BMX Bicycle Components

BMX Bicycle Components
Photo Credit Stunt Cyclist image by Nicola Gavin from Fotolia.com

The components of a BMX bicycle are the working parts that allow the bike to perform necessary techniques such as rolling and braking. Identifying and understanding how these components work can enable a BMX rider to quickly perform repairs and adjustments. The lightweight components of a BMX bicycle allow the rider to perform tricks that involve lifting the bike off the ground.

Bike Frame

The frame is the building block for a BMX bike. The frame holds the handlebars and bike seat. The bike frame often has a lightweight composition made with a durable metallic alloy. The head tube of the bike frame allows the wide turning radius of the handlebars. The rider can insert the seat post into the middle of the frame and fasten it in place using the seat post clamp. The front fork of the frame is responsible for holding the front tire in place, and the rear fork holds the back tire. The bike pedals are fastened to the bottom of the frame between the two forks.

Tires and Wheels

The two durable tires of a BMX bike have a thick rubber construction. The tires enable the bike to roll as the biker pedals forward. A bike tube is housed inside each of the rubber tires. The tubes are inflated with air to allow the tires to bend as they roll over objects in the riding path. The front tire is stretched around the front rim, which has a metallic construction. The back tire fits around the back rim, which is held in place by the rear fork of the bike.

Brakes

The brakes are one of the most important components of a BMX bike, enabling the rider to reduce the speed of the bike. Two different brake systems are commonly featured on a BMX bike. The first brake system runs from the rear tire of the bike to the handlebars. The rider accesses the handbrakes by pressing down on a lever located on the front of the handlebars. BMX bikes also can feature a pedal braking system. The rider accesses the pedal brake system by pushing the pedals backward. Signature model BMX bikes for professional riders often do not have any brake system. More experienced riders believe the cable of the brake system can impede the movement of the bike during tricks.

References

Article reviewed by NathanH Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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