How to Start Racing BMX

Welcome to the How to Start Racing BMX Guide. In this section we will explain what you need and who you need to talk to if you are interested in racing BMX. Whether you are a new rider or an old rider looking to get back into the sport, this guide will tell you everything you need in order to race BMX in Victoria BC Canada.

 

Who you need to talk to: To start racing BMX you should talk to your local Rider Representatives. This year the current Rider Representatives are Chris Jeffery and Rob Brooks. Email admin@victoriabmx.com to get in touch with them.

 

What you need to get:

 -Gear: You will need the following gear in order to be ready to race BMX.

 

-Bike: There are 2 types of BMX bikes you can race. 20" frames and Cruiser frames. Cruisers have 24" frames and bigger wheels. It is recommended that you get a race bike if you are going to race although street bikes can be raced provided that pegs are removed. However, street bikes are often much heavier than race bikes and will slow you down.

-Number Plate: You will need a number plate to compete in any race. Your plate number should be the number on your membership card. Temporary plates will be given out if necessary.

-Clothing: You will need the following clothing in order to race BMX.

- Fullface Helmet (required) - Race Jersey (optional) - Race Pants (optional) - Race Gloves (optional) - Knee and Shin guards (optional) - Race Shoes: - SPD clip in shoes (must have clip in SPD peddles) - Clipless shoes

 

Membership:

-Who Can Ride?

Anyone can start racing BMX in the American Bicycle Association at ANY age! Younger kids can also choose to race in the "halftracker" class until they are comfortable with the track.

 

-Annual Fees:

The annual membership fee is $55. This membership will allow you to race any ABA race in North America. This membership will also include a free subscription to BMXer magazine.

-Local Race Fees: Local races will usually charge a fee of $7 per race. In some races like double points or the Race For Life, the price can be increased as double the points are awarded to each rider.

 

Where you can race:

You can race at any ABA sanctioned track in North America. On Vancouver Island, there are several tracks. Victoria BMX, Nanaimo BMX, Coal Hills BMX (Cumberland) and Eric Goetzinger BMX (Qualicum Beach).

What Kind of races: -Local: -Canadian National Series -Provincial Series -Redline Cup -Race For life Series-Double Points Races -Vancouver Island Championship Series