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Are you looking to purchase a BMX bike for yourself, or a boys BMX bike for your kiddo? BMXs come in a variety of styles made for riding on different surfaces, and these different bikes with their nuanced features can be difficult to recognize. You can purchase high quality “complete” bikes. These bikes come already assembled with all the necessary equipment for riders of nearly all skill-levels and can be purchased from big retailers like Tesco, or smaller independent stores like Budget Bicycle Center. I was sent the following info to share as a way to help you pick the best fit for your family! Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing your BMX:
Recognize your style of riding
Today, most “complete” BMXs can be used across all disciplines of riding, but it is best to purchase one that will compliment your preferred style. There are three main types of set-ups to accommodate riders, and each has its own features and ideal uses.
Standard BMX
The Standard BMX is a dirt-ready race bike that features treaded tires, a lightweight frame, and strong rear bake. This style of bike is predominantly used for dirt-track and off-road racing.
Freestyle BMX
The Freestyle BMX is a sturdy trick and stunt bike, and its thicker frame and wheels, cable-detangling headset and breaks (allowing the front wheels and handlebars to rotate 360º without the break cables getting caught or tangled), and axle pegs make it best suited for riders who are looking to venture into the skatepark, or flat-landing in the street or car park.
Jumper BMX
The Jumper BMX is also often called a Dirt Jumper, and these tend to be a fusion between the Freestyle and Standard bikes. They feature a sturdy frame and wheels, rear brake, and treaded tires , and are suited for dirt trails and jumping ramps.
Sizing options
BMX Bikes are also available in different sizes, which usually fall under the categories of: Mini, Junior, Expert, and Pro. Here is a general outline for fitting yourself for a BMX, but you should also consult an assistant in-store for a final fitting.
Mini: Low standover height; 155 mm cranks; 20 x 1 1/8” tires. These bikes are usually suitable for five and six year olds.
Junior: Slightly larger frame than the mini;165 mm cranks; 20 x 1 3/8” tires. These bikes are usually suitable for seven to nine year olds.
Expert: Longer frame than the junior; 170 mm cranks; 20 x 1.75” tires. These bikes are usually suitable for ten to fourteen year olds.
Pro: Full size frame; 175-180 mm cranks; 20 x 1.75” to 2.2” tires. These bikes, depending on the size of the rider, are usually suitable for those age 14 and up.
When buying a BMX bike keep in mind that riding and tricks will tend to put a lot of pressure on its parts, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic bike maintenance to keep everything in good working order. Or if you are not mechanically minded then you can always purchase a shop service plan where you can have routine maintenance performed.
