BMX, which stands for bicycle motocross, is a form of cycling that lends itself to tricks, racing and standard freestyle riding. BMX bikes are ridden on a variety of surfaces and in many locations. Bikes are often adapted to meet these specific conditions, particularly through the type of tires and brakes, although much of the frame and and sizing of the bikes remain the same.
Ramps and Skateparks
Ramps and skate parks are a common place for BMX riders to take their bikes, particularly when they wish to practice tricks. Ramps allow riders to get into the air, where they can perform tricks including full rotations, grabs and bar spins. Skate parks tend to provide a series of ramps and other obstacles, allowing riders to also practice grinds, which is the act of sliding the BMX bike along a raised surface.
Race Tracks
BMX race tracks tend to incorporate a raised starting gate followed by a circular course around which riders race. Along the length of the track, raised piles of dirt must be navigated through and they often send riders airborne. Tracks tend to be made of dirt and are wide enough to allow a number of riders to negotiate the course simultaneously.
Off Road/ Downhill
BMX bikes can also be ridden off-road or downhill. This tends to involve negotiating an all-terrain course incorporating obstacles such as uneven terrain, rocks and unstable surfaces. Riders can compete in time trial-type races where they take it in turns to try and negotiate the course in the shortest time. Also they can ride courses solely for recreational purposes.
Flatland
Flatland riding consists of riding a BMX bicycle in locations such as parks, recreation grounds and large flat spaces. Flatland BMX riding lends itself to normal recreational and transport riding and also to the practice and execution of flatland tricks, including wheelies, endos, bunny hops and spins. Flatland riding largely relies on the use of a rider's own momentum when executing tricks rather than a rider being assisted by ramps and inclines.
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