What are the rules for a BMX race bike?
Officials' detail · Conduct, results and kit · 2 of 3A standard BMX race bike has wheels of no more than 57 centimetres across with the tyres on, the "20 inch" class. It has one gear, a working rear brake operated by hand and handlebars up to 73.7 centimetres wide. Pedals that lock to the shoe are allowed only from the age of 13.
How it works
- Standard wheels: not more than 57 centimetres (22.5 inches) in diameter with the tyres inflated.
- Cruiser wheels: from 57 to 66.05 centimetres (26 inches).
- Gears: "Multiple speed gear systems are not permitted."
- Drive: a chain or a one-piece belt.
- Brake: "an effective rear brake, which must be operated by hand". A front brake is optional.
- Handlebars: at most 73.7 centimetres wide, with a rise of at most 30.5 centimetres. Grips must cover the ends.
- Pedals: toe clips and straps are not permitted. Clip-in and magnetic systems are allowed for riders aged 13 and over. Riders of 12 and under must use flat pedals.
- The frame: strong and free of cracks, with no superfluous accessories such as chain guards, stands, mudguards or reflectors.
- Sharp edges: axles may stick out no more than 5 millimetres beyond the nuts, and cable ends must be capped.
- The number plate: on the front of the handlebars.
- Inspection: a bike may be inspected at any time. The rider is responsible for it complying whether or not it is checked.
The glossary has BMX racing and the gear ratio.
Tricky cases
Does a BMX race bike have brakes?
Yes. A hand-operated rear brake is compulsory. A front brake is allowed and not required.
Can an eleven-year-old use clip-in pedals?
No. Riders aged 12 and under must use flat pedals with no form of connection to the shoe.
Can a rider fit gears for a track with a long straight?
No. Multiple speed gear systems are not permitted.
Can a rider race a 24 inch bike in the standard class?
No. A wheel over 57 centimetres puts the bike in the cruiser class, and the two classes are not combined.
Why the rule exists
Everything on the list either keeps the racing about the rider or removes something that could injure in a pile-up. One gear means the start is won by legs and timing. No projecting axles, stands or bare cable ends means fewer wounds when eight bikes go down together.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 20 inch | Wheels up to 57 centimetres | UCI 6.1.074 |
| Cruiser 24 inch | Wheels from 57 to 66.05 centimetres | UCI 6.1.074 |
| All cycling | The general equipment rules in Part 1 of the UCI regulations also apply. They were not read | UCI 6.1.071 |
From the rule book
Union Cycliste Internationale, Cycling Regulations, Part 6: BMX Racing (version of 1 January 2026), articles 6.1.003, 6.1.012 and 6.1.071 to 6.1.080 and 6.1.091. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: UCI Cycling Regulations, Part 6 (PDF).