The Basics of BMX

The sport of bmx began in the early 1970's in southern California. A handfull of riders started riding their stingray type bikes off road in vacant lots and fields. Not much competition but a lot of fun...Today, bmx is sweeping the country and the world. There are over 150,000 riders of all ages racing in organized races at permanent tracks across America. BMX racing is clean, exciting fun that whole families can get involved in whether as a racer, spectator, pit crew or track volunteer. BMX has something to offer everyone...Races are organized according to age group and skill levels, so everyone gets the opportunity to compete on a fair and competitive basis. Even beginning riders have the chance to race safely with other new riders...All riders compete for awards and ABA Points. The ABA Points Systems determines a riders annual ranking within that riders distrcit. Points are published in the BMXer Magazine, which each rider receives monthly. There, a rider can check and compare his or her point standings with other riders in their own district and across the country.

Even FOUR Year Olds Can Race
 The age groups range from 5 and under to 51 and over classes. If your bike has wheels that measure 20 inches or smaller, you will be grouped into one of 3 different skill levels: novice, intermediate and expert. All riders start as novices and work up to the more advanced levels by winning races.There is also a Cruiser class that is separate from the others. It consists of bikes with 24 inch wheels.

What You Need To Get Started
First and foremost, you must have a helmet. Any type will do, however ABA encourages riders to have a full faced helmet for the most protection. We have a few loaner helmets available to use during practice and racetime. BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment. Most racers start with their 20" street bike by removing the chain guard, kickstand, and any freestyle posts from the wheels, and putting some inexpensive padding on the frame, handle bar and stem.  When you register for the race, we will issue a temporary plate to put on the bike for scoring purposes. After you receive your card in the mail from ABA, you will want to purchase a permanent plate with the bike number ABA will give you. The numbers need to be black and at least 3 inches tall.