Things You'll Need:
- BMX bike
- Bike tool kit
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Step 1
Remove any extraneous parts from your BMX bike. This would include kickstands, grind pegs, fenders, chain guards, bike horns and especially handlebar streamers. It does not add to your intimidation factor when a sparkly rainbow is dangling from your bike. Check to see if your frame is in good condition by looking for cracks in the metal, especially around the weld lines where the metal parts join. Not only is a cracked frame dangerous, but it will also keep you out of a BMX race.
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Step 2
Look around for local BMX races near you. Give yourself some time to order parts and apply them to your bike. If a race is coming up the next day and you still have just a stripped down bike, you’ll probably want to look for another race. This step comes first because the organization hosting the race you are interested in will affect how you go about fulfilling step three.
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Step 3
Check the organization’s website for rules as far as required equipment and bike specifications. The largest sponsors of BMX races are the AMA and the NBL. Their websites are in the Resources section. Most of the rules are fairly uniform such as the handlebars cannot exceed 28 inches and the wheel circumference cannot exceed 20 inches. There may be some slight differences, though, so read the rules carefully.
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Step 4
Order parts from a local bike store or an online retailer. It’s best to go to an actual bike store and talk to a salesperson there. He can recommend the right gear for your specific preferences and needs. An online store is helpful for its convenience, but it will require more than an introductory knowledge of BMX racing. You’re definitely going to need a helmet with a full face mask (like a motocross helmet) and a number plate to attach to your handlebars. Racing pants and jerseys are not always necessary.
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Step 5
Apply all the parts you’ve ordered to your bike. This can mean doing as much as changing everything but the frame or just simply adding new tires and a handlebar. The labor isn’t very difficult. But if you don’t have the right tools and don’t want to spend the money to purchase them, the people at your local bike shop will be glad to help. However, if you wish to continue BMX racing, you should eventually buy your own tools.
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Step 6
Test your set up by riding around the yard or the block. Watch out for any loose or wobbly parts such as the wheels, the crank arm (which connects the pedal to the chain wheel) and the handlebars. Also listen for any odd squeaking or groaning that may indicate a poorly assembled part. Other things come down to rider preference such as the positioning of your handlebars, the tension on the brakes and the crank arm length (this can only be adjusted by buying a new crank arm).
