"BMX" stands for "bicycle motocross." Most tracks and leagues follow rules set by the American Bicycle Association (ABA), the largest governing body for BMX riders worldwide. This sport came into being during the 1970s when bicycle riders began doing jumps and "getting air," similar to motorcycle riders who do motocross. BMX riding is promoted as a family sport, according to the Sooner Pearl BMX Raceway of Oklahoma City.
Gear
A helmet is required in BMX riding. Riders also have to wear long pants, enclosed shoes and a long-sleeved shirt. Long shorts along with shim guards also became acceptable in 2009 under ABA rules.
Lane
Riders are required to use the lane assigned to them in every race. If a rider protests a rider who is in the wrong lane, the rider in the incorrect lane may be disqualified, according to the ABA.
Race Hold
A rider in a race can put a race on hold by placing her front wheel over the gate. This would be done if there's a question about safety equipment or another rider's lane position. The hold signal must be made prior to the starting cadence beginning.
Parent Assistance
Riders who are five years old or younger can be helped at the starting gate. The only help the kids can get is having the rear wheel placed between their assistants' legs. Hands can't be used to prop the riders up. Giving riders a push will lead to a disqualification. Parents can accompany riders age six and older through the staging area, but cannot help them out on the starting gate.
Going Off Track
If a rider goes off the track due to contact with another rider, the rider who exited the track has to re-enter it at the nearest spot that is safe to all riders and does not improve her position. If a rider exits the track of her own accord, she has to make sure that obstacles have been missed prior to returning to the track safely. A rider who deliberately forces another rider from the track is disqualified.
Finish
A rider gains a finish for a race when any part of his body or bike crosses the vertical plane of the finishing line--as long as he's in contact with his bike at the time, according to "The Sports Rules Book."
Conduct
Riders are assessed penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct. This includes cheating, being disrespectful to officials or other riders, physical violence, or lying about age or proficiency level.
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