BMX, freestyle and jump bikes each have specific characteristics. This beginner's guide should help with the basics as you shop for your first freestyle or jump bike.
If you are new to the world of BMX riding you may feel overwhelmed at the thought of walking into a bike shop to pick the right bike. No matter where you go to shop for your first bike there are some basic things you'll find on any freestyle bike.
The most important first step in shopping for a bike is to decide what your needs and interests are. While "BMX" has become a universally accepted term, there are differences in riding and needs. True BMX, or bicycle motocross, is racing on a dirt track (please refer to BMX bikes article). Freestyle and dirt jumping (or jump) bikes are heavier and sturdier to meet the demands placed on the bike. A good quality beginner's bike will cost you about $200.
The frame- For freestyle and dirt jumping, a sturdy frame construction is more important than having a lightweight frame. The sturdy construction is important due to the demands that are placed on these bikes. Freestyle bikes weigh two times as much as a BMX bike. Jump bikes, while sturdier than BMX are lighter than freestyle bikes. There are several frame sizes available to fit even the smallest of riders.
Wheels and tires- Most BMX bikes have a 20-inch wheel diameter. There is some variety in the wheels of a jump bike; sturdy 13-gauge spokes are common. Larger riders may need to consider using 24-inch wheels. The tires on jump bikes are the most heavily treaded of any BMX bike. The knobby tires are designed more for traction than for speed. Freestyle bikes have 48-spoke or mag wheels, which are sturdier than those used in BMX racing. Freestyle tires are 2.125 inches or wider with a smooth tread for pavement or indoor use. A freestyle bike will also have axle pegs, used for tricks.
Handlebars- The handlebars on freestyle and jump bikes rise steeper for better freedom of movement when doing tricks and jumps.
Brakes- Freestyle bikes utilize a cable detangling headset which allows the handlebar tube to be spun completely around without tangling the front brake cable. A U-Brake is preferred on freestyle bikes for better modulation (as opposed to the need for ultimate stopping power). Jump bikes typically only have a rear brake as opposed to freestyle which uses front and rear brakes.
Safety considerations- Most bikes manufactured these days come ready to ride. The following are safety measures you should be aware of, on the off chance that your bike wasn't manufactured under these guidelines. Padding should be on the frames top tube, stem and handlebar crossbar. The pads are relatively inexpensive if they are missing from your bike. The kickstand, chain guards, fenders and reflector brackets should be removed. Also, there should be at least one working brake.
In the next article, I'll review buying a bike in a bike shop vs. a department store.
