BMX bicycle racing has become a exciting and adventurous sport for all ages.  Those who are contemplating getting started need to remember a couple of factors.  The first is that everyone had to start new at some point so don’t be intimidated.  The next is take some time to find out what is needed and what you are committing to.  Get the right equipment and clothing, all the knowledge you need and then practice, practice, practice.  You soon will be riding like a Pro.  Here are just a few basics to get you off to a good start on this adrenaline pumping sport.

The most important part of this sport is the bike.  You need to get one that is BMX track configured.  This starts with the wheel being no larger than 20 inches.  You will then will remove for your safety and also that of the other riders, you need to remove the fenders, kickstands, reflectors, chain guard and the kickstand.  You must then put pads on the handle cross bar, gooseneck, and top tube.  The frame can not have any cracks and needs to be in excellent shape with no cracks.  If you are not sure if you are looking at the correct bike or have any other questions just ask a local BMX shop.

The next step to getting involved is your clothing.  Long pants are a must; racing pants are the best as they offer the best protection.  However; in the beginning they just need to be long pants to keep costs down a bit at first.  To go along with the pants, a long sleeved jacket or shirt.  As above racing attire is the best choice but just making sure your arms are protected from cuts and scrapes will be adequate at first.  You also need to protect your face in case of an accident.  A full face helmet with a chin strap is required.  A normal bicycle helmet would not be sufficient.  It would actually get you kicked off of most tracks.

Prior to entering your first race, take the time to watch people who have experience and a good idea of what they are doing.  Check with any local tracks or BMX organizations in your area for clinics.  Professionals and high ranking amateurs can teach you a lot about your new sport.

It is not just a matter of pedaling faster than everyone else.  Watch people who are being successful in the sport.  See how they use their arms and legs.  Pay attention to where they pedal and where they coast thru the course.  See how they move their bodies over jumps.  Study different strategies and then practice, practice and more practice.  See what works for you and what doesn’t.

Technique is very important so as a new comer nice and easy at first is probably better than fast.  You will more than likely not win your first race so seeing how the race goes is more important than just pedaling as fast as you can.  The more you compete against people better than you the better you will become.  Your own racing techniques become more polished, and the fewer errors you will have.  As you gain ability and confidence the more you can focus on faster times.

You then need to focus on your starts from the gate.  At first it is best to us a one footed start. (This is where one foot is on a pedal and the other foot is on the ground)  As you acquire more experience you will be able to use the two footed start that most riders use. (This is a start with both feet on the ground)  You will want to practice this repeatedly and you should be comfortable with it within the first day if you are diligent.  No matter how long it takes to master it once you do, you will see a remarkable difference in times and results.