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Follow the Basics When Beginning BMX Racing
from: Maxx Sports GuidesBMX is an exciting and adventurous sport, but if you have never done it before, it can be a little intimidating. However, keep in mind that everyone has a first time when starting something new.
Follow these basic steps to get started in the fast and exciting sport of BMX racing.
First and foremost, you need a bike that's BMX track ready. That means you need a bike with wheels no larger than 20 inches. Second, fenders, reflectors, chain guard, and kickstand must be removed for your safety and the safety of other racers.
It must have pads on the gooseneck, the handle cross bar, and top tube. The bike frame will need to be in good shape and have absolutely no cracks in it. Finally, brakes need to be in top condition.
BMX can be dangerous, so make sure you have the right bike. If you have any questions consult an expert in your local BMX shop.
Next you need to consider your clothing when it comes to BMX beginnings. You must have long pants. Racing pants work best and offer the best protection, but when starting out make sure that you have some type of long pants. Second, you need a long sleeved shirt or jacket. Again, racing shirts and jackets are best, but just make sure you cover your arms to protect against severe scrapes and cuts.
Lastly, a full-face helmet with chinstrap is absolutely necessary. A regular bicycle helmet is unacceptable and will get you kicked off of most tracks. You need to protect your face in the case of a crash.
Next, take some time to watch people that know what they're doing. There's more to the sport than just pedaling fast, though that does help. Watch closely how they move their bodies as they go over jumps. You'll see them using their arms and legs as shocks.
Also, watch where on the track they pedal and where they coast to get an idea of the best strategies. When you are out there the first time, take your time. You aren't going to win your first race, and it's best to get a feel for how a race shapes up. As a beginner, smooth and clean is better than fast in most cases.
Next address your abilities at the starting gate. When you first start, you'll likely approach the gate and use a one-footed start. This is where you have one foot on your pedal and the other down as a kickstand. As you gain experience you will see that most riders use a two-footed start where both feet are on the ground.
Practice this takeoff and you should be able to get it down in the first day if you work at it. Some take as long as a week, but once you learn it you'll see an immediate difference in your times and results.
Make sure you practice often. The best way to improve is to get out there and learn the strategies, see what other riders do, and learn what works for you. You will see that you get better as you compete against those better than you.
Pay attention to technique and polishing your own races. The fewer errors in each race the more you can worry about speeding up your times.
Lastly, watch for clinics. Many tracks and local BMX organizations will offer clinics throughout the year. These are a great way to improve your jumps, your starts, or even your passes. Professionals or very high-level amateurs will be able to teach you a great deal about your new sport.
BMX racing is fun and exciting for people of all ages. If you're interested in getting started in this sport, take some time and know what you're getting into. Make sure you have the right bike, the right clothing, and the right knowledge to race. Then it's all about practicing and gaining experience. Before you know it, you'll be a top notch BMX bike racer.
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