How to Build Your Own BMX Bicycle

Building your own BMX bicycle is a complex task that involves choosing the best components, knowing which components are compatible with each other and assembling each component as part of a safe, functioning and professional-looking bike. A BMX bicycle that you made yourself can be a source of pride. Customizing and building your own BMX bicycle can be a fun and rewarding challenge, but requires adequate knowledge of bicycle construction, maintenance and materials.

Things You'll Need

  • Bicycle frame (aluminum or chromoly steel)
  • Wheels
  • Tires
  • Green grease or Teflon grease
  • Allen wrench
  • Cassette
  • Component kit (includes derailleurs, shifters, brakes, chain and crankset)
  • Clipless pedals
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a lightweight frame to provide for a swifter ride. Most BMX bicycle frames are made of either aluminum or of chromoly steel because these materials can withstand the stresses of BMX riding.

    • 2

      Choose wheels and tires that are compatible with each other. Use wheels at least 20 inches in diameter and with at least 36 spokes to sustain the impact and stresses of BMX riding. Choose tires that provide a safe grip to the terrain while accommodating your optimal rolling speed. Set the tires onto the rim of the wheels.

    • 3

      Apply green grease or Teflon grease to the rear wheel and tighten the cassette to the rear wheel using a cassette lock ring tool.

    • 4

      Choose a bicycle seat that is comfortable and a seat post that accommodates your build. Lubricate the seat post and lubricate the area where it will attach to the bicycle frame. Insert the seat post onto the bicycle frame and use an Allen wrench to tighten the nuts that will hold it in place. Attach the seat to the seat post and tighten the nuts using an Allen wrench.

    • 5

      Use an Allen wrench to bolt the stem to the steering tube or fork. Attach the handlebars to the bicycle frame using a bolt, washer and nut.

    • 6

      Secure the shifters onto the handlebars and tighten them using an Allen wrench.

    • 7

      Install the front brake set and the rear brake set through the bicycle frame and tighten them using an Allen wrench. Install the brake cables.

    • 8

      Lubricate the clipless pedals and use a 15mm wrench to tighten them to the cranks.

    • 9

      Lubricate the threads of the bottom bracket and tighten it against the shell on the drive side.

    • 10

      Secure the derailleur gears onto the bicycle frame. Use derailleur gears that are at least 36/13 for a BMX bicycle. Install the derailleur cables.

    • 11

      Run the chain through the chain ring and the derailleur gears to measure the length you'll need. Cut the required length of chain, leaving up to three additional links in the chain between the large cassette cog and the large chain ring.