I think the only way to make the illegal riding unappealing would be if parents and teachers and politicians start doing it too. Kids don't like doing things the same way as older, straight-laced people. They like to think they've discovered some radical alternative to whatever the mainstream protocol is (e.g using a car). Also, the riding looks really fun albeit dangerous. Try telling a kid he/she can't conduct risky but rewarding behavior. Have fun with that. Watch it morph into some other type of similar behavior.

Great progress has been made in this area.

Just ignore them and they'll go away to another town that will put them in the limelight, on the news and in the papers.

If anyone doubts my theory about one bad tendency morphing into another, just ask these kids why they ride. Many will tell you they do it to stay away from violent crime and drugs. To them, it's a viable alternative to destructive behavior. How do you reason with that?

In the spirit of "Trust and Confirm," I'd love to hear why you think that. Also, please give me an idea of what neighborhood within New Haven you live. Thanks.

Fair Haven
They are going to have to find another viable alternative because what they are doing is dangerous, against the law, and affects other peoples' quality of life.

Fair havener, I want to believe good intentions and motivations on the part of the riders, but that would logically mean they would also be interested in riding in such a way that is not dangerous nor disruptive. Unfortunately, that's not the case, and they do infringe upon other's rights and safety.

It reminds me of an adult Harley Davidson Rider telling me that he revs his engine loudly for the safety of himself and others--so that others know where he is at and so they know he is coming. I'm skeptical of his reply. I think he liked reving his engine and similarly, I doubt if these kids are riding recklessly to escape a life-threatening vulnerability like crime and drugs.

Nice try