What to Look For
BMX bikes, whether for racing or freestyle, have to be tough to handle the inevitable crashes and drops that occur. A true BMX bike is set up with 20-inch wheels. Racing bikes require rear-only braking. Freestyle bikes should have a gyro to allow the front wheel to be spun 360 degrees without tangling brake cables.
Common Pitfalls
BMX bikers go through tires and stretch chains. Make sure you purchase a bike that has chain tighteners to allow you to take up any slack as the chain wears. Aluminium frames are lighter for racing but not as tough for freestyle. A well- balanced bike is key for optimum tricks. If you can not test ride it, do not buy it. Most stores will not allow you to do tricks but will let you take a quick spin.
Where to Buy
Lower-end, but still quality bikes, such as Haro's X series, can be purchased at sporting goods stores such as Dick's, Modell's, and Sports Authority. Specialty or independent bike stores tend to carry the harder-to-find brands, such as We The People and Kink. The independent dealers often will allow more of a test ride than the larger stores do.
Cost
A top quality BMX bike can cost well over the $1,000 price mark. Most of the cost is for higher-quality rims, tires, and components. However, $400 to $800 gets you a very good bike with excellent parts. Tires and rims can be upgraded later as they are often the first parts to wear and break.
Comparison Shopping
Test drive before you buy as not all bikes are balanced equally. As each rider is different, a slightly different frame style or balance center point makes the difference between an okay bike and an excellent bike. A BMX race bike is far different than a BMX freestyle bike, as the two styles require different strengths.
Accessories
Helmets and pads should always be worn. For the freestylists, pegs make a nice addition and increase the number of tricks that can be performed. Spare tires and tubes are a must.
Insider Tips
Race bikes should be lighter with a lower profile and feel. Freestyle BMX bikes should feel agile and easily maneuvered while riding.
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