Imagine the thrill of launching off a ramp, the wind rushing past your face, and the satisfying crunch of tires on dirt. That’s the magic of BMX cycling! It’s more than just a sport; it’s a way to express yourself, push your limits, and connect with a vibrant community.
But if you’re new to the scene, choosing your first BMX bike can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different types, brands, and parts! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure if you’re picking the right ride for your style, whether you dream of grinding rails, soaring through the air, or just cruising your neighborhood. You want a bike that’s tough, fun, and fits you perfectly, but where do you even begin?
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This guide will break down everything you need to know to find your dream BMX bike. We’ll help you understand the different styles, what to look for in a frame, and how to pick the best components for your budget and riding goals. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to hit the streets or the skatepark.
Our Top 5 Bmx Cycle Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Bmx Cycle Detailed Reviews
1. WEIZE Freestyle BMX Bike
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for awesome adventures with the WEIZE Freestyle BMX Bike! This 20-inch trick bicycle in sleek matte black is built for fun and stunts. It’s perfect for kids and teens, whether they’re just starting out or already shredding. With its tough frame and cool features, this bike lets you explore parks, streets, and even dirt jumps.
What We Like:
- The strong high carbon steel frame is built to last through all your tricks and rides.
- Wide 20×2.40” tires give you a smooth ride and help cushion bumps.
- The simple single-speed drivetrain makes pedaling easy and powerful.
- Reliable V-brakes offer quick and safe stopping power.
- The 360-degree rotor lets you spin the handlebars around for amazing tricks, and the four pegs add even more trick possibilities.
- It’s mostly assembled, making setup quick, and fits riders from 4’0’’ to 5’8’’.
What Could Be Improved:
- While generally easy to assemble, it’s recommended to watch the installation video to ensure everything is set up correctly.
This WEIZE Freestyle BMX Bike is a fantastic choice for young riders looking to get into BMX. It offers a great balance of durability, fun features, and safety.
2. ELITE BICYCLES Elite BMX Bicycle 20” & 18” Destro Model Freestyle Bike – 3 Piece Crank (Camo Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to shred with the ELITE BICYCLES Elite BMX Bicycle Destro Model Freestyle Bike! This bike is built tough for all your BMX tricks. It comes in a cool Camo Black color and has a 20-inch frame, perfect for riders looking for a solid freestyle machine. You get a 3-piece crank for extra strength and control.
What We Like:
- The frame is super strong. It has extra support where you need it most for landing jumps and tricks.
- The seat is comfy! It has thick padding and looks sharp with Elite BMX stitching. The alloy seat post makes it light.
- This is one of the best complete BMX bikes you can buy right now. It has everything a rider needs to get started.
- The 3-piece Cro-Mo crankset is a big plus. It’s strong and reliable for all your pedaling needs.
- The Elite free-coaster hub is awesome. It has a strong aluminum shell and smooth sealed bearings. The Chromoly axle and driver are built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bike is built for tricks, some riders might prefer a slightly lighter frame for easier aerial maneuvers.
- The Camo Black color is cool, but a wider variety of color options could appeal to more riders.
This Destro Model BMX bike is a fantastic choice for anyone serious about freestyle riding. It’s built with quality parts to handle the demands of BMX.
3. cubsala 20 Inch BMX Race Bike Trident Bicycles Beginner-Level to Advanced Riders with 2 Pegs Trick Cycling and Professional BMX Riding
Rating: 8.5/10
Unleash your inner BMX star with the cubsala 20 Inch BMX Race Bike. This sleek black bike, featuring awesome BMX race styling and a touch of gold, is built for fun and performance. It’s designed to handle everything from sidewalk cruising to dirt track action and skate park tricks. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned rider, this bike is ready for an adventure.
What We Like:
- The cubsala Hi-Ten steel frame is strong and built for a smooth, comfortable ride. It’s also affordable!
- You get great speed control thanks to the linear pull V-brake on the back wheel, and it’s super easy to maintain.
- This bike comes 85% put together. Assembly is a breeze, and it even includes free pedals and the tools you need.
- The 20-inch wheels are perfect for riders from 4’0” to 6’2” tall, making it a versatile choice.
- With its cool BMX race look and shiny gold accents, this cubsala will definitely turn heads.
- It comes with 2 pegs, perfect for beginner tricks and showing off your skills.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 20-inch wheel fits a wide range, riders at the taller end of the spectrum might prefer a larger wheel size for optimal comfort and control.
- The “professional BMX riding” claim might be a bit ambitious for a beginner-level bike; it’s more suited for casual trick riding and racing.
This cubsala BMX bike offers a fantastic blend of style and functionality for riders of many skill levels. It’s a great way to get into BMX riding without breaking the bank.
4. Mongoose Legion L80 Freestyle BMX Bike for Advanced-Level Riders
Rating: 9.0/10
The Mongoose Legion L80 Freestyle BMX Bike in Tan is built for riders who are ready to push their limits. This bike is designed for serious freestyle action, whether you’re hitting the skate park, shredding street spots, or tackling dirt jumps. Its tough 4130 Chromoly frame and quality components mean it can handle the abuse of advanced riding.
What We Like:
- The 4130 Chromoly frame is super strong and built to last.
- The 9-inch rise Hi-Ten steel handlebar helps you stand out and control your tricks.
- It features durable 3-piece tubular chromoly cranks for smooth pedaling power.
- The sealed bearing hubs and mid bottom bracket offer reliable performance.
- 20” x 2.3” tires grip well on different surfaces.
- Aluminum U-brakes provide dependable stopping power.
- The integrated headset and 50mm stem give you excellent steering.
What Could Be Improved:
- The suggested rider height range is a bit narrow.
- While durable, some advanced riders might prefer even lighter materials for certain tricks.
The Mongoose Legion L80 is a solid choice for experienced BMX riders looking for a bike that can keep up with their skills and style.
5. Mongoose Legion L100 Freestyle BMX Bike for Advanced-Level Riders
Rating: 8.9/10
Unleash your inner BMX pro with the Mongoose Legion L100 Freestyle BMX Bike. This bike is built for riders who are ready to push their limits, whether you’re hitting the skatepark, cruising the streets, or shredding on the dirt. It’s designed for advanced tricks, but can also handle those first exciting curb jumps. The Mongoose Legion L100 is made for adult men and women, with a suggested rider height of 5’8″ and up.
What We Like:
- Built tough with a Mongoose full 4130 Chromoly frame for extreme durability.
- The 21” top tube length and 4130 chromoly handlebar and fork offer great control.
- Double-walled rims and 2.4” tires provide a strong and smooth ride.
- The 175 mm chromoly cranks and sealed bearing bottom bracket deliver efficient power.
- Precision speed control comes from the aluminum U-brake and brake levers.
- Removable brake mounts offer customization options.
What Could Be Improved:
- While built for advanced riders, beginners might find some of the components geared towards more experienced tricksters.
- The grey color, while sleek, might show dirt more easily than other options.
This bike is a serious machine for serious riders. It’s ready to take on any challenge you throw at it.
Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a BMX Cycle
So, you’re ready to hit the ramps, grind some rails, or just cruise around town with some awesome style? Buying a BMX cycle is exciting! But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect BMX for your adventures.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for a BMX, keep these important features in mind. They make a big difference in how your bike rides and lasts.
1. Frame Size
BMX frames come in different sizes, usually measured by the top tube length. A good fit is super important. Shorter riders often do well with smaller frames (around 20 inches), while taller riders might prefer longer frames (20.5 inches or more). A bike that fits you well makes it easier to control and perform tricks.
2. Wheel Size
Most BMX bikes have 20-inch wheels. This is the standard size for freestyle BMX. Some smaller bikes or bikes for younger riders might have 18-inch wheels. Larger wheels (like 24-inch) are sometimes used for cruising or dirt jumping, but 20-inch is the most common for tricks.
3. Brakes
Many BMX bikes have a U-brake, which is a type of caliper brake. It mounts behind the frame. Some bikes have a Gyro system, which lets you spin the handlebars 360 degrees without the brake cables getting tangled. For serious trick riding, some riders remove the brakes altogether, but for beginners, brakes are a good idea.
4. Gearing
BMX bikes have a simple single-speed gear. This means there’s no shifting. It keeps the bike light and strong, which is great for tricks. The gear ratio (how the front and rear sprockets are sized) affects how fast you can go and how easy it is to pedal. A common ratio is 25 teeth on the front sprocket and 9 teeth on the rear.
5. Pedals and Cranks
Pedals should have good grip so your feet don’t slip off. Cranks are the arms that connect the pedals to the bottom bracket. Strong cranks are important because they take a lot of force. Look for chromoly (CR-MO) steel cranks for extra durability.
Important Materials: What Makes a BMX Tough?
The materials used in a BMX cycle directly impact its strength and weight.
- Steel (Hi-Tensile Steel): This is a common material for entry-level BMX bikes. It’s strong and affordable, but it’s also heavier.
- Chromoly Steel (CR-MO): This is a stronger and lighter type of steel. Many mid-range and high-end BMX bikes use chromoly for their frames, forks, and handlebars. It’s a great choice for riders who are doing more advanced tricks.
- Aluminum: While aluminum is lighter than steel, it’s not as commonly used for BMX frames because it can be more prone to bending or breaking under the extreme stress of BMX riding.
Factors Affecting Quality: What Makes a Bike Great (or Not So Great)?
Several things make one BMX cycle better than another.
- Weight: Lighter bikes are easier to lift and maneuver for tricks. High-quality bikes often use lighter materials like chromoly steel.
- Durability: A well-built BMX can handle crashes and rough use. Stronger materials and good welding techniques lead to a more durable bike.
- Component Quality: The quality of parts like the wheels, crankset, and handlebars makes a big difference. Better components are often lighter, stronger, and smoother to use.
- Brand Reputation: Established BMX brands often have a reputation for building reliable and high-performing bikes.
User Experience and Use Cases: Who is a BMX For?
BMX cycles are built for action! They are perfect for:
- Freestyle BMX: This is all about performing tricks at skateparks, on street obstacles, or on ramps. Bikes are built to be strong and agile.
- Dirt Jumping: Riders jump off dirt mounds, performing aerial tricks. These bikes need to be very sturdy.
- Racing: BMX racing happens on specially built dirt tracks with jumps and berms. Racing bikes are designed for speed and quick acceleration.
- Cruising: Some people just love the look and feel of a BMX for riding around their neighborhood. They offer a fun and stylish way to get around.
No matter your goal, choosing a BMX that fits your size and intended use will make your riding experience much more enjoyable and successful. Happy shredding!
Frequently Asked Questions about BMX Cycles
Q: What is the best type of BMX for a beginner?
A: For beginners, a sturdy BMX with good brakes is recommended. Look for a bike with a chromoly frame if your budget allows, as it will be lighter and more durable than hi-tensile steel. A bike that fits your size is the most important thing.
Q: How do I know if a BMX frame is the right size for me?
A: The top tube length is the key measurement. A good rule of thumb is to stand over the bike. You should have a little bit of clearance between your crotch and the top tube. Your local bike shop can help you find the perfect fit.
Q: Do I need brakes on my BMX?
A: For most riders, especially beginners, brakes are a good idea. They help you control your speed and stop safely. Experienced riders who focus on street or park tricks sometimes remove them, but it’s not necessary for learning.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a decent BMX cycle?
A: You can find entry-level BMX bikes for around $200-$300. Mid-range bikes, which offer better quality materials and components, typically range from $400-$700. High-end bikes can cost $800 and up.
Q: Can I use a BMX cycle for everyday transportation?
A: Yes, you can! Many people use BMX bikes for cruising around town. They are durable and have a cool style. However, they don’t have gears, so they might be harder to pedal on long, hilly rides compared to a multi-speed bike.
Q: What does “freestyle” mean in BMX?
A: Freestyle BMX is a discipline focused on performing tricks. This can happen at skateparks, on street obstacles, or on ramps. The bikes used are designed to be strong and agile for these types of riding.
Q: Are BMX bikes difficult to learn to ride?
A: Learning to ride a BMX takes practice, just like any bike. The simple, single-speed design makes them easy to understand. Mastering tricks will take time and dedication, but the basics of riding are straightforward.
Q: What is a “gyro” system on a BMX?
A: A gyro system allows you to spin the handlebars 360 degrees or more without the brake cables getting tangled. This is helpful for certain tricks. It’s a set of cables and rotor that connects the handlebars to the frame.
Q: How often should I maintain my BMX cycle?
A: Regular maintenance is important. Check your tire pressure, make sure your brakes are working, and lubricate your chain. It’s good to give your bike a quick check before each ride and a more thorough check every few weeks or months, depending on how much you ride.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a BMX cycle?
A: Local bike shops are a great resource. They can offer expert advice, help you find the right size, and assemble the bike correctly. Online retailers also offer a wide selection, but you might miss out on personalized help.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!