How To Get Started Riding BMX
Welcome to the American Bicycle Association – we’re glad you stopped by. No doubt you have been riding your bicycle for quite some time – but now you want to RACE! You’ve jammed around your neighborhood with your friends, jumping curbs and racing on homemade tracks built in vacant lots or even in your own backyard. Well, believe it or not, that’s exactly how BMX (Bicycle Motocross) Racing all started back in the early 70’s.
You will have several low-cost options to start racing and you’ll be competing against other kids of the same age and skill level. The ABA offers exciting local, state, regional and national programs, each with a new opportunity to win exciting awards such as trophies, plaques, number plates, clothing, scholarships and more.
TIP: Before entering your first race, participate in a few practice or training events to make sure you are familiar with the local track. Many tracks offer rider clinics and camps to help you gain experience and learn new skills.
NECESSARY EQUIPMENT SUMMARY
The BMX Bike:
- Most 20” and 24” cruiser bicycles can be used for competition. Must be in mechanically safe working condition.
- Number plate affixed to your handlebars – A temporary number plate will be supplied by the track at no charge.
- No kickstand, chain guard, reflectors, freestyle pegs or other protruding dangerous equipment attached.
Helmet and Apparel (Clothing):
- Helmet – full-face or open face with a suitable mouth guard
- Long pants
- Long Sleeves
- Closed-toe shoes
YOUR FIRST DAY
- Arrive early at the track to check out the course and to talk to staff in the registration booth. A volunteer from the track will show you around the facility and help you get ready for your race.
- Sign up. Check the posted sign-up times and be sure to ask as many questions as you need. Your first race is very inexpensive and you may be eligible to race with for free or you have the option to purchase a 30-day trial or full USABMX racing membership if you plan to race more events throughout the year.
- Get your gear ready. You will need to have a helmet, long pants, long sleeve shirt, and closed-toe shoes as per the ABA rulebook.
- Bike Inspection is held before each race to ensure that your bicycle is safe and mechanically fit.
- Practice the course as much as possible so that you feel comfortable with the starting gate, obstacles, and turns. Tip: Take a training clinic before your first race.
- Check the moto board. The track will post moto-sheets on this board and it is your responsibility to check your moto number and gate lanes for each race. Write them down on your hand, a piece of paper, or memorize them.
- Race Time! Listen to the announcers and get ready for your first race. Though it can be tough to relax, just try to keep your mind focused on having fun. The rest is up to you. Good luck!
