — representing Barbados,” he said. “Barbados is one of the only places that doesn’t actually facilitate motorsports on motorcycles. They have it for cars and other sports but nothing for bikes — yet they complain.”
He stated that biking culture could be a valuable alternative for young people who are not academically inclined, teaching them dedication, focus and responsibility while offering potential career opportunities through local and international events.
Blackett said that riders have the talent to perform at a world-class level if given the chance to train properly. He wants to see the island develop an official track — and he thinks the area around Bushy Park could be a suitable location.
“We have a lot of skill and talent that is amazing and could be recognised on a world scale,” he said.
He also stressed that the group’s aim is to work with authorities to teach proper safety and responsible riding. “Most bikes that you think are not insured or registered, there are people whose bikes are straight,” he added. “The police should do their job effectively and efficiently, but you have to understand people are going to ride their bikes.”
Blackett said the group’s goal was to give young riders the opportunity to turn their passion into a profession. “It’s something you can be paid to do — there aren’t many skills that allow you to get paid for something you love,” he said. “But we have to do it the proper way and show them how to do it, not just what everybody sees on the roads.” (LG)
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