August 30th, 2010
Many riders new to BMX will often hear or read about the importance of chromoly in BMX bike construction, particularly with regard to the various types of BMX frame on the market. What is chromoly and how significant is it?
Chromoly is a steel alloy that makes use of two strength-inducing elements, chromium and molybdenum. Compared with normal high-tensile steel, chromoly has over 50% extra strength. The advantage of using chromoly in a bike’s construction is that the strength of high-tensile steel can be matched using lighter tubing; a factor that can help when performing high energy, strength-sapping freestyle tricks.
A BMX frame made from chromoly will usually tend to be more expensive than the equivalent high-tensile steel version, and this will also tend to be reflected in the price of any bike that contains a chromoly frame.
For the less experienced rider, however, a lightweight frame or bike may not necessarily be essential, particularly as the more complex, gravity-defying tricks can only be performed properly with a great deal of practice. Whilst easier manoeuvrability of a BMX bike may be a pleasant additional touch, the bike’s strength should be given more focus when choosing a complete model or when looking for a replacement frame.
Moreover, advancements in frame construction technology have led to other modifications like smaller drop outs (the parts of the frame that connect to the back wheel hub) also contributing to a reduction in overall bike weight.
At bmx.co.uk we can advise on the most appropriate, and affordable, quality BMX bikes and parts for any rider.
Tags: BMX, BMX Bikes, BMX Frame, BMX Parts
Posted in BMX Frame | No Comments »
August 21st, 2010
Whether looking for a first BMX bike or a new model, most buyers are simply hoping for a decent bike at a value for money price. Yet the bewildering array of choice can sometimes confuse.
The first question to ask is: what will the bike primarily be used for? If the rider is certain that he or she is after, say, a racing BMX bike, or a freestyle ‘stunt’ bike, then a legitimate BMX shop will be able to quickly narrow down the available options. If, on the other hand, the rider is uncertain as to which discipline to try, it may well be worth settling for a dirt jump BMX bike, as dirt jump bikes are capable of performing both stunts and racing-type manoeuvres over a dirt trail.
The second question to consider is the rider’s size and height. Certain BMX bikes will have been designed for a taller rider, usually with a longer horizontal top tube on the BMX frame. Again, a good BMX shop will be able to help in this respect.
Finally, where there is a wide range of price options to choose from, cost should be balanced against the number of advanced specifications available on each bike. Such advanced features include strong but lightweight chromoly BMX parts; lightweight and durable components such as rear cassette hubs and three-piece cranks; and lighter, less obtrusive BMX parts such as micro-gear sprockets.
At bmx.co.uk we are happy to identify a quality BMX bike to match both a rider’s pocket and experience in BMX.
Tags: BMX, BMX Bikes, BMX Frame, BMX Parts, bmx shop
Posted in BMX Bike | No Comments »
July 29th, 2010
Freestyle BMX bikes, designed for the performance of tricks and stunts, are a very popular choice of BMX bike.
Although freestyle BMX stunts and tricks always require a great deal of careful practice in an appropriate environment(such as a BMX park), it is still important that even this practice is carried out using a genuine freestyle BMX bike.
Freestyle BMX bikes are built with extremely sturdy frames in order to withstand the force of the hard landings and other extreme knocks associated with stunt riding. Although the more expensive versions are fairly lightweight they will still retain a high degree of strength, most likely through using a BMX frame that has been constructed using an alloy with a low weight-to-strength ratio, such as chromoly.
The intrinsic strength of a freestyle BMX bike is also found in the wheels, with most freestyle bikes enjoying the benefit of thicker, ‘double-walled’ rims together with additional spokes.
Two other important features of a freestyle BMX bike are detachable stunt pegs on the back wheels (and also, increasingly on the front) and free-spinning handlebars. These are designed to help the rider perform more advanced freestyle tricks.
Despite their specialisation, suitable entry level freestyle BMX bikes are also available at the low end of the market. An example of a cheap BMX bike made for entry level freestyle riders is the Barracuda Grind 2010.
At bmx.co.uk, we have a wide range of great value freestyle BMX bikes and can advise on freestyle and any other BMX-related queries.
Tags: BMX Bikes, BMX Frame, BMX Parts, freestyle BMX
Posted in BMX Bikes | No Comments »
July 26th, 2010
Owning a BMX bike gives an individual real potential to learn the most amazing riding feats. In some cases these may prove difficult to master, but with dedication and practice progress in BMX can be made surprisingly quickly. However, there are a few important points to keep in mind.
Firstly, although today’s top-branded BMX bikes are designed to boost the efforts of riders, and are also sturdy enough to withstand the stresses and knocks encountered in BMX riding, there are crucial differences between bikes built for different BMX disciplines. For example, bikes designed for racing BMX, whilst tough enough to withstand the knocks encountered on a race track, will be unlikely to take the full force of a hard landing during dirt jump riding.
Secondly, it is essential to check that a bike is the right size for the rider. This is largely determined by the length of the top tube on the BMX frame.
Thirdly, steady and careful practice is a must. Finding an online video or instructional DVD can help in identifying the correct moves. However, each step should be practised with the utmost attention to detail, and carried out in an appropriate environment such as a BMX park.
Finally, scuff-resistant clothing and full protective gear should be worn at all times, including helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.
At bmx.co.uk, we can advise on the best BMX bike for each new beginner from our wide range of competitively priced, top branded BMX bikes. Moreover, each purchase is accompanied by a free instructional DVD.
Tags: BMX, BMX Frame, protective BMX gear, racing bmx
Posted in BMX | No Comments »
July 8th, 2010
There are many considerations when looking at the suitability of a BMX frame.
The top tube (the uppermost tube between the handlebars and the saddle area) is the most important consideration, as a longer tube will be more appropriate for taller riders, a shorter tube for smaller riders. In addition, for more experienced riders, a longer top tube will provide more room for performing mid-air bar spins.
The length of the chain stay (the tube linking the bottom bracket, or pedal area, to the back wheel hub area) should also be taken into consideration. Taller riders, for example, will benefit from the stabilising counterbalance afforded by a longer chain stay. Experienced stunt riders, however, may find that a shorter chain stay makes the bike more responsive when performing lifts.
A steeper angle for the head tube (the tube to which the handlebar stem and the fork are connected) can also help the bike respond more easily, when turning and spinning during advanced stunt demonstrations. Dirt riders, however, may benefit from the greater stability of a more modest head tube angle.
A similar balance between manoeuvrability and stability should be considered when choosing between a less stable high bottom bracket (the bottom part of the frame to which the pedals are attached) or a more stable lower-positioned bracket.
A final dilemma can sometimes arise with a steep seat tube angle that might interfere with performing experienced mid-air vert tricks, but which can also be easier to grip when performing jumps.
At bmx.co.uk we understand the science that helps you find the best BMX frame.
Tags: BMX, BMX Bike, BMX Frame, BMX Parts
Posted in BMX Frame | No Comments »
01794 518 800
