BMX is the subject of many organised competitive events. Yet, many freestyle riders are uncomfortable with the notion of BMX being classed as a sport. They often see what they do as highly expressive and individualistic, an activity more akin to maverick artistry than disciplined sportsmanship.  So, which is it?

Freestyle BMX is a different creature to the more traditional, straightforwardly competitive discipline of BMX racing. Whilst there have been organised competitions for freestyle BMX (the X Games for example), its fans point to several aspects of freestyle that in their view renders it more like a performance art than a sport.

Firstly, it is argued that in freestyle there is little emphasis on winning for winning’s sake. The satisfaction derives from a clean performance appreciated by onlookers, the rider and, crucially, by the rider’s peers.

Secondly, freestyle riders are generally dismissive of simply re-hashing, or even revamping, formulaic tricks, simply because they are sure they will ‘work’. The emphasis is constantly on taking risks by trying out and developing new ways of riding.

Finally, it is claimed that the laid-back culture of freestyle BMX more often than not suits those with a free spirited, artistic temperament, rather than the driven but dull personalities of some sportsmen and sportswomen.

So, is BMX a sport or an art form? Quite frankly, we at BMX are too busy enjoying sourcing the best BMX products to worry either way. As American rider Dane Beardsley said when asked if he considered BMX a sport or an art form: “I don’t need to understand it, ’cause I just love it.”