BMX riding is divided into two categories: racing and freestyle. BMX racing, best compared to dirt motocross, has racers pinned against each other as they navigate through a variety of jumps, bumps and jostling for position. Freestyle, an extreme sport akin to skateboarding, has gained immense popularity in recent years. Riders hone their skills through repetition and practice in urban landscapes, parking lots, bridge underpasses and skate parks. Popular in the United States and throughout Europe and Asia, BMX racing has been added to the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China for the first time. The sport traces its routes back to California during the 1970s.
Unlike road or mountain bikes with 27-inch wheels, BMX bikes have 20-inch wheels. Depending on the surface most typically ridden on, tires may be knobby for dirt racing or smooth for freestyle tricks and traction. Incredibly simple in design, a complete BMX bike is made up of a frame, fork, handlebars, stem, seat, hubs, cranks, single sprocket, chain, pedals and one rear-tension brake. Some riders choose to add specialized hand grips, bar ends on the wheel hubs and protective padding.
What to Look for
Simplicity is the key design element. In BMX racing, the bikes are designed to go fast. In freestyle, the bikes are designed for maneuverability. The frames are generally made from chromoly steel or aluminum. The key difference between the two is cost and weight. Steel bikes are going to be cheaper but heavier. Aluminum bikes, lighter and more resistant to rust and elements, are going to be more expensive. Because the frame and wheel size is nearly universal, the proper size and fit for the rider is not typically a concern when buying a complete bike.
Racing bikes, available from companies like Mongoose, Haro, Diamondback and GT, normally sell from $250 to $1,800. In the freestyle bike market, with dozens of smaller, specialized manufacturers like Redline, Fitbikeco and Kuwahara, bikes typically cost $200 to $1,200.
Common Pitfalls
As a BMX beginner, be prepared to see your new bike dinged up--and most likely your body as well. In both racing and freestyle, the rider does all the work and the bike follows your commands. BMX bikes don't have gear sets or components. The only way to go fast is to pedal faster, so don't worry about fancy parts. BMX takes a great deal of personal dedication and practice, not the most expensive bike. Don't splurge until you know you have been bitten by the BMX bug.
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