Getting Started!

Ok, so you have decided you want to try BMX racing so what do you need to do?

The first thing to do is have a look at the club section of this site and see if there is a club near you.
By actually going to a club meeting you will be able to see what goes on and talk to people there who
will be willing and able to answer all of your questions.

Which Bike?

Any BMX or mountain bike is fine to begin with, the main thing being that it is in good condition with
no bits about to fall off, tyres pumped up, bars and chain tight etc. If it has a front brake you may want
to back it off a bit because you don't want to brake hard on the front in an emergency unless you
like eating dirt!

If you are going to get more serious about your racing then you are going to need the correct bike.

20" or 24" ?

The two most popular sizes of BMX you can go racing on are 20" or 24". This refers to the size of the
wheels. 24" bikes have larger frames aswell.

Technically you can race on any size bike at club level and under 6s can use an 18" like the one in the
picture, at national level.

The faster riders use 20" and there is a wider selection of bikes available in this size. 24" models,
known as Cruisers, are easier to ride and more stable over the jumps for beginners or older riders
like myself (30+).

There are plenty of fast people riding cruisers though and there are classes for all ages. Generally though
kids tend to ride 20".

Protecting Yourself!

If you are going to ride on a track it is a fact of life that you will crash. The best way to avoid injury is to
wear decent safety gear. The most important part of this is the helmet. A full face helmet is highly
recommended, although not compulsory at club level. Gloves should be the next thing on your list and
there are loads of decent pairs out there for around 20 quid and so no excuses!

I would also suggest you get some sort of knee/shin and elbow padding, but you do not need these
to race.

Your best bet is to ask at your local track.