Getting Started

BMX (Bicycle Motocross) is a form of cycling on specially designed bicycles which usually have 20 inch wheels. The sport includes racing on earthen tracks, known as BMX racing, as well as the performance of tricks on the bikes, called Freestyle BMX. hi Freestyle BMX has grown to include five distinct disciplines. These are Street, Park, Vert, Dirt, and Flatland. These usually involve technical movements of the bike in different ways over varied terrain.

A BMX bike intended for racing can be easily distinguished from a freestyle BMX bike:

Freestyle: shorter seat and chain stays, and typically a single brake for the rear wheel. Brakes commonly have a de tangler mechanism to enable bar spins, but some riders opt for a single cable setup for ease of repair;

Race: Brakes rear, and frames with specific lengths for the riders size, they have skinner wheels for light and small rider which enables better aerodynamics and thick tyres for larger riders for more stability.

In 2008, BMX racing entered the Olympics for the first time in Beijing and London 2012 will feature a purpose built BMX race arena.

Kit you'll need

There are two different types of BMX race bike: the 20 inch (your everyday BMX bike with 20 inch wheels) and the 24 inch cruiser (a slightly bigger bike with 24 inch wheels). You don't need a top of the line race machine to start with, you just need one that can get you around the track and meet the basic requirements.

You will need a racinghelmet, a long sleeved shirt, long trousers or jeans and gloves. Rubber soled skateboard or tennis style shoes are recommended and although elbow pads, knee pads and shoulder pads are not essential, they are always a good idea! If you have an open face style helmet, a mouth guard is recommended. Most clubs have helmets that you can borrow when you first start riding.

And don’t forget your drinks bottle so you can keep hydrated between races…

What's Good

It is very easy to get yourself on track for BMX - comparatively little equipment is required and BMX bikes are simple and robust (which means they're not too expensive), with powerful brakes and no gears.

BMX is perhaps the most family-friendly branch of cycle sport - often the whole family will compete at an event and there are an amazing 22 categories plus 3 Novice categories covering all ages and abilities.

There is a thriving club structure nation-wide and most clubs have their own BMX track, which they use for club events and practice days and evenings. Regional series take place in most parts of the UK, allowing you to develop your skills on other tracks. So, why not get down to your local club and give BMX a try?
 

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