How to Get the Right Gear and Accessories for BMX Racing

You've got to have the right gear if you want to race BMX. Use these steps to find the right setup.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• BMX Bike Brakes
• BMX Bike Forks
• BMX Bike Frame
• BMX Bike Gloves
• BMX Bike Parts
• BMX Bike Pegs
• Bike Jerseys
• BMX Bike Helmets
• BMX Bikes

1. Get grips that are comfortable and keep your hands from slipping off the bars. Be sure that the ends of the grips cover the ends of the handlebars.

2. Find handlebars that are about shoulder width, but no wider that 28 inches.

3. Choose platform pedals that will grip the bottoms of your shoes but still allow you to reposition your feet if needed.

4. Find the right crank-arm length. The most popular length is 175 millimeters.

5. Choose a gearing ratio (front sprocket to rear sprocket) that suits the race course and your riding style. A 44-tooth front sprocket with a 16-tooth rear sprocket is a good all-around combination.

6. Select tires that grip the track surface and allow for good acceleration and braking. Many riders use a wider tire in the front than in the rear.

7. Choose your other components, including frame, fork, wheels, seat and brakes, with weight, strength and price in mind.

8. Use pads on your top tube, stem and handlebar crossbar for protection in case of a crash.

9. Select riding pants that are durable, loose-fitting and comfortable. They should cover and protect your shins and knees. Racing pants called leathers work well because they have built-in pads.

10. Choose a long-sleeve jersey that is also durable, loose-fitting and comfortable. The jersey should cover and protect your elbows. Racing jerseys have built-in elbow pads.

11. Use gloves that will protect your hands if you fall, but stay away from gloves with a lot of padding in the palm - they will make it hard to grab the grips.

12. Wear sneakers with soft, flat soles if you are using platform pedals. Flat soles will allow your feet to move around on the pedals without getting caught.

13. Get a full-face helmet for maximum protection. It should fit comfortably without moving around when your head shakes.

14. Find a gear bag that will carry all of your riding equipment, clothes and tools.

Tips & Warnings

• When selecting any part, weight, strength and price are obvious key factors. Light parts make the bike easier to handle and accelerate. Strong parts will withstand all of the abuse that a BMX endures. And, unless you are rich, you need to stay in a certain price range. Shop around and check out what other riders are using.
• BMX racing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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