WHAT DO I NEED TO RACE?

In order to take part in a BMX race there's a few things that you're going to need:

BIKES

You're definitely going to need some kind of bike to compete in a BMX race. A BMX is best suited to the job, but some smaller races such as Club and Regional events will let you compete on a mountain bike. There are several different sizes of BMX, and which one you will need is dependant on your age. See below for an explanation of the different types. It's also worth thinking about what you're going to use your BMX for, as certain designs can be used at trails/skateparks as well as for racing. Although you can race on a bike designed purely for dirt/freestyle, they tend to be a little heavier and may have slightly different frame geometry. When you come to race, items such as stunt pegs, chain guards and kickstands must be removed, so as not to injure other riders or damage their bikes.

You must also check your bike over regularly for any signs of wear or parts that will need replacing. Check your brakes work well enough to stop you (ideally so you can skid the back wheel), check your chain is tight and that your tyres are pumped up to the recommended pressure. Also check that your wheels are done up tightly, and that your headset and bottom bracket aren't loose and rattling.

If you're unsure of what to buy, it is worth while visiting a bike shop run by experienced racers such as Tibbs Cycles of Canterbury which is owned/run by ex and current BMX racers. Alternatively you could contact an online store such as Alans BMX who have over 25 years experience in BMX racing, or The Source which is a rider owned/run shop. The price of a good beginners BMX will be roughly £200-300, but there are also good second hand bikes regularly for sale at races and on www.bmxtalk.com. If you'd like anymore information about buying a bike please get in contact with us.

TYPES OF RACE BMX

These are the smallest sized bikes for the youngest riders. You can either choose a factory built bike or build one to your own specification… These bikes will suit children between the ages of 4 and 7.

The junior sized bikes will cater for the 7 to 10 year old age group, the frame gets a bit longer and the wheel size moves up to 20 x 1 3/8ths.

The expert sized frame is used for those needing a slightly smaller frame in the 11-14 year old age group, some riders may move up to a Pro size frame at this age but for those not needing the extra room this size frame will be more than suitable.

As the wheel size moves up to 20 x 1.75 so the frame length stretches to accommodate the larger rider. The combinations at this size are endless and it really comes down to personal choice here. Factory built bikes or build yourself options are widely available in the Pro sized bikes.

The second discipline of BMX racing is CRUISER racing, this category races on larger 24” wheeled bikes that vary in size as with the 20” bikes, but in theory all the same specifics relate to these bikes as well.

PROTECTION

If you race BMX you're going to fall off at some point so you might as well be prepared for it when it happens.

Helmet
The most important item of all is a good quality helmet to protect your head. The official rules of racing require you to wear a helmet which comes down to cover your ears, but we'd recommend a full face helmet - if you don't understand why, just take a moment to imagine your face dragging down a gravel covered track. You can pick up a decent one of these up at most bike shops, or you could buy a motocross helmet which is heavier but more protective. As with all helmets you must check that it fits securely and doesn't wobble from side to side, or up and down. If it doesn't fit properly it may slide over your eyes in a race, or it may even come off when you crash!

Pads
We'd also recommend that you wear some kind of body protection which can range from knee/elbow pads to full on padded jackets. Although this kind of protection can be a little restrictive when riding, you'll certainly appreciate how effectively it can stop bruises and scratches when you crash. It will also make you feel a lot safer, which may help with confidence. Again, this can be purchased from most good bike shops.

Clothing
Clothing-wise, the rules state that the minimum you must wear is a long sleeve top and full length trousers. This can be a long sleeve t-shirt/jumper and jeans if you want the 'cool and understated' casual look. If you want to go for the 'Factory Jackson' look, you can buy specific race clothing or motocross pants and jersey which are normally designed to be fairly light and sometimes more protective. They may also promote increased airflow over your body, cooling you down. This really is a matter of personal preference.

Footwear
On your feet it's best to wear trainers, and skateboard style shoes usually have soles designed to give better grip.

Gloves
The BMX racing rules also state that you must cover your hands, and there is a huge selection of BMX/motocross gloves available to buy.

This should ideally be a full-face Motocross style helmet and should be tight fitting and be able to be fastened securely.

This should be long sleeved and made of a sturdy construction. Motocross style race jerseys look great but are not necessary.

These again should be of sturdy construction and cover the full leg, no shorts allowed. Jeans or Motocross style trousers are suitable but should offer good protection in case of a fall.

A good strong pair of BMX/Motocross gloves is essential to give the protection needed.

Elbow, Knee and Shoulder pads are available and advised but not compulsory. Different sizes to suit all are available from all good bike shops.