BMX Info
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 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 USA BMX points.  The USA BMX points system determines a riders annual ranking within that riders district.


WHAT IS USA BMX?
USA BMX was formed to provide organized racing and give national prominence to the sport of BMX.  Under USA BMX rules of sanction and to give all members an equal and fair opportunity, riders may accumulate district points at any USA BMX sanctioned track in the U.S.  Additionally, a national level points program will be offered for an increased interest of competition.


WHO CAN RACE?
Races are organized into separate girls and boys classes, then subdivided into age groups and skill levels.  The age groups range from 5 & Under to 61 & 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.


USA BMX MEMBERSHIP
Every rider practicing or competing on any USA BMX sanctioned track must attain a USA BMX membership.  Memberships can be purchased at the track.  There are two types of memberships available which are as follows:

    
    
Full (annual) - A full membership costs only $60 and is valid for 1 full year at any USA BMX sanctioned event in the U.S.  Points will be awarded to all riders competing in any USA BMX sanctioned race, with those points returning to each rider's home district.  Full membership riders will receive the monthly publication of "PULL" 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 a USA BMX member, the only other cost will be the race/practice day entry fee.  The entry fee entitles you to be a participant in the day's action.  A typical BMX race includes 2-3 qualifying motos, along with a main event.  In the main event, you race for awards determined by your finish, along with the precious USA BMX points.
(Click to view 2020 Pricing)


WHERE CAN I RACE?
USA BMX has over 200 tracks nationwide!  Chances are there is one near you.  Contact
CHANDLER BMX at (480) 963-1053 or call USA BMX at (480) 961-1903 and ask for the track nearest you.


HOW CAN I GET STARTED?
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.  It is always free to watch at Chandler BMX.


WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
1.  First, a helmet is required.  USA BMX 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).


WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment.  Most racers start with their 20" street bike and make the following REQUIRED modifiations:
     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 on race nights.  Most USA BMX tracks can supply you 
          with a temporary plate when you sign up.  If not, a simple paper plate will do.