Every discipline of BMX bike riding requires certain safety gear. High speed downhill BMX racing can result in injury if the rider loses control of the bike for even a split second. BMX riders also perform dangerous high altitude aerial maneuvers off of inclined dirt ramps. Avid BMX bikers are urged to wear protective gear to avoid serious or even fatal injuries.
History
BMX biking has continued to grow in popularity since the early 1970s. BMX bike riding was originally referred to as bicycle motocross. Early BMX riders would race on designated courses made of carved out dirt tracks. Riders could reach high speeds and injuries became commonplace in the thriving sport. The early bicycle motocross riders began to utilize safety gear including helmets and goggles to avoid being injured during falls and collisions with fellow competitors.
Function
Knee pads can protect the riders knee cap from the hard plastic or metal edge of the BMX pedals. The knee pads can also allow riders to safely slide across their knees when bailing from a trick attempt. BMX safety gloves can prevent calluses and blisters from forming on the palms of the rider's hands. Elbow pads protect the rider during crashes and bails that would otherwise result in injury. The BMX helmet safeguards the rider's head from serious trauma including concussions and lacerations.
Types
Riders are able to wear a bowl or full face helmet without hindering their movement on the BMX. The bowl helmet fits around the top of the head and is fastened in place with an adjustable strap that clips under the chin. BMX racers often wear full face helmets which fit around the whole head and cover the jaws and chin. Certain models of BMX shin guards slip over the foot of the rider and cover the shin. Larger types of the BMX shin guards protect the knees as well as the shins.
Features
According to Vital BMX, modern knee pads feature a thin construction which can be comfortably worn under a pair of pants. BMX gloves often feature a padded foam lining which protect the bones of the hand. According to Ride BMX Magazine, newer models of elbow pads feature an elastic construction which maximizes flexibility while still offering protection. BMX shin guards feature a lightweight construction made of hard plastic. Certain shinguard models are fastened in place using safety straps that fit around the calf of the rider. Other models feature an elastic band fits around the calf muscles. Both the bowl and full face helmet feature a foam lining which cushions the head of the rider.
Prevention/Solution
Improper use of BMX safety gear can result in damaging injuries. Riders must utilize the chin strap of both the bowl and full face helmet to ensure a proper fit. Perspiration often causes riders to lose grip of the handlebars while performing tricks which can result in painful injuries. Wearing BMX gloves allows the rider to firmly grip and control the handlebars of the bike.
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