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Your Complete Guide to BMX Bikes

Everything you need to know about BMX bikes, from choosing your first
 ride to mastering advanced techniques. Discover the world of BMX with
 expert guidance from Freedom Wheels.
slider01_3350x_dfa9cdf1-bc04-438f-87d5-908a275cb9b0

Your Complete Guide to BMX Bikes

Everything you need to know about BMX bikes, from choosing your first ride to mastering advanced techniques. Discover the world of BMX with expert guidance from Freedom Wheels.

What is BMX?

BMX, short for Bicycle Motocross, originated in the late 1960s when kids began racing their bikes on dirt tracks mimicking motocross courses. Today, BMX has evolved into a diverse sport encompassing racing, freestyle, and recreational riding.

BMX bikes are characterized by their compact 20-inch wheels, single-speed drivetrain, and robust construction designed to handle jumps, tricks, and aggressive riding. The sport has grown from grassroots racing to an Olympic discipline and global freestyle phenomenon.

Olympic Sport

BMX Racing became an Olympic sport in 2008

BMX Quick Facts

  • 20-inch wheel standard

  • Single-speed drivetrain

  • Originated in California, 1960s

  • Multiple disciplines and styles

What is BMX?

BMX, short for Bicycle Motocross, originated in the late 1960s when kids began racing their bikes on dirt tracks mimicking motocross courses. Today, BMX has evolved into a diverse sport encompassing racing, freestyle, and recreational riding.

BMX bikes are characterized by their compact 20-inch wheels, single-speed drivetrain, and robust construction designed to handle jumps, tricks, and aggressive riding. The sport has grown from grassroots racing to an Olympic discipline and global freestyle phenomenon.

Olympic Sport

BMX Racing became an Olympic sport in 2008

BMX Quick Facts

  • 20-inch wheel standard

  • Single-speed drivetrain

  • Originated in California, 1960s

  • Multiple disciplines and styles

BMX Quick Facts

  • 20-inch wheel standard

  • Single-speed drivetrain

  • Originated in California, 1960s

  • Multiple disciplines and styles

BMX Bike Types

Understanding different BMX bike types is crucial for choosing the right ride. 
Each type is engineered for specific riding styles and environments.
  • Rectangle_159

    Freestyle BMX

    Designed for tricks, stunts, and creative riding

    Key Features:
    20-inch wheels          Single speed
    Strong frame             Gyro brakes
  • Rectangle_162

    Race BMX

    Built for speed and performance on BMX tracks

    Key Features:
    Lightweight aluminium frame Clipless pedals
    Racing geometry  Linear pull brakes
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    Dirt Jump BMX

    Specialized for jumping and landing on dirt trails

    Key Features:
    Reinforced frame Front suspension
    Wide handlebars  Strong wheelset
  • Rectangle_166

    Flatland BMX

    Fine-tuned for technical ground-based tricks

    Key Features:
    Specific geometry    Four pegs
    Gyro brake system    Lightweight build

BMX Bike Types

Understanding different BMX bike types is crucial for choosing the right ride. 
Each type is engineered for specific riding styles and environments.
  • Rectangle_159

    Freestyle BMX

    Designed for tricks, stunts, and creative riding

    Key Features:
    20-inch wheels          Single speed
    Strong frame             Gyro brakes
  • Rectangle_162

    Race BMX

    Built for speed and performance on BMX tracks

    Key Features:
    Lightweight aluminium frame Clipless pedals
    Racing geometry  Linear pull brakes
  • Rectangle_165

    Dirt Jump BMX

    Specialized for jumping and landing on dirt trails

    Key Features:
    Reinforced frame Front suspension
    Wide handlebars  Strong wheelset
  • Rectangle_166

    Flatland BMX

    Fine-tuned for technical ground-based tricks

    Key Features:
    Specific geometry    Four pegs
    Gyro brake system    Lightweight build

Choosing Your First BMX

  • Background

    Beginner

    Start with Freestyle BMX for versatility and learning basic tricks.
  • Background_1

    Intermediate

    Choose Street BMX if you want to tackle 
    urban obstacles and technical riding.
  • Background_2

    Advanced

    Racing or Dirt Jump BMX for specialised, high-performance riding.

BMX Bike Size Chart

Find the right bike size based on your height and riding style.
Rider's HeightAge RangeWheel SizeTop Tube LenghtBest For
3'0" - 3'8"3-5 years12"14" - 15"First bike, balance
3'8" - 4'2"5-7 years16"16" - 17"Learning tricks
4'2" - 4'8"7-10 years18"17" - 18"Intermediate skills
4'8" - 5'2"10-13 years20"19" - 20"Standard BMX
5'2" - 5'8"13+ years20"20" - 21"Adult standard
5'8"+Adult20" or 24"21" - 22"Tall rider, cruiser
Rider's HeightAge RangeWheel SizeTop Tube LenghtBest For
3'0" - 3'8"3-5 years12"14" - 15"First bike, balance
3'8" - 4'2"5-7 years16"16" - 17"Learning tricks
4'2" - 4'8"7-10 years18"17" - 18"Intermediate skills
4'8" - 5'2"10-13 years20"19" - 20"Standard BMX
5'2" - 5'8"13+ years20"20" - 21"Adult standard
5'8"+Adult20" or 24"21" - 22"Tall rider, cruiser

BMX Buying Guide

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    Research

    Understand your riding style and needs
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    Budget

    Set realistic expectations for your investment
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    Quality

    Choose reputable brands and dealers

Key Considerations 
When Buying

Frame Size & Geometry

Top tube length is crucial for comfort and control. Measure from your groin to the ground and use sizing charts. Generally: 20.5" for riders 5'4"-5'8", 21" for 5'8"-6'0", 21.25"+ for taller riders.

New vs. Used

New bikes offer warranties and latest technology. Used bikes can provide better value but require careful inspection of frame integrity, bearing condition, and component wear.
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Key Considerations 
When Buying

Frame Size & Geometry

Top tube length is crucial for comfort and control. Measure from your groin to the ground and use sizing charts. Generally: 20.5" for riders 5'4"-5'8", 21" for 5'8"-6'0", 21.25"+ for taller riders.

New vs. Used

New bikes offer warranties and latest technology. Used bikes can provide better value but require careful inspection of frame integrity, bearing condition, and component wear.

Budget Ranges

Entry Level

($200-400)
Basic components, 
suitable for casual riding

Mid Range

($400-800)
Basic components, 
suitable for casual riding

High End

($800+)
Basic components, 
suitable for casual riding

Essential BMX Parts & Components

Understanding every part of your BMX bike helps you make best decisions about upgrades and maintenance.

Frame

The backbone of your BMX bike, typically made from chromoly steel or aluminium

Top tube length

Chainstay length

Head tube angle

Bottom bracket height

Wheels & Tyres

Standard 20-inch wheels with various tyre patterns for different riding styles

Hub quality

Rim width

Spoke count

Tyre tread pattern

Drivetrain

Single-speed system with chain, sprocket, and cranks

Gear ratio

Chain strength

Crank arm length

Bottom bracket type

Handlebars

Available in various heights and widths to suit riding style and body size

Rise height

Width

Backsweep angle

Material strength

Brake Systems

BMX brake systems give you control, safety, and style for every ride

Brake Types

Brake Pads

Gyro Systems

Levers & Cables

Safety First

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    Helmet

    Choose CPSC or SNELL certified helmet
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    Knee & Elbow Pads

    Protects knees and elbows from scrapes
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    Gloves

    Improves grip and protects hands
  • Group_157

    Shin Guards

    Protect against pedal strikes

Remember: BMX riding involves inherent risks. Always wear appropriate safety gear and ride within your 
skill level. Progress gradually and consider taking lessons from experienced riders.

Regular BMX Maintenance Schedule

Before Every 
Ride

  • Check tyre pressure

  • Test brakes (if equipped)

  • Check handlebars are tight

  • Quick visual inspection for loose parts

Weekly 
Checks

  • Brake Function

  • Chain lubrication

  • Check spoke tension

  • Tyre pressure and wear

Monthly
 Tasks

  • Inspect cables

  • Check all bolts

  • Deep clean bike

  • Check wheel trueness

Seasonal 
Service

  • Service bearings

  • Professional tune-up

  • Replace worn components

  • Replace cables and housing

If you notice cracked frame components, loose headset, grinding sounds from bearings, 
or any safety-critical issues, take your bike to a qualified BMX mechanic immediately.

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Address

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Email

flynn@freedomwheelscycles.com

Phone number

0403 760 851