| BMX bikes are very recognizable but some people | | | | for greater traction; and a generally longer length |
| are unfamiliar with their full range of features. | | | | for the top tube of their frame to permit greater |
| BMX bikes were first used in the early 1970s for | | | | freedom of movement during the performance |
| racing (‘BMX’ is actually short for | | | | of some tricks. |
| ‘bicycle moto cross’). Although BMX | | | | The frame of a freestyle bike will generally be |
| racing is still a popular specialist BMX discipline in its | | | | made of steel, giving the bike robustness |
| own right, at Formby Cycles we find that many | | | | sufficient to perform high impact stunts. More |
| newcomers to BMX tend to show more interest | | | | expensive, advance level freestyle bikes may |
| in ‘freestyle’ BMX riding in which stunts | | | | benefit from a lightweight, but equally strong, |
| and tricks are performed. | | | | frame made from a special steel alloy called |
| Freestyle BMX bikes can cover a range of | | | | chromoly. |
| sub-genres including ‘street’ (literally | | | | Freestyle bikes will also usually have detachable |
| performing tricks around street ‘furniture’ | | | | pegs that can be used to assist the rider in |
| such as stair rails); ‘vert’ (leaping off high | | | | performing certain manoeuvres. |
| ramps); and ‘flatland’ (performing | | | | Finally, all BMX bikes, and not just freestyle bikes, |
| choreographed balancing tricks on a flat surface). | | | | will have one gear only, to help facilitate a more |
| There are however many characteristics all | | | | straightforward and controlled ride. |
| freestyle bikes have in common, particularly at | | | | At beginner, or ‘entry’ level of course, |
| the beginner or ‘entry’ level. | | | | tricks and stunt performances will be greatly |
| Freestyle BMX bikes will usually also have raised | | | | restricted but the rider will usually be just as |
| handlebars that can turn a full circle without | | | | thrilled in the early days simply riding a BMX bike |
| tangling the brake cables; small wheels that come | | | | around the streets. |
| with multiple spokes for strength; knobbly tyres | | | | |