BMX BIKE BUYER'S GUIDE

All bikes start with the frame. Entry to intermediate level bikes generally use hi-tensile steel tubing but look for 4130 chromoly for increased durability and less weight on higher level bikes. The Geometry of the frame also makes a difference to how the bike will handle, This generally comes into play on higher level bikes. You can learn more about frame geometry in our Frame Buyers Guide.

The same principle as the frame with regards to material; Chromoly being lighter and stronger than Hi tensile. Look for CNC’d steerer tubes for greater durability and tapered legs for weight savings and a cleaner look.

Handlebars or just ‘bars’. Same principal for materials – 4130 is best and multi-butted tubing saves even more weight by thinning out the tubing where strength isn't as much a concern. The size is a personal preference with ‘rise’ referring to how high they are. Generally there are 2 types of bars, 2-piece and 4-piece, these refer to the amount of tubes which make up the bars - the function and feel of the bars are the same with the 4-piece offering a more durable bar but with extra weight.

There are 2 types of headsets. A-headsets are the traditional type with external cups (where the bearings sit) whilst integrated headsets have sealed bearings that sit inside the frame itself. Integrated headsets save weight, look better and last longer but traditional A-headsets work just fine.

Some riders use them and some don’t. If you’re new to BMX or live on top of a hill then use a back brake! All of our complete bikes are sold with brakes whilst higher-end bikes come with removable brakes that can easily be removed/installed. Although the bikes are rarely pictured with front brakes all of our bikes come with them in the box.

Look for sealed bearings here on higher end spec bikes; they’ll last longer and require less maintenance than the loose ball versions. There are also two types of axle, male and female. The female axles offer a cleaner look but both fit all types of forks and bike.

There are three main types. A freewheel hub, and the more reliable and responsive cassette hub or Freecoaster. Cassette hubs come with smaller gearings (typically 9t) and are found on most decent bikes these days. Semi-sealed cassette hubs are good whilst sealed is better and a branded after-market hub even better still. Also look out for Freecoaster hubs on higher end bikes - these allow you to fakie (go backwards) without the need to pedal backwards at the same time.

The relation between the front sprocket and rear freewheel or cassette hub. The smaller the sprockets are, the more weight is saved and the more clearance there is when riding ramps or grinding. A 25-9t is considered the best on complete bikes.

The outside of the wheel. These come in single or double wall versions. Double wall is strongest and is more important on the rear which takes more abuse than the front.

Branded after-market tyres are best here. The sizes (width) of tyre vary and depends on personal preference of the rider. 2.2" wide is about average.

Cranks take a lot of abuse on a bike and need to be strong enough to match your level of riding. Tubular cranks are best whilst branded cranks are better still. There are 2 types of Bottom Bracket (BB). U.S are the largest and normally come with unsealed bearings. The Smaller Mid BB's are nearly always sealed and as result are stronger, last longer and require minimal maintenance.

Most bikes come with plastic pedals now; branded versions tend to be the best. Alloy pedals last longer and grip better but hurt your shins more when your slip and also usually weigh more.

There are 4 types of seats. Railed or combo seats are found on the entry level bikes whilst Pivotal or Tripod seats are found on intermediate to pro bikes; These seats are easier to install/adjust, save weight and have more choice for replacements if you ever want to change your seat without having to update your seat post too.

The bit that holds your bars to the forks. All stems are comparable in strength but CNC’d versions are lighter and offer a much cleaner look. They either clamp the bars from the top (top loader) or the front (front loader).