A mountain or cruiser bike having 24-inch or 26-inch tires may work fine; however, you should confirm before time with your regional track for suggestions. Several tracks allow you to enter a "Cruiser" bike race with a mountain bike.
Irrespective of type of bike, you should remove the reflectors, kickstand and chain guard before the BMX race. This is save you from injuries in case of an accident.
Padding on the top tube, stem and crossbar is a must. Many BMX freestyle bikes have these pads. You can buy this safety gear for a mere $5, in case your bike has not come fitted with them.
A minimum of one function brake is necessary for your bike. A coaster brake is not a bad option. Moreover, the bicycle should be in good condition and safe to drive.
Last but not least, fasten a paper plate on the handlebars. This shall serve as a number plate of the bike. Before the BMX race, you will be a given a number to put on the number plate. You will be identified by this number during the race.
Safety is paramount
Helmet is the most important gear for protecting your head. In accordance with the track rules, you may be required to wear a full-face helmet or a helmet having a detachable mouthguard. However, several tracks allow any affordable motocross-style helmet.
Don't forget to put on safety clothing. Standard long jeans will save the rider's legs. To protect your arms, you should wear a full-sleeved shirt. Good quality shoes are equally important, as bikers often ground their feet while riding to maintain balance and speed.
Even though gloves are not highly necessary, yet wearing them is sensible decision. They should neither be oversized or undersized. At the same time, they should grip well. Moreover, carry all the necessary bike tools and air pump for making timely repairs.
Ready to race
A budding rider requires a track to race. Regional bike stores can provide you the info on the location of the closest track. You may also log on to National Bicycle League (NBL) or American Bicycle Association (ABA) websites. These organizations allot the licences for BMX racing. They give useful suggestions and insurance to the racing tracks. On becoming a member of NBL or ABA, you can get medical claims in case of injuries on the track during BMX race.
A child rider is allowed to race only when his parent or guardian is accompanying him. The age has to be proven by showing birth certificate. A yearly licence for racing on the tracks costs between $15 and $35. In addition, an entry fee between $6 and $10 is charged per race.
If you are going to race on the track for the first time, reach there at least two hours in advance. Locate the registration booth and sign up.
Walk around the track and keep in mind the places where jumps are. After that, start practicing. Put on your safety gears and follow other contestants to the racing gate. Observe what others do and where they go. First time racers should keep the front tire of bike against the entrance, and place one foot on a pedal and the other on the ground. Star pedalling as soon as the gate opens. Don't speed up till the time you don't feel comfortable.
Once the practice session is over, the races will be posted. The persons at the registration counter will inform you the place where your race will be posted and the rules of the race. You might be grouped with other rides about your age. Align your bike with them in the staging area. Wait for your call, and when it comes, start the race! This may occur thrice or four times, on the basis of track uses. Finally, it will end. You will get a cup if you win. It is guaranteed that you will have lots of fun regardless of a win or loss.
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