Skip to Content
Streetsblog San Francisco home
Streetsblog San Francisco home
Log In
Car Culture

The Rise of Oakland Scraper Bikes and the Demise of Used Cars in Alameda

A few weeks ago we stumbled across this amazing video of the Scraper Bike phenomenon in Oakland, which we've also documented in this Streetfilm by John Hamilton. In the California is a Place film "Scrapertown," filmmakers Drea Cooper and Zackary Canepari give you another look at Baby Champ and the work he is doing to promote bicycles and community in East Oakland.

I also liked the film below with Alameda used-car salesman "Big Vinny" as he describes the malaise affecting him in his line of work.

And be sure to check out the California is a Place website for more of their great work.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog San Francisco

Open Letter: After a Week of Tragedies, Will You Go to the Mat for Safety, Mayor Lurie?

Yes, it's good to meet with department heads. But it's going to take Paris-level, ongoing pressure and commitment to make San Francisco safe

March 9, 2026

Motorist Careens onto North Beach Sidewalk, Killing Pedestrian

Driver kills pedestrian at another location where a safety project festered

March 6, 2026
See all posts