Although racing BMX is an extremely popular sport, and despite its appearance on the Olympic stage for the first time in 2008, it can, paradoxically, be very hard to find a racing BMX bike in the shops. The retail scene tends to be dominated by freestyle and dirt jump BMX bikes, the type of BMX bike more suited to the performance of stunts, tricks and daring leaps than riding at speed. Buying a racing BMX bike is therefore best done through a specialist BMX shop, either on the high street (if you are one of the lucky few to have a BMX shop on your high street) or online.

Making sure the correct type of bike for racing BMX is chosen has to be a must. BMX has evolved over the years into a multi-disciplinary sport, each discipline requiring a specific type of BMX bike containing unique design features. Whilst freestyle BMX bikes are built for strength over speed and have high-rise handlebars the rider can grip in order to perform full body spins, racing BMX bikes are designed to assist the rider build up speed and keep him or her in close contact with the bike.

In choosing a racing BMX bike, the rider must also have full confidence that the supplier will give the best advice on the most suitable size. It is vital, for example, that consideration is given to the fact that many riders build up acceleration whilst cycling by standing on the pedals.

Advice on the officially correct clothing for racing BMX should also be a priority for any reputable supplier. For example, racing BMX requires a helmet that also covers much of the face rather than simply the top of the head.
At bmx.co.uk we have one of the best ranges of quality racing BMX bikes, and some expert advice ready for the keen racer.