BMX advice

[Nekonaruto]

Ok, so I haven't ridden a bike in ages, and I definetely want to buy a BMX because I don't like the "feel" of the regular bikes or mountain bikes. I don't plan to do any (big) jumps or driving in a ramp...so keep that in mind.

I found this bike for 250€ online. And I like how it looks and all, but I have NO clue if it's any good; the specs that is.

So I'm wondering, does anyone of you know anything about bikes? Maybe some alternative models? My price range is around 300€, since I don't need anything fancy, just a plain and simple BMX that looks a bit like that one and won't break after 5 minutes.

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Jodwahh]

Better off getting a bike with 48s on the back and front for sturdiness. Man I used to be so into BMXing back in the day.

[Wintermute]

BMX bikes come in a number of different frame lengths. Some is rider preference, the other is the stuff the bike is used for (Street, Ramp, Freestyle).

Important thing is to first decide what you're planning to do, or what has your interest and shop from there.
Usually Pros tend to design/ride stuff that fits their style, so if you're a fan of the sport that's a place to start.

If you're planning on riding a lot you'll need a good seat and grips. Friend of mine has a kevlar set. Expensive, but he doesn't replace them that often. Same goes for tires.

Gyros are a love/hate thing amongst the people I know.

Honestly I'd recommend visiting a BMX forum. There's so many peculiars involved considering all the parts it takes to put together a BMX you want as much info as possible from people who make BMX riding their hobby.

If you have a local shop run by riders go as them for advice, they can point you towards the right bike.

Main thing to note is that you get what you pay for. Cheap bike won't take abuse like a pro-designed one.

[Nekonaruto]

Thanks for the fast replies; well I'm not too tall (5'7) ... if that plays a role. And I really only want a bike to ride, no trick, stunts, jumps, grinds, whatever. Just normal riding.

Also the "go to a store run by a rider" advice is a good idea, BUT here in Luxembourg such a thing doesn't even exist... :/

But I'll try the BMX forums for sure...my main concern is actually if the above bike is ok, price-performance wise.

[Rivero]

It's been a few years since I did BMX but I know Dyno/Haro/S&M are all good top quality manufacturers. I had a Mongoose if I recall correctly and it wasn't the best bike but most people I knew back then were riding Haro's so it'd check them out. : p

Oh and get make sure you get a Gyro if you plan on doing actual tricks since a lot of them require you to spin your handlebars, X-Up's, tailwhips and barspins are some of the most common tricks that require a gyro if I remember right. Make sure it can withstand a thrashing also, I'd say your number one priority would be making sure how long the bike can hold up when falling/crashing.

[Tekniklie]

As far as just riding around, I prefer a a freestyle setup. Then again Im 6'5, so it fits to me better then other models. Really try to buy something you can physically try first, its all about comfort with the bike.

[Senji]

Felt is a good company, but that model is for kids. It isnt a normal bmx bike.

I have an idea about the "feel" of mtb bikes you don't like. Judging by the rest of your list, might want to consider something along these lines, this one is considerably more than 300 though.

The black DNA, pardon the R9 on the left.
http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/6...led9002ii9.jpg

[Senji]

Really the easiest thing to do is to pay a visit to your local bike shops, but if you want to do strictly mail order, can help you out too.

[Nekonaruto]

That model is really for kids? Damn. That would have been a surprise.

Hmm, looks like I have to find a bike shop that sells BMXs...and about your bike suggestion: oh boy, no. Might seem like I'm picky, but it's just too "big" (that's what she said.); I want something simple, without gears.

[Boyiee]

I have a haro 360 and a flair, haven't ridden in ages but I used to a lot and went to alot of parks

The bikes were WAY to heavy for me when i first got them, so you need to go to a store and try them all out. Me, I love light bikes now, much easier for me to manipulate.

[Wintermute]

I have a haro 360 and a flair, haven't ridden in ages but I used to a lot and went to alot of parks

The bikes were WAY to heavy for me when i first got them, so you need to go to a store and try them all out. Me, I love light bikes now, much easier for me to manipulate.

I always found learning on heavy stuff is best. That way when you upgrade to a lighter setup down the line your airs get oh so much higher because you're trying to lift your old setup.

Then you start getting lazy again. But yeah.

[Blaghna]

I used to race alot when I was younger, made it to the Expert class then broke my knee...
I still use my old race bike to get to work and stuff put over 100 miles on it just this year already.

That bike you're looking at isnt bad, my advice is like others above, go check out bikes at a local bike store that are about the same size, (18" Top Tube, 20" wheels) see how you like it. I'm 6'1" and the top tube on my bike is 23", fits me perfect.

[Rivero]

I always found learning on heavy stuff is best. That way when you upgrade to a lighter setup down the line your airs get oh so much higher because you're trying to lift your old setup.

Then you start getting lazy again. But yeah.

I had a really heavy bike and I always hated it. Took me forever to muster up the strength to do bunny hops. Then again I was like 14 years old at the time. I'd say measure your body strength and if you think you can pull yourself up with that type of heavy weight then you should definately go for heavier as it'll train you a lot better for when you do get a lighter setup as mentioned, but I think personally first timers would have it easier with a lighter bike just to get a feel for how the tricks work.

[Dmitry]

This brings back good memories... also memories of both my BMX bikes being stolen

I wish I could give more help, but I haven't looked into different bikes since like the 7th grade.

[Wintermute]

This brings back good memories... also memories of both my BMX bikes being stolen

I wish I could give more help, but I haven't looked into different bikes since like the 7th grade.

Could be worse, friend of mine broke a S&M Josh Stricker frame after about 2 weeks. Cost (his mum) about £400 and it snapped right behind the seat. It was an eventful Christmas.