What is the best BMX bike brand? It’s a question that echoes through the halls of every bike shop, every skatepark, and every heart yearning for the freedom of two wheels. While there’s no single answer that fits everyone, the journey to finding your perfect ride is filled with the thrill of discovery, the joy of mastering new tricks, and the camaraderie of a community that thrives on shared passion.
So, let’s dive into the world of BMX, explore the legendary brands that have shaped the sport, and uncover the secrets to choosing a bike that will take you to the next level.
From the iconic street-shredding prowess of Haro to the dirt-jumping mastery of DK, the BMX scene is brimming with brands that have earned their stripes through innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on two wheels. Each brand brings its own unique flavor, its own legacy of riders, and its own philosophy on what makes a truly great BMX bike.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for an upgrade or a first-timer ready to embark on your BMX journey, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider, the types of bikes that suit different riding styles, and the essential maintenance tips to keep your ride rolling smoothly.
Top BMX Bike Brands
Choosing the right BMX bike brand is crucial for any rider, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Each brand has its unique history, reputation, and features that cater to different riding styles and preferences. This guide will explore the top 5 BMX bike brands, shedding light on their strengths and what makes them stand out.
Top BMX Bike Brands
The BMX bike market is diverse, with numerous brands vying for a spot in the spotlight. However, certain brands have consistently delivered high-quality bikes and earned a loyal following within the BMX community. Here are the top 5 most popular BMX bike brands:
- Haro Bikes: Founded in 1978, Haro Bikes is a legendary brand that played a pivotal role in shaping the BMX scene. Haro’s legacy is deeply rooted in its association with legendary riders like Bob Haro and the iconic “Haro Master” bike. Haro bikes are known for their durability, performance, and classic aesthetics. The brand offers a wide range of models, from beginner-friendly cruisers to high-end race bikes, catering to diverse riding styles.
- Sunday Bikes: Established in 2003, Sunday Bikes is a relatively new brand that quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and commitment to quality. Sunday bikes are renowned for their smooth handling, responsive geometry, and stylish aesthetics. The brand is popular among street and park riders, with a focus on creating bikes that perform well in challenging environments. Sunday bikes are known for their attention to detail, with features like integrated headsets and custom-designed components.
- GT Bicycles: GT Bicycles has a long and storied history in cycling, dating back to 1972. GT’s BMX bikes are known for their durability, performance, and aggressive riding style. The brand’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the evolution of BMX racing, with GT bikes having dominated the race scene for decades. GT’s commitment to innovation is evident in its groundbreaking designs, such as the iconic “Triple Triangle” frame.
- Kink Bikes: Kink Bikes is a relatively young brand, founded in 2004, but has quickly become a prominent force in the BMX world. Kink bikes are known for their progressive designs, high-quality components, and affordable price points. The brand caters to a wide range of riders, with models suitable for street, park, and dirt jumping. Kink bikes are known for their unique aesthetics, often featuring bold colors and eye-catching graphics.
- Wethepeople Bikes: Wethepeople Bikes, founded in 2008, has quickly established itself as a leading brand in the BMX industry. Wethepeople bikes are known for their high-quality construction, innovative designs, and focus on performance. The brand caters primarily to street and park riders, with models that are built to withstand the demands of aggressive riding. Wethepeople bikes are known for their attention to detail, with features like custom-designed components and durable finishes.
BMX Bike Types: What Is The Best Bmx Bike Brand
BMX bikes are designed for specific riding styles, and each type has unique features and design elements to cater to those styles. Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right BMX bike for your needs.
Street
Street BMX bikes are built for riding in urban environments, including parks, streets, and skate parks. They are characterized by their durability and maneuverability, allowing riders to perform tricks and stunts on various obstacles.
- Features: Street BMX bikes typically have a strong, lightweight frame made of chromoly steel or aluminum. They feature a shorter wheelbase for tighter turns and a lower bottom bracket for stability and ground clearance. The handlebars are usually high and wide, offering better control and leverage for performing tricks.
- Riding Style: Street BMX riding involves performing tricks like barspins, tail whips, and bunny hops. Riders use the bike’s maneuverability to navigate urban obstacles and create unique combinations of tricks.
- Notable Brands: Some popular brands for street BMX bikes include:
- Sunday
- Wethepeople
- Cult
- Kink
Dirt
Dirt BMX bikes are designed for riding on dirt jumps, which are man-made ramps and mounds. They are built for strength and durability to withstand the impact of landing from big jumps.
- Features: Dirt BMX bikes often have a stronger frame made of chromoly steel. They have a longer wheelbase for stability at higher speeds and a lower bottom bracket for better ground clearance. They also have wider handlebars for more control and leverage during jumps.
- Riding Style: Dirt BMX riding involves performing tricks and jumps on dirt ramps. Riders use the bike’s strength and stability to land safely from big jumps and perform various aerial maneuvers.
- Notable Brands: Some popular brands for dirt BMX bikes include:
- Specialized
- Mongoose
- Haro
- GT
Park
Park BMX bikes are designed for riding in skate parks, which feature ramps, rails, and other obstacles. They are built for maneuverability and durability to withstand the impact of landings and tricks.
- Features: Park BMX bikes often have a strong frame made of chromoly steel or aluminum. They have a shorter wheelbase for tighter turns and a lower bottom bracket for better ground clearance. They also have a mid-height handlebar for a good balance between control and leverage.
- Riding Style: Park BMX riding involves performing tricks on ramps, rails, and other obstacles. Riders use the bike’s maneuverability and durability to perform various tricks and combos.
- Notable Brands: Some popular brands for park BMX bikes include:
- Fit
- BSD
- Stolen
- Subrosa
Race
Race BMX bikes are designed for speed and efficiency on BMX racetracks. They are built for lightweight and aerodynamic performance to achieve maximum speed.
- Features: Race BMX bikes have lightweight frames made of aluminum or carbon fiber. They have a longer wheelbase for stability at high speeds and a higher bottom bracket for better ground clearance. They also feature a shorter handlebar for less wind resistance and a narrower tire for lower rolling resistance.
- Riding Style: Race BMX riding involves racing against other riders on a track with various obstacles and turns. Riders use the bike’s speed and efficiency to maintain their position and cross the finish line first.
- Notable Brands: Some popular brands for race BMX bikes include:
- Redline
- GT
- SE Bikes
- DK Bikes
| Type | Features | Riding Style | Notable Brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street | Strong, lightweight frame, shorter wheelbase, lower bottom bracket, high and wide handlebars | Performing tricks on urban obstacles, tight turns, maneuverability | Sunday, Wethepeople, Cult, Kink |
| Dirt | Stronger frame, longer wheelbase, lower bottom bracket, wider handlebars | Performing tricks and jumps on dirt ramps, stability at high speeds | Specialized, Mongoose, Haro, GT |
| Park | Strong frame, shorter wheelbase, lower bottom bracket, mid-height handlebars | Performing tricks on ramps, rails, and other obstacles, maneuverability | Fit, BSD, Stolen, Subrosa |
| Race | Lightweight frame, longer wheelbase, higher bottom bracket, shorter handlebar, narrower tire | Racing on BMX racetracks, speed and efficiency | Redline, GT, SE Bikes, DK Bikes |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a BMX Bike
Choosing the right BMX bike is crucial for an enjoyable and safe riding experience. It’s not just about picking the coolest-looking bike; you need to consider various factors that directly affect performance, comfort, and longevity.
Frame Size and Geometry
Frame size and geometry are fundamental aspects that influence a bike’s handling and overall fit. The frame size should be appropriate for your height and riding style. A smaller frame might be better for smaller riders or those who prefer a more responsive and agile feel. A larger frame, on the other hand, offers more stability and can accommodate taller riders.
The geometry of the frame, which refers to the angles and measurements of the frame, plays a crucial role in how the bike handles. A steeper head tube angle, for example, results in quicker steering, while a slacker head tube angle provides more stability at higher speeds. The length of the chainstays, the distance between the rear axle and the bottom bracket, influences the bike’s turning radius.
Material Impact on Performance
The material used for the frame and other components significantly impacts the bike’s weight, strength, and overall performance.
- Chromoly Steel: Chromoly steel, also known as CrMo, is a popular choice for BMX frames due to its strength and durability. It can withstand the rigors of aggressive riding and is known for its resilience to bending and cracking. However, chromoly steel frames tend to be heavier than aluminum frames.
- Aluminum: Aluminum frames are lighter than chromoly steel frames, making them ideal for riders who prioritize speed and agility. Aluminum is also more resistant to corrosion than steel. However, aluminum frames can be more susceptible to dents and damage under extreme impact.
Components
Components play a significant role in a BMX bike’s performance and functionality.
- Wheels: Wheels are a crucial component, influencing the bike’s speed, maneuverability, and durability. BMX bikes typically use 20-inch wheels, but some models offer 24-inch options. The rim material, hub design, and spoke count all impact the wheel’s strength and weight. Riders should choose wheels that are appropriate for their riding style and terrain.
- Tires: Tires are another important aspect, affecting the bike’s grip, rolling resistance, and durability. BMX tires come in various tread patterns and widths, each designed for specific riding conditions. For example, tires with knobby tread patterns offer better grip on dirt and rough terrain, while slick tires are more suitable for smooth surfaces.
- Brakes: BMX bikes typically feature U-brakes or linear pull brakes. U-brakes are known for their simplicity and effectiveness, while linear pull brakes offer more powerful stopping power. The choice of brake system depends on personal preference and riding style.
- Handlebars: Handlebars are essential for controlling the bike and provide leverage for performing tricks. BMX handlebars come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. Riders should choose handlebars that are comfortable and provide the right amount of leverage for their riding style.
Essential Features to Prioritize
When choosing a BMX bike, consider these essential features based on your riding style and budget:
- Frame Material: Chromoly steel for durability and strength, or aluminum for lightness and agility.
- Wheel Size: 20-inch wheels are standard for most BMX bikes, but 24-inch options are available for taller riders.
- Brakes: U-brakes or linear pull brakes, depending on your preference and riding style.
- Handlebar Style: Choose handlebars that are comfortable and provide the right leverage for your riding style.
- Pedals: Platform pedals offer more stability, while clipless pedals provide better power transfer.
- Seat: Choose a comfortable seat that allows for easy movement and adjustments.
BMX Bike Maintenance and Care
Keeping your BMX bike in top condition is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Regular maintenance ensures smooth riding, prevents breakdowns, and extends the life of your bike. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of essential maintenance tasks, troubleshooting tips, and the importance of regular inspections.
Cleaning
Cleaning your BMX bike after every ride is essential for removing dirt, grime, and debris that can accumulate and cause wear and tear. Use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution to wipe down the frame, handlebars, and wheels. Pay particular attention to the chain, cassette, and derailleur, which require more thorough cleaning.
Lubrication
Lubricating your BMX bike’s moving parts is crucial for reducing friction and preventing wear. Apply a light oil to the chain, cassette, and derailleur. You can use a chain cleaning tool to remove excess oil and ensure proper lubrication.
Adjustments
Regular adjustments are necessary to keep your BMX bike performing at its best. These adjustments include:
- Brakes: Check the brake pads for wear and adjust the brake levers for proper stopping power.
- Headset: Ensure the headset is tight and the handlebars turn smoothly.
- Seat post: Adjust the seat height for optimal comfort and pedaling efficiency.
- Tires: Check the tire pressure and inflate to the recommended level.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are some common BMX bike problems and how to fix them:
- Squeaky brakes: Clean the brake pads and apply a light oil to the brake cable.
- Chain slipping: Adjust the derailleur or replace the chain if it is worn.
- Loose handlebars: Tighten the headset bolts.
- Flat tire: Remove the tire, patch the tube, and re-install the tire.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are essential for identifying potential problems before they become major issues.
- Check for cracks or damage: Inspect the frame, handlebars, and wheels for any cracks or damage.
- Examine the bearings: Check the headset, bottom bracket, and wheel bearings for signs of wear.
- Inspect the tires: Look for cuts, punctures, or excessive wear on the tires.
- Examine the chain: Check the chain for wear and stretch.
Replacing Worn Parts
Over time, certain parts on your BMX bike will wear out and need to be replaced.
- Chain: Replace the chain when it shows signs of wear, such as excessive stretch or worn links.
- Tires: Replace tires when they are worn down or show signs of damage.
- Brake pads: Replace brake pads when they are worn down or become glazed.
- Bearings: Replace bearings when they become worn or noisy.
BMX Bike Resources and Communities
The BMX community is a vibrant and supportive one, offering a wealth of resources and opportunities for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, connecting with other enthusiasts can enhance your BMX experience.
Online Forums and Communities
Online forums and communities are valuable platforms for sharing information, connecting with fellow riders, and staying up-to-date on the latest trends in the BMX world. They provide a space for discussions about bike setups, tricks, riding spots, and more.
- BMX.com: A comprehensive online forum dedicated to BMX, offering a wide range of discussions on various topics, including bike reviews, technique tips, and local riding spots.
- MTB-Forum: A popular forum for mountain biking enthusiasts, with a dedicated BMX section where riders can share experiences, ask questions, and find local riding partners.
- Pinkbike: A global online community for mountain bikers and BMX riders, featuring news, reviews, and a vibrant forum for discussions.
Finding Local BMX Tracks and Riding Spots
Finding suitable places to ride is essential for any BMX enthusiast. Several resources can help you locate BMX tracks and riding spots near you.
- BMX Track Locator: Websites like BMX Track Locator provide comprehensive lists of BMX tracks worldwide, including information on track features, contact details, and operating hours.
- Local Bike Shops: Local bike shops often have knowledge of nearby BMX tracks and riding spots. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your skill level and riding style.
- Online Maps and Search Engines: Online maps and search engines like Google Maps can be used to search for “BMX tracks” or “BMX parks” in your area. They can help you locate nearby tracks and get directions.
Joining a BMX Club or Team
Joining a BMX club or team offers numerous benefits, including access to coaching, organized events, and a supportive community.
- Improved Skills and Technique: Coaching from experienced riders can help you refine your skills, learn new tricks, and improve your overall technique.
- Competitive Opportunities: Joining a team provides opportunities to compete in races and events, pushing you to improve and gain valuable experience.
- Social Connections: Clubs and teams foster a sense of community, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for BMX.
Online Stores and Retailers, What is the best bmx bike brand
For BMX bikes, parts, and accessories, several online stores and retailers specialize in catering to the needs of BMX riders.
- Dan’s Comp: A leading online retailer for BMX bikes, parts, and accessories, offering a wide selection of brands and products.
- J&R Bicycles: A reputable online retailer specializing in BMX bikes and parts, known for its competitive prices and excellent customer service.
- The Bike Company: A well-established online retailer with a vast selection of BMX bikes, components, and apparel, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
The world of BMX is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries. From the iconic brands that have shaped the sport to the riders who push the limits of what’s possible, the BMX community is a testament to the power of human spirit and the joy of riding. So, as you embark on your own BMX journey, remember that the best bike is the one that inspires you to ride, the one that lets you express yourself, and the one that fuels your passion for the sport.
Whether you’re conquering the streets, shredding the park, or conquering the dirt, may your ride be filled with endless possibilities and unforgettable moments.
Question & Answer Hub
What are the best BMX bike brands for beginners?
For beginners, brands like GT, Diamondback, and Mongoose offer great entry-level bikes that are affordable and reliable. These brands have a reputation for quality construction and durable components, making them perfect for learning the ropes and developing your skills.
How often should I service my BMX bike?
It’s a good idea to service your BMX bike every 3-6 months or after every 20-30 hours of riding. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and adjusting key components to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear.
What are the best BMX tires for street riding?
Street riding requires tires that are durable, grippy, and can withstand the rigors of urban terrain. Tires with a wider tread pattern and a harder compound are generally preferred for street riding.
What is the best way to learn BMX tricks?
The best way to learn BMX tricks is to start with the basics and gradually progress to more challenging moves. Practice makes perfect, so be patient, persistent, and don’t be afraid to fall. There are also plenty of online resources and tutorials that can help you learn new tricks.