Bmx brands. Review of the five best cheap BMX bikes. Which BMX to choose

BMX frame size is measured by the length of the bike's top tube.

The correct choice of size affects:

a) Ease of performing tricks and speed of learning. Don't be surprised that riding is difficult if you choose the wrong bike size;

b) Health - if you choose the wrong BMX size, you can easily get scoliosis

BMX bike frame size selection table based on height

Length BMX frames in inches	Rider height in centimeters
18.0-19.5"	130+
20.0"	140+
20.25"	150+
20.5"	160+
20.8"	170+
21.0"	180+
21.25"	190+

Detailed video about sizes:

Bearings

Having decided on the size, we move on to the details. First up are the bearings. When riding BMX they are subjected to severe abuse, so it is important to choose good ones in advance. Bearings in BMX bikes are:

• Industrial(prommies / sealed bearings / closed bearings) - a non-separable assembly of two rings, between which balls roll. Industrial bearings are pressed into their seat and replaced if necessary. Such bearings last longer because they become less dirty, but they also cost more. If possible, it is better to take BMX on them.

• Bulk(loose balls) - open type bearings. They look like a set of balls rolling on a bearing cup. Their service life is shorter, because... they become clogged with dirt faster. And when disassembling parts on bulk bearings, the balls merrily scatter all over the floor.

Ideally, BMX rotating components should be on industrial bearings. This will make the bike last longer and ride smoother. The exceptions are the pedals and the front hub - the gaps in these units are not critical.

Materials

In BMX there are fundamentally two materials that are used separately or combined:

• Cr-Mo(chromoly steel, chromol): lightweight, durable and, because of this, more expensive material;
• Hi-ten(Regular Steel): inferior to Cr-Mo in strength and weight, but cheaper;

Usually, in BMX everyone is chasing cromoles exclusively, citing low weight. In fact, as practice shows, in the end there is nothing left of a purchased complete set - everything is replaced with individual spare parts as they wear out. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with starting with a BMX with steel parts.

By the way, here is a video about this:

Components

• Rims. There are double and single. Double rims are stronger and therefore better. Single ones are less durable, but cheaper. Sometimes BMX manufacturers put a single rim on the front wheel and a double rim on the rear. To begin with, you can choose single ones - they will be enough for learning basic tricks.
• Pedals. Most often, plastic pedals are installed on BMX. Modern plastic pedals can withstand loads no worse than metal ones, but weigh much less;
• Brakes. Brakes usually come with a BMX bike and are installed on it from the factory. It is better for a novice rider not to remove them - the ability to brake without a brake comes only with experience.
• Connecting rods. Typically, BMX bicycles are equipped with 3-element tubular cranks, but there are also models with the so-called poker (single-element cranks, 1pc crank). Both types have a right to exist, but single-element connecting rods, due to their low strength and high weight, are acceptable only on children's BMX and on entry-level bicycles.

Budget

In BMX More expensive doesn't always mean better. Take a closer look, maybe the difference between a bike for 25 and 30 thousand is not so fundamental, and it’s better to buy a cheaper bike and spend the rest on good custom parts or protection.

This is where the main features end, then the nuances begin, but more on them in other BMX articles. You can ask any questions in our group

BMX bicycles are designed for bicycle motocross competitions, but in everyday life they have become a fashionable trend among modern youth. In city parks and on street playgrounds, you can often find a group of teenagers practicing stunt riding.

With the spread of extreme cycling in the world, BMX culture has become an integral part of the lives of many riders. The design of the bike is designed taking into account the high loads on it during stunt and extreme riding, and the small dimensions of the bike provide great opportunities for learning and polishing various tricks. The strength and reliability of a bike largely depends on the manufacturer, therefore, as elsewhere, there are a number of top brands.

GT

Bicycles under the GT brand have been on official sale since 1975. The founder of the company is Gary Turner, a welder by profession, who was the first to make a frame from chrome-molybdenum, thereby giving the bike the best characteristics. Until the mid-90s, this American company was considered the best BMX manufacturer in the world. Since 1988, GT began producing mountain bikes and quickly managed to become a market leader in this area as well. From its founding to the present day, GT has been creating worthy competition for leading bicycle manufacturers.

Haro

Haro is an American company founded in 1978 by two famous racers, Jim Ford and Bob Haro. Having competed and knowing about all the shortcomings of the bike, Bob and Jim decided to create a bike themselves that would satisfy the highest demands of athletes. Since then, Haro has become one of the world's leading manufacturers of extreme bikes, with products unrivaled on the racetrack, downhill and uphill.

Odyssey

Odyssey is a significant brand for riders in the BMX world. This American company specializes in the production of components for bicycles of this group that are unique in their characteristics. Thanks to innovative developments and a wide range of products, Odyssey is known far beyond the United States. Spare parts of this brand are successfully used by amateur and professional riders.

United

The English company United was founded in 2006 and today is already known throughout the world. In addition to the fact that United produces high-quality BMX bicycles and spare parts for street, park and dirt, company representatives in every possible way help to develop extreme culture by organizing interesting competitions and various kinds of events.

Wethepeople (WTB)

WTB is a large German manufacturer of bicycles, parts and clothing for BMX. The Germans have always been famous for their high quality production and assembly, and Wethepeople was no exception. The success and popularity of this company is due not only to the German scrupulousness towards the quality of the goods produced, but also to the loyal, affordable price that Wethepeople products have.

Among the top manufacturers it is worth noting such companies as: Klink, Sunday, Fit, Cult, Subrosa, DK, Mongoose.

Almost all of the above companies employ famous racers and pro riders. Such collaboration between engineers and athletes brings confident success to companies. The practical experience of riders and the latest developments of engineers allow us to find new solutions to improve the efficiency of bicycle design, delighting customers with more advanced BMX models.

Among the leading manufacturers it is difficult to identify a clear leader, because each brand is good in its own way and each company always has its own adherents.

BMX, which has gained recognition since the late 80s of the 20th century, remains one of the most popular extreme sports. BMX, or bicycle motocross, originally consisted of racing held on dirt tracks. BMX has moved on from its original concept and now includes various genres, including freestyle and dirt jumping. BMX bike manufacturers produce bikes that meet the requirements of each discipline.

We The People

Company We The People offers bike models for beginners, advanced and professional BMX riders. Beginner bike series from We The People offers riders the simplest BMX bikes, but at the same time pays attention to quality and design. Bicycles from this series do not require much maintenance and are equipped with hand brakes especially for beginners.

Fit Bike

Company Fit Bike offers BMX bikes in a variety of sizes (both width and height) to suit the requirements of each discipline. In assortment Fit Bike both lightweight lowriders - low-slung bikes - for street riding, and high-slung bikes for dirt jumping.

Stolen Bike

In the company's lineup Stolen Bike- BMX bicycles designed for street riding and cross-country riding. Company Stolen Bike makes bicycles from chrome, which has a light but durable structure. Bikes from this manufacturer have removable brakes for riders who prefer not to brake at all.

Eastern Bikes

Eastern Bikes is North Carolina's leading BMX bike company. Eastern Bikes offers equipment for beginners, amateurs, masters and BMX professionals.

Eastern Bikes offers bicycle frames in vibrant colors that make them stand out among many other BMX bike manufacturers.

Haro Bikes

Haro Bikes' product range remains one of the widest, as the company also produces mountain and beach bikes. Bicycles for BMX from Haro have a lightweight frame made of aluminum alloy.

Hoffman Bikes

Company Hoffman Bikes was founded by world famous professional BMX rider Mike Hoffman. Hoffman Bikes offers a large range of BMX bikes, including streetride, freestyle and halfpipe bikes.

DK Bicycles

Thanks to simple but high-impact bikes DK Bicycles ranks among the top ten BMX bicycle manufacturing companies. DK offers bikes for racing, trail riding, freestyle and park riding. DK bicycle frames are made of a special alloy with subsequent heat treatment.

Subrosa

Bicycles company Subrosa Mainly used for street riding and freestyle. Unlike the thin steel frames of other BMX bike manufacturers, Subrosa produces frames with thickened walls made of steel alloy. Color schemes of black, white and red underpin the simple design of the bikes Subrosa.

Bicycles for BMX from the company Kink remain one of the most affordable options, however, the company also produces long-lasting bicycles and components for them. For BMX bikes from Kink two steel pegs are installed which are used by riders to glide over rails and ledges.

BMX bikes are one of the simplest bicycles in design, originally created to prepare children for motocross training. However, they can withstand loads that other mountain bikes cannot, making them ideal for trick riding. Alas, you can only find a decent complete set for good money, so pros most often assemble their bikes themselves. But novice athletes will be able to find a decent BMX bike in the store. The main thing is to take into account the recommendations when choosing a bike in order to buy a model that is reliable enough for your level of riding.

The principle of operation and structure of a BMX bicycle

Unlike other extreme bikes, BMX models do not have suspension. The rigid rigid frame is welded from seamless butted pipes, which have maximum strength with relatively low weight. This is the only way to increase the reliability of a projectile that experiences extreme shock loads.

It also differs in its geometry: the motocross frame is very low, often elongated, although its length largely depends on the style for which the bike is intended. To increase the reliability of the entire structure, a gusset is welded onto the front triangle near the steering wheel (it works as an additional stiffening rib), and the rear stays are attached to the top, and not just to the seat tube of the frame.

Non-standard design and at the helm. Here it rotates freely 360°, which allows you to expand the range of tricks performed on a bicycle. Naturally, there can be no question of any cables stretching from the handles, which is why the BMX does not have a gear shift system.

As for brakes, many models simply do not have them. And if there is, then these are the most ordinary U or V-brake pads with power transmission by a cable tucked into the cavity of the fork. It is passed through a gyro in the steering column, since many performances on such bikes involve rotating the handlebars - without the “adapter” the brake cable will simply twist and come off.

Another characteristic feature of stunt bikes is their small wheel diameter of up to 20″. Firstly, this allows you to reduce the weight of the projectile, and secondly, it provides good maneuverability and does not interfere with the athlete performing basic tricks.

Pegs are additionally screwed to the wheel axles - short tubes 10-11 cm long, designed to support the legs and slide (grind) on various surfaces.

Types of BMX bicycles

What is the difference between the different types of BMX bikes? That's exactly what we're going to find out. After you read this article, visit a store, approach the bikes and try to immediately discern the difference between them.

If you're not sure what type of BMX your child wants, check with a bike shop to see what kind of bikes are popular in your area, because the store staff will probably know which product is most popular among young people. Or ask your son or daughter about it (if they know what they specifically want).

Street

Perhaps the most popular riding style. After all, special tracks, playgrounds and parks are not needed for training - the entire city is available to the rider. Railings, parapets, benches and steps are excellent objects for honing your skills. Due to its accessibility, street is chosen by the vast majority of novice riders. For many, Street is literally a way of life - it is a small subculture with its own fashion, music and behavioral styles.

The main differences between “street” bikes: they are lightweight, often without brakes and sometimes even without saddles. Rubber with a non-aggressive or even “slick” tread. Pegs may be installed for some tricks.

The main advantages of Street BMX include:

• Moderately light and compact;
• Narrow handlebar and short stays for easy plucking;
• Good wheel grip;
• Maneuverability.

Similar stories are used for vert. This is one of the most spectacular BMX styles - ramp skating with aerial somersaults and somersaults. Therefore, “flying” bicycles have to be retrofitted differently.

Pegs are installed on both the front and rear wheels, and the tires are only slick, with a weak tread pattern. Otherwise, bikes for vert are the same as street bikes.

Racing

Actually, these are the classic BMX bikes that started it all. Such bikes are designed for high-speed riding with sharp turns, low drops and other small obstacles. They have a lightweight frame made of durable 6005A aluminum alloy and stable wheels with pronounced tread. Only rear brakes are installed.

The main advantages of Racing BMX include:

• Very light, but quite strong;
• Good gear ratio, unlike most BMX bikes;
• Confidently walk on slippery and loose soil;
• More stable due to the extended base;
• Equipped with good contact pedals.

Dirt

For dirt (jumping from springboards and extreme riding on earthen embankments) you need squat and heavier bikes. Unlike all other types of BMX, such bicycles can be equipped not only with a front brake, but also with a rear brake.

The main advantages of Dirt BMX include:

• Equipped with the most durable frames;
• Stable due to low center of gravity;
• The long base ensures stability in flight;
• A large fork deflection angle guarantees a successful landing;
• Grippy rubber with powerful tread.

Flatland

Flat is a very atypical bike, in principle not intended for riding. They perform acrobatic acts on it and “dance” on one wheel without touching the ground with their feet.

Such bicycles are distinguished by a very short wheelbase and an almost vertical fork. They are suspended with four powerful pegs - a pair on each wheel - so they must have reliable bushings both front and rear.

The main advantages of Flatland BMX include:

• The short frame, and the entire structure, is made as convenient as possible for tricks;
• Reinforced rims with a large number of spokes;
• Complete freedom of action with the steering wheel;
• Responsive and tenacious brakes.

BMX bike selection options

Material of manufacture

This parameter determines everything: the weight of the bike, its lifespan (adjusted for your riding style) and the cost of the equipment itself. Moreover, we are talking not only about the frame material, but also about other loaded elements: fork, handlebars, bushings.

There are two main types of metals used in the production of BMX bikes:

• Hi-Ten– ordinary structural steel, inexpensive and far from the most durable. With aggressive riding and jumping, all bicycle parts made from it will quickly require replacement - they will either bend or even burst. Although under athletes of small weight, high-ten lasts quite a long time.
• Cr-Mo– alloyed chrome-molybdenum steel. It is considered ideal for the manufacture of all metal parts of VMX, since it turns out to be twice as strong as usual. But it’s not cheap either.

In the middle price range are bicycles where some parts of the structure are made of Hi-Ten, while others are made of chrome-molybdenum steel. If you only have enough money for such a model, make sure that at least the frame is alloyed (replacing it will be too expensive, unlike other components).

BMX on aluminum and titanium frames is a separate category of bicycles. The former are only suitable for racing without serious jumps and impacts, but can be used by teenagers and children. The latter are too expensive, and compared to Cr-Mo, the difference in price does not correspond to the difference in their strength.

Steering wheel and column

The BMX steering column must be strong enough and have a diameter of at least 1.1/8″. It is better to give preference to an integrated cup, where by default there are closed-type industrial bearings that do not have any negative impact on the pipe. In addition, such a column is easier and cheaper to change.

Carriage glass

This is the seat for the pedal cranks and drive sprocket.

Today BMX manufacturers offer 2 main types of carriage cups:

1. With pressed bearings and bushing - it is better if it is Mid or lighter “Spanish”;
2. Threaded, with external bearings (Euro) - not the most popular. They are heavy, not very reliable and also require the selection of special connecting rods.

Sometimes you can also find bicycles with an American type cup, where the bearings (often bulk) are additionally fixed with cups. It is better to avoid purchasing a device with such a carriage fit.

Bushings

They deserve special attention when choosing BMX bicycles, since they often take on the entire load.

In addition, they have several options:

1. Freeville– relatively inexpensive bushings with a ratchet and a fairly large, heavy sprocket.
2. With driver– an ideal option for stunt models, since a cassette with a ratcheting mechanism is more durable than a ratchet and allows you to reduce the weight of the projectile by reducing the drive gear.
3. Freecoaster– a chic and incredibly expensive type of bushings just for stunt bikes. But they are practically never found on standardized complete sets, unless it is some kind of flagship model.

Don’t forget to check the type of bearings installed: industrial (“industrial”) bearings are required on the rear wheel and highly desirable on the front wheel.

As for the sizes, the rear bushings in any case should be 14 mm in diameter - the usual ten is not suitable here, since after installing the peg, it will simply bend under the weight of the rider. On the front wheel, it is possible to use a lighter 9.5 mm axle - again, if this is not a flat model, and you do not plan to install front pegs.

Wheels

Immediately buy a bike with double rims - they are stronger and more resistant to deformation. Single wheels can be taken for a teenager, but even after several unsuccessful jumps he can easily turn the wheel into a figure eight.

The number of spokes depends on the size of the hub, but the more there are, the more seriously the wheels can be loaded - this applies to both the weight of the rider and the level of extreme riding.

Tires are usually used wide (1.8-2.25″) with a slick or semi-slick profile. But if you have to ride on poor surfaces, it makes sense to take a more aggressive tread.

Pedals material

We are not talking about the connecting rods themselves - here the choice is obvious: either buy a bike with Cr-Mo right away, or take Hi-Ten and change it to an alloy alloy right away.

The following options are possible here:

1. Aluminum pedals– reliable and durable, quite affordable.
2. Magnesium- the best, because with the same strength indicators they weigh less than aluminum, but also cost much more.
3. Plastic- inexpensive, easy to change, but they clearly lack strength. And their grip on the sole is poor.

Rostovka

Oddly enough, the traditional frame size is not of fundamental importance in BMX. Such bicycles are ridden mainly while standing on the pedals, which means that the issue of convenience depends only on the constitution of the athlete. However, the length of the top tube is worth paying attention to.

It is better to select it using the fitting method, but as a guide you can use the following numbers:

1. For children and teenagers 140 cm tall, a frame size of 18-20″ is considered optimal;
2. With a height of 150-170 cm, you can already take models 20.25-20.75″;
3. For tall athletes from 180 cm, frames of 21-21.2″ are suitable, but this is the ceiling. Not everyone finds it convenient to do tricks with such a length of pipe.

Which BMX to choose?

If you want to introduce your child to the sport, take him a children's BMX model on wheels from 12 to 18 inches. An aluminum or Hi-Ten frame no longer than 20″ will be enough for him, as will small bushings up to 10 mm in diameter. Brakes are required.

For beginners just mastering this spectacular sport, it is better to take a bike in the mid-price category, but certainly on a chrome-molybdenum frame with an equally reliable steering wheel. The remaining metal parts of the bicycle can be made of ordinary steel if the rider’s weight is light.

As you gain experience, part of the budget body kit should still be replaced. But the rear hub should initially be “adult”, that is, have 14 mm in diameter. There are no particularly strict requirements for the front. Brakes, as in the case of children's bicycles, will definitely come in handy at first.

Those who have enough money for a good BMX and have experience in extreme riding will need the most durable bike possible, because you will “kill” it diligently and competently. Accordingly, everything in its design - from the frame to the pedal cranks - must be made of Cr-Mo.

It is also worth choosing the most reliable suspension: Mid-cups on the carriage, cassette bushings with industrial bearings, a powerful aluminum sprocket and a corresponding chain. It is better to choose pedals made of magnesium alloy. If something from this list is not included in the complete set, it is advisable to immediately purchase and replace it.

How much does a BMX bike cost?

For a children's stunt bike in stores they ask from 5 to 20 thousand rubles.

A budget street model on a steel frame can be purchased for 10-22 thousand rubles.

Aluminum BMXs for racing range in price from 18 to 28 thousand.

In approximately the same range (15-30 thousand) you can buy combined bikes assembled from alloy and Hi-Ten parts.

You can find good chrome-molybdenum bicycles with a budget of 19 to 40 thousand rubles, although some of the body kit may need to be changed.

A really cool motocross bike, designed for a pro level, will cost from 30 to 100 thousand rubles. Or even higher if you choose a new product from a well-known brand.

TOP 5 Rating of the best BMX models of 2019.

BMX STELS Saber 20 V010 (2019)

In recent years, BMX bikes have become extremely popular among teenagers and beyond. Many have seen guys not only racing them through the streets, but also trying to perform special tricks. And this is not a tribute to vanity or an attempt to show excessive prowess. BMX bikes were specially created almost half a century ago and are still produced today for those who love extreme riding.

The Stels Saber 20” V010 model represents the classic version of such a BMX bike for street adventures. It's a rugged bike with an 8-inch steel frame, rigid fork, and 20-inch wheels with thick, deep-tread tires. The latter allows you to ride not only on asphalt or concrete, but also on dirt tracks with hills.

The Saber 20 frame configuration is also standard for BMX bikes. It is slightly elongated and lowered to make it easier for the rider to perform maneuvers and tricks. Sufficiently thick tires make up for the lack of a full-fledged shock absorption system, softening the impact upon landing. The wheel rims are double and made of aluminum alloy. This solution is quite common on many models of modern bicycles, as it allows you to reduce the overall weight of the bike without losing strength.

BMX Haro Downtown (2019)

Learn to perform complex stunt elements? There is no question if your companion is the Haro Downtown 2019 BMX bike. It combines highly durable construction and stylish sporty design. Its skeleton is made up of a durable steel alloy frame and a rigid fork that absorbs light road vibration. For added safety, the bike is equipped with an Alloy 990 rear rim brake, which allows you to stop smoothly when needed.

BMX STARK Madness BMX 4 (2019)

A bike for performing extreme tricks when riding in dirt and street style, the Stark Madness BMX 4 2019 will be an ideal partner both in training and in serious competitions. Its frame is made of durable steel alloy, which makes it resistant to deformation due to accidental drops. 20-inch wheels equipped with Wanda P1042 tires have excellent grip both on cycling tracks and on various other surfaces. Sparkle U969D rim brakes guarantee timely stopping of movement.

Welt BMX Freedom (2019)

Welt 2019 BMX Freedom entry-level with thoughtful geometry and reliable, inexpensive components. A chrome-molybdenum frame, a three-piece connecting rod system combined with strong wheels - that's what you need! There is room for further improvement and replacement of components. An ideal first bike for learning technical elements, the frame of which will serve as a good base for an upgrade in the future. Suitable for children from 10 years of age.

BMX Format 3214 (2019)

If you want to add a little pleasant extreme into your life, then the Format 3214 20 stunt bike will help you. It is suitable for both entry-level simple elements and confident riders. The single-speed transmission of the bicycle does not require any adjustment or switching. The basis for the entire structure was a high-strength frame made of wear-resistant steel alloy. Tektro FX340R rim brakes are responsible for timely braking under any circumstances.

OFF TOP

Suspension fork designed to soften all the obstacles you pass. It consists of a spring, which bears the main “shock” and processes vibrations, and a damper, which absorbs vibrations. All these parts are made from different materials using air, oil, synthetic materials - elastomers. Depending on this, the suspension fork can be oil-air, spring, elastomeric, spring-elastomer, air.

Disc brakes- This is a special type of hand brake, which consists of a steel disc that is installed on a special wheel hub, and a device that compresses the disc with brake pads. Disc brakes have a number of advantages: independence from weather conditions (rain, snow), less clogging when driving, better modulation, their operation is not affected by “eight” wheels, do not wear out the rim, and require less frequent maintenance.

High quality rim– the key to successful skating and not bending the wheels with “eights” and other “joys”. Double rims are more durable and repairable. At the same time, they have less weight, but higher strength.

Aluminum frame Widely used by many famous bicycle manufacturers. As a rule, an alloy of aluminum with silicon, zinc, scandium, and magnesium is used. Its advantage is that while the weight of the structure is reduced, the strength and reliability of the frame remains at a high level. Other advantages of an aluminum frame include good dynamics and road sensitivity, high corrosion resistance, and good load capacity.

Hydraulic brake drive It works on the principle of pressing the pads to the disc using the pressure of brake fluid, which is poured into special cables - a hydraulic line. The hydraulic drive is characterized by excellent endurance, the speed of reaction of the mechanism to pressure on the handle, and the overall reliability of the system, proven over the years. Disadvantages: high cost, slightly more expensive maintenance.

Multi speed bike Suitable for terrain. This bike is equipped with a gear shift system, and the number of gears depends on the type of bike and the level of training of the cyclist. Multi-speed bicycles from well-known manufacturers are as reliable as and even superior to models that use a single gear.

Damper in oil-air, oil-spring forks The cartridge with oil serves, and the spring contains air (air). Advantages of forks that use air or oil: comfort, better handling of small bumps, vibration damping, fast rebound. Such forks improve the ride quality of the bike - handling, comfort, and performance - reliability, durability.

The carbon frame is known for its strength and rigidity. A carbon frame is used where it is necessary to achieve the lowest possible weight. For example, the weight of some carbon frames does not exceed 1000 g. This is especially important for dual suspension, cross-country hardtails, and road bikes. Its main drawback is its high cost.