BMX bikes with 20 inch wheels are a popular choice for adults looking for a nimble and versatile ride. Compared to larger 24 inch or 26 inch wheels, 20 inch wheels offer quick acceleration, easy maneuverability, and a lighter overall bike weight. This makes them ideal for freestyle riding, tricks, and general urban use.
When shopping for an adult 20 inch BMX bike, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the right fit, features, and performance. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about choosing the best 20 inch BMX bike as an adult.
What is a 20 Inch BMX Bike?
A 20 inch BMX bike is a small-wheeled bicycle originally designed for BMX racing and freestyle motocross riding. The 20 inch wheel size provides fast acceleration and allows for quick directional changes necessary in tricky BMX maneuvers.
Modern 20 inch BMX bikes come in a wide range of styles catered to different riding disciplines:
- Freestyle BMX: Focus on tricks, stunts, and street or park riding. Designed for optimal maneuverability.
- Race BMX: Built for speed and acceleration around dirt tracks and courses. Very lightweight frames.
- Jump BMX: Allow for big air with reinforced frames and forks. Prioritize durability over weight.
- Flatland BMX: Precise bike control and balance for flat-ground tricks. Low profile frames.
- Cruiser BMX: Larger frames and wheels for casual street cruising. Comfort-oriented.
While originally designed for younger riders, 20 inch BMX bikes are gaining popularity among adults looking for a nimble bike for commuting, exercise, or just having fun.
Benefits of 20 Inch BMX Bikes for Adults
Here are some of the biggest benefits 20 inch BMX bikes offer compared to larger bikes:
Acceleration and Maneuverability
The small wheel size provides fast acceleration from a stop and highly responsive steering. This makes 20 inch BMX bikes ideal for zipping through traffic or navigating tight spaces.
Lightweight
20 inch bikes are inherently lighter than 24 or 26 inch bikes. Less wheel weight makes tricks, jumps, and changes in momentum easier.
Strong and Durable Frames
Quality BMX frames are designed to withstand harsh landings from big jumps and tricks. High strength-to-weight ratio.
Customization Options
Adults can customize 20 inch BMX bikes with components like pads, pegs, and unique handlebars catered to their riding style.
Fun and Playful Ride
The nimble handling provides a fun and playful ride. Easier to ride wheelies or try new tricks compared to larger bikes.
What Size 20 Inch BMX For Adults?
The most important factor when choosing a 20 inch BMX bike is getting the proper frame size. As an adult, you’ll want a larger frame size than the bikes meant for kids and teens.
Here are some guidelines for choosing the right 20 inch BMX frame size:
- Rider Height: The ideal frame size corresponds to your overall height. Look for 18-20 inch frames for riders 5′ 4″ to 5′ 10″. Larger 21 inch frames for riders over 5′ 10″.
- Standover Height: There should be 2-3 inches of clearance between your groin and the top tube when straddling the bike.
- Reach: The proper frame size will allow a slight bend in your elbows when gripping the handlebars. Avoid overstretching.
Try a few different bike frames to dial in the ideal size. Test ride the bike to ensure it feels balanced and controlled.
Complete Bike or Separate Frame and Components?
Adults shopping for 20 inch BMX bikes have the option of either buying:
- A complete pre-built bike
- An individual frame to customize with separate components
Pre-built Complete Bikes are the simpler option. Many bike brands like Mongoose, Elite, and Haro offer complete freestyle BMX bikes with 20 inch wheels specifically designed for adult riders.
These come with all components like wheels, drivetrain, brakes, etc. already installed and tuned.
BMX Frames and Components allow for full customization but require more effort in sourcing parts and building up the bike. Aluminum or chromoly steel frames from brands like Sunday, WeThePeople, and Fit can be configured with customized wheelsets, cranksets, handlebars, etc.
Pre-built complete bikes offer convenience but limited options. Separate frames give creative control over your dream build. Consider how much time and effort you want to invest.
BMX Bike Materials and Components
20 inch BMX bikes designed for adults will utilize quality materials and components to handle aggressive riding. Here are some things to look for:
Frame Materials
- Chromoly steel: The standard for BMX. Offers durability, vibration dampening, and repairability. Heavier than aluminum.
- Aluminum: Used on higher-end race BMX and lightweight builds. Stiffer and more responsive than chromoly.
- Carbon fiber: Exotic and expensive. Maximizes weight savings but is less repairable. Seen on very high-end bikes.
Wheels
- Double or triple wall aluminum rims – lightweight and strong.
- 36h spoke count for wheel strength.
- The cassette rear hub allows multiple gears.
Cranksets and Drivetrain
- Tubular chromoly crankarms – strong and minimal flex.
- 25/9t gearing good all-around ratio.
- Sealed bearing bottom brackets and pedals.
Brakes
- U-brakes offer great stopping power and mud clearance. Easy adjustments.
- Rotor brakes (V-brakes, discs) provide even stronger braking. Seen on race BMX.
Handlebars
- Aluminum bars offer lightweight strength.
- Tall bars (8.5″-9.5″) provide leverage and bike control.
Components like seat stems, and pegs can also be swapped and customized. Carefully consider gearing, tire type, and riding style preferences when selecting parts for your 20 inch BMX build.
5 Good 20 Inch BMX Bikes for Adults
Now that you know what to look for in a 20 inch freestyle BMX bike, here are five great options to consider:
1. Elite Stealth BMX Bike
- Sturdy Hi-Ten steel BMX frame and fork
- 20 x 2.1 25-inch wheels with aluminum rims
- U-brakes front and rear
- Three-piece tubular cranks
- 9t rear cassette
- 20.5 inch TT frame size
2. Mongoose Legion Mag Freestyle BMX Bike
- Lightweight aluminum BMX frame and tapered fork
- 20 x 2.3 inch freestyle mag tires
- Front and rear U-brakes
- Alloy 42t chainring and American BB
- Integrated headset and sealed bearing hubs
3. Haro Lineage Plus BMX Bike
- 100% chromoly frame and fork
- 20 inch 36h alloy double wall rims
- 2-pc tubular chromoly 8.75” cranks
- 25/9 gearing, sealed bearing BB
- Clear-coat paint finish
4. WeThePeople Crysis Freestyle BMX
- 20.7” TT hi-tensile steel frame with chromoly tapered fork
- 20 x 2.4-inch park tires and rear U-brake
- Spanish BB, integrated headset
- 10” chromoly bars with a 30mm rise
5. FIT Triton Complete BMX Bike
- Handmade from 4130 Chromoly
- FIT alloy rims laced to sealed hubs
- 2-pc tubular chromoly 175mm cranks
- Tall 9” rise bars and 2-pc stem
- Gyro-compatible detangler for flatland tricks
These bikes offer quality construction and reliable components designed to handle freestyle riding at any skill level. Compare features and shop around for availability in your price range.
Customizing and Upgrading 20 Inch BMX Parts
One fun aspect of 20 inch BMX bikes is the ability to customize and upgrade components over time. Things you may want to upgrade include:
- Wheels – Lighter rims, higher spoke count, or sealed bearings for longer spin times.
- Drivetrain – Switch gearing ratios depending on riding terrain.
- Handlebars – Dial in height, width, and back sweep to your preferences.
- Pegs – Add grind pegs front, back, or both wheels.
- Brakes – Increase stopping power with larger rotors or discs.
- Cranks and Pedals – Lighter cranks spin faster, and metal pedals last longer than plastic.
- Tires – Wider freestyle tires provide more grip and float over soft terrain.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and swap parts on your 20 inch BMX until you get the perfect setup. Just be sure replacement components match your bike’s specifications.
Maintaining and Caring For a 20 Inch BMX
Like any bicycle, proper maintenance and care will keep your 20 inch BMX running smoothly for years. Be sure to:
- Inspect the bike before/after rides for any loose, damaged, or worn parts in need of adjustment or replacement.
- Lubricate the drivetrain with bike chain lube to prevent rust and excess wear.
- Check tire pressure to avoid flats and damage to the rims when landing jumps.
- Clean regularly with a bike cleaner and a rag. Avoid spraying water into bearings.
- Store inside if possible to prevent exposure to the elements.
- Learn to do basic repairs like fixing flats, adjusting brakes, or replacing broken cables.
Taking good care of your 20” BMX will ensure it lasts through many rides and doesn’t leave you stranded with a broken bike. Fix issues promptly before they worsen.
Finding the Right 20 Inch BMX Bike as an Adult
When choosing a 20 inch freestyle BMX bike, carefully consider your budget, riding style, and desired features. Compare wheel sizes, bike materials, components, and geometry to find the right fit.
Test ride bikes from reputable brands offering quality construction backed by warranties. Customize and upgrade parts over time to dial in your perfect setup. With proper care and maintenance, a good 20 inch BMX bike will provide endless hours of high-speed fun.
FAQs:
Q1: Can adults ride 20-inch BMX bikes?
A: Yes, 20-inch BMX bikes are a great option for adults looking for a lightweight and nimble bike for tricks, jumps, and freestyle riding. The small wheels provide quick acceleration and maneuverability.
Q2: How tall should you be for a 20-inch BMX?
A: 20-inch BMX bikes best-fit adult riders between 5’4″ and 5’10” tall. Those over 5’10” may want to look at larger 21″ or 22″ frames.
Q3: What size BMX bike is for adults?
A: Adult-sized 20-inch BMX bikes typically have 18-20.5 inch top tube frame sizes. The ideal size allows for proper standover height and a slight bend at the elbows when gripping the handlebars.
Q4: What age does a 20-inch BMX bike fit?
A: While often associated with kid’s bikes, 20-inch BMX bikes are suitable for ages 12 and up into adulthood for smaller riders, depending on height.
Q5: What size BMX do pros ride?
A: Pro and expert level BMX riders tend to opt for larger 21-21.5 inch top tube frames. This allows for more bike control and leverage for bigger jumps and technical tricks.
Conclusion
For adults seeking a fast, nimble, and fun ride, a 20 inch BMX bike is hard to beat. Their lightweight frames, strong wheels, and customization potential make them ideal for tricks, jumps, and freestyle handling.
Choosing the right size frame, comparing components, and selecting quality construction backed by warranties will help you pick out the perfect 20″ BMX. Install pegs, upgrade parts over time, and keep up with regular maintenance to extend the bike’s life.
With the right 20 inch BMX bike under you, you’ll enjoy a fast and playful riding experience no matter your skill level.