Keys to BMX Racing

The keys to BMX racing are patience and persistence. Like any sport, mastering BMX requires extensive practice. Once you have developed proper bike control, there are multiple racing techniques you also have to master in order to excel in competitive BMX. Remember that BMX racing is an extreme sport that poses dangerous conditions to the rider, so always wear proper safety gear when practicing or racing. This includes a full-face helmet and body pads.

  1. Bike Setup

    • One of the keys to BMX racing is a proper bike setup. Racing frames feature lightweight aluminum piping with a geometry that emphasizes quick maneuverability. The frames generally feature a seat stay-mounted V-brake system, while a front brake is not used. Deeply knurled tires supply proper grip on dirt surfaces. The gear ratio is also important, as it dictates the acceleration and top speed of your bike. A typical chainring to driver tooth ratio is 39 to 14, as this allows for well-rounded acceleration characteristics. For competitive racing, you will also need a handlebar number plate.

    Practice

    • There are various techniques you can practice at home to develop bike control. Set up a line of cones or other visual obstacles and practice weaving your bike through the empty spaces. Work at increasing your speed through the cones, as this will help you maneuver your bike in high-speed racing situations. Locate a bike trail and go on long rides to increase your stamina. Also, practice sprint runs by accelerating as fast as you can from a stop. This will help you start out strong in a competitive race and maintain your energy until the finish.

    Techniques

    • In addition to basic bike control, there are specialized racing techniques you must master. On a racetrack, the sharp turns feature an elevated berm. This is a curved extension of the track that follows the edge of the turn. To carry maximum speed through a turn, enter the berm at an angle while leaning your body toward the track. Then, pump your knees to add to the momentum of your bike as it enters the apex of the berm. For dirt jumps, a similar technique is used. Pump your weight to maximize momentum when climbing the jump, then keep your bike as low as possible while in the air to minimize the distance you travel. Use your arms and body to angle your bike in the air so the tires meet the landing smoothly, then pump your weight into the curvature of the landing so you exit with maximum speed.

    Track Racing

    • Locate a nearby BMX racetrack to schedule an on-track practice or racing session. Though other practice methods are beneficial, one of the keys to BMX racing is firsthand experience on the track. It takes extensive practice to navigate a racetrack at high speeds while in close proximity to other riders. To properly apply the racing skills you've practiced, you must be comfortable with racing in a group of riders while focusing on your speed and technique. It also helps to memorize the track layout beforehand so you're not caught off guard by any of the obstacles.