The Sport
Presented by
BMX 101
Get ready for a heart-pumping race with up to seven of your soon-to-be closest friends. But before you jump out the start gate, let’s get you up to speed on what you need to know.
01
FIND YOUR TRACK
Before you can start racing, you'll have to find a place to race. USA BMX and BMX Canada have over 300 tracks in the U.S., Canada and Curacao. Find your closest track to start your BMX adventure.
02
GET RACE READY
There are two main things you’ll need before you hit the starting hill: The Bike and The Gear. BMX bikes are different from your average cruiser or city bike. They are made for racing. The right gear helps keep you safe out on the track. Don’t have any equipment? Local tracks often have loaner bikes and helmets you can rent or borrow.
03
JOIN THE FAMILY
Come out to any USA BMX or BMX Canada track and try a day for free! Once you’re hooked, get your BMX membership to get your personal serial number used to track your points whenever and wherever you race.
04
WHO WILL I RACE?
Four major criteria determine what your classification will be: age, gender, proficiency (skill level), and wheel size. Just starting out? You’ll probably be placed as a Novice. Want to know more about our age classification breakdowns? Check out the rulebook.
05
GET REGISTERED
Once you feel ready to hit the track, visit your local track’s website to find a race & practice to sign up for. Sign ups start anywhere from one to three hours before the race begins, some even offer online registration.
06
THE RACE
Every BMX track consists of similar elements, but no two tracks are the same. Make sure you get out there and familiarize yourself with the track and take the first few laps slow. Once you have a good feel for the track, you’re ready to go full speed ahead. As soon as the gate drops and you hit that starting hill, you’ll be off on an adrenaline rush that you won’t be able to get enough of.
07
TRACK YOUR POINTS
Your finish determines the number of points you earn per race. The higher your point total, the higher you’ll rank in the standings. Plate numbers for races are assigned by ranking, so work hard and you might just get that coveted District #1 plate, jacket and the bragging rights that go with it!