| BMX racing is for the young and young at
heart. It is a fun sport catering
to mainly the younger generation.
Kids generally use 20” bikes for
BMX racing and kids under 6 may
be using 12” bikes also. The bike
used should be suitable to the
race track. Bikes having 24 or
26” wheels can also be used. Many
tracks allow and disallow certain
sizes and types of bikes. Irrespective
of size and class, all bikes should
have certain features to prevent
accidents and injures. All bikes
should be stripped of any reflectors,
kickstands and chain guards. The
bike should be padded on the top
tube, crossbar and stem. At least
one brake in working condition
is mandatory. An identification
number plate is necessary on the
race track. Care while racing
1. Protect your head – use a helmet.
Use the track rules to select
a suitable helmet. 2. Protect
your body – use protective clothing
and cover the body as much fully
as you can. Use sturdy and comfortable
shoes. Use gloves for better grip.
3. Keep biking tools and sir pump
handy. Ready to race 1. Finding
a race track is easy – ask the
National Bicycle League (NBL)
or American Bicycle Association
(ABA) through their websites.
These bodies sanction most of
the BMX racing circuits. They
also provide consultancy and medical
insurance (on membership) to guard
you against any accidents during
the races. A parent or guardian
must always accompany the rider,
in order to give permission for
the child to participate in the
race. Proof of age is required
in the form of a birth certificate.
All tracks issue racing licenses
on an annual basis, costing between
$15 and $40. Entry fee is charged
for individual races varying between
$5 and $10. Always take a walk
around the track, especially if
the track is new to you. Remember
the jumps. Take a practice ride
along with the others. Go slow
and make sure you are in your
comfort zone. Races are normally
segregated into age groups. The
race itself may have 3 to 4 rounds,
don’t get worried, if you win
you will get to keep the trophy
and if you don’t, you will still
end up having fun. BMX racing
is a fun sport as said earlier,
so there is no reason to get bogged
down, try the next time. BMX racing
is a fun sport as said earlier,
so there is no reason to get bogged
down, try the next time. |
