How to start BMX in the UK

BMX is riding a small, strong bike, built for racing round a dirt track or doing tricks in a park. A beginner starts at a club taster at a local track, on a hired bike, and you don't need to own anything to have a go.

Race or freestyle?

BMX has two sides, and you can try both.

• Racing: purpose-built tracks of compacted dirt and tarmac, around 400 metres long, with a start ramp, jumps and banked corners called berms. Up to eight riders race in heats called motos, then knockout rounds to a final. Races last well under a minute.
• Freestyle: less about speed, more about style. Welsh Cycling describes riders using their street, local skatepark or urban spaces to be creative. Competitions cover park, street and flatland.

British Cycling says BMX is often learnt in gardens, parks and on pavements before riders feel ready to compete.

A first session

British Cycling says most active BMX clubs run taster and skills sessions at their local track, for riders of all ages and abilities. Many clubs hire out a bike, a helmet and protective gear, so you can try it before you spend money.

It's for everyone. Bikes with frames as small as 12 inches are made for very young riders, and British Cycling says the masters' age group is more popular than ever. Riders come tall or short, stocky or skinny.

Ask the club what's included in the taster, and what to wear, before you go.

What to take

• Long sleeves and covered legs, to protect your skin if you fall.
• Full-finger gloves. British Cycling says gloves are non-optional.
• A full-face helmet for racing. British Cycling says it's compulsory in BMX racing. Clubs that hire kit can usually lend you one.
• Knee and elbow pads are recommended.

Standard BMX bikes have 20-inch wheels, a single gear and usually just a rear brake. There are smaller sizes for younger riders, and a 24-inch cruiser class for bigger or older riders. Hire before you buy.

When you're hooked

If racing grabs you, join British Cycling. British Cycling lists Core membership at £52 a year (checked October 2026), and it includes a provisional race licence, which British Cycling says is enough for most BMX races. Next step: BMX race licences. If tricks are more your thing, see BMX freestyle.

Governing body: British Cycling sets the UK safety standards and training awards for BMX, so it's the official place to find out more. In Wales, Welsh Cycling covers BMX racing and freestyle, and in Scotland, Scottish Cycling runs a BMX Racing Pathway.

The club map lists some of the UK clubs for this sport. It is a starting point, so check with the club before you travel. To have a coach found for you, use the enquiry form.