Riding a BMX bike must be one of the most extreme sports activities of the modern era. Only sports such as skateboarding and bungee jumping match the excitement when riding a BMX bike. These bicycles look and feel more like the equipment for a stunt in a movie, in the sense that they are lightweight, aerodynamically designed and prepared with special gadgets and adjustments to make stunt acts so much easier.
The improved design of the bmx bike includes a lighter, and perfectly balanced body. Attached to the frame are wheels which are six to seven inches smaller than the regular mountain bike. They also feature a shorter and heftier steering handle for maneuvers, as well as a pair of side pegs that protrude from the wheels. The design as well as the special attachments aim to provide ease of use and mobility. Considering the bike will be used to flip, jump off high ramps and turn in mid air, designers must make every effort to reduce stress on the rider.
Experience riders of bmx bikes gather at bmx games or competitions to test their skills against each other. These bmx games are big business, attracting thousands of followers and sponsors for experienced bikers. The tracks are mostly dirt paths on outdoor scenery. They are best for long stretches and high jumps. BMX races are not recommended on tough ground like asphalt, since they do not break the fall of the biker when he falls. Races usually integrate ten individual participants, and have a stretch of about forty meters. Like in most races, the objective is to reach the finish line faster than others. However, it is not that simple. The biker will encounter numerous obstacles along the way which will make his trajectory an extreme adventure. Portions of the path will cause the bike to fly off the ramp, only to encounter a hard turn just next to it.
A bmx racer must be prepared to maneuver around all kinds of obstacles, while remaining in the bike. A great deal of experience is required to handle yourself comfortably in a dirt path and perform all these daring stunts necessary in order to win a race. Even the most experienced riders are not allowed to compete unless they wear all the necessary safety equipment. Items like helmets, knee and elbow pads are crucial in order to keep it fun, or a fall could be lethal.
The rise in popularity of bmx bikes is better represented by the inclusion of a bmx game in the Olympic Games in Beijing. BMX competitions are available on television on a regular basis. Sports channels are sure to broadcast events such as the X Games, live. Engaging in the bmx trend need not be a sad experience. A novice rider should be able to understand the importance of wearing safety equipment at all times. It is also important to keep in mind that stunts do take a lot of practice and falling down. Start with simple maneuvers and work your way up.