In order to compete in a BMX race there are certain pieces of equipment you need, and a registration process to go through.

Bike – First of all you need a BMX bike, preferably a BMX race bike. The bike must have a number plate of the proper colour with the correct number on it. This plate and proper number sequence to go on the plate are provided with your registration cost and given to you on our first few nights of racing. Park/trick bikes are usable provided they don’t have pegs and have a rear brake, but the wider tires and heavy weight make them slower. The bike can not use a pedal style brake and must have a single rear hand brake installed.

BMX Bike Size Guidelines:

Mini 3’10” – 4’8” 40 to 65 lbs
Junior 4’4” – 4’9” 60 to 75 lbs
Expert 4’6” – 5’2” 70 to 95 lbs
Expert XL 4’10” – 5’4” 75 to 110 lbs
Pro / Jr Pro 5’ – 5’8” 100 lbs and up
Pro XL 5’8” – 6’ 140 lbs and up
Pro XXL 5’10’ and up 160 lbs and up

Cranks – Crank Length is very important for the comfort, speed and control of the bike. Try to find a crank length that will be close to the rider’s inseam measurement. Please see the list below for crank length suggestions.

Inseam Length Crank Length
15-16 inch 130mm
16-17.5 inch 135mm
17.5-19 inch 140mm
19-20 inch 145mm
22-22 inch 150mm

For Junior, Expert, Expert XL
20-22 inch 150mm 22-23 inch 155mm
23-25 inch 160mm
25-26 inch 165mm

For Junior Pro, Pro, Pro XL/XXL
25-26 inch 165mm
26-27 inch 170mm
27-29 inch 175mm
29-30 inch 177mm
30-32 inch 180mm
32+ inch 182-185mm

Pedals – Pedals are very important to give the rider confidence on the track, platform pedals with traction nibs are the best for new riders. Avoid clipless pedals to begin with as it is better for the rider to learn how to ride the track and balance in the gate first before they learn to lock their feet onto the pedal. Clipless pedals are technically not allowed until the rider is Age 13.

Mandatory Equipment:

• Helmet (certified – full face)
• Gloves (with full fingers covered)
• Bike – all dangerous things removed for example: no pegs, no reflectors, no sharp objects, no chain guards, no front brake, no kick stands, no bells, no mirrors, nor any decorations.
• Handle bar ends must be covered or have protective plugs to cover sharp ends.
• Tear resistant long sleeve shirt or jersey, preferably ones made for BMX or Motocross.
• Tear resistant long pants (no jeans or sweatpants) or shorts with one piece kneepad and shin guards, preferably ones made for BMX or Motocross.
• Fit for purpose closed-toe footwear like running shoes (no crocs, sandals or open toes)

Strongly recommended/Optional Equipment:

• Body armor/Chest protector
• Neck protection
• Elbow pads
• Knee pads (unless wearing shorts then mandatory)
• MotoCross/BMX Race Jersey and Pants as they have built in padding and are the appropriate tear resistant material
• Special alloy cranks, frames, wheels, seats, pedal clips (age restriction)

License – You will also need an SCA Provincial Race License or UCI license. This is purchased through the Saskatchewan Cycling Association and linked from their website or our registration page. More information on this can be found under Membership & Registration.

Here are few suggestions on where to pick up various gear in Saskatoon:

FXR (helmets, chest protectors, gloves, pants, jerseys, accessories)
Recreation Supply (helmets, chest protectors, gloves, pants, jerseys, accessories)
Doug’s Spoke & Sport (carries a select amount of BMX race bikes, however chat with them if you need to make special orders)

GENERAL EQUIPMENT RULES

Helmets are to be worn at all times an athlete is riding a bicycle on the track and surrounding area. No exceptions.

Jerseys should be tucked into pants, and the sleeves should be long enough to leave no skin exposed between the cuff and the glove.

Sweat/track pants are frowned upon at district racing and prohibited at Provincial level and higher races. This is because the material can melt to skin during a crash.

Clipless pedals are forbidden for children 12 and under, regardless of ability level.

Your number plate and side plate (provided by club) should be visible and on your bike at all times.