01
Helmet
An approved helmet is required, every rider, every lap. Full face helmets are popular for racing.
New to BMX?
Never ridden?
Never ridden?
Perfect.
No experience needed, and no age limit. If you or your kid likes riding a bike and being outdoors, you can try one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Here is everything you need to know to take a first lap.
The 5 step guide
Get started on the track
A few simple skills build the confidence to ride the track, at any age. Our coaches walk new riders through every one. You can practice the early steps in any open parking lot.
1
Get comfortable on the bike
Balance, control and confidence first. The goal is a rider who feels steady and in charge of the bike.
2
Stand and coast on the pedals
Learn to stand up and coast with weight balanced over the bike. This is the foundation for everything on the track.
3
Brake smoothly while standing
Stay standing, keep the body balanced and learn to slow down under control instead of grabbing the brake.
4
Lift the front wheel
A gentle lift over small bumps and rollers, the first real BMX skill that makes the track fun.
5
Pedal hard from a standing start
Put it together: a strong, standing sprint off the line. Now you are ready to roll the track with us.
Working through these and want to try the real thing? That is exactly what our New Rider Class and Beginner League are for.
The bike
The BMX bike
A simple, fast machine
A BMX race bike is single speed with 20 inch wheels, built to accelerate in a hurry and handle the jumps and rollers of the track. There is nothing to shift and nothing complicated.
Just getting started? You do not need to buy a race bike on day one. Many new riders start on a bike they already have. When you are ready to race, we will help you find the right bike, and Beginner League members get a discount on a new bike purchase.
Suit up
The gear
BMX has a simple safety standard, and it is the same for everyone on the track. Loaner helmets and gear are available to get started.
02
Long sleeves
A long sleeve shirt protects arms on the track. Required to ride.
03
Long pants
Long pants protect legs. Jeans or riding pants both work great.
04
Closed shoes
Flat, closed-toe shoes that grip the pedals. Bring a water bottle too.
To ride you also need a USA BMX membership. Our Beginner League can include a yearly membership, or we will point you to the quick sign-up.
Ride safe
Safety first
Your rider's safety is our #1 concern
It surprises a lot of parents: BMX racing is not any more dangerous than other youth sports. With an approved helmet, long sleeves and long pants, riders are well protected.
- An approved helmet is required for everyone
- Long sleeves and long pants protect arms and legs
- Coached, beginner friendly sessions to build skills safely
- An Olympic sport that is welcoming and affordable
Good questions
Parent FAQ
What age can you start?
Our youngest riders start around age 3 on StaCyc electric balance bikes, and there is no upper limit. We coach riders of every age, including adults and a grandpa and grandson who ride weekly. Our classes and leagues are grouped by skill, not just age.
Do you need your own bike to try?
Not to get started. Many riders try it on a bike they already have, and we have balance bikes for the littlest riders. When you are ready to race, we will help you find the right BMX bike.
How much does it cost to try?
The Thursday New Rider Class is $20, and race-night practice is $10. It is an easy, low cost way to see if your rider loves it before committing to a league.
Is BMX safe?
Yes. With the required helmet, long sleeves and long pants, BMX is a safe, coached sport, and statistically no more dangerous than other youth sports. Safety is our number one priority.
What should we wear and bring?
A helmet, a long sleeve shirt, long pants, closed-toe shoes and a water bottle. That is it. We will help with the rest.