Faq's Of Bmx Bike Racing
December 4th, 2008

When it comes to the sport of BMX Bike Racing, like with any sport, there are a number of questions that come up consistently. Knowing the answers to such questions can help you make that jump from novice to semi-pro, or from professional to the top. Here are a few of the questions that show up often and the answers that will help you get past them.

What can be done about a clicking or skipping crank on my BMX bike?

One thing to do is take the actual cranks apart, clean out all of the old grease inside, re apply lubricant on it and put the whole thing back together again. If, after the process, you are still getting a clicking noise, your cranks may be worn down or actually broken. The skipping is its own problem, and should be addressed immediately since a skipping crank can cause quite a spill. Check to see that your chain is in good shape or you may have to just replace cranks and chain to prevent future skipping.

I just got a new BMX bike frame, and in the technical information I keep seeing the abbreviation, B.B. What does that stand for?

B.B. is short for Bottom Bracket. That is the portion of the bike frame where the cranks go in. There are four different types of bottom bracket, and each is a different size. These can range from Euro-style, Spanish-style, Mid-style, and American style BB's available.

Does the position of your handlebars affect bunny hops and other tricks?

The simple answer is yes, but not in a good or bad way. Whether your handlebars are forward or back will just change the technique you use in performing your tricks and the way they feel to you. The position of your handlebars should be whichever one feels best to you. Find a comfortable setting and stick with it so that you will get a feel for how each of your tricks is best executed.

Are three-piece cranks better than one piece cranks?

As a general rule, in BMX biking, three-piece cranks are going to be better. They are stronger to put up with the heavy abuse that BMX racing and freestyle environment. In addition, they are easier to install and work with. The three-piece cranks are going to cost you more money, but if you are serious about BMX biking it is certainly more than worth the investment. With a one-piece crank you may find yourself replacing it with alarming regularity.

My child wants to get into BMX racing, how do I know which bike to get him? Is there some sort of guideline to look at for help?

There actually is. Make sure you do all the necessary research before you buy a bike so that you get the right one. Remember that a BMX bike is not like a pair of shoes. You do not want your child to try growing into the bike. If it does not fit your child, it can actually hurt him. Ask at a BMX shop or at a local track to get guidelines that will help you select the right bike for your child.

I am just starting in BMX bike racing, what type of clothing do I need to have?

You will need long pants for sure. Racing pants will be better and protect you more, but at the very least most tracks will require that you wear some sort of long pants. For the same reasons you will also need a long sleeve shirt. Many injuries that happen in BMX racing are related to scrapes. So, long sleeves and pants are part of the protection. In addition, you will needs a full-face helmet with a chin strap on it. The head always needs to be protected, and a traditional bike helmet does not work for BMX. You need a face cover and the special design of that a true BMX helmet provides.

What are some of the customization required for a bike to be track ready at most BMX facilities?

Most will require that you remove fenders, reflectors, chain guards, and kickstands from your bike. For safety, you will also likely need to have pads on the goose neck and handle bar cross in case you are thrown forward. Handlebars must have grips that cover the meal on the end and your frame should be crack and damage free. Make sure that your brakes are in good condition as well

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