BMX Accessories –Top 3 Beginners Tips

Depending on the type of bike you buy will totally influence the type of BMX accessories and equipment that you’ll need. For example BMX as a sport can essentially be broken down into three sub categories - BMX racing (Bicycle Motocross), Freestyle, and Dirt Jumping.

Using my top three beginner’ s tips below will help you buy the right BMX accessories you’ll need to not only sure that you’re safe but also comfortable whilst out riding.

Tip 1 – Protective Gear

• Number one on your list should be a good quality helmet with enough padding to withstand head blows. The traditional bucket style helmet starts at around $30 and full face helmets at around $80.
• Secondly you should consider knee and elbow pads. Your knees and elbows are vulnerable during crashes and spills so adequate protection is a must. Good elbow pads start at around $20 and knee pads at around $20 to $40.
• Finally buy good fitting gloves to protect your hands from potential damage. Any decent pair will be priced at $20 and upwards. Note that gloves aren’t normally mandatory BMX gear but essential if you are competing over dirt tracks.

Tip 2 – Shoes and Clothing

• I totally recommend either a good pair of bike shoes or at the very least tennis shoes, so long as the shoes you wear are closed-toed and comfortable they should be fine. Open toed sandals are not recommended!
• BMX as a sport is typically informal so along as you wear good quality protective gear as described in Tip 1 above you can wear long sleeved shirts and jeans with no problems.

Tip 3 – Everything Else

• For true BMX racing you will need to purchase and fix a number plate to your bike.
• Always carry a decent BMX repair kit. The minimum any repair kit should include is a patch kit, CO2 canister or air pump, and small repair tools.
• For you freestylers you might want to consider building or buying a good ramp to practice on. Online prices for basic manufactured ramps start at around $250.
• Ok so you’ve got the bike and the gear where do you go to ride? Many towns have tracks and places to ride. If you are unsure where to go check online forums for a track near you or your local BMX dealer.

I hope the tips above help you formulate your first BMX accessory shopping list. Please remember that safety and comfort should be your number one priorities. Good luck and have fun!