Used BMX Bikes – Your Invaluable 5 Point Check List
BMX bikes can essentially be broken down into three categories – BMX (bicycle motocross), Freestyle, and Jump. Once you’ve decided what type of BMX riding you want to do buying a used BMX bike could save you dollars and bring that more expensive bike into your price range.
I've developed a quick check list for you below which you can print out and use to help you to buy the right bike for the right price. Take it with you to your local dealer or use it when searching for a used BMX bike on line.
Checkpoint One – Frame
- If you are going to compete in motocross you’ll need a lightweight frame made of aluminium
- Freestyle and jump bikes take more punishment so you’ll to ensure you have a sturdy, heavier frame
Checkpoint Two – Tires
- Freestyle bike are used more indoors and on pavement so ensure your tires are at least two and quarter inch or wider
- For BMX motocross speed and traction are essential so you’ll need knobbly tread
- Jump bikes need the heaviest tread tires for the most traction
Checkpoint Three – Wheels
- Jump bikes will need 36 sturdy 13 gauge spokes
- BMX motocross bikes with need 32 spoke lightweight aluminium wheels for speed
- Indoor freestyle bikes typically have mag wheels or 48 spoke
Checkpoint Four – Brakes
- Jump and BMX bikes need rear brakes only the latter requiring additional linear pull
- Freestylers will need to rotate their front wheels completely so along with front and rear brakes these bikes will also need a U-brake mechanism
Checkpoint Five – Safety
- Ensure that the reflector brackets, chain guard and kickstand have been removed and that the handlebar grips cover the metal on the handlebars
- The bike should have padding to the handlebar crossbar, stem, and frame top tube
- Don’t forget your bike helmet, knee and elbow pads, and a good repair kit which should at least contain a bike pump or CO2 canister, a patch kit, and repair tools
If you buy online don't be afraid to ask the seller for additional photographs of the bike if the seller is local if you can take the bike for a ride. Buying a used BMX on-line can be a rewarding experience and mean you get a good bike that may have been previously out of you price range. I hope that the check list provided above helps you out.
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!