While downhill and mountain dirt jump bikes get a lot of press these days, there is no denying that BMX bikes were extreme before people even knew to call it that. BMX stands for "bicycle motocross". In the late 70s these little bikes were raced and jumped around tracks all over North America.
What started as dirt racing has morphed into a full on extreme sport that fills stadiums. The X-games and YouTube have opened the wild world of BMX to a whole new generation. Superstars like Matt Hoffman and Dave Mirra have taken this underground sport and given it a world wide audience.
Some of my first hardcore riding was done on a BMX bike. We would build ramps and use our bikes to jump the creek by my house. Back in the day we didn't wear helmets so I spent some time in the hospital with concussions, so don't forget to put on your brain bucket when out jumping.
Over the years BMX has branched in different styles of riding. For anyone wanting to jump, flip or spin on a bike, getting into BMX is the best value. With the whole bike costing less than most mountain bike forks, it's within the reach of most people, even if your paycheck comes from a paper route.
BMX riding is broken down into a few main styles.
BMX Racing
Dirt Jumping/ Trail
Urban/Park/Vert
Flatland
While you can use a bike for more than one style, as you progress in a given style you will benefit from a more specialized bike. A dirt or trail bike is the jack of all trades. With a tire swap you can ride street, ramps and dirt. And while a little heavier than a pure race bike you can take it out to the local track and try out BMX racing.
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