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BMX Bikes

BMX stands for bicycle motocross, since this type of bike is modeled after concepts of both a mountain bike and a motocross bike, combining strength, durability, and lightness. BMX bikes  are smaller than other bikes, with only 20-inch wheels and a condensed frame. Typically, these bikes have only one gear and a simple hand brake. They often have wheel pegs as well, which are useful for piggybacking friends or for performing tricks.

For Children

If you are a parent shopping for a child who is just getting his or her first bike without training wheels, a BMX is a great choice. No other bike is built to be as tough and durable. Most often you will want something that is inexpensive, in other words, well less than $100. There are plenty of options available through well-known and reliable manufacturers. The rule of thumb is AVOID department store bikes! They are infamous for being poorly constructed and for using cheap materials. Save the time, money, and hassle of having to buy replacements and get a quality bike. If your child takes good care of it, the bike will last for years.

BMX bikes are built to be adjustable so that they will grow with your child, making this an economical choice. Most likely, this size bike is ideal for kid's up to 12 years old, especially boys. However, keep in mind that if you enjoy riding with your child(ren) on longer bike rides, consider upgrading to a mountain bike or hybrid with multiple gears by about age 9 or 10.

When it comes to shopping you are going to see some terminology, such as utility, racing, freestyle, and others. These are different types of BMX bikes geared towards certain performance features. For basic purposes, such as playing around the neighborhood with friends, a utility bike is all a child needs. If you want to learn more about other BMX types, read on below about BMX types. Otherwise, check out some of these quick picks. The choices were highlighted in the April '06 edition of Bicycling and at ConsumerSearch.

Marin MBX 50 

This 16-inch trainer is a great starter for the littlest of riders (4-6 yrs) priced at $160. It has both coaster brakes and a hand brake.

Electra Townie 1 

Pink for gals and black for boys, this is a comfortable ride at $250 designed with high-end Shimano components.

Schwinn Aerostar  /Stardust 

These are tough, durable, and built for boys and girls. For $130, he or she will have a solid bike to last a good number of years.

Mongoose Ace 

Many reviewers found this to be a good bike, except for the tires. It costs around $140.

BMX Types

BMX bikes that are performance oriented typically start around $100 for entry level models, while a large portion of the market falls within $200 and $400. Pro bikes can cost as much as $700. Besides price, choosing the right bike depends mainly on how you plan to use it.

  • Racing  -- Racing bikes are built to be lightweight for speed and power. These are what competitive off-track racers use. They will not have pegs and the handle bars will be designed to stay in line with the bike body.
  • Freestyle  -- Freestyle is essentially trick based biking. Riders who hang in skate parks or ride on the street will be best suited with one of these bikes. They have pegs, spinning handlebars, and usually dual brakes to improve maneuverability.
  • Jumping  -- The main feature on these bikes is their rugged construction and solid 48-spoke wheels that hold up to the pressure of repetitive hopping on one or two wheels.

Reviews

Here are some quick picks. If you are an enthusiast and would like reviews on specifics, such as individual frames, sprockets, cranks, and the like, check out BMX Test. For general reviews, see Mountain Bike Reviews and DirtWorld.com.

Major Manufacturers

Related Buying Guides

Bike Helmets

Mountain Bikes

Road Bikes

Comfort Bikes 

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