Can a BMX Bike Get Wet? The Incredible 5 Reasons Your BMX Bike Can Handle Water

BMX bikes are designed for high-performance riding on dirt tracks, ramps, and trails. But what happens when the weather takes a turn and you get caught in the rain mid-ride? Can a BMX bike get wet? And how should you care for your bike after it gets soaked?

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about riding BMX bikes in wet conditions. 

We’ll look at:

• BMX bike materials and components and how they handle water
• Washing and drying out a wet BMX bike
• Waterproofing products and modifications
• Wet weather riding tips and safety
• Preventing damage and maintaining your bike after getting wet

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to prep your BMX bike for maximum wet weather performance. Let’s get started!

BMX Bike Materials and Components

BMX bikes are designed for strength, durability, and minimal maintenance. The materials used in their construction make them well-suited for getting wet occasionally. 

Here’s a quick rundown of how the main components handle water exposure:

Frame

• BMX frames are typically made from chromoly or hi-tensile steel. Both materials are rust-resistant and can withstand getting wet.
• Aluminum frames are also corrosion-resistant but can oxidize over time when exposed to moisture. Apply frame polish regularly to prevent buildup.
• Carbon fiber frames have excellent water resistance. Just avoid high-pressure washing as it can damage the epoxy resin.

Wheels and Tires

• Aluminum or steel rims won’t corrode from water. Lubricate spoke threads regularly to prevent rusting.
• BMX tires feature rugged treads for extra grip. The tread pattern pushes the water out from under the tire efficiently.

Drivetrain

• Stainless steel sprockets, crank arms, and chainrings resist rusting. Re-lubricate the chain after wet rides.
• Sealed cartridge bottom brackets and sealed bearing hubs protect internal moving parts from water infiltration.

Brakes

• U-brakes feature rigid arms and direct cable routing to reduce mud buildup. Clean brake pads after wet rides to keep them grabbing.
• Disc brakes are inherently water-resistant. Pads may wear faster in wet conditions.

So while BMX components can handle getting wet, it’s still a good idea to clean and lubricate everything after a rainy ride. This will prolong the life of your bike and keep things shifting and braking smoothly.

Can a BMX Bike Get Wet?

BMX bikes are built tough to withstand dirt, debris, and the occasional downpour on the track or trail. Quality chromoly or aluminum frames paired with sealed bearings and rust-resistant components can handle water exposure just fine.

Riding in wet conditions does require more caution, maintenance, and bike preparation compared to dry weather. But with the right gear, adjusted technique, preventative measures, and diligent post-ride care, your BMX bike can emerge unscathed from plenty of muddy, rainy rides.

Take steps to protect, lubricate, and dry components and wet weather won’t pose a major issue. Just avoid submerging hubs and bottom brackets fully underwater.

So while extended exposure to rain and moisture can shorten the lifespan of parts over time if not addressed, BMX bikes are designed to cope with the demands of dynamic riding whatever the forecast.

 

Washing and Drying Out a Wet BMX Bike

If your beloved BMX bike gets fully drenched, either from riding in the rain or breaking out the hose for cleaning, use this process to dry it out:

Washing

1. Use a hose or pressure washer to spray off heavy mud and dirt. Don’t aim high-pressure water directly at wheel hubs or the bottom bracket to avoid flushing out lubricants.
2. Mix a mild detergent like dish soap in a bucket and scrub down the frame, wheels, and components with a soft brush or rag. This will lift any remaining grime.
3. Thoroughly rinse off all soap residue with clean water.

Drying

1. Wipe down the entire bike with a chamois cloth to soak up standing water.
2. Spray all moving parts (gears, brakes, etc.) with a water-displacing lubricant like WD-40. This prevents moisture from sticking and promotes quicker evaporation.
3. Inflate the tires to max PSI to force water out of the rims. Lay the bike on its side so water can drain out.
4. Remove and dry the seat, grips, pads, and any other removable components. Wipe down bolts and hardware as moisture can cling here.
5. Let the bike air dry fully before your next ride. Place it near a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the process.

Avoid using abrasive cloths, compressed air, or external heat sources to dry a wet bike as these can cause damage. With this process, your BMX bike will be back in riding shape in no time.

 

Waterproofing Products and Modifications

If you’ll be riding BMX in constant wet weather, consider adding some water protection to your bike:

Frame Protection

• Frame sealant formulas create a protective barrier against moisture and dirt. Re-apply every few months.
• Lizard Skins Frame Wrap is a thick vinyl wrap that adheres directly to the frame to seal it.
• Frame wax fills scratches and creates hydrophobic protection from water. Re-wax a few times per year.

Rust Protection

• Apply Boeshield T-9 or WD-40 Long-Term Corrosion Inhibitor inside frame tubes and underneath triple clamps to prevent internal rusting.
• For external rust prevention, use Corrosion Block grease on chains, sprockets, bolts, and other unpainted parts.

Tire Treads and Sealants

• Deeper BMX tire treads provide extra grip on wet surfaces. Look for widely spaced block or scoop patterns to shed mud.
• Liquid tire sealants like Slime help seal sidewall punctures and prevent tire flats from puddles.

Waterproofing Sprays

• Spray-on waterproofing treatments like Granger’s Performance Proofer repel water from fabric components like seats and grips.
• Silicon-based bike polish creates a glossy, hydrophobic coating across the entire frame and components.

By proactively protecting your bike from moisture, you’ll encounter fewer issues while riding in wet conditions.

 

Riding BMX Bikes in Rain and Wet Conditions

Just because your BMX bike can handle some water doesn’t mean you should throw caution to the wind when riding in the rain. Here are some tips to ride safely and comfortably in wet weather:

• Equip your bike with deeper-treaded tires for increased traction on slick surfaces
• Lower your tire pressure slightly for better grip and control
• Apply wet-specific friction-enhancing sprays to the tires like Finish Line Wet or Muc Off Wet Weather Lube
• Install wider platform pedals to keep feet from slipping off
• Upgrade your brake pads to sintered metal compounds for reliable all-weather braking
• Wear waterproof outerwear made from materials like Gore-Tex to keep dry
• Pack a fender over the rear wheel to minimize back spray if riding on very wet days
• Stop under overhangs periodically to wipe excess water off goggles and brakes
• Avoid riding over puddles or streams to prevent hydroplaning your tires
• Reduce speed and watch out for debris and hazards hidden by puddles
• Stay alert for reduced visibility and traction caused by rain

Remember, surfaces will have less grip when wet. Apply both brakes earlier and more gradually than normal when coming to a stop. Stay safe out there!

 

Drying Out a Wet BMX Bike

If you do get caught riding in heavy rain, thoroughly dry your bike as soon as you can after the ride using the process outlined earlier. Leaving water sitting will make components prone to rusting and corrosion.

Absorb excess moisture with a chamois towel first, then lubricate and air dry all parts fully. Remove grips, pads, and the seat post and let them dry separately. Hang or prop up the bike so airflow can get to every section.

It’s also smart to open up hubs, the bottom bracket, and the headset to let any trapped water escape. Then re-grease and reassemble these sealed components.

Take your time fully drying each part to prevent premature wear or damage. Maintain the habit of drying and lubing your bike after every wet ride.

 

Waterproofing BMX Bikes

As mentioned already, you can add extra water protection to your bike with sealants, protective wraps, and water-displacement sprays. Here are some specific recommendations:

Frame Protection

• Use a rubberized frame wrap like Lizard Skins DuraTape to fully seal and protect your frame tubes against moisture, grit, and abrasion.
• For basic hydrophobic protection, apply a frame wax or ceramic coating like Muc-Off Nano Bike Protect.

Components

• Lubricate all exposed metal parts like sprockets, chain pins, and bolts with a wet-rated grease like Finish Line Wet.
• Spray electrical contacts, bearings, and pivot points with a water-resistant lube like Rock N’ Roll Gold to prevent corrosion.
• Add rim tape around spoke holes and sealant inside tires to prevent flats from puddles.

Maintenance

• Replace steel hardware with aluminum, titanium, or stainless steel versions to eliminate rust.
• Swap steel bearing balls for ceramic and upgrade to sealed bearings throughout the bike.

Getting proactive with waterproofing will significantly extend the lifespan of your BMX bike and components in wet riding conditions.

 

Wet Weather BMX Gear

Having the right riding gear is also crucial for staying comfortable in the rain. Use these tips to choose wet-weather BMX clothing:

• A breathable waterproof shell jacket keeps your core dry without trapping sweat. Brands like GORE-TEX are fully waterproof yet breathable.
• Waterproof pants or rain legs prevent spray from soaking through and keep your legs warm. Look for vent zips to prevent overheating.
• Waterproof outer gloves improve grip and protect hands from chills. Under gloves wick moisture.
• Neoprene shoe covers block water from soaking footwear and add insulation in cold rain.
• Roll off a water-resistant cap under your helmet to keep rain running down your face.
• Clear lenses or photochromic goggles maintain visibility in flat light and prevent water from spotting your vision.

Pack spare dry gloves and socks in case your main ones get soaked. Having proper wet-weather riding apparel makes rainy days much more enjoyable.

 

Wet Terrain BMX Riding

Once you’ve prepped your bike and gear, it’s time to hit those slick trails! Here are some wet terrain riding tips:

• Scan ahead for deep puddles, muddy ruts, and trail washouts. Adjust your line to avoid these hazards.
• Rail berms more gently and brake earlier to prevent skidding out.
• Get your weight back and neutralize the bike on off-cambers and sidehills.
• When ascending wet hills, keep momentum and steer straight up the fall line.
• Unweight the front end slightly to prevent washing out if the front tire loses traction.
• Avoid heavy braking or sudden handlebar inputs on descents. Any loss of traction will be amplified.
• Drop tire pressure a few PSI to increase contact patch and float through muddy sections.
• When crossing streams, ride upstream first to gauge depth and current strength.

Stay alert and dial back your speed in sketchy sections. Remember you’ll have less overall grip on wet dirt and trails. Finesse and feathering your brakes is key.

 

Wet Weather Safety for BMX Riding

Water makes trails, tracks, ramps, and road riding much more treacherous. Keep these safety tips in mind when riding BMX in the rain:

• Check brakes and tires are in good condition so you can stop reliably. Slow down and increase the following distance.
• Scan for hazards like potholes, debris, and trail channels hidden by puddles.
• Watch out for slippery patches like road paint, wet roots, and wooden features. Avoid sudden braking or turning on these.
• Use clear lenses and anti-fog treatments on goggles to maintain vision.
• Wear reflective and bright outerwear for visibility around vehicles.
• Tell someone your route and when you’ll return in case anything happens in remote areas.
• Carry a packable waterproof jacket or emergency space blanket in case you have to stop and wait for help.
• Check local weather reports and know river/stream flood stages before heading out.
• Avoid riding alone in lightning storms and high winds where trees or branches could come down.

The proper gear, bike preparation, and cautious mindset will keep you safe on those soggy rides. Don’t take any chances with the elements.

 

Conclusion

Getting caught in the rain mid-ride or purposely heading out on damp trails is just part of BMX biking. While water exposure can lead to corrosion issues over time if not addressed, a quality BMX frame and components are designed to withstand the occasional soaking. 

Prepare your bike proactively with protective treatments. Ride cautiously on slippery surfaces. And be sure to thoroughly clean, dry, and maintain your bike after wet rides. 

Follow the tips in this guide and you’ll keep shredding trails and tracks all season long, no matter the weather. Your BMX bike is tougher than a little rain – just respect the effects it can have and take proper care of your ride.

 

 

 

FAQs