WHAT IS BMX?
The sport of bicycle motorcross began in the early 1970's in Southern
California. A handful of riders started riding their stingray type bikes
off road in vacant lots and fields, not much competition but a lot of fun.
Today the sport of bicycle motorcross is sweeping the country and the
world. There are over a 150,000 riders of all ages racing in organized
races at permanent tracks across America. BMX racing is clean, exciting
fun that whole families can get involved in whether as a racer, spectator, pit
crew or track volunteer. BMX has something to offer everyone. Races
are organized according to age group and skill levels, so everyone gets the
opportunity to compete on a fair and competitive basis. Even beginning
riders have the chance to race safely with other new riders. All riders
compete for awards and ABA points. The ABA points system determines a
riders annual ranking within that riders district.
WHAT IS THE ABA?
The American Bicycle Association (ABA) was formed to provide organized racing
and give national prominence to the sport of BMX. Under ABA rules of
sanction and to give all members and equal and fair opportunity, riders may
accumulate district points at any ABA sanctioned track in the U.S.
Additionally, a national level points program will be offered for an increased
interest of competition.
Races are organized into separate girls and boys classes, then subdivided into age groups and skill levels. The age groups range from 5 and Under to 51 and Over age classes. Within these age groups are three skill levels: Novice, Intermediate and Expert. All riders start as Novices and work up to the more advanced levels by winning races.
Every rider practicing or competing on any USA BMX sanctioned track must attain prior ABA membership. Memberships can be purchased at the track. There are two types of memberships available which are as follows:
Temporary - The ABA offers a trial membership for $35. This membership is intended ONLY for new riders to the sport and is valid for 30 days ONLY. A rider may hold a temporary membership only one time in their BMX career. This membership allows riders to compete at single point races ONLY, yet no ABA points will be awarded and provides you with no medical insurance coverage. If within the 30 day period the rider wishes to become a full (annual) member, there will be a $35 Temporary Conversion fee, with the initial $35 Temporary fee also being applied toward the full membership fee, with presentation of the temporary membership receipt.
Full (annual) - A full membership costs only $60 and is valid for 1 full year at any ABA sanctioned event in the U.S. Points will be awarded to all riders competing in any ABA sanctioned race with those points returning to each rider's home district. Full membership riders will receive the monthly publication of the BMXer magazine and all pertinent information mailings. Also, each rider will receive a current rulebook and official membership card.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RACE?
Once you have become an ABA member, the only other cost will be the race day
entry fee. The entry fee entitles you to be a participant in the days
action. A typical BMX race includes 3 qualifying motos along with a main
event. In the main event, you race for awards, determined by your finish,
along with the precious ABA points.
The ABA has over 200 tracks nationwide! Chances are there is one near you. Contact Chandler BMX at (480) 963-1053 or call the ABA at (480) 961-1903 and ask for the track nearest you.
Simply visit your local track during the practice or racing times and ask for a membership application or information. You can watch the races, talk to other BMX families, or give it a try yourself.
1. First, a helmet is required, and the ABA and Chandler BMX highly recommends one with full-face protection. Most USA BMX tracks have "loaner" helmets for beginners to use. A lot of times, a good inexpensive helmet can be found at garage sales or in the pit area of your local BMX track.
2. Long sleeve shirt.
3. Long pants.
4. Any tennis shoe is sufficient.
5. Gloves (Chandler BMX Rule - All riders under 18 years old must wear gloves when riding the track)
BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment. Most racers start with their 20" street bike and make the following REQUIRED modifications:
1. Make sure all bolts are tight - especially your axle bolts and stem bolts.
2. All reflectors must be removed for safety purposes.
3. If your bike has a kickstand, it must be taken off.
4. You'll also need a number plate. Most USA BMX tracks will supply you with plate when you sign up. If not, a simple paper plate will do.
This site built by
