Does a trick count if the clock hits zero in mid-air, and what if the bike breaks?
I · Intermediate · The run · 2 of 3In the park a trick that is fully completed when the time runs out is counted, and anything attempted after that is ignored. If the bike breaks during a run, the clock does not stop: the rider can fix it or fetch another bike only in the time left. A re-run is given only for physical outside interference.
How it works
- The end: "A run ends when the time for the run has elapsed."
- Park, the last trick: a trick fully completed when the time runs out counts. Completed means "both wheels are in contact with a flat (horizontal) part of the park surface".
- After time: any trick attempted after the time has run out is not counted.
- Flatland: a trick not completed when the time runs out is not considered.
- Stationary: if the rider is still when the time runs out, nothing else is scored.
- A breakage or flat tyre: the rider "has until the time elapses for his run to either fix the problem or to get another bicycle and continue riding".
- No time-out: "In no case will a time-out or extra time be given."
- Interference: the commissaire may allow a restart for interference that is "physical in nature", such as debris hitting the rider or crossing their path.
- Not interference: background noise, and weather such as wind.
- Stop at once: a rider who believes they were interfered with must stop the run immediately and complain. If they ride on, no later complaint is heard.
- When the re-run is taken: after the second runs of everyone in the heat.
The glossary has the run and the errors and deductions entry.
Tricky cases
A rider is in the air when the time runs out and lands cleanly a moment later. Does the trick count?
No, on the wording of the rule. A trick counts if it is fully completed when the time runs out, and completed means both wheels down on a flat part of the park.
A chain snaps after 20 seconds. Does the rider get the run again?
No. The rider may repair the bike or take another within the remaining time. No extra time is given.
A gust of wind blows a rider off line. Is that interference?
No. Weather conditions such as wind are not outside interference.
A plastic bag blows across the ramp and the rider swerves but finishes the run. Can they ask for a re-run afterwards?
No. The rider must stop at once and complain. Carrying on gives up the complaint.
Why the rule exists
A fixed minute only means something if it is the same minute for everyone. Keeping the clock running through a puncture treats the bike as part of the rider's preparation. The narrow re-run rule covers the one thing the rider could not control: something from outside getting in the way.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Park | A completed last trick counts | UCI 6bis.6.031 |
| Flatland | An uncompleted trick does not, and judging stops at zero | UCI 6bis.6.030; UCI 6bis.6.031 |
| Weather | The commissaire and organiser may call a weather time-out for the whole competition | UCI 6bis.6.040 |
From the rule book
Union Cycliste Internationale, Cycling Regulations, Part 6bis: BMX Freestyle Competitions (JCF edition 2025, amendments to 1 January 2026), articles 6bis.4.012, 6bis.6.030 to 6bis.6.033 and 6bis.6.040. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: UCI Cycling Regulations, Part 6bis (PDF).