The first-time buyer of a BMX race bike can be forgiven for being utterly bewildered by the range of options on show. Walk into any store or trawl the BMX bike offers online, and you will find scores of bikes for every occasion.
The sheer range can be intimidating, with bikes for every riding style, from dirt and street bikes to freestyle and racing bikes. Manufacturers display a range of accessories and a vast assortment of colours to lure customers into buying their perfect BMX machine.
However, the term BMX embraces many flavours and will cover heavy bikes and lightweight machines. Some have heavy-duty wheels, and others have thicker axles, different gear systems, a broad range of brakes or no brakes at all.
The term BMX itself has a plethora of options, categories and genres, so it pays to do some research first to narrow down the possibilities and hone in on the best bike for your needs.
Decide on the type of bike
First, understand that BMX bikes fall into two main categories. It's crucial to nail down your requirements from the very start. There are two types of bike frames to choose from: Freestyle and Racing. Although the frames may look pretty similar, there are some crucial differences, and it pays to understand them.
Freestyle and Jump Bikes are designed to withstand a lot of punishment from the rider. Because freestyle machines will face a massive strain during use, their frames are much heavier, and each bike has 36-48 spokes.BMX racing bike frames look similar but are manufactured from lighter metals. This improves BMX race track performance and lends itself to everyday recreational use.
Jump bikes are ideal for rough handling, but they are harder to control in light recreational use, and they may have features you are unlikely to need for regular everyday biking. Once you pick the right BMX frame for your needs, choices become much more straightforward. But there are more vital decisions to make before making that all-important purchase.
Get the price point right
First, set your price point. Many excellent BMX bikes can be purchased for £300 – £400. Of course, you can find cheaper models, but lower-priced bikes are frequently made from inferior materials and need higher maintenance.
You can also pay well over £1,000 for a pro-BMX racing bike made of premium materials designed for maximum racetrack performance. Still, there is little point in paying for a top-of-the-range machine until you are an experienced and enthusiastic rider.
On the other hand, you may not have ambitions to be a top-flight pro-BMX racer, but spending more upfront on a performance machine can work out cheaper. It will increase your enjoyment of the sport and will last longer and be easier to maintain. So, make a reasoned choice based on your current ability and the depth of your pockets.
Don't forget the accessories
When setting a price, including the necessary accessories, such as a helmet, gloves and clothing, is crucial. Helmets are a must-have, while gloves provide maximum handling control. Clothing includes jackets, shorts and shoes, which improve riding ability and may have special safety features.
Whatever machine you choose, getting one that fits your size is vital. A bike that is too small will be difficult to ride and reduce your enjoyment of the sport. Size doesn't just depend on the wheel height but also includes the length of the top bar from the handlebars to the saddle. Generally, longer bars are better for taller riders.
Bike buying options
Here are some more tips for understanding the difference between various types of BMX bikes. It is so central to choosing a BMX bike that they are worth stating again. Freestyle BMX bikes will have sturdy, heavyweight frames designed to withstand the rough and tumble of stunt riding on dirt or the street. Freestyle BMX bike wheels will have stronger spokes and wide tyres to increase surface grip and may often have specialist braking systems to ensure cables do not get tangled during full-circle turns.
Jump versus freestyle
Jump BMX bikes are similar to freestyle bikes but have even stronger frames and wheels to withstand the shock of jump landings. They also have thicker, stronger wheel spokes. They usually have rear-wheel brakes only and often come without a saddle, as jump riders rarely need to sit when jumping.
BMX race bikes have lighter frames, thinner wheels, tyres, and fewer spokes. Racing bikes are designed for speed and acceleration first, with different wheel sprockets front and back to boost speed. Whatever bike is best for you, remember to do plenty of research first to ensure you buy the best BMX bike for your needs.
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For help with your BMX project, talk to Clark & Kent, specialist builders of BMX tracks and skateparks.
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