Underground Motorcycle Races and Stunts: Medellin’s Thrilling Nights

Motorcycle shows are among the most spectacular things that one can see in Medellin. The city has an extremely vibrant underground motorcycle culture, with regular gathering and events that celebrate it.

Every Thursday night, at the Mirador de Las Palmas (or ‘Las Palmas Viewpoint’), bikers from all over the city gather to showcase their riding skills and show off their vehicles. From speed race to stunt and freestyle riding, this thrilling event is definitely something worth seeing.

Motorcycle shows every Thursday in Medellin, Colombia

If you want to feel the thrills of an underground motorcycle event in Medellin, you should definitely go out to Las Palmas Avenue Viewpoint by night. Due to the length of the road and its relatively good condition, it has become the city’s hotspot for motorcycle riders and enthusiasts.

There are three viewpoints along Las Palmas, but the main sites are those ones referred to as number two and number three. Number two is the largest, as well as the most informal and popular. It offers a more local experience, with street food and music, and is the main gathering point for motorcycle fans.

On Thursday nights, hundreds of people gather, many with their motorcycles, to take part in the city’s biggest underground stunt and racing event. From off-road motorcycles to supersport models, local riders come to show off and thrill the public.

Locally known as ‘Los Piques’, stunts and motorcycle freestyles are the main attractions at the Las Palmas Viewpoint. The event, held on Thursday nights, has gained local and national fame and even attracts superstars such as reggaeton singer Nicky Jam or the extremely popular Colombian streamer Westcol.

The stunt culture in Medellin originated during the Pablo Escobar era. At the height of his power, the drug lord had an army of ‘sicarios’ (hitmen) known for operating on motorcycles, which allowed them to move quickly across the city and escape easily. Although this era of the city has long since gone, the motorcycle remains a symbol of power, an energy that stunt riding embodies.

Medellin authorities made several attempts to stop these weekly events, without success so far, as the enthusiasm for the motorcycle shows seems impossible to halt. Indeed, motorcycle shows truly bring together the diverse population of Medellin. Teenagers and adults, men and women, from both the working class and the affluent sectors, all gather for an evening around this adrenaline-filled event.

Recommendations

The Las Palmas viewpoints are very safe places. They are popular spots for romantic encounters or nights out with friends, so the ambiance is very friendly and relaxed. While the Las Palmas viewpoints are not frequented by foreigners, especially at night, being a stranger will not attract undue attention. Local street business owners depend on visitors and make sure everyone is having a good time.

If you plan to go there, take warm clothing. While Medellin’s climate is generally mild and cool, the city’s higher elevations can get very cold, especially at night.

At Las Palmas viewpoint two, you will find many street food stalls offering hot meals and beverages, such as the local hot chocolate with cheese, or hot ‘agua panela‘, a beverage derived from sugar cane juice. At Las Palmas viewpoint three, you will find cozy spots where you can sit comfortably, with options for hotdogs or pizza.

Owning a motorcycle in Colombia

Motorcycle is an extremely popular means of transportation in Colombia, not only because it is affordable, but also because it offers a sense of freedom, autonomy and independence, matching these character traits of the Colombian people. In Colombia, motorcycles contribute to 60 percent of vehicle use, and it is estimated that about 30 percent of Colombians over the age of 15 own one. Motorcycles are notably more affordable than in the US, Canada, or Europe. In fact, they are two times cheaper on average.

It is a very practical means of transportation, but a foreigner should be aware of road culture differences and proceed cautiously. With a North American or European license, you can drive in Colombia for a straight period of six months. If you plan to stay longer in the country, you will have to obtain a Colombian license.