BMX originated in the late 1960s in Southern California. BMX was invented at the height of the popularity of motocross, a form of off-road motorcycling, as a result of youths seeking to imitate motocross styles of riding and racing but on pushbikes, which they modified and adapted to suit the dirt track conditions on which they raced.
The typical BMX race is fast, lasting 25 to 40 seconds. Races take place on a motocross modelled track of 900 to 1,100 feet in length with riders reaching speeds of 15 mph to 35 mph, according to the conditions of the individual track and the skill levels of the riders. A maximum of eight riders race at any time.
The standard BMX bike has a number of distinguishing features. First, in terms of size, the BMX bike is much smaller than the standard road bike, with a strong fixed size frame. The BMX bike has only one fixed gear, making it simple to race although unsuited to transport riding. The BMX also features 20-inch wheels across the range, regardless of conditions, and high handle bars to give racers an upright position when riding.
Although BMX started predominantly with racing in mind, different variations of the sport were developed, including freestyle and dirt jump BMX. Freestyle BMX refers to the use of bikes for performing tricks on flatland and in skate parks. Dirt jump BMX involves riding off-road over dirt on bumpy surfaces. Accordingly, BMX bikes adapted to suit each variation.
PO Box 315 Kumeu, Waitakere, 0618
Phone: 834 6157, Mobile: 0211364458
Website: www.west_bmx.org.nz
Email: secretary@bmx_west.gmail.com