New Rider - Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS BMX?
The sport of bicycle motorcross began in the early 1970's in Southern California. A handful of riders started riding their stingray type bikes off road in vacant lots and fields, not much competition but a lot of fun. Today the sport of bicycle motorcross is sweeping the country and the world. There are over a 150,000 riders of all ages racing in organized races at permanent tracks across America. BMX racing is clean, exciting fun that whole families can get involved in whether as a racer, spectator, pit crew or track volunteer. BMX has something to offer everyone. Races are organized according to age group and skill levels, so everyone gets the opportunity to compete on a fair and competitive basis. Even beginning riders have the chance to race safely with other new riders. All riders compete for awards and ABA points. The ABA points system determines a rider's annual ranking within that rider's district.
WHAT IS THE ABA?
The American Bicycle Association (ABA) was formed to provide organized racing and give national prominence to the sport of BMX. Under ABA rules of sanction and to give all members and equal and fair opportunity, riders may accumulate district points at any ABA sanctioned track in the U.S. Additionally, a national level points program will be offered for an increased interest of competition.
WHO CAN RACE?
Races are organized into separate girls and boys classes, then subdivided into age groups and skill levels. The age groups range from 5 and Under, to 51 and Over age classes. Within these age groups are three skill levels: Novice, Intermediate and Expert. All riders start as Novices and work up to the more advanced levels by winning races.
ABA MEMBERSHIP
Every rider practicing or competing on any ABA sanctioned track must attain prior ABA membership. Memberships can be purchased at the track. There are two types of memberships available which are as follows, along with a 1 day trial.
Temporary - The ABA offers a trial membership for $25. This membership is intended ONLY for new riders to the sport and is valid for 30 days ONLY. A rider may hold a temporary membership only one time in their BMX career. This membership allows riders to compete at single point races ONLY, yet no ABA points will be awarded and provides you with no medical insurance coverage. If within the 30 day period the rider wishes to become a full (annual) member, there will be a $25 Temporary Conversion fee, with the initial $25 Temporary fee also being applied toward the full membership fee, with presentation of the temporary membership receipt.
Full (annual) - A full membership costs only $45 and is valid for 1 full year at any ABA sanctioned event in the U.S. Points will be awarded to all riders competing in any ABA sanctioned race with those points returning to each rider's home district. Full membership riders will receive the monthly publication of the BMXer magazine and all pertinent information mailings. Also, each rider will receive a current rulebook and official membership card.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RACE?
Once you have become an ABA member, the only other cost will be the race day entry fee. The entry fee entitles you to be a participant in the day's action. A typical BMX race includes 3 qualifying motos along with a main event. In the main event, you race for awards, determined by your finish, along with the precious ABA points.
WHERE CAN I RACE?The ABA has about 250 tracks nationwide and some in Canada, Chances are there is one near you. Contact Duke City BMX at (505) 890-1269 or call the ABA at (480) 961-1903 and ask for the track nearest you or visit the ABA Website
http://www.ababmx.com/
HOW CAN I GET STARTED?
Simply visit your local track during the practice or racing times and ask for a membership application or information. You can watch the races, talk to other BMX families, or give it a try yourself.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
1. First, a helmet is required, and the ABA and Duke City BMX highly recommends one with full-face protection. Most DUKE CITY BMX has a loaner bike & gear program for beginners to use. A lot of times, a good inexpensive helmet can be found at garage sales or in the pit area of your local BMX track.2. Long sleeve shirt.3. Long pants.4. Most any tennis shoe or simular sport shoe is sufficient.
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
BMX racing does not require a lot of expensive equipment. Most racers start with their 20" street bike and make the following REQUIRED modifications:
1. Make sure all bolts are tight - especially your axle bolts and stem bolts.
2. All reflectors must be removed for safety purposes.
3. If your bike has a kickstand, it must be taken off.
4. Your bike needs three required pads covering the crossbar of your handlerbars and covering the handlebar stem (or gooseneck), and on the top tube of your frame.
5. You'll also need a number plate. Most ABA tracks will supply you with a temporary plate when you sign up. If not, a simple paper plate will do.
Now check the track schedule then come on down to Duke City BMX,
go up to the registration booth, sign up...and RACE!
Please do not hesitate to ask the people at the sign up window any questions you may have we will be happy to help!
