Built not bought is what defines Jose Romero. From Harbor City, Jose’s exposure to the art of lowriding came at the young age of 11, when an older homeboy took him and a few others to Whittier Boulevard for a cruise in a patterned out Vega. Jose was instantly hooked by the sights, sounds, and ambience of the Boulevard and is where his love for cruising and lowriding came to fruition. Setting him up to be a prestigious car builder, Jose and his family moved from Harbor City to National City in 1980, where he would experience the famous cruising on Highland Avenue. Jose quickly got involved in the local lowrider scene by joining Classics Bike Club, where he created an award winning lowrider bike that won first place at the World of Wheels. Soon after, he found himself in his first car, a 1968 Impala that he got for $200 and not long after, he was cruising everywhere. Destined to work with his hands, Jose and Sal Manzano pursued automotive painting at Del Rey as well as learning from San Diego’s finest, Benny Flores.

The 90’s were one of the greatest decades in lowriding and Jose Romero’s contributions are notably apparent. From doing a ‘59 Impala Convertible conversion that came to be Suavecito ‘59, to the impeccable Suavecito ‘58, Jose’s execution has been acknowledged all over the world. Aside from the art on wheels he creates, Jose shares how his iconic brand, STR8CLOWNIN went from an idea, to a reality. Not only did STR8CLOWNIN establish itself as a brand, Jose’s vision was to share the lifestyle he dedicated himself by creating the STR8CLOWNIN Tour, one of the biggest custom lowrider shows on the West Coast. 

As talented and impactful as he is, Jose Romero displays his love for lowriding sincerely. He teaches us authenticity, loyalty, and above all, the power of knowledge and keeping an open mind. He embraces cultura, familia, and respect amongst each other, because at the end of the day, we’re united through our love for the game. Jose Romero’s life can be turned into a movie; he’s done and seen it all and continues to push forward no matter was obstacle he’s faced with. Always staying true to himself and never forgetting where he comes from, we celebrate his life, career, and resiliency. Jose Romero is as OG as it gets, and that, along with his ongoing contributions to lowriding will stand the test of time.