Two-Wheel Tuesday is alive at Leo’s Burgers on Ming Avenue as members of BakoBoyz motorcycle club gather as a way to have fun, meet like-minded people and give back to the community.
William Jackson started BakoBoyz for people who wanted to get together and who shared a love for motorcycles. To date, the club has 45 members and encourages people who are interested to come on out.
Carl Salyards, 30, a rider for the last nine years, said, “We encourage more riders to come and ride with us.”
Salyards explained that even though he has alternative means of transportation, most members use their bikes as their main form of transportation, and with gas prices the way they are, it makes sense.
With this speedy type of transportation comes a stereotyping by the general public and law enforcement. It is believed by some that riders of motorcycles, such as Honda’s 600 CBR or Yamaha’s R6, are punks and only want to cause trouble. This is a stereotype Salyards wishes would be dispelled.
“If people saw me at work, they would have no idea that I rode. But as soon as they see me on a bike, things change,” said Salyards. “We are not out-of-control punks.”
Although accidents happen, safety is a primary goal for members. Jared Brown, a member of Bakoboyz, was killed in a hit-and-run accident earlier this year. Brown was not doing crazy stunts or driving recklessly, in fact, he was just going home to his fiance and young child.
The memorial for their fallen rider was filled with friends, loved ones and over 100 bikes that were ridden in his honor.
Salyards continued to ride even though he understands the danger that accompanies motorcycles. “If your friend was killed in a car, would you stop driving or riding in one? I just want people to watch out for us more,” said Salyards.
BakoBoyz participate in more than just riding around town. They give back to the community through fundraisers.
Over the summer, they held a car wash for Beardsley School to raise money for kids who don’t have backpacks and school supplies. Each year they ride for Toys for Tots, which Harley riders are known for participating in.
Nathan Evans, 20, also a member, said, “It’s all about having fun.”