These pages will explain what happens if you decide to have a go at BMX racing, the equipment you’ll need and what goes on at a BMX race event. If you need anymore information then feel free to email me or ask a question on the Decoy forum where you are sure to get a friendly & helpful reply.
The Bike
Having the correct bike for racing is not essential but will make life easier as your racing skills progress. Remember if you use a street type bike you will need to remove any stunt pegs before you can race it. A race BMX will generally have an alloy frame to reduce weight and will be available in various sizes to suit the rider. Frames sizes are as follows but each frame manufacturer will be slightly different so this is only a guide- ‘micro’ = 4 to 6 year old, ‘mini’ = 5 to 7 year old, ‘junior expert’ = 6 to 9 year old, ‘expert’ 8 to 10 year old, ‘pro’ pro xl & pro xxl will be for larger/older riders. Wheels on smaller bikes will be much narrower than a street bike but will all be 20” diameter, although Redline now make an 18” wheeled micro for really tiny racers. Handle bar height can vary but if you buy a complete bike will be the correct size for the frame. You should be able to buy a decent race ready kids BMX for less than £250. Check out what bikes other kids at the track are riding to help you work out what size you need.
The Gear
To ride at the track or enter a race you should have at least a helmet and gloves, arms and legs should be covered so this means either long sleeved shirt and long trousers or if you wear shorts and a short sleeved top you should wear knee and elbow guards. Full faced helmets are recommended but are not compulsory, it’s your face :-)
Shoes will be flat bottomed skate type shoes which work well with flat studded BMX pedals. Clip pedals can be used but they are best left for the more advanced riders.
Racing classes
When you first start out racing you can ride in the novice class, this class is specifically for beginners and means you won’t need a race license and you’ll get a small medal or trophy at most races. When you get a bit more confidence you can move up to the expert class, The age class a rider is eligible to ride is determined by his or her age, which is calculated by subtracting the rider's year of birth from the current year. Example: 2006 - 1995 = 11. A rider born in 1995 would race in the 11/12 Boys or 10-12 Girls. You will need a race license to ride in these classes and there is more information on age groups, and licenses here.
What happens at a BMX race event?
Click here to find out more....
Click here to find out more....
