The BMX racing rules are the set of regulations that govern competitive bicycle motocross races. They were first published in 1986 by the United States Bicycle Motocross Association, and have been revised several times since then to reflect changes in technology and competition style. The current version is known as "Rulebook 1" or simply "the Rule Book". It was last updated on January 1, 2020.
BMX Racing - The Basic Rules
BMX racing is a sport that has been around for over 30 years. It’s one of the most popular sports in America, and it’s also very dangerous. The basic rules are simple: you have to be able to ride your bike on two wheels without falling off or crashing into anything. You can use any type of bicycle as long as it meets these requirements.
The rules for a race can vary from one track to another. Some tracks have very specific rules, while others allow riders to do whatever they want as long as it doesn’t interfere with other racers or cause any damage to property.
Basic Rules from the BMX Race Book
Here are some basic rules from the rules and regulation for a BMX Race:
- Riders must wear helmets when riding bikes. Helmets MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES!
- All riders must ride within the confines of the designated course area. Any rider who rides outside this area may be disqualified.
- No one under 18 years old shall participate in races without written parental consent.
- Riders must obey all traffic laws while participating in events.
- Riders must remain upright during competition. Falling off your bicycle constitutes a disqualification.
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How do BMX Races work?
A BMX race consists of three phrases; the time trials, the qualification, and the final. BMX racing heat is often referred to as a 'moto'.
Phase 1: The Time Trial heat
The first phase of the competition is known as the time trial or TT. This is where riders are given an opportunity to test their speed on a course with no obstacles. Riders can choose from two different courses for this part of the event: The standard course which has been used since the beginning of the sport, and the new course which was introduced at the 2017 World Championships. Both courses have four sections but they differ slightly in layout.
Phase 2: The qualification heat
The qualification process consists of two stages, they are as follows:
- Stage 1 - Quarter-Finals
- Stage 2 - Semi-Finals
The top four riders at the end of each round progress to the next round until eight riders make it to the finals. In addition to this, there is a wildcard system that allows any rider who has not yet made it through to the qualifying rounds an opportunity to compete in the event.
Phase 3: The Finals
Unlike the semis or quarters of BMX Racing, the final consists of one race with the top four riders from each semi-final. The person who crosses the finish line first has been named the winner.
Looking to Buy One?
The cost of a BMX bike can vary widely depending upon where you buy it.
A good rule of thumb: if you're buying used, expect to pay about half what you would spend brand new. If you're going to buy new, look for a model that has been ridden hard by someone who knows how to take care of his equipment.
Check out our helping guide on - How much does a BMX cost? to get a clear idea.
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