So, what is it that really makes a BMX bike a race bike? It’s all in the frame geometry, materials and wheel size. BMX bikes are classified as either 20inch wheeled “class” bikes or 24-inch wheeled “cruiser” bikes. There is also a big difference between BMX “freestyle” bikes and “race” bikes. Race bikes are much lighter than their heavy-duty brothers who are riding on dirt trails, ramps and skateparks. Most of all, BMX racers come in all ages and sizes - thus, you’ll find a variety of different sized bikes. From the length of the frame to the width of the tires, from the height of the handlebars to the length of the cranks, a BMX race bike should be sized according to each individual’s height and weight. The size specifications for BMX race bikes can be so exacting, in fact, that the most dedicated BMX bike builders offer a complete line-up of frames and/ or complete bikes - from Micros, Minis, Juniors and Experts to Pros, Pro XL’s, XXL’s and even XXXL’s! With frame geometry and component mix driving both performance and cost, your local bike shop can help you find the perfect bike that’ll fit you and your pocket book. Complete BMX race bikes start at around $300-$400 which is where many new riders will want to begin when they’re ready to purchase. As your skills improve, you may want to upgrade the parts on your bike.
BMX BIKE
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The Frame
The Cockpit
The Drivetrain
1. The Front Triangle 2. The Head Tube 3. The Top Tube 4. The Down Tube 5. The Seat Tube 6. The Rear Triangle 7. The Seat Stays 8. The Chain Stays 9. The Dropouts
The Wheelset
1. The Handlebar 2. The Grips 3. The Brakes 4. The Stem 5. The Headset 6. The Seat 7. The Seat Post 8. The Seat Clamp
1. The Crankset 2. The Bottom Bracket 3. The Gear 4. The Chain 5. The Tensioners 6. The Pedals 7. The Cog/Cassette
1. The Hubset 2. The Rims 3. The Spokes 4. The Tires
SPECIFICS: Types of brakes: Caliper Cantilever (V brakes) Coaster
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(OR BIKES, AS THE CASE MA ES RS HO UR YO LD HO T BU RACE OUT TO BUY TO T GO VE U’ YO K IN TH T N’ DO UR LOCAL TRACK. A NEW BIKE TO RIDE AT YO
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Fact is… it’s always best to start on the bike you’re most used to riding, with a possible few safety modifications. Perhaps after you’ve won a few races, even advanced from the Novice to the Intermediate class, then it might be time to start dreaming of that gleaming new race bike.
what you need:
Types of cranks: 1-piece 3-piece
Sizes of 20” Tires: Sew-Ups 20 X 1 1/8 20 X 1 3/8 20 X 1.50 20 X 1.75 20 X 2.125
ASS: THE NEWEST BMX CL
PUSH BIKES
You’ve seen the two-wheel “balance” bicycles with no pedals, right? Whether it’s branded as a Strider, Like-a-Bike, or Scooter, as long as it has a maximum 12” tire diameter, USA BMX / BMX Canada tracks will race ‘em - for beginner BMXers, ages 2 through 5. Your bike should pass “Bike Inspection” before going on the track. Make sure all bolts as well as your chain are tight. If your bike has a kickstand, chain guard, reflector brackets, fenders or freestyle pegs, they will need to be removed for on-track safety purposes. Also check your grips and make sure that the handlebar ends are covered. Three pads covering the cross bar, stem and frame top tube are recommended.
Basically you’ll need a BMX bike that has no larger than a 20” wheel diameter for the boy/girl classes, (12”, 16” and 18” bicycles are acceptable). Or a BMX bike that has a wheel diameter no smaller than 24” for the boy cruiser/girl cruiser classes (26” or larger bicycles are acceptable.)
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