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Ready to race BMX in Utah?
Listed on this page are the basics to help you get started racing. Just keep in mind that we have a whole community of riders and volunteers that are standing at the ready to answer any question you may have concerning BMX racing. Just head on over to the New Rider Forum and see if your question has already been asked/answered, or post a new one!
Why BMX?
Bicycle motocross (BMX) is currently the fastest-growing youth sport in North American AND is the newest Olympic sport!!! A typical race around a BMX track lasts 50 seconds, pitting a rider against up to 7 other riders all going for the gold. NO ONE SITS ON THE BENCH in bicycle motocross racing. There are no coaches deciding who get to play, so everyone gets into the action!
For many families, BMX racing becomes a weekly ritual. Spectators are always FREE at your local BMX tracks. BMX is a true family-oriented sport, proving that you don't have to spend a lot to enjoy an activity together.
Unlike other sports, BMX offers three proficiencies per age: Novice, Intermediate and Expert. This structure ensures that riders will consistenly encounter the fairest level of competition while always being challenged.
Any bike can be outfitted for BMX. This includes the beginner bike with smaller wheels or the mountain bike with gears. Riders are required to wear long pants, long sleeve shirts, enclosed shoes and a helmet (no fancy uniforms are required!).
Let's Get Started!
Getting started in BMX is easy and the ABA has put this page together in order to help:
The first things you need:
- A bicycle - any BMX type and size will do, but it is recommended that you start with one that has no more than a 20" wheel diameter - as that is the allowable limit in the Novice class.
- The location of a track near you. You can find information about all ABA sanctioned facilities in Utah HERE
Your Bike:
- Make sure all bolts are tight - especially your axle and stem bolts.
- Remove any freestyle type axle pegs.
- All reflectors/brackets must be removed for safety purposes.
- If your bike has a kickstand, it must be taken off.
- You will eventually need a numberplate. You will be provided a temporary numberplate with your membership purchase.
Clothing and safety equipment:
- Long sleeve shirt.
- Long pants or jeans.
- A helmet. The ABA recommends a full-face helmet. Many ABA tracks have "loaner helmets" for beginners to use.
- Any enclosed shoe is sufficient. Skateboard style shoes are suggested.
Link to ABA Membership Application:
US Membership Application
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the racing schedule?
- To provide year round racing, tracks will run both an outdoor and indoor racing program. The outdoor schedule generally runs from April thru September, and the indoor schedule is from October thru March. Practices and racing will depend on the weather so watch the various track schedule for notices about any changes to these dates.
- Can we start racing now, or do we have to wait for a new season?
- You absolutely DO NOT HAVE TO WAIT! BMX does not have "seasons" like other sports, so you can start at ANYTIME!
- Do you have a Beginner Day or clinics available for new riders?
- Most tracks will usually schedule clinics around race days/weekends. Please watch the track schedules for more information.
- Do the tracks have open practice everyday, or is it scheduled?
- All tracks will have scheduled practice times. Most tracks will have days where only practice is held during the scheduled time, and usually there is time for warm-up/practice during the registration periods on race days.
- How much will it cost to begin racing?
- The ABA has a 1 day temporary membership available, which allows you to "join" the ABA for free and try out racing BMX. There may be a fee to practice (usually around $3) or race (between $10 and $30 depending on the type of race). Check with the registration desk at the track for more information. Currently, a one year membership with the ABA runs $45.
Now that you have everything ready, we`ll see you at the track!
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