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