All About BMX Bikes: A Simple Overview
Different types of bikes are available in the market for different purposes like exercise, transportation, and recreation. Similarly, BMX bikes are designed for off-road racing but the construction and working of these bikes are different from other bikes.
What is a BMX bike?
BMX stands for “Bicycle Motocross.” BMX racing is a type of off-road racing that takes place on dirt tracks. BMX bikes are designed for use in this type of racing, and they are very different from other types of bicycles.
To provide you with more knowledge about these astounding bikes, I have prepared a list to tell you all the crucial features of these bikes. So let’s begin without any delay.
What is a BMX bike used for?
BMX is the abbreviation of Bicycle Motocross and is categorized as the best bike for racing on dirt tracks. Their size is small compared to the regular bikes and is almost different from normal bikes. These bikes are equipped with single-speed, 20-inch wheels and the most essential responsive brakes for stopping the bikes while racing.
In comparison with other bikes, these are the best picks to ride with differential features. When you are going to snap out the best bike for BMX racing then you must be aware of the proper specifications of these bikes. You must know the difference between BMX, MTB, and other transportation bikes, and what size BMX bike do I need?
Components of a BMX Bike
The main features of the BMX bike include its framing, braking system, its seat, pedals, and many more. For the prolonged use of the bike, it must have a durable build and convenient maneuverability.
Frame
Different bikes are made up of different materials but mind it this materialization must be sturdy and lightweight. Generally, these bikes are made up of chromoly steel, aluminum, and steel alloys. Their sleek and exotic designs make them stylish and decrease their weight. Different bikes are emerging with unique designs and geometries.
Wheels and Tires
What size is a BMX bike? These wonderful bikes come up with 20-inch wheels for stable rides including freestyle, dirt track, and many others. Along with these wheels, the bike is also equipped with knobby tires to ensure traction and enhance shock absorption.
Their wheels are the perfect example of durability and high-pressure tires are perfect for responsiveness and speed.
Brakes
Moreover, these bikes are equipped with the desired braking system. From the total of three brakes i.e. U-brakes, V-brakes, or disc brakes, you can choose the bike according to your desired braking system.
Most rear brakes are found in these bikes but some of these can be equipped with front brakes also. The handlebars of the bikes have brake levers for ease of access for the rider while riding.
Handlebars and Grips
Furthermore, handlebars and grips are crucial components of BMX bikes. Their handlebars are constructed of steel and aluminum alloy to certify the prolonged use and sturdiness of the bike. Different handlebars are available according to the desire and style of the rider. Also, the grips are made of rubber for accurate grip on the handle for controlling the bike conveniently.
Seat and Post
If the seat is hardly constructed then it can be tiring for the rider to enjoy the long-distance rides. Therefore, the seats are made up of soft and foamy material for added comfort. For strength, the seat post has steel or aluminum construction. These seats are easy to adjust according to the height and size of the ride for added convenience.
Pedals and Cranks
Along with all the above-mentioned features, the pedals and cranks of the bike are also notable. Pedals are mostly made up of plastic or metal and cranks are a buildup of steel or aluminum alloy. The crank’s length can vary according to the size of the rider.
Types of BMX bikes
Different types of BMX bikes are emerging in the market with different riding styles and designs. Some of those top-notch bikes are mentioned below.
Racing BMX
If you want to procure a BMX bike that is suitable for racing on dirt tracks then racing BMX is the accurate pick. These bikes have aerodynamic framing and low weight to enhance the speed of the rider while going on the dirt tracks.
These bikes have smooth but narrow tires for trifling resistance. Moreover, these bikes have quick speed and maximum acceleration due to quality gears. These bikes just have rear brakes.
Freestyle BMX
On the flip side, if you want to procure a bike that is accurate for performing stunts on the rails then freestyle BMX bikes are okay. With sturdy framing and high impact of shock absorption, these bikes are counted as the best pick for tricks and stunts.
When it comes to the tires, these BMX have broad and knobby tires to attain accurate traction on different surfaces. To resist the tangling of the brakes, these freestyle bikes have a gyro system sometimes. These can be equipped with both front and rear brakes.
Dirt Jump BMX
When you want to jump on the trails then freestyle and racing BMX bikes are not acceptable. For this purpose, you need to go for the dirt jump BMX bikes as these bikes are specifically designed for these jumps and tricks.
Along with high impact landing capacity, these mind-blowing bikes have robust build. To ensure stability on loose surfaces, these are designed with wide and knobby tires as well. For secure maneuverability, these BMX bikes have rear brakes only.
Flatland BMX
Furthermore, there are different types of bikes available for showing several tricks on flat surfaces. For maximum stability and secure use, these flatland bikes have shorter frames and small wheels than all other bikes. Also, the tires of these bikes are durable and smooth for added traction and comfort while landing on flat surfaces.
Park BMX
The last type of BMX for riding in skateparks is park BMX bikes available. These bikes have lightweight framing for maximum maneuverability for showing stunts in parks. For enhanced speed on smooth surfaces, the bikes are equipped with broad and smooth tires. Along with traction, a gyro system is available in these bikes for spinning the handlebars.
What are the benefits of riding a BMX bike?
Bike riding is not only helpful for recreation but also it is best for proper blood circulation in the body. Due to this circulation, your muscles become active and agile to take part in many other activities. Let’s have a look at the different benefits of riding BMX bikes.
Physical Health Benefits
For physical fitness, bike riding is an amazing activity. Bike riding is perfect for the fitness and endurance of your cardiovascular muscles. While riding, your legs, arms, and core muscles are involved to enhance the strength of the muscles. This exercise is possible when you do constant pedaling and maneuvering. To balance your body weight and live a healthy life, you should ride BMX bikes regularly.
Mental Health Benefits
Moreover, bike riding helps people to reduce the impact of stress and tension on their minds. While riding, you will feel a sense of enthusiasm, fun, and freedom. Also learning new skills and tricks for riding a bike can help you to develop confidence and self-esteem.
When you ride with groups or your friends, it is also the best option to make different social connections.
Skill Development
It’s not only fun to enjoy but also an activity to learn different skills including mental and physical skills. These skills comprised stability, control, and coordination plus focus and activeness.
It also teaches you how to come out of a problem while riding or how to ride on a new track for added traction.
Accessibility and Affordability
For beginner riders, these bikes are easy to control and affordable to learn skills. These bikes can be used in any sort of area having different tracks. So, people can easily enjoy recreation with the assistance of these amazing bikes.
Tips for BMX biking beginners
There are several tips to follow for secure and comfortable rides. Have a look at these tips for further guidance.
Start to Slow and Build Confidence
Always start with the basic skills to progress toward the advanced level. You need to do regular practice braking, taking turns, and handling the pedals. Don’t try to perform tricks until you are fully skilled.
Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
While riding, it is essential to wear proper safety gear like helmets, gloves, knee, and elbow pads. It would be best if you also use a shin guard and mouthguard for added protection. These safety gear will protect you from bad injuries if you slip while riding.
Learn from Experienced Riders
To know more skills, you should connect with the advanced riders in the BMX community. They will surely guide you with beat tips and observe your skill level and try to enhance your confidence and skills as well.
Practice Consistently
If you don’t practice a task regularly then it is not possible to attain a grip on it. That’s why, if you want to take your bike riding to the next level then, you must have to practice bike riding regularly to increase your confidence.
Wrapping up what is a BMX Bike?
We all are aware of the regular bikes for transportation and MTBs for recreation. But many people don’t know what is a BMX bike. For off-road riding, BMX bikes were used tremendously in the past but now the time for BMX bikes is back and these are again gaining their name in the market.
What features do you want in your BMX bike? If you want to add more to this information then please share it in the comment box below. Thank you!