BMX Race Bikes
A History of BMX Race Bikes
BMX race bikes are a type of off-road bicycle used for racing and stunt riding.
They were originally designed to emulate motocross motorcycles, thus the name “bicycle motocross.”
BMX racing originated in the early 1970s in California, inspired by the motocross stars of the time.
Kids began racing their bikes on dirt tracks in Southern California, drawing influence from the motocross superstars of the era.
The first BMX bikes were essentially just existing bicycles that were modified for dirt track racing.
Riders added knobby tires for better traction and made other changes to make their bikes better suited for off-road racing.
The term “BMX” was coined by Scot Breithaupt, who is considered one of the founding fathers of BMX.
He also organized the first BMX races in 1970.
The sport quickly grew in popularity, and by the mid-1970s, companies were manufacturing bikes specifically for the sport.
In 1974, the National Bicycle League (NBL) was founded as a non-profit national sanctioning body for BMX racing in the United States.
That same year, Yamaha sponsored the first national BMX championship, further elevating the sport’s status.
The sport continued to grow and develop throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.
In 1981, the International BMX Federation was founded, and the first World Championships were held in 1982.
BMX was introduced into the mainstream by successful films such as E.T. and RAD.
In the 1990s, the sport began to receive more recognition.
In 1993, BMX racing became a part of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), which is the world governing body for sports cycling and oversees international competitive cycling events.
A significant milestone for BMX racing came in 2003 when it was included in the Olympic Games for the first time.
The debut Olympic BMX racing competition took place at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.
Throughout its history, BMX racing has evolved from a children’s pastime into a globally recognized and professionalized sport.
BMX bikes have also evolved, becoming lighter and more specialized.
Despite the changes, the sport’s emphasis on speed, agility, and aerial stunts has remained consistent.
Features of a BMX Race Bike
Bike Structure and Materials: Engineered for Speed
The structure of a BMX race bike is built for optimal performance on dirt tracks.
Lightweight yet sturdy frames, usually made from aluminum or carbon fiber, enable riders to reach maximum speeds while withstanding the rigors of the race.
The frame’s design typically features a longer top tube for improved stability and control during high-speed racing.
The standard wheel size for Race BMX bikes is 20 inches, favoring quick acceleration.
The tires are thinner and equipped with smaller knobs than those on freestyle or dirt jump BMX bikes, providing a smoother ride and better grip on packed dirt tracks.
Race BMX bikes use a larger chainring and smaller rear cog to attain high gearing essential for achieving top speeds on straightaways.
For reliable stopping power during high-speed maneuvers, these bikes come equipped with either V-brakes or disc brakes, essential for safety and control.
FRAME
A BMX race bike frame is designed to be sturdy, lightweight, and optimized for speed and control in challenging race conditions.
Material
BMX race frames are typically made of materials such as aluminum, chromoly (a high-strength steel alloy), and high-end models are made with carbon fiber.
Each material offers a different balance of strength, weight, and cost.
Aluminum is lighter and more affordable, but not as strong as chromoly.
Carbon fiber frames are the lightest and strongest, but also the most expensive.
Design
The frames are compact, with a low-slung design to lower the bike’s center of gravity, increase maneuverability, and allow for easier handling over jumps and in turns.
The top tube and down tube are typically straight and have a triangular configuration with the seat tube for added strength.
Size
BMX race bike frames come in a variety of sizes to accommodate riders of different ages and sizes.
The size is usually indicated by the length of the top tube, which can range from as little as 16 inches for bikes intended for young children, up to 21 inches or more for bikes designed for adults.
Geometry
BMX race frames have a specific geometry designed for racing. They typically have a steeper head tube angle (73 to 75 degrees) for responsive steering, and a shorter chainstay length for quick acceleration.
The bottom bracket is generally higher off the ground than on other types of bikes, to allow for clearance over obstacles.
Rear Dropouts
BMX frames have robust rear dropouts to withstand the pressure of landing jumps.
These can be either horizontal or vertical, with horizontal dropouts allowing for the fine adjustment of the rear wheel position for better control and speed.
The frame is the backbone of a BMX race bike, and its design greatly affects the bike’s performance. It must withstand a lot of stress, particularly during jumps and when landing, so the material and build quality are crucial. The frame’s geometry directly influences how the bike handles, and is therefore designed to meet the specific demands of BMX racing.
WHEELS
BMX race bike wheels are specifically designed for the demands of BMX racing, which involves high-speed sprints on dirt tracks with jumps and other obstacles.
Here are some key features:
Size
BMX race bike wheels are typically 20 inches in diameter, which is smaller than most other types of bikes.
This smaller wheel size allows for quicker acceleration and more maneuverability.
There are variations, however, such as the 24-inch wheels used in the Cruiser class of BMX racing, and smaller sizes for young riders.
Rims
The rims are usually made from aluminum for its blend of lightness and strength.
High-end rims may be made from carbon fiber, which is even lighter and stronger, but more expensive.
The rims on a BMX race bike typically have 36 or 32 holes for the spokes.
Spokes
The spokes on a BMX race bike wheel are often thicker and stronger than those on other types of bikes, to withstand the impacts of racing.
They are laced in a cross pattern for strength.
Tyres
BMX race bike tyres are typically knobby for better traction on dirt tracks.
They are generally wider and have a larger volume than road bike tyres to provide more cushioning for jumps and bumps.
However, they are narrower and have less aggressive tread than mountain bike tyres to reduce rolling resistance for faster speed.
Hubs
The hubs on a BMX race bike need to be very durable to withstand the rigors of racing. They are usually made from aluminum and have a large number of engagement points for quick acceleration out of the gate and after turns. Some high-end BMX race bikes use “cassette hubs” which have the gears built into the hub, providing more precise shifting and reducing the chance of chain derailment.
In general, the wheels of a BMX race bike are built to be strong, light, and quick. They need to withstand the impacts of jumps and turns, while also allowing for quick acceleration and precise control.
HANDLEBARS
The handlebars on a BMX race bike are a critical component as they allow the rider to steer and control the bike, as well as perform tricks during freestyle BMX.
Here are some characteristics of BMX race bike handlebars:
Material
BMX handlebars are typically made from chromoly steel or aluminium.
Chromoly steel is heavier but is often favored for its strength and durability, especially important for racing and freestyle BMX where the handlebars need to withstand significant impact and stress.
Aluminium handlebars are lighter, which can be an advantage for racing where every bit of weight reduction can help.
Shape and Size
BMX handlebars generally have a high rise (the distance from the base of the handlebar stem to the furthest point of the bar) compared to other types of bikes, and they’re wider.
This gives the rider more control and leverage, useful in racing for jumps, tight turns, and maneuvers.
The width of BMX handlebars usually ranges from 24 to 30 inches, and the rise ranges from 6 to 10 inches. The exact size often depends on the rider’s preference and body size.
Grips
Grips on BMX handlebars need to be durable and provide excellent traction for the rider’s hands.
They’re usually made of rubber or similar materials and often have patterns etched into them to improve grip.
These grips are essential for maintaining control over the bike in all weather conditions.
Crossbar
Most BMX handlebars have a crossbar between the two sides of the bar. This provides additional strength to the handlebar and can help protect the rider in case of a crash.
Overall, the handlebars of a BMX race bike are designed for maximum control and durability, allowing the rider to maneuver their bike with precision, whether they’re racing around a track or performing tricks in freestyle BMX.
SADDLE / SEAT
The saddle, or seat, of a BMX race bike is a smaller and sleeker version than those you might find on a typical road or mountain bike.
Key characteristics are:
Design
The design is typically slim and aerodynamic to minimize wind resistance and weight. The seat is generally kept low and out of the way, allowing the rider to move around easily on the bike, critical for maneuvering during a race.
Material
The saddle is usually padded and covered with durable, weather-resistant materials like synthetic leather or other synthetics. The padding is often minimal compared to other types of bike seats, as BMX racers spend much of their time standing on the pedals.
Seat Post
The saddle is attached to the bike frame via a seat post, which can be adjusted for height. However, in BMX racing, the saddle is typically kept low so it doesn’t interfere with the rider’s movement.
Attachment
The saddle is typically secured to the seat post with a clamp. Some BMX bikes use a ‘pivotal’ seat design, where the seat and post are one piece and the angle of the seat is adjusted by a bolt running through the top of the seat into the post.
In general, comfort is not the primary concern for a BMX saddle since the riders spend a lot of time off the saddle, standing on the pedals during races. Instead, the emphasis is on a design that will offer the least hindrance to the rider’s movement while providing enough support when needed.
PEDALS
The pedals on a BMX race bike are an important component as they provide the platform for the rider to generate power to the drivetrain and maintain control over the bike.
Here are some key features:
Material
BMX pedals can be made from a variety of materials including plastic (often referred to as ‘composite’), aluminum, or chromoly steel.
Each material has a different balance of strength, weight, and cost.
High-end BMX pedals may be made from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum or even titanium.
Type
Most BMX race bikes use platform pedals, as opposed to clipless pedals used in disciplines like road or mountain biking.
These provide a large surface area for the rider’s foot to ensure good grip and control.
Grip
To provide traction, BMX pedals usually have small pins sticking out from the pedal surface. These pins dig into the sole of the rider’s shoes and help keep the foot in place, particularly during jumps and tricks. Some pedals allow customization of these pins in terms of the number and placement.
Size
BMX pedals are generally wider and thicker than road bike pedals to provide a larger contact area for the rider’s foot. This offers more stability and control, which is crucial in BMX racing.
Bearings
BMX pedals use bearings where the pedal axle rotates within the pedal body. Some higher-quality pedals use sealed cartridge bearings which offer smoother rotation and require less maintenance than unsealed bearings.
In essence, BMX pedals are designed to offer excellent grip and control, with the ability to withstand the impacts and stresses associated with BMX racing. They are one of the three contact points between the rider and bike, and as such, are a vital component of the bike.
GEAR RATIO
With a BMX race bike, the gear ratio (the relationship between the number of teeth on the front chainring and the rear cog) is typically higher than that found on other types of bikes.
This higher gear ratio means that the rider has to put more effort into each pedal stroke, but the bike will go further with each revolution of the pedals.
This is beneficial in BMX racing where speed is crucial.
Here’s a bit more detail:
Chainring
This is the large sprocket at the front where the pedals and cranks are located. BMX race bikes usually have larger chainrings, often with between 40 to 46 teeth, although the exact number can vary depending on rider preference and the specifics of the race course.
Rear cog
This is the small sprocket on the rear wheel. On a BMX race bike, these are typically smaller and often have between 14 to 18 teeth.
By using a larger chainring and smaller rear cog, the bike will travel a longer distance with each pedal revolution, which can lead to higher top speeds – a crucial advantage in BMX racing. This setup, however, makes the bike harder to pedal from a standstill, but BMX races are often short and explosive, so riders need to generate maximum speed quickly.
It’s also worth noting that BMX race bikes typically use a single-speed drivetrain – that is, they have just one gear. This simplifies the bike’s mechanics and reduces the potential for mechanical issues during a race.
BRAKES
BMX race bikes typically use a specific kind of brake system due to the unique demands of the sport.
Some key aspects are:
Type of Brake
Most BMX race bikes use a U-brake or V-brake system, also known as a linear-pull brake.
This brake type is mounted on the frame and applies force to the wheel rim to slow down or stop the bike.
Location
Traditionally, brakes are mounted on the rear wheel for BMX racing.
This allows riders to maintain control while braking, as a front brake can potentially cause the rider to be thrown over the handlebars if applied too suddenly or forcefully.
Components
The brake system on a BMX bike includes a few key components.
The brake lever is mounted on the handlebars and is connected to the brake itself by a cable. When the lever is squeezed, it pulls the cable and activates the brake.
The brake pads are the part of the brake that comes into contact with the rim of the wheel to slow or stop the bike.
These are often made from a rubber-like compound.
Detangler
Some BMX bikes, especially those used for freestyle riding, include a mechanism known as a detangler or gyro that allows the handlebars and front wheel to rotate 360 degrees without tangling the brake cables.
In terms of maintenance, it’s crucial that the brake system of a BMX race bike is kept in good working order.
This includes regularly checking the brake pads for wear, making sure the cable is properly adjusted, and ensuring the braking surface on the wheel rim is clean and undamaged.
Respected Manufacturers of BMX Race Bikes
Redline
Redline is an American company that has been making BMX bikes since the early days of the sport in the 1970s. They have a wide range of BMX race bikes and have been a staple in the BMX racing world for decades.
GT Bicycles
GT has been a respected name in BMX racing since the 1980s. They sponsor professional riders and their bikes are known for their quality and performance.
Haro
Founded by Bob Haro, known as the “Father of Freestyle”, Haro Bikes has a deep history in BMX and offers a line of racing bikes that are well-respected in the industry.
Mongoose
Mongoose is another company with roots in the early days of BMX, and they continue to produce highly regarded BMX race bikes.
Chase Bicycles
Chase focuses specifically on BMX racing bikes. Co-founded by BMX racing legend Christophe Leveque, they offer high-end bikes used by professional racers.
DK Bicycles
Known for their quality and innovation, DK offers a range of BMX bikes, including several models specifically designed for racing.
Supercross BMX
Specializing in high-end BMX racing bikes, Supercross BMX is well-respected among serious racers for their attention to detail and performance-oriented designs.
SE Bikes
Founded by Scot Breithaupt, one of the pioneers of BMX racing, SE Bikes has a long history in the sport. They offer a range of BMX race bikes that are highly respected in the community.
Crupi
Crupi is a premium brand that has a strong focus on BMX racing. They are known for their high-quality components and frames.
Intense BMX
Part of the same company that makes Intense mountain bikes, Intense BMX focuses on creating high-performance BMX race bikes that are used at both amateur and professional levels.
Speedco
Speedco specializes in BMX racing and is known for its high-end, lightweight frames that offer superior performance on the track.
Box Components
While primarily known for their BMX components, Box also produces high-quality BMX frames designed for competitive racing.
Answer BMX
Another company primarily known for components, Answer BMX also makes a highly regarded line of BMX race frames.
Sunday Bikes
While Sunday is perhaps best known for their freestyle bikes, they also offer a BMX race model that’s respected in the industry.
Each of these manufacturers offers a unique blend of quality, performance, and design, giving riders plenty of options when it comes to choosing a BMX race bike that suits their specific needs and preferences.