Needless to say that at the very beginning of the BMX racing / riding era there were no bikes constructed quite like the BMX Bike . Usually, kids would simply modify their Schwinn Sting Ray bicycles by adding knobby tires and motocross handlebars. Additionally, they would modify the frames in order to gain performance, stability and strength. Later on, the first bicycles that where specifically pumped out of the factory for the purpose of BMX riding where first introduced.

Some of the very first BMX bicycle builders such as R&R racing products, Webco, RedLine and Mongoose focused on creating bicycles that would be specifically crafted for the sport. Out of the first BMX models, the one produced by Mongoose can be considered as the one that is most similar to the BMX bikes of today; it featured a straight tubed, gusseted frame as well as stronger, reinforced handlebars. Additionally, it had Motomag wheels and longer crank arms than the conventional bikes.

Initially, BMX bike construction was aimed at making a bike witch would be as resistant as possible. However, weight became a serious issue when racing gained popularity. Out of all BMX constructors, R&R Racing created the first 3 pound frame witch not only was lighter but it also was very resistant. Soon, BMX manufacturers would start to use lighter materials such as aluminum and chromium molybdenum for frames; additionally, rims made out of steel and mag wheels where replaced by rims made of aluminum with freewheels and caliper brakes.

Later on, when Freestyle BMX became more popular, BMX bikes went through various additions/changes. Although they originated from racing bikes, they where also equipped with extra places to put the feet on while performing stunts. Additionally, something very important that needed to be considered is that this new era of BMX bikes had to be a lot more resistant than racing bikes. And so, the new BMX bikes oriented at freestyle where a lot more resistant and stronger than those that had been made so far.

Finally, most BMX bikes where equipped with a feature known as ‘Gyro’. This device enabled the steering bar to be rotated by 360 degrees for an unlimited number of revolutions without the brake cables getting tangled.

Nowadays, with the explosion of BMX riding there are many more companies that focus on constructing and improving them. Among others, GT, Haro, MBK, Hoffman bikes, Diamondback and Hutch have established a pretty good reputation in the BMX world.

By: John Gibb