BMX

In recent blogs, I've discussed BMX bikes and riding, but this week I am going more in depth on the topic.

What is BMX?

The term "BMX" actually is short for "bicycle-moto-cross". This originated when BMX first started. At first, BMX was people riding small bikes on dirt tracks that resemble motocross tracks today, with jumps, bumps, and turns. Over the years people realized having smaller bikes are more controllable and better for doing tricks. This then evolved into the BMX style that is more commonly known today, which is riding them in skate parks and doing street tricks.

The Bikes

The typical BMX, shown above, has the distinct features of a BMX bike. These features include 20" wheels (which are considerably smaller then the regular 26" you see on most bikes). The simple single speed drivetrain and the butterfly handlebars also give this bike the look. These light, simple, and bombproof bikes make riding street, skateparks and jumps easier in many ways. The small wheels are lighter and make the bike more maneuverable in the air. One brake and one speed make these bikes simple an light, as well as low maintenence.

The Riding

While BMX originated out in the dirt, today it thrives in the streets and skateparks of the world. Most riders ride concrete these days, while some still race the original bicycle motocross out in the dirt. As you can see from the photo above, the smaller size of the BMX bike allows the rider to control the bike with a lot of precision and accuracy. While small bikes may look easy to do tricks on, keep in mind that launching yourself down big staircases with no suspension besides your arms and legs is not easy to do. Many riders use "pegs" which are metal bars coming from the front and rear axles to do tricks such as grinding and tapping.

Because of the BMX's maneuverability, there are many many tricks you can do, which makes BMX riding creative and gives the riders different personal styles. He

re is a video of a Canadian rider shredding an indoor park really hard. I highly recommend watching this video!

http://www.redbull.com/us/en/bike/stories/1331596248226/drew-bezanson-joyride-2013-edit