BMXRacing is a thrilling sport where participants compete against one another on tracks, either indoor or outdoor, that are approximately 400 meters long. Up to eight riders begin on an incline, with each track featuring different jumps and obstacles.
BMX BikeRaces commence with qualifying rounds, known as 'motos'. Up to eight riders compete in each moto, progressing through successive knockout stages until the final, which determines the overall champion. Typically, races are completed in under a minute.
The History of BMX Racing
BMX gained popularity in the early 1980s in Southern California. It resembles motocross and mountain biking, but uses specialised bikes that are lighter and smaller.
The inaugural BMX world championships took place in 1982, but it wasn't until 1993 that the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) incorporated it as a discipline. The sport then experienced a downturn and was nearly forgotten until the X Games revitalised it in 1995. BMX was introduced to the global audience at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008.
In 2021, South Region athlete Bethany Shriever became the first British gold medalist in BMX racing, shortly after Kye Whyte, another rider from the South Region, secured Britain's first medal in the sport by winning Silver in the Men's event.
Nowadays in Britain, there are regional racing leagues, the British Cycling's UK BMX National Series, and the British BMX Championships. Competitions are held throughout the year.
BMX biking primarily includes two categories: freestyle BMX and BMX racing. These can be further divided into Flatland, Street, Park Riding, and Dirt Riding BMX.
Among the most renowned BMX riders is Mat Hoffman, an American BMX rider known as "The Condor". He manages the BMX Freestyle brand Hoffman.BMX BikesHe has invented over 100 tricks and has been a key figure in advancing the sport since he went professional in 1991.
BMX Racing
Club Racing
Club racing presents a fantastic opportunity for beginners to try out the sport, and there are numerous clubs across the UK.
Here are a few clubs we recommend in the Midlands:
Birmingham BMX Club
Wolverhampton Wheelers
Redditch Premiers BMX Club
Derby BMX Club
You can discover more on theBritish Cycling website.
Complete Calendar for 2023
National BMX Series
Rounds 1 and 2: Cyclopark, Kent – 1-2 April
Rounds 3 and 4: Platt Fields, Manchester Outdoor – 3-4 June
Rounds 5 and 6 (National Championships): Gosport, Hampshire – 1-2 July
Rounds 7 and 8: To Be Confirmed, 9-10 September
2023 British Championships
26-27 August, Derby
BMX Gear and Apparel
Jersey
BMX jerseys are lively and vivid. Long sleeves and covered legs are essential to minimise the injury risk from falls.
Helmet
Full face helmetsare mandatory in BMX racing, as accidents can happen during both contests and practice.
Pads and gloves
BMX Glovesare indispensable; full-fingered gloves enhance the safety measures for BMX riders.Knee and Elbow pads are recommended.
The Bike
BMX racing bikes are robust and uncomplicated, featuring a single gear and typically only a rear brake. They are significantly smaller than mountain, road, or track bikes.
What is British Cycling
British Cyclingis dedicated to supporting you in all types of cycling in Britain. Whether you participate in one of the six competitive disciplines (BMX, mountain bike, cyclo-cross, road, track, and cycle speedway), commute, or cycle for leisure.
Browse through our complete selection of BMX Bikes and Kids Bikes.