New BMX Riders

NEW RIDERS - Welcome!

Welcome to PTC BMX. This page is intended to give basic information to riders and parents who are new to BMX. Use this page (and the links) as a guide to getting started. Remember, the best way to get information about BMX is to come to the track and ask all the other riders and parents.
Questions? contact the Track Director.

What do I need to race?

-  USABMX Membership
-  20" or 24" bicycle
-  Full face helmet, or helmet with mouth-guard
-  Long sleeve shirt
-  Long pants
-  Bicycle Pads: cross bar, stem, top tube (optional - recommended)
-  Number Plate
-  Working brakes
-  Bar ends or something which securely covers the end of the handlebars
-  Gloves (optional - recommended)

Will my bike be acceptable?
Can not have reflectors, pegs, kick stand, or chain guard. (These items can come loose or fall off and cause injury to yourself or a fellow competitor)
Bikes with any size wheels (16", 20", 24" or 26") are allowed in the Novice (beginner) class.
Your bicycle should be mechanically sound and at least have effective brakes on the rear wheel.
Who will I race?
Riders your own age
Riders your own skill level
Is BMX dangerous?
If you do not wear a helmet or do not follow proper safety precautions it can be.
If you wear your protective gear and follow all safety precautions, it is no more dangerous than any other organized sport.
How do I register to race?
You may sign up on race-day, and register to race that same day.
Please bring a copy of the racer's birth certificate. (can be produced after registration)
We will supply you with your initial number plate and numbers.

It's RACEDAY
If you are really nervous and feel you need a "buddy" to help you get through your first race, ask the clerk when you register for the race to assign you a buddy and let them show you the ropes. Practice the entire track, so that you know what to expect during the race. Practice the gate until you feel comfortable with it's operation.
How do I read the moto sheets and make sure I am ready for my race?
Listen for the announcement that "Motos are posted" and go to the moto boards to find out who you will be racing that day! How to read the moto sheets and if you racing someone younger/older than you, understand the moto combining rules
If there is a problem with your moto, go to registration so that it can be corrected.
You should start preparing for the race, and listen for announcements. If there is a general repost or just a repost for your moto, you need to check the moto board to see if there was a change that impacted you.
I have all my race information, what is next?
Listen for the announcement calling "Riders to go the back of the starting hill and into staging." Most tracks play the national anthem before the first race starts, so you have some time to prepare yourself. How to get into staging
The gate drops, what can I expect?
You will hear the word "PEDAL!" a lot, and you should listen to the spectators and pedal! Always give your best effort and have FUN! There is great joy in riding bicycles, and it is even more intense racing bicycles!
The race is over, what now?
Listen for the announcement calling "Riders to go pick up their trophies." If you are entitled to a trophy, go pick it up and enjoy. We hope to see you at the next race.