Riding a BMX bike can be an exciting and fun hobby or sport. With the surge in popularity of BMX freestyle events, more people are looking to get into this action sport.
When starting out, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right BMX bike frame. The frame forms the core foundation of your ride and can greatly impact performance.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to pick the ideal BMX Bike frame to match your riding style, skill level, and preferences.
What to Consider When Buying a BMX Bike Frame
Selecting a BMX Bike frame may seem straightforward, but there are a few key factors to weigh before making a purchase. Here are the most important considerations when choosing a new BMX frame:
BMX Bike Frame Material
BMX Bike frames come in a range of different materials, each with its own characteristics:
- Chromoly – This strong, lightweight steel alloy is the most popular option for BMX frames. Chromoly offers an excellent blend of strength, weight, and price point. It provides a smooth ride quality.
- Hi-Ten Steel – A heavier and cheaper version of steel. Hi-ten is more prone to flexing and is best suited for beginner and casual riders.
- Aluminum – Known for being lightweight, rust-resistant, and stiff. Aluminum frames transfer more vibration to the rider but are ideal for experienced riders doing tricks.
- Carbon Fiber – The lightest and most rigid, yet priciest option. Carbon fiber absorbs vibration well but may crack under stress. Best for competitive riders.
- Titanium – Has many benefits like aluminum but is lighter and more flexible. The high cost makes it less common.
BMX Frame Geometry
The frame geometry impacts how a BMX bike handles:
- Top Tube Length – A longer top tube stretches out the frame, providing more stability at speed. Shorter top tubes enable tighter handling and are better for tricks.
- Head Tube Angle – The angle of the front forks. Steeper angles (75-80 degrees) turn quicker but can make handling twitchy. More relaxed angles add stability.
- Seat Tube Angle – A steeper seat tube angle positions the rider further forward for power transfer when pedaling. It can make the bike feel more responsive.
- Standover Height – The vertical clearance between the top tube and wheels. Important for safely mounting the bike. Look for 2-3 inches of clearance.
- Rear End Length – Longer rear triangle length increases stability. Shorter rear ends enable tighter turning and are better for flatland tricks.
BMX Bike Frame Size
BMX bikes come in different frame sizes typically based on total wheel diameter:
- Micro: 15-16 inch wheels – Best for young kids just starting out. Low standover height.
- Mini: 16-20 inch wheels – For older kids able to ride 20-inch wheels but who need a shorter top tube length.
- Full: 20-inch wheels – The standard adult BMX bike wheel size. Pick your size based on height. Sizes range from 18-21 inches.
- Pro XXL: 21+ inch wheels – Extra large frames for very tall adult riders.
Integrated vs. Standard Headset
- Integrated – Bearings are directly press-fit into the frame. Creates a lower profile look. Requires matching forks.
- Standard – Traditional separate bearings and cups that thread into the frame. More easily serviced and swapped between bikes.
Popular Types of BMX Bike Frames
There are a few main types of BMX frames to choose from based on your riding discipline:
Race BMX Frames
BMX racing frames are designed to be lightweight and fast with geometry that enables quick acceleration and handling:
- Steeper head tube angles – 74-76 degrees
- Longer rear triangle for power transfer
- Larger head tubes for increased stiffness
- Low standover height for easier dismounts
- Made from lightweight materials – aluminum, Chromoly, or carbon
Freestyle BMX Frames
Freestyle or trick BMX Bike frames facilitate technical street, park, and flatland riding:
- Shorter top tubes for responsive steering
- 75-76 degree head tube angles
- Shorter rear end lengths – 13-14.5 inches
- High-grade 4130 chromoly or heat-treated hi-ten steel
- Reinforced stunt peg mounts
- Slope-style frames are more durable for big jumps
Dirt Jump BMX Frames
Dirt jumper frames are designed to handle big air and rough landings while still allowing rider control:
- Longer front end for stability
- Slacker head tube angles – 68-73 degrees
- 13-14.5 inch rear ends
- Lower bottom brackets (11-12 inches)
- Made from chromoly, heat-treated steel, or aluminum
BMX Cruiser Frames
Cruisers have larger 24-inch wheels that allow high speeds with a smooth ride:
- Mild steel or chromoly frames
- Long wheelbases > 40 inches
- Relaxed steering angles around 74 degrees
- Higher bottom brackets – 12-13 inches
How to Choose the Right Size BMX Bike Frame
Picking out the right size BMX frame ensures an optimal fit so you can ride comfortably and in control. Here are tips on how to size a BMX bike:
- Standover height is key – There should be 2-3 inches of clearance between your crotch and the top tube when straddling the bike. This allows you to mount, dismount, and handle crashes easily.
- Take your height and inseam into account – You generally want 1-3 inches of clearance between your crotch and top tube. Use sizing charts but also visit shops to test frames.
- Consider age if buying for kids – Wheel diameter standards apply to age groups. Under 5 yrs = 12″ wheels. 5-9 yrs = 16″ wheels. 9-12 yrs = 20″ wheels.
- Think about wheel and tire sizes – Larger diameter wheels or tires boost the bike height. The standover needs to accommodate them.
- Factor in riding style – Racing BMX bikes are sized slightly bigger for an aerodynamic position. Freestyle bikes run smaller for maneuverability.
- Leave room for error – It’s better to size up and get a slightly bigger BMX frame with more standover clearance than to risk injury on a bike that’s too small.
- You can always adjust other components like stem length, seat position, and handlebars to dial in the fit.
Complete vs. Custom BMX Bike Frames
You can either purchase a complete BMX bike or customize your own ride starting with an individual frameset:
Complete BMX Bikes
Purchasing a complete BMX bike offers a simple all-in-one solution:
- Fully assembled and ready to ride out of the box
- Pre-configured components designed to work together
- Usually more affordable than a custom-build
- Limited options for sizes, colors, parts
BMX Framesets
Buying an individual frameset allows for maximum customization:
- Pick frame size, geometry, and material that perfectly fits your needs
- Choose all parts including fork, cranks, wheels, etc.
- Fine-tune every component like gearing and handlebar height
- Create a one-of-a-kind BMX bike tailored to your preferences
- More costly than complete bikes
- Assembly required
Where to Buy Good Quality BMX Bike Frames
There are many options for where to pick up your dream BMX frame. Here are some top choices:
Local Bike Shops
Visiting neighborhood bike shops allows you to see frames in person, test fit, talk to knowledgeable staff, and support local businesses. You may find limited inventory and prices may be marked up.
Online Retailers
Internet retailers like Dan’s Comp and Albe’s BMX offer a huge selection of frames that can be ordered and shipped directly to your door. Online stores frequently have sales and lower prices but charge for shipping. You can’t try frames before buying.
BMX Brand Websites
Many top BMX manufacturers like WeThePeople, Sunday Bikes, and Subrosa also sell their frames directly on their company websites. You can find the full catalog but limited discounts or bundles.
BMX Forum Classified Listings
For secondhand deals, check classified ads on BMX forums and sites. You can find high-end frames for cheap from other riders but they will show wear and tear. Closely inspect the condition before purchasing.
Factors that Affect the Cost of BMX Bike Frames
The price of BMX frames can range from under $100 to the thousands. What makes some frames cost more than others? Here are the key factors:
- Frame Material – Exotic materials like carbon fiber and titanium cost more than chromoly steel or aluminum. Lighter materials also add expense.
- Manufacturer Reputation – Well-known elite brands charge more for their reputation and engineering.
- Made in the USA – American-made frames are pricier due to higher production costs. Many mass-market frames are produced overseas.
- Custom Options – Unique geometry, paint jobs, branding, limited production runs, and pro-rider signatures boost the cost.
- Complete Bike vs. Frameset – Individual framesets are more expensive than frames bought as part of complete bikes.
- New vs. Used Condition – Mint condition frames still in the box command higher prices compared to well-worn used frames.
- Model Year – Brand new model year frames have higher inflationary prices. Older designs can be found cheaper.
Signs That it’s Time to Replace Your BMX Frame
BMX frames are built to withstand the rigors of racing and tricks. However, with excessive use over time, damage is inevitable. Here are signs it may be time to swap in a new BMX frame:
- Visible cracks or dents especially around the welds
- Bent or misaligned tubing from crashes
- Paint chipping exposing raw metal
- No longer rides smoothly or makes odd noises
- Loose parts that won’t properly tighten
- Persistent flex that can’t be adjusted out
Routine inspections of the frame for any cracks or damage are crucial. If issues emerge, it’s best not to keep riding the damaged frame since failure could lead to loss of control and serious injury.
Be proactive about swapping frames. You should also replace components regularly like handlebars which weaken over time.
Investing in quality protective gear reduces risk when damage does occur. Overall, inspect and properly maintain your BMX bike to maximize the lifespan of your frame.
FAQs:
Q1: How do I choose a BMX Bike frame?
A: Consider the frame material, geometry, size, integrated vs standard headset, and type of riding (race, freestyle, dirt jump) you want to do. Make sure the frame matches your skill level and budget.
Q2: What size BMX should I get for my height?
A: Choose a 20” wheel frame where you have 2-3” of standover clearance between the top tube and your crotch when straddling the bike. Check sizing charts but visit shops to test fit.
Q3: Does BMX Bike frame size matter?
A: Yes, the frame size is crucial for proper bike fit. You want a site where you can comfortably straddle and ride the bike. Too small is dangerous. Too big affects handling.
Q4: How do I know my BMX frame size?
A: Measure your inseam to determine the needed standover height. Compare to manufacturer frame size charts that list standover and seat tube height for each size. Test ride frames at shops for best fit.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal BMX bike frame provides the foundation for building your perfect ride. Carefully consider key factors like frame material, geometry, size, and riding discipline when selecting a frame.
Whether you like racing, jumping, or artistic flatland tricks, dialing in the best frame for your needs and style is crucial.
Take the time to weigh all your options – the frame impacts your bike’s handling, performance, and durability. With the right frame choice paired with quality components, you’ll be ready to confidently take on the streets, skateparks, and trails on your custom BMX bike.