racing tips 101
Take your time don't rush it
Take it slow on your first few laps. Remember, you are brand new to this and those fast, expert racers started off just like you. Take time to learn the track - know which obstacles are coming up and how to take it smoothly. Often, the difference in the beginner class is who is smoothest around the course rather than quickest.Since BMX is a "short sprint" sport (with most races lasting 35 to 45 seconds), the start of a race is usually the most important.
The gate! It looks harder than it really is
When you first begin racing, you'll most likely do what is called a one-footed start. Which is having one foot on your pedal and the other foot acting as a "kickstand," resting on the ground to keep you balanced. The majority of riders start with their right foot "forward" (on the pedals). Much like skateboarders or surfers, racers who line up in the gate with a left foot forward are called "goofy footed." Find out which feels most comfortable - there is no right or wrong way. Soon, you will want to learn how to do the normal "two-footed start." Some riders can pick this up on their first day at the races and some beginners take weeks to learn how. You can practice the two-footed start anywhere - find a wall and ride up to it, with your front wheel touching. Apply a little bit of pressure on your forward pedal - just enough to keep your front wheel solid against the surface of the imaginary starting gate. Stand in an upright position, relax, and use both of your arms to balance the bike. Once you've got the feel of balancing your bike on the gate, then you'll need to learn how to "snap" out of the gate. This is the motion of thrusting your hips into your handlebars and cranking down on your forward pedal as the gate is falling. The best way to learn this is watching the local pros and experts at your track, and constantly practice.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Obviously, the more you race and ride your bike, the better you will get. That old saying "Practice makes perfect" stands true in the world of BMX racing. The track will hold rider clinics throughout the year, there are also many top pros in the sport of BMX who travel around the country putting on beginner clinics. Attending a clinic is one of the best ways to learn how to get better in BMX. You be happy to know that families and friends at Steel Wheels will be on hand to help you get started. Don't be afraid to ask questions, remember, everyone started out just like you. The sport of BMX is a fun and exciting sport that can't be compared to any other sport that involves riders of all ages and skill levels. You'll learn how to challenge yourself while competing against others at the same time building character, discipline and accomplishments that you'll use throughout your career. Make sure you ask Mom & Dad to create some extra space for your new trophy collection. You'll start collecting a ton of them before you know it.
Come on out, Have Fun!!!
Take it slow on your first few laps. Remember, you are brand new to this and those fast, expert racers started off just like you. Take time to learn the track - know which obstacles are coming up and how to take it smoothly. Often, the difference in the beginner class is who is smoothest around the course rather than quickest.Since BMX is a "short sprint" sport (with most races lasting 35 to 45 seconds), the start of a race is usually the most important.
The gate! It looks harder than it really is
When you first begin racing, you'll most likely do what is called a one-footed start. Which is having one foot on your pedal and the other foot acting as a "kickstand," resting on the ground to keep you balanced. The majority of riders start with their right foot "forward" (on the pedals). Much like skateboarders or surfers, racers who line up in the gate with a left foot forward are called "goofy footed." Find out which feels most comfortable - there is no right or wrong way. Soon, you will want to learn how to do the normal "two-footed start." Some riders can pick this up on their first day at the races and some beginners take weeks to learn how. You can practice the two-footed start anywhere - find a wall and ride up to it, with your front wheel touching. Apply a little bit of pressure on your forward pedal - just enough to keep your front wheel solid against the surface of the imaginary starting gate. Stand in an upright position, relax, and use both of your arms to balance the bike. Once you've got the feel of balancing your bike on the gate, then you'll need to learn how to "snap" out of the gate. This is the motion of thrusting your hips into your handlebars and cranking down on your forward pedal as the gate is falling. The best way to learn this is watching the local pros and experts at your track, and constantly practice.
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Obviously, the more you race and ride your bike, the better you will get. That old saying "Practice makes perfect" stands true in the world of BMX racing. The track will hold rider clinics throughout the year, there are also many top pros in the sport of BMX who travel around the country putting on beginner clinics. Attending a clinic is one of the best ways to learn how to get better in BMX. You be happy to know that families and friends at Steel Wheels will be on hand to help you get started. Don't be afraid to ask questions, remember, everyone started out just like you. The sport of BMX is a fun and exciting sport that can't be compared to any other sport that involves riders of all ages and skill levels. You'll learn how to challenge yourself while competing against others at the same time building character, discipline and accomplishments that you'll use throughout your career. Make sure you ask Mom & Dad to create some extra space for your new trophy collection. You'll start collecting a ton of them before you know it.
Come on out, Have Fun!!!
