How to Build a BMX

BMX bicycles are a superior source of exercise that support endurance racing, freestyle ground-trick competition, and “big air” competition. Your first step to building a BMX bike should always be to compile a list of necessary parts. Remember, you will have a multitude of choices when it comes to mixing and matching those parts, so be specific with your list. Once your list is complete, search for the availability of parts and then compile necessary tools that will aid you in the building process.

Things You'll Need

  • Necessary parts
  • Non-necessary parts
  • Tools
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Instructions

    • 1

      Compile a list of necessary (and non-necessary) parts. The most important part on your list should be the frame. Frames vary in color, size, shape and weight. A lighter frame will allow you to more easily perform difficult tricks and get “big air,” but will also be more susceptible to damage. The same goes for the fork and handlebars of your BMX bike. Purchase a strong fork (and stem) that will be fully bend-resistant and handlebars that spin smoothly in a 360 degree motion. You will also need pedals, a crank arm and sprocket, a seat (plus the post and clamp), two tires and two wheels, grips, a freewheel and a chain.

    • 2

      Locate the necessary tools. You will need both a 17mm and 19mm socket wrench, along with flathead screwdrivers, channel lock pliers, and a set of Allen keys. Each of those tools is an essential piece in the completion of your BMX bike. You may always need a vice grip and air pump (manual or compressor).

    • 3

      Attach the fork to the frame. You may need to hammer the fork together before you attach the fork to the frame. Attach your selected bearings to the fork and then attach the frame. After you have attached the fork to the frame, you will need to attach the stem to the frame. Only after the aforementioned parts are put together should you attach the handlebars to your BMX bike.

    • 4

      Attach the BMX seat. Always attach in the order of the seat post first, followed by the seat clamp and then the actual seat. When you have successfully attached the fork, stem, handlebars and seat fixtures to your BMX bike, turn it upside down and prepare to add the cranks and pedals.

    • 5

      Add the necessary bearings, cranks, and pedals to your BMX bike. You may need to add some form of lubricant to any part of the bike that requires a bearing or steel-post insert. Do not forget to add the sprocket to the cranks before you attach them to your frame.

    • 6

      Add wheels to your BMX bike frame. Always use the necessary sockets to attach your wheels to the frame. Attach your chain to the rear sprocket of your BMX bike before you attach the rear wheel.