BMX Bikes

What is a BMX bike?

Rugged rides with tricks in mind, BMX bikes are designed for stunts and racing, with handlebars that spin right round and typically a 20-inch wheel and a single gear. Low-slung and sturdy, they hold their own against most things they come up against and are a brilliant way of doing more with your bicycle.

What is the difference between a BMX bike and a regular bike?

Specialised for doing tricks rather than dealing with tough terrain, BMX bikes are single speed and have no suspension. This means that they’re not great for commuting, but what they lack in comfort, they make up for in durability and handling.

What are features of a BMX bike?

Like any bike, a BMX has a frame, wheels and tyres, brakes and gears but that’s about it. The frame is far lower than road bikes or mountain bikes, making it closer to the ground and easier to throw around for tricks. Wheels are typically only 20 inches (although you can find smaller 16-inch versions for younger children and 24-inch versions for urban riding) and there’s usually only one gear.

What does BMX stand for?

BMX stands for Bike Motocross. Taking inspiration from the jumps and tricks found in motocross racing, a physically demanding motorcycle sport involving steep jumps and sand or mud obstacles.

Are BMX bikes good for beginners?

BMX bikes are great for beginners thanks to their durability and single gear. This makes them easy to get to grips with and sturdy when encountering scuffs or scrapes. Durable, highly responsive and easy to maintain, they are robust and great for learning on. They can be a little sensitive compared to hybrids or road bikes but if you’re just setting out you won’t know the difference. Beyond this, they’re good for learning tricks too, making them great for children and teenagers seeking thrills rather than adults wanting something to commute on.

What tricks can you do on a BMX bike?

BMX bikes have a range of movement and tricks and flips can vary depending on skill level and practice. There are simple things to start out with like the bunny hop, jumping your bike on and off kerbs or over obstacles, to more advanced manoeuvres like 360s and tailwhips, which will take time and confidence to perform the necessary jumps to perfect these.

Key techniques involve spinning the handles and controlling the bike, or using the pegs to slide along rails (grinding), as well as building up air and performing aerial tricks. Many tricks are defined by specific movements so as you improve your riding skill, you can look up different tricks to perform.

What age is a BMX bike suitable for?

BMX bikes can be suitable for a wide array of people and age groups, starting from as young as three or four on smaller models that are 12-inches or 14-inches in wheel height. The standard 20-inch models are designed for teenagers and adults, but selection does depend on height, as well as skill level. 16-inch wheels can fit ages 4 to 6, and 18-inch wheels suited for 7 to 10 year-olds.

Check out our bike size guide to get a better understanding of what’s best for you.