The BMX bikes or bicycle Motorcross became a craze in the late 1960s. This type of bicycle is engineered as an off-road sports bike. Typically, you will notice classic BMX bikes featuring low saddles, robust metal frames, tough tires, and high vertical handlebars.
Sometimes, when people think of BMX bikes they imagine it as being a kid’s bike! Fortunately, at present, the BMX is known as an off-road sports bicycle designed not only for kids but also for adult men and women.
In any case, before going out and purchasing your dream BMX bike, know that there are several variations to this popular off-road bicycle. Moreover, you need to determine your riding style before selecting the perfect bike for you.
Do you need a bike to cruise around town or are you the type of person who races around dirt tracks and off-road trails? If you want to go on really hardcore trails, then a mountain bike might be for you.
Do you need something you can throw on a bike rack so you can take it on holiday next summer?
Do you love performing bicycle tricks and jumping obstacles at skate parks?
Either way, BMX bikes are classified as race bikes, freestyle bikes, and lastly street bikes. You can also find dirt, vert, retro and the new avant-garde BikeLife approach to BMX, but for this article we’re just going to look at classic racing and freestyle BMX bikes.
You need to decide your riding style before you can ultimately choose that one perfect bike best for you. Below we’ve given you our favorite examples of both racing and freestyle BMX’s to help you decide.
Best BMX Bikes Reviewed
Given these points, you now have a clearer idea of the various kinds of BMX bikes. We sincerely hope these images and descriptions of BMX’s help you decide what and where to buy!
If you’re just looking for a quick answer, check out our overall 5 best BMX Bikes below!
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Racing BMX Bikes
First, let’s go through our favorite choices for racing BMX bikes that we’ve researched, tested and tried.
Mongoose Title 24” BMX Race Bicycle
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For newbie racers, the Mongoose Title with the 24-inch wheels is the perfect BMX racing bike. The bike has the best equipment and is offered at an affordable price. It showcases a 6.5-inch race bar and front loader 48mm stem.
Specs and Features
- 6.5-inch race bar
- Front loader 48mm stem
- 24-inch wheels
Redline MX24
If you’re on the lanky side and looking for a suitable BMX bike, then the Redline MX24 is a great choice. It is structured with bike racers who are approximately 5’6” and taller in mind. Riders will definitely have a seamless ride with this bike, one of the best BMX bikes from Redline.
Specs and Features
- Tioga power block tires
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Aluminium 3pc cranks
- Flex seat and race-oriented design
- Lightweight frame
Redline MX Expert 20″
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Similar to MX 24″, the Redline MX Expert 20″ bike comes with Tioga power block tires. This Pro BMX race cruiser features a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, aluminium alloy cranks and Vee Speedster tires.
Another contender from Redline, this is a relatively cheap BMX and won’t leave you disappointed for the price!
Specs and Features
- Tioga power block tires
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Aluminium 3pc cranks
- Flex seat and race-oriented design
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- Vee Speedster tires
Mongoose Title 20” BMX Race Bicycle
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The Mongoose Title with 20-inch wheels is for the BMX racers searching for a bike that can deliver a superior performance like a professional bicycle. Offered in a variety of components, sizes, and prices, there’s undoubtedly a Mongoose Title that will suit your BMX racing needs.
Specs and Features
- Tioga power block tires
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Aluminium 3pc cranks
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- 20″ wheels
Redline Proline BMX Bike
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Known as one of the best BMX bikes for 2021, the Redline Proline Junior Youth is ideal for racers 20 years old and up. It features redline proprietary 6061 T6 alloy tubing, and certainly does the job as a great BMX for beginners!
Specs and Features
- Tioga power block tires
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Quick release clamp
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- 20″ wheels
- Multi-butted fork with tapered legs.
Elite 20″ & 18” BMX Bicycle Destro Model
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This BMX bike from Elite Bicycles is popular among kids these days. The chrome finish you see above is only limited edition, and will be on sale for just a little while longer.
Specs and Features
- 20-inch top tube frame
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Tektro alloy brake levers
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- 20″ wheels
- Multi-butted fork with tapered legs.
Schwinn Predator Team 24 BMX
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This Schwinn Predator bike is truly in a class of its own. This is a prominent brand that produces racing bikes made from aluminum to carbon fiber.
The new lightweight HST alloy construction really does the bike some favours, and it comes through when you’re riding.
Specs and Features
- Power Transfer Center frame
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Tektro alloy brake levers
- Lightweight HSR alloy construction
- 24″ wheels
- Tapered head tube
- Black 8-inch biker handlebars
Mongoose Title Elite Pro BMX Race Bike, 20″ Wheels
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The Mongoose Title Elite Pro is another sturdy quality bike. A lightweight BMX bike with a sturdy Landing Gear fork so you can shred on the track and launch off ramps without fear.
Specs and Features
- SE three-piece alloy crankset
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Euro bottom bracket
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
- 44T alloy chainring
Mongoose Title Expert BMX Race Bike
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Another entry from the Mongoose brand, the Title Expert BMX comes with 160mm 3-piece tubular chromoly cranks with a 42T chainring and euro cartridge bottom bracket.
This comes through in the ride, which is relatively smooth for such a cheap BMX.
Specs and Features
- SE three-piece alloy crankset
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Xposure aluminum double wall rims
- Lightweight aluminium alloy frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
- 44T alloy chainring
- 16T cog freewheel rear hub
Freestyle BMX Bikes
We know some of you are for sure more interested in the ‘Freestyle’ variation of the classic BMX, so without further ado, let’s check them out!
Mongoose Legion L500
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For those who prefer freestyle riding, the Mongoose Legion L500 is something worth looking into.
Although it’s on the more expensive side of Mongoose bikes, we found that it was worth the price. It’s a lot more sturdy than some of the cheaper models, and the features listed below mean that it will probably last a lot longer too!
Specs and Features
- SE three-piece alloy crankset
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Mongoose full 4130 chromo frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
- 44T alloy chainring
- 16T cog freewheel rear hub
Mongoose Legion L100
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The Mongoose Legion L100 is suited to park, street or dirt and is a worthy BMX for anybody, whether you’re new to the sport or more advanced. Just like the L500, the body features a durable 4130 frame with removable brake mounts.
The alloy U brake and brake levers also provide precision speed control. If you’re looking for maximum steering performance, this BMX is the way to go!
Specs and Features
- Alloy U brake
- Front loader 48mm stem
- Mongoose full 4130 chromo frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
- Maximum steering performance
- 16T cog freewheel rear hub
Mongoose Legion L80
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This Mongoose Legion L80 is highly recommended for both boys and girls. It is a freestyle park-ready bike which you can also customize to your needs.
Though some users find it a bit too small for their liking, various riders are content with its 20.75-inch long top tube, rear alloy 4-bolt and U-brakes, and an alloy brake lever for an immediate stop. Additionally, riders find it a smooth ride without discomfort even during biking on uneven paths.
Watch this video below to see someone take the L80 for a spin!
Specs and Features
- Rear alloy 4-bolt and U-brakes
- 20.75-inch long top tube
- Mongoose full 4130 chromo frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
Mongoose Legion L60
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Like the Legion L80, the Mongoose Legion L60 is a favorite among freestyle riders performing along the street and park courses. It has a steel frame that is both rugged and light, suitable for executing tricks and stunts.
While some encountered issues with its seat bolts, however, it is still a popular choice among BMX freestyle riders.
Specs and Features
- Rear alloy 4-bolt and U-brakes
- 20.75-inch long top tube
- Mongoose full 4130 chromo frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
Mongoose Legion L40 Bike
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The Legion L40 BMX bike is considered a mid-level ride appropriate for both adults and youth freestyle riders. It is a complete model ready for performing advanced tricks.
Compared to other L-series, the L40 comes with dual brakes on both the rear and front of the bike for a more reliable experience. Despite this, some find its frame inflexible compared to other BMX options.
Specs and Features
- Rear alloy 4-bolt and U-brakes
- 20.75-inch long top tube
- Mongoose full 4130 chromo frame
- Arisun XLR8 20-inch tires
X-Games FS20 Freestyle Bike
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The FS20 is accessible in two distinct styles for both boys and girls. To minimize dangerous accidents, this BMX freestyle bike features both rear and front hand brakes.
Furthermore, it has a 20-inch Hi-Ten steel frame, 4 bolt alloy stem, and X-games handlebars for optimal comfort. All things considered, some freestyle riders deem the FS20 slightly heavy which in return needs some increased effort to attain that perfect set.
Specs and Features
- Rear alloy 4-bolt and U-brakes
- 20-inch Hi-Ten steel frame
- X-games handlebars
- 20-inch tires
Framed x Spacecraft Twenty9er BMX Bike
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This BMX is designed for freestyle riders ages 17 years above and who are approximately 4’6” to 5’6” tall. The Avidd BB7 disk brake delivers reliable performance across all weather conditions and is superior compared to other models.
The rear hub has sealed bearings, which make for some smooth turns in the park. The handlebars are made from a tough chromoly which ensures that the bike can handle a lot of impact on landings.
Specs and Features
- Avidd BB7 disk brake
- 20-inch Hi-Ten steel frame
- 20-inch tires
Tony Hawk 20″ Jargon Freestyle BMX Bike
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This bike is designed with custom Tony Hawk design and graphics. From Dynacraft, reputable BMX manufacturers, this bike really does a good job of keeping the rider comfortable, performing well under stress, and moving freely during tricks.
Specs and Features
- Full cover chain guard
- Freestyle handlebar rotor
- Custom grips
- Front and rear caliper brakes.
Razor Agitator
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Known as a mid-range BMX bike, the Razor Agitator is one of the most awesome freestyle trick bikes. A relatively new bike from Razor, this contender for our top 20 BMX bikes comes pretty low down the list. Nonetheless, we thought it was a really smooth ride.
Specs and Features
- Full cover chain guard
- 360-degree rotors
- 20-inch freestyle frame
- Front alloy caliper brakes
Redline Rival Freestyle BMX
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A freestyle bike suitable for people of all ages, this bike from Redline is a great entry level BMX. Its suitable for street, dirt and park and is a great bike to start learning on. This bike features 2.5 tires, re-enforced welds, and an adjustable saddle.
Specs and Features
- Re-enforced welds
- 360-degree rotors
- 20-inch freestyle frame
- Adjustable saddle
Kent Pro 20
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Unlike the other BMX brands, the Kent Pro boasts a freestyle rotor. Though many advise that when you purchase this bike, keep in mind to tighten the hardware.
Then again, it is a popular BMX freestyle bike brand that features a tig-welded fork and frame, pegs, 20-inch wheels, front, and rear hand brakes for better control.
Specs and Features
- Rear hand brakes
- 360-degree rotors
- Tig-welded fork and frame
- Adjustable saddle
- 20-inch wheels
Mini BMX Bikes for Kids
There’s probably some of you wondering: ‘what kind of bike should I get for my children (or grandchildren)? This next bit’s for you.
Yamaha Moto 16″ BMX Bike
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The 16″ Moto Yamaha Bike features motocross-style fenders with authentic Yamaha graphics and a motocross saddle seat that adds some extra style to this riding machine. It is built with a steel oversized frame. Perfect gift for your smaller relatives, be it your niece, nephew, grandson or granddaughter!
Dynacraft Magna Throttle BMX Bike
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If you are on a budget, the Dynacraft Magna Throttle is a nifty choice for you. You’ll still acquire the classic BMX bike design but at a lesser price compared to its expensive competitors. It may not come with a lot of bells and whistles; however, it still offers a smooth, steady ride.
Mongoose Legion Sidewalk Freestyle Kids Bike
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This kids BMX comes in a few different models: the Legion L18, L16, Legion Mag and Legion Lsx. It’s a great bike to give to your children or grandchildren if you want them to follow in your footsteps (or tire tracks, rather).
It features a Micro drive 25x9t gearing, a rear alloy U brake and an alloy 4 bolt stem.
BMX Freestyle Kids Bike
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The Freestyle Kids Bike is accessible in a variety of sizes and colors. With its solid built, it’s an ideal option for both boys and girls BMX fans. As shown above, it comes with a water bottle, training wheels, and a bell.
Titan Tomcat Wheel Girls BMX Bike
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With its attractive style and pristine white tires, the Tomcat Girls BMX bike is fitting for girls 8 years old and above. When you purchase this bike, it is partially assembled; however, the rest of the parts are quick to construct.
BMX Bikes: Racing vs. Freestyle
Race bikes are generally lighter than freestyle bikes. These are bikes structured for dirt track racing and are not appropriate for stunts or trick riding in the skate park..
Ordinarily, a race is held on proper tracks and is a short single lap affair. During this race, speed over bumps and ramps is of importance compared to landing jumps. These BMX bikes are usually made from aluminum, which is a sturdy material but also built to go as fast as it can.
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On the other hand, freestyle bikes are custom produced with steel frames or costly durable material such as Chromoly steel which is a light but strong alloy.
Since freestyle BMX bikes are designed to perform tricks and stunts, they need to have strong frames to absorb the pressure of jumps, manoeuvres, or crashes.
Typically, you will only see these BMX bikes with back brakes and pegs which are best for rail sliding. If you want to improve quickly at freestlye its a good idea to invest in a ramp or rail for your backyard!
Meanwhile, you will likely encounter BMX street bikes which are greatly similar to freestyle bikes. There isn’t that big a difference; however, street BMX bikes are suited for tricks and stunts on flat surfaces. Normally, they don’t have brakes since speed and riding is not their main purpose.
This helpful video below is great for explaining these differences.
BMX Bikes: Safety Precautions Matter
Again, as we have pointed out earlier, you need to determine your preferred riding style before choosing and buying your bike. If you’re searching for something fast, then, by all means, get a BMX racing bike.
In general, it really depends on you on how you want to use your bike. There are those who use these types of bikes for commuting, however, take note as required by law you can only do this provided that your bikes have brakes.
As we have indicated previously, some BMX bikes are provided with brakes and gears, while others do away with these. Equally important and not to be forgotten is safety equipment. Watch the video below to find out a bit more about safety when riding.
Whether the rider is a kid or an adult, always remember to wear a fitting helmet, gloves, guards, and padded clothing for protection. Another key point we want to add is that BMX riding, whether you are doing this for fun or as a professional, is also a family event.
Thus, don’t forget to capture this exciting moment with your action cameras or if you prefer going with quadcopters with a camera.
Tips on choosing your BMX Bike
By now, you must have a good idea of the type of BMX bike you prefer. BMX bikes cost ranges from as low as $99 up to $1000. While cost is a substantial factor to consider, another essential aspect to look at is the size.
Normally, BMX bikes come in various frame sizes such as mini, junior, expert, and pro. For those requiring larger frames than these sizes, specialist frames are available for larger riders.
If you are buying at the store, examine carefully the right size and test-ride it to know if the bike feels right for you. On one hand, if you are buying online, make sure to effectively communicate with the seller all your bike requirements and questions.
Like we said, it totally depends what you’re actually looking for. These bikes are specifically designed for people who want to perform freestyle stunts or race.
In the event that you are planning to customize your bike, ask the store or online seller if it is possible to do that with the bike you are eyeing. While there are bikes that are customizable, there are also those which are not possible to customize.
During your research, you may have noticed bright colorful BMX bikes, made for kids. Choosing these bikes with fun designs is acceptable as long as you verified and inspected that the quality of said bike is safe for the child the bike is intended for.
Final Thoughts on BMX Bikes
To sum up, do your research first before shelling out your top dollar. While it is important to have fun during this moment, remember what we say here at Skateboarder: don’t forget to wear the necessary safety equipment.
If you’re looking for something faster and easier, then a moped might be the way to go. However, if you want to perform tricks and cruise around, then any of the options above are perfect.
Finally, if you are planning to use your bike to commute, it is advisable that you look up road laws on BMX bikes since it differs from state to state. However, the most important thing to remember is that you can only use your bike on the road provided you have brakes.
Over and out for now, guys, see you next time, and happy riding!
Welcome to the Active Thrills community! We, Nash and I, are the owners and authors of this special platform. We are so thrilled to say that this is definitely running actively to continue sharing all information and knowledge that we have about skateboarding, extreme sports, and gadgets in order to reach more and more people all over the world.
1 comment
I want to look like that