There are two basic types of BMX bike:

  • Race

  • Park/Freestyle/Flat/Vert/Ramp/Street

Racing is racing. Race bikes are light, fast, and not built for tricks. Race bikes aren't as versatile as freestyle bikes. You don't need a race bike to start racing, but eventually you will if you plan to keep racing.

Freestyle is a generic term for BMX bikes that are meant tricks like vertical, park, and flatland. BMX started as racing, and doing tricks was just a natural growth. In the 80's the designs started to split into race bikes and freestyle bikes. Freestyle bikes are heavier duty meant for smashing, grinding, jumping, vertical air, and doing crazy things in. You can race a freestyle bike and it's fun, but they are not well matched to today's BMX tracks.

Race Bike

Park Bike

  • Aluminum or carbon fiber frame

  • Lightweight parts

  • Lighter, thinner tires

  • Customizable gearing

  • Compare the frame angles (long, smooth)

  • Designed for race tracks

  • Steel frame

  • Heavy duty parts

  • Heavier, thicker tires

  • Micro gearing to keep it out of the way

  • Compare the frame angles (short, steep)

  • Designed for skate parks