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You’ll find that BMX bikes are commonly used in racing and for stunt riding.

If you’re thinking of investing in a BMX bike or already have one, you may have wondered if you can ride it further than around the block or just at the BMX park.

Are BMX bikes good for long distances?

Because of the way they’re built, most BMX bikes are not good for long distances. With their short wheelbases, single-gear system, and small frame size, BMX bikes are built for short bursts of speed and rapid turning.

Short wheelbases cover relatively lower distances per revolution, and a single-gear system means that speed cannot be varied easily.

Also, with a small frame, you may have to stand while pedaling, and doing this will wear your pedals out faster.

If you are looking to go long distances with your BMX bike, you should consider getting one with a large wheelbase, a multiple-gear system, and a frame size that suits your height.

If you cannot get one, you should be able to modify your existing bike to make it more suitable for longer traveling.

Types of Bikes

If you are going to buy a bike, you need a clear understanding of how you want to use it before you can find the right fit.

There are many different types of bikes available, and each one is designed to perform well under a certain set of conditions.

If you use a bike for a purpose it was not meant for, you will most likely not enjoy the riding experience.

Consider how, where, and when you plan to use your bike. Then, review the list below outlining different types of bikes to help you choose the right kind for you.

Road Bikes

Road bikes come with drop handlebars and smooth, narrow tires. They are most suitable for fast recreational rides on smooth pavement.

You may ride them on both paved or unpaved trails, but most people find these are more comfortable to ride on a paved surface.

Road bikes are offer speed and endurance, especially for long pavement rides.

With the drop handlebars, you can grip from various positions, and with the narrow tires, gliding is much easier.

In most cases, your road bike will not be able to support heavy loads. Consider this before you attempt to use it for touring or commuting.

Triathlon/Time Trial Bikes

Triathlon/time trial bikes are road bikes made specifically for time trial or triathlon events. This bike type is optimized to have top-notch aerodynamic properties.

They have wing-shaped frames, bull-horn shaped handlebars, and wheel cross-sections.

These features contribute to making the bikes more aerodynamics and enhance their speed.

The handlebars allow the rider to bend forward and reduce wind resistance.

You’ll rarely find triathlon/time trial bikes being used for mass-start races due to their staggered starts.

Mountain Bikes

On mountain bikes, you’ll notice the following: knobby tires, flat handlebars, rugged components, rugged frames, and lower gear range. The low gear range allows easy pedaling while the rider goes uphill.

Mountain bikes are made for riding on rough trails, and they commonly come with a suspension that allows easy navigation of rocky trails.

Those that have no suspension are called rigid bikes, and those with only a front suspension are called hardtails.

Mountain bikes with suspension in front and at the rear are called dullay or full-suspension bikes.

Besides riding on rough mountain trails, mountain bikes are suitable for use on roads.

You may also use them for touring or commuting, but do not expect them to work with the same efficiency as traditional commuting or touring bikes.

You can get mountain bikes in various price ranges, but you may find that the less expensive ones are not optimal for aggressive biking.

Hybrid and Comfort Bikes

Hybrid bikes and comfort bikes come with features designed to offer comfort to the rider.

They both have upright handlebars and large padded seats that make riding very comfortable.

While both types of bikes are similar, the size of their wheels is what differentiates them.

Hybrid bikes have broad wheels similar to a road bike. Comfort bikes have thinner wheels like those on mountain bikes.

Hybrid bikes were originally made to offer the benefits of mountain bikes and road bikes.

In many cases, hybrid bikes come with suspension, but in a few cases, they are rigid.

Both hybrid and comfort bikes can be used on paved trails, smooth dirt, and unpaved trails. You should avoid using them on off-road mountain bike trails.

Adventure Bikes

Adventure bikes, also called gravel bikes, all-road bikes, or any-road bikes, are a new category of bikes.

As evident by their various names, they are quite versatile and permit off-road and on-road riding experiences.

Adventure bikes come with drop handlebars, and you can use different tire sizes with them.

Although they are similar to cyclocross bikes, adventure bikes are more upright and have longer frames.

These features make them suitable for long periods of touring and commuting.

Commuting Bikes

If you just need a bike purely for transportation, then a commuting bike should do. Commuting bikes usually come with accessories such as fenders, rear racks, and lights.

This type of bikes is great for getting around town.

With a commuting bike, you save some money, have some fun, and get some extra exercise. You can always modify them to suit your commuting needs.

Cyclocross Bikes

Like adventure bikes, cyclocross bikes have drop handlebars. But they have wide knobby tires to give them extra traction on off-road trails.

Cyclocross bikes, also called cx bikes, are quite versatile.

Cyclocross bikes come with various brake styles, and this reduces the chances of mud accumulating in the frame. 

They are suitable for use on surfaces with a combination of unpaved trails, paved trails, grass, dirt trails, and gravel.

BMX Bikes

BMX (Bike Motocross) bikes are common with kids, but adults use them too.

Many times, BMX refers to bikes with a single-speed system and 20” wheel. BMX bikes are used for stunt riding, jumps, and tricks.

Tandem Bikes

Tandem bicycles are pedaled in tandem and are made for 2 people to ride at the same time.

They are available in various styles including hybrid, road, mountain, and cruiser tandems. However, road tandem is the most common type of tandem bike.

Tandem bikes have reinforced components and frames to support 2 people.

They are suitable for use even if the two riders have different riding abilities. In tandem biking, the rider sitting in front is the pilot, and the one behind is the stoker.

Folding Bikes

A folding bike is a great option if you want to travel with your bike.

Since folding bikes can quickly become compact, you can keep them in your car trunk, on a boat, or take them along with you anywhere.

Folding bikes are also a great option if you also intend to take your bike with you on the bus or on a train.

They commonly come with small wheels, making them less efficient than the usual bikes. But this does not really affect the opinion who love using them.

Recumbent Bikes

The most prominent feature of recumbent bikes is the seat. This type of bike comes with a full-size seat that has a backrest.

Recumbent bikes have various configurations and are available with either 2, 3, or 4 wheels.

Some varieties come with long wheelbases, while some come with short ones.

In some recumbent bikes, the steering is placed under the seat. In other models, the steering is above the seat.

Recumbent bikes are not easy to pedal while going uphill. However, the design and backrest make turning larger gears easy for the rider.

Other Bike Types

Other bike types to consider in your search include:

• Kids bikes
• Adult trikes (adult tricycles)
• City bikes
• Cruiser bikes
• Dual-sport bikes
• Fixed-gear or track bikes
• Touring bikes
• Park bikes
• Fat bikes
• Utility bikes

BMX Bikes and Long Distance Riding

Most BMX bikes will not give the best riding experience when used over long distances.

This is especially true for BMX bikes with small wheels, small saddles, small frames, a single-gear system, and low handlebars.

With a small saddle and low handlebars, you may not get very far before you become uncomfortable.

With a small wheel, you will have to put relatively more effort into pedaling to cover more distance. Also, BMX single-gear systems do not let you vary your speed easily on different surfaces.

Adapting Your BMX Bike for Longer Rides

If you purchase a BMX bike (or already have one) and are not enjoying the feel of long-distance rides, you can replace the following parts to improve your comfort:

• Replace the single gear with a multi gear
• Install a larger saddle
• Install a large multi-speed front crank
• Use larger wheels
• Install high-rise handlebars

Deciding to Switch From a BMX to a Road Bike

If you need a bike that you will routinely ride over long distances, you should get a road bike.

Road bikes are more comfortable for long distances. They are lightweight, have bigger wheels, and are faster than BMX bikes.

Also, if you intend to ride on paved roads, road bikes are the better option. BMX bikes are more suited for dirt trails.

If you find that you are uncomfortable on your BMX bike, it might be time to switch to a road bike.

5 Non-BMX Bikes That Are Best for Long Distance

If you need an alternative to your BMX bike for long distances, check out one of the following:

• Cube Travel
• 2020 Diamant 135
• Fuji Touring Disc
• 2020 Vivente Anatolia Touring Bike
• Kona Sutra

The Best BMX Bike for Long Distances

BMX bikes are commonly suited for short distances and stunt racing. But there are some models that are a better choice for traveling longer distances.

If you need a BMX bike for long distances, consider one of the following models.

Mongoose Grudge Mag BMX Freestyle Bike

With a 26-inch wheel and a durable frame, the Mongoose Grudge Mag is a great BMX bike for long-distance riding.

Compared to BMX bikes that typically have 24-inch wheels (or smaller), the 26-inch will cover more distance per revolution. This way, you have to pedal less to cover more distance.

The frame and fork are made to handle the stress of jumping. The Mongoose Grudge Mag should be able to handle the stress of long rides.

The Mongoose Grudge Mag is suitable for riders between 5’4” and 6’2” tall. It rides smoothly but is quite heavy.

If you are not comfortable riding with a single-gear system, you should install a multi-gear system instead.

You could also replace the handlebar and brake system if you are not comfortable with the manufacturer’s parts.

GT Pro Performer Heritage 29″ Bike

The GT Pro Performer Heritage is quite lightweight, weighing about 29 pounds.

This BMX bike was released in 2019 but has an old school design. It is suitable for riders between 5’4” and 6’6” and offers a smooth, fast experience.

The 29-inch GT Pro Performer Heritage uses a V-Brake and a single-gear system. Pedaling is effortless whether you are going for a short or long ride.

GT 2021 Pro Series 29” BMX Bike

The GT 2021 Pro Series 29” has a 29-inch wheel that covers a relatively longer distance per revolution. The riding experience is smooth, and it can be ridden on and off road.

The cranks, frame, fork, and handlebars are made from Chromoly, an alloy of chrome and steel that offers lightness and strength. You can count on the GT 2021 Pro Series 29” for durability.

GT 2021 Pro Series LTD 29” BMX Bike

The GT 2021 Pro Series LTD 29” is another BMX bike you can ride for considerable distances. The bike uses an under-seat V-brake and integrated handlebars for a spotless look.

With its 29-inch wheels, a 25-tooth sprocket, and a 16-tooth freewheel, you can expect to easily cover distance with this bike.

The GT 2021 Pro Series LTD 29” also offers considerable strength. The frame, fork, crank, and handlebars are all made of Chromoly.

This material helps the bike tolerate the pressure from long-distance rides and high impact.

Haro 2021 Sloride 29” BMX Bike

The Haro 2021 Sloride 29” is designed like a 20” BMX bike. However, it uses a 6061-alloy frame, which makes it lighter while not sacrificing strength or stability.

This bike was built as a dedication to Xavier Mendez, Brian Blyther, and Mike Dominguez.

The Haro 2021 Sloride includes 29-inch wheels, a 36-tooth sprocket, and a 16-tooth front-wheel. These features make it easier to cover long distances with less effort.

The frame of the Haro 2021 Sloride is made from 6061 alloy while the cranks and fork are made of Chromoly. Each of these parts contributes to the durability and strength of the bike.

Summary

BMX bikes are best suited for stunt riding and quick races. It is highly likely that you will not enjoy using a BMX bike for long-distance rides.

This does not rule out the use of BMX bikes for long distances. There are some modifications you can make for them to be more comfortable, and some models are designed for more well-rounded use.

You’ll have a better (and more comfortable) experience on your long rides with a road bike, hardtail mountain bike, cyclocross bike, touring bike, or hybrid bike.

Resources

• https://www.quora.com/Is-BMX-good-for-long-rides
• https://www.centurycycles.com/buyers-guides/bicycle-types-how-to-pick-the-best-bike-for-you-pg9.htm
• https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear/a23067076/types-of-bikes/
• https://thebicycleescape.com/resources/types-of-bikes/
• https://www.bikeride.com/gt-pro-performer-29/
• https://www.performancebike.com/gt-2021-pro-series-29-bmx-bike-23.5-toptube-guinness-black-g46101u10os/p1224127
• https://www.danscomp.com/gt-2021-pro-series-ltd-29-bmx-bike-23.5-toptube-team-blue-g46151u10os/p1224133
• https://www.danscomp.com/haro-bikes-2021-sloride-29-bmx-bike-23.4-toptube-purple-h-21776/p1246992
• https://www.cyclingabout.com/best-touring-bikes-2020/
• https://tdaglobalcycling.com/2014/05/choosing-a-bicycle-for-long-distance-touring/

Road bikes and mountain bikes are the most popular types of bicycles in the world. BMX bikes are not far behind.

BMX bikes are distinguished by having a simple construction, easy operation, and the ability to handle difficult terrains where mountain bikes and road bikes would fail. 

BMX bikes, which is short for Bicycle Motocross, are off-road bikes built for stunts and racing.

Over time, they have been modified to work for street and freestyle riding, and some are capable of doing both.

BMX bikes are small in stature when compared to other bikes, but are built much stockier. They have a simple frame design and have thick, fat tires that allow traction and shock absorption. 

BMX bicycles are designed for different styles of riding with specific features that provide benefits for each group of riders. These styles include racing, jumping, and freestyle or stunt.

If you are looking to get a new BMX bike, then you are in the right place. This article will look to elaborate more on the types of BMX bikes, their uses, and features.

There are three categories of BMX bikes, and they are freestyle bikes, racing bikes, and jumping/dirt bikes. 

Freestyle BMX Bikes

Freestyle bikes are built for bikers who do stunts and tricks. So, if you want to do wheelies and one-tire stands with your BMX, a freestyle type would be perfect.

Freestyle BMX bikes are mainly used on streets, parking lots, and other smooth surfaces. Freestyle bikes are heavier than other BMX to give the rider more control while stunting. 

Freestyle BMX bikes are the only models designed with front brakes and rear U-brakes. Subtypes of freestyle BMX bikes include flatland, street, vert, park, and trail bikes.

Flatland BMX Bikes

Flatland riding is the opposite of every other riding style. The goal here is anything but speed and air. BMX-ing with a flatland is like dancing on a bike.

The rider remains in an isolated area on a pavement surface while trying to move and manipulate the bike in various ways.

The rider gets on the bike and moves at low speed while doing various spins and twists on the bike.

Flatland BMX bikes are different from the other BMX bikes. The frame of the bike is compact and generally small.

The top and bottom tubes are pushed together, and this provides the rider with more clearance when performing tricks.

Street BMX Bikes

A street BMX bike is a bike suited for maneuvering through various obstacles. These obstacles include poles, handrails, steps, ledges, and curved walls.

The primary surface street BMX bikes are made for is pavement.  For this reason, the bikes have smoother tires for better traction and speed. 

Their frame is slightly heavier since they need extra reinforcement to deal with all the impact. Street BMX bikes usually have front and rear brakes.

Vert BMX Bikes

Vert BMX bikes are your regular freestyle bikes. They come with a few tweaks and can be modified depending on the rider’s preferences. They are strong and have smooth tires.

Usually called a half-pipe, a vert is a double-sided ramp. Half-pipes vary in height. The most common ones – those you will likely see at any professional competition – usually exceed 26 feet in height.

During vert riding, the rider goes back and forth to each side, launching into the air each time, while trying to perform any number of stunts.

Park BMX Bikes

Park BMX riding is a unique form of street riding. The park BMX bike is used to maneuver a course that has ramps, rails, boxes, quarter pipes, bowls, as well as stairs, and half-pipes.

The park could have both cement and wood features. The bike setup is similar to that of street freestyle BMX bikes.

Because of this, it has smooth tires, double brakes, a thick frame, a smaller crank, and a smaller cassette.

Trail BMX Bikes

Trail BMX bikes are used on a line of jumps made from highly compacted dirt. The course is one that is similar to the trails used by motocross riders.

Four to eight jumps are placed in a row, and the trail biker starts a routine at the first one. The biker usually moves from one jump to the next in a flowing manner.

Freestyle bikes, in general, are heavier than race bikes and have a higher amount of strength. The handlebars have a different design, and they have a full brake setup.

Freestyle BMX bikes are versatile, and they also offer a solid casual riding experience. If you are considering getting a freestyle BMX bike, and you need suggestions, you may check out the following products:

Race BMX Bikes

The race BMX is the original BMX bike. Racing a BMX involves racing around a dirt track doing short, high-speed sprints.

The track usually features multiple jumps, turns, and berms, which must be navigated with finesse while trying to avoid other riders.

Race BMX bikes are designed to be light, easy to maneuver, and stable. This makes it easy for the rider to be in control and the bike to be very fast.

Their design is based on motocross bikes, and they retain many of the features and characteristics.

The frame of a race BMX bike places the rider in a more upright position. This gives them better control of the handlebars and improves their line of vision.

Racing BMX tires have a low-profile, and they are thin. The tires also have sufficient tread that makes it possible to increase traction on a dirt course while reducing speed only slightly.

The wheel size for a racing BMX bike is usually 20 inches.

A race BMX bike comes with a long crank for additional pedal power and efficiency.

The seat is small, and the rear hand brake is strong and allows a great deal of control over the braking, especially during racing.

Although racing BMX bikes are preferred for actual racing, they can be versatile and are also fine for casual riding. However, their design does not support street course and freestyle riding.

Check out the following race BMX bikes. You might just see one you’d love:

Jumping/Dirt BMX Bikes

Jumping/dirt BMX bikes are built to handle the size and frequency of jumps on a dirt track. This can be a course of multiple jumps or one big jump.

In a way, dirt jump biking is a type of freestyle riding. These events are composed entirely of tricks and stunts that are scored by judges.

These bikes are like a bridge between freestyle and racing bikes. You get the jump-type build of a freestyle bike that does not prioritize speed, combined with lightness and tires that have more tread and grip for the dirt.

The resulting BMX bike is one that can maneuver dirt with ease, take punishing landings, and get bigger airs with little effort.

You can check out the following if you need recommendations for a jumping/dirt BMX bike:

Resources

• https://samsbmx.com/2017/12/04/bmx-bike-types-making-decision
• https://bikesreviewed.com/bmx/bmx-ultimate-guide
• https://fatbmx.com/bmx-news/item/50034-the-different-types-of-bmx-bikes-sponsored-post
• https://www.sportsrec.com/103388-types-bmx-bikes.html
• https://www.upbeatbike.com/best-bmx-bikes-for-dirt-jumping

If you have any type of vehicle, you know driving or riding in the rain is a different experience. When the surface you ride on or drive on is wet, you have less control of the dynamics. Surfaces become slippery, there’s reduced traction, and you have to be extra careful. But will rain affect BMX?

Can you BMX in the rain?

Safely using a BMX bike in the rain depends on the intensity of the rain and your endurance. When the clouds only drizzle slightly, BMX in the rain should not a problem. But when the downpour is considerable, BMX comes with various risks and should be avoided unless you are well prepared.

Does that mean you cannot do anything with your BMX bike when it is raining? No, there are actually other BMX activities you can do indoors.

Can You BMX in the Rain?

You can choose to BMX when it rains. Your safety and comfort will depend on how much risk you are willing to take and how much harshness you can endure.

When it rains and road surfaces are wet, brakes are less effective. This means it might be harder for you to stop when your bike is in motion.

The harder it is for you to stop the bike or reduce your bike’s speed, the higher your chances of crashing or getting injured.

As the rider, you are exposed to health hazards when you BMX in the rain. You are exposed to cold, extreme wetness, and possibly strong winds.

BMX activities in the rain put you at risk of catching a cold, getting a rash, or getting hit by an object carried by the wind.

Another drawback of using your BMX bike in the rain is that the moisture might increase the chances of your bike becoming corroded.

Safety Precautions for BMX in the Rain

If you are not deterred by the downpour, you should at least make some extra preparations before you get out your BMX bike.

Gear

Protecting yourself is the first step to safely using your BMX bike in the rain. Make sure you have the right gear for your body before going out. Here are some option to consider:

• Get a waterproof jacket or coat to keep you from getting wet.
• Wear waterproof shoes/boots, backpacks, and pants.
• Cover your helmet with a waterproof cover but avoid covering your ears. Amidst the noise that comes with raindrops, you need your ears to sense any changes around you.
• Wear a non-sticky piece of underclothing and a breathable shirt.
• Wear a pair of biking gloves so your hands do not get cold quickly.

Accessories

Wearing the appropriate gear is the first step to ensuring your safety while using a BMX bike in the rain. You should also make the following adjustments to your bike:

• Install full fenders on your front and rear wheels to guard you from splashing water and to keep dirt or mud out of the bike gears and chains.
• Install bright lights all around your bike including the flanks, front, and rear to help with visibility. They can aid your vision and ensure others can see you on the road in the rain.

Terrain

Where you BMX bike is almost as important as how, especially if the weather is bad. Consider the following to stay safe on terrain made challenging in the rain:

• Ride slower than you usually do.
• Avoid puddles as much as you can. They can hide significant dangers such as potholes, glass, or nails that can lead to a flat tire or injury.
• Avoid surfaces such as polished, painted, metal, or brick surfaces that are usually very slippery when it rains.

5 Tips to Care for Your BMX Bike if It Has Been Rained On

After exposing your bike to the moisture that comes with rain, you have to care for it well or risk a gradual loss of function.

• Wipe dirt off the rims, fender, front, and rear of the bike. This will help prevent dirt from clogging the chains and gear.
• If you are washing the dirt off with a water hose, be careful. The water pressure can ruin the function of the bike. For example, pointing water from a hose at the bike’s bearings can seriously affect the bearings’ function.
• While cleaning the bike, you may use soap to get the dirt off. In instances where you cannot use soap, alcohol spirit might work.
• Dry off every wet part of the bike to reduce the chances of corrosion and help your bike last longer. You can dry the bike with a leaf blower or use a dry cloth.
• Lubricate the movable metal parts. This helps prevent rusting and maintains the efficiency of the movement of the bike.

3 Indoor BMX Bike Activities for When It Is Raining

If you would prefer to stay inside when the weather is bad but still wish you could use your BMX bike, there are actually alternative indoor activities you can do. Try one of the following on a rainy day:

• Ride your BMX bike on an indoor bike trainer. Indoor bike trainers will help improve your pedaling strength especially for sprints and out-of-the-saddle bursts.
• Ride your BMX bike on rollers. Rollers can help improve your pedaling efficiency and form. They can also improve your level of alertness.
• Use your bike on an indoor BMX track. You can check for an indoor BMX track close to you here.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to ride your BMX bike in the rain is a personal decision. There are risks involved, so be sure to take extra preparations for safety.

If you prefer to stay inside, there are other indoor activities you can do with your BMX bike white you wait for the weather to clear.

Resources

• https://bikeeastbay.org/wetweather
• https://blog.mapmyrun.com/how-to-clean-your-bike-in-10-minutes-after-a-ride-in-the-rain/
• https://www.cycleops.com/post/blog-15-bike-trainer-vs-rollers-whats-the-difference

Have you gotten weary of riding your old and rusty BMX bike? Most times, the first thing that comes to mind is to get a newer and shinier model. But a new BMX may not be part of the budget right now. Besides being expensive, it might not be necessary if the issues with your bike are mostly cosmetic. There are other facelift options for your BMX bike aside from a full replacement.

Can you paint your BMX rims?

Painting your BMX rims is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to transform your old-looking BMX and give it a newer appearance. Painting your BMX rims gives them a rejuvenated look and can also help prevent rusting.

Wondering whether you need to hire a professional body shop or painter to help with your BMX makeover? It might seem like you need to call the pros, but painting your BMX rims isn’t rocket science – it’s a process that can be achieved without prior experience.

With a little effort and the right tools, you can give your BMX a facelift all on your own for minimal cost compared to professional restoration or a bike replacement.

Refinishing Your BMX Rims

Materials Required for Painting BMX Rims

Before you get started, be sure you have the following materials on hand for painting your BMX rims:

• Spray paint can
• Nail polish remover
• Blanket
• Clear coat
• String
• Screwdriver
• 1.5 mm socket wrench

Tips to Note Before Spraying Your BMX Rims

Painting your BMX rims can be a straightforward project if you have the right materials. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind for a quality paint job before you start spraying your BMX rims:

• Purchase high-quality grade spray paint.
• Wear safety goggles while spraying.
• Don’t mix different brands of spray paints.
• Use pistol-grip spray paint.

6 Steps to Paint Your BMX Rims

With the right materials ready to go, you can follow these simple steps. Be sure to read through the instructions once before starting.

1. Remove the Tires

Remove the tires from the bike by removing the nut in a counter-clockwise motion with a 1.5 mm socket to detach your tires.

2. Remove Any Stickers

Remove all stickers attached to the rims to expose the bare rim. Add a small amount of nail polish remover to a clean cloth and wipe the rims to take off the stickers or any residue.

Avoid using extreme heat and sharp objects such as razor blades as these will damage the rims.

3. Mask the Spokes

Mask the spokes with tape to avoid getting paint on them. You can also remove the spokes completely to protect them.

To do this, use a spoke wrench and turn the nipples with a screwdriver.

4. Hang Rims in a Well-Ventilated Space

Hang your rims in a well-ventilated place by running string through the valve and tying a knot outside the rims.

Drape a blanket behind the rims in the direction you will be spraying to avoid spray painting the surrounding area.

5. Spray the Rims

Stand about 6-12 inches away from the rim and spray the paint continuously in an even motion. Start with a light coat of paint which is typically longer lasting and faster drying.

Allow the paint to dry completely. Spray an additional coat of paint as needed with at least 15-30 minutes between coats.

6. Let Dry

Let the paint dry for a minimum of 2 days before applying clear coat to protect the new paint job. This creates a hard, protective layer that improves durability of the paint.

Allow your clear coat to dry completely before reattaching your wheels.

Choosing the Right Spray Paint for Your BMX Rims

Painting your rims can be an easy, satisfying, and cost-effective project to bring new life to your BMX bike. But one consideration that really matters the is the quality of your paint.

Choosing a high-grade paint will impact the look of the final paint job as well as how long the work will last.

Investing in the right paint will save you money in the long run and restore the radiant look of the BMX rims.

Characteristics of Quality Paint for BMX Rims

There are so many options available for spray paints on the market. Here are some key characteristics to consider when choosing a quality paint for your BMX rims.

Dry Time

The thinner your coat of paint is, the faster it will dry when applied. Fast-drying paint is associated with less drip or streak.

Using multiple thin coats will reduced the overall finishing time while providing for even paint coverage.

Color

Once you have decided on the color to paint your rims, go for a spray paint that produces a deep and consistent color. This is important to prevent the paint from fading quickly.

Finish

You can either use matte (smooth) or gloss (high sheen) paint and clear coat to finish your BMX rims. The higher the clear coat sheen, the shinier the paint color will appear.

Durability

Your spray paint should not only serve the aesthetic purpose. Spray paint should protect against rust, dust, UV, and corrosion.

Some spray paints are even heat resistant. Look for highly rated spray paint that can withstand the pressures of the road.

Ease of Use

Since this might be your first time working with spray paint, look for a spray that is easy to apply.

Purchase new fresh paint to prevent working with a blocked nozzle or old thick paint that clogs easily.

Spraying should be easy; you should not need to apply a lot of pressure to get the paint out.

Coverage

Spray paints can vary on how they cover large surface areas. Spray paint is made up of solvents and solutes, most of which are solid.

The higher the solid content to solvent ratio, the greater the coverage.

Check the paint can to confirm the capacity of the spray paint you are buying.

Top Spray Paint Types for BMX Rims

Picking the right paint for your specific BMX rims also comes down to the material your rims are made of.

Different metals take to paints differently, so it is important to identify the metals used on your rims.

Keep these metals in mind when choosing paint for your rims. You can also ask a local body shop for recommendations.

VHT Wheel Paint

VHT wheel paint is designed for steel and aluminum rims. It gives a long-lasting result with a solid matte color. It withstands high heat, and it dries fast.

Plastic Dip Spray Paint

Plastic dip spray paint is a synthetic rubber-based matte black coat. It comes with a high-gloss topcoat that protects your rims against abrasions and environmental hazards.

Dupli-Color Paint

Dupli-Color paint is suitable for steel, plastic, and aluminum rims. Its reflective metallic finish can be very eye catching. Dupli-Color is known for being effective with extensive coverage.

Rust-Oleum Wheel Spray Paint

This paint is suitable for metal wheels and plastic rims. It prevents corrosion and rust. When you combine it with a clear coat, it produces a deep and liquid shine.

Final Thoughts

You can paint your BMX rims and get a quality result without too much difficulty. As long as you get materials of the right quality, painting your BMX rims can be a rewarding and economical project.

Resources

• https://carfictions.com/best-spray-paint-for-rims/
• https://www.vhtpaint.com/high-heat/vht-wheel-paint
• https://www.thedrive.com/reviews/28268/best-wheel-paints

Chains are a very important part of any bike, including BMX bikes.

If the chain on your bike does not fit appropriately, it would be almost impossible for you to enjoy your rides.

The tightness of a bike chain can vary as you use it, and this will affect your experience with the bike.

Do BMX chains stretch?

Bike chains do not technically stretch, but they consist of a series of plates, pins, bushings, and rollers that wear down over time. The rollers are sandwiched between the plates, and the pins hold them together by passing through the bushings. When the bushings and pins wear off, the chain becomes longer and appears stretched.

How Tight Should Your Bike Chain Be?

Determining whether a BMX chain is tight enough is not difficult. You can seek the assistance of a bicycle expert, but you can also assess this yourself.

To check how tight your chain is, put your hands on either side of the chain and pinch together.

A BMX bike chain with the right tightness will move slightly or not at all when pinched together.

If you can move the chain easily or feel the metal frame, the bike chain is not tight enough.

Tight chains will not make any sound while you ride the bike.

Also, if your chain is tight enough, it will not hit the rear frame when you pedal.

You should be cautious while installing your chain and make sure you do not tighten it too much.

An extremely tight chain is very likely to snap.

When the chain is too tight, there will be no space to take up when pedaling, and this can cause serious problems for the bike.

Getting Rid of Bike Chain Tight Spots

A BMX bike chain should not have tight spots, but these can occur naturally from time to time.

Tight spots typically happen because of dirt that gets on the chain when the bike is used on trails.

It is important to get rid of tight spots in bike chains. Removing them reduces the rate at which the chain and the parts around it wear out.

Removing the tight spots will also improve your riding experience.

Getting rid of the tight chain spots on a BMX is quite easy. All you have to do is lubricate the chains as often as possible.

Putting a little grease on the bolts of the chains makes loosening or tightening them easy.

Lubrication also reduces the amount of wear on the chain due to friction, and it keeps the chain running smoothly for longer.

Greasing the chains also prevents rust and puts an end to unnecessary noises.

Tips for Fixing Slipped BMX Bike Chains

BMX bike chains can slip.

This often happens because of inaccuracies that occur when making adjustments to the chain.

Your bike chain might also slip if you crash while riding.

With the steps below, you will be able to fix your slipped chain and ride your bike again in no time.

1. Examine the chain drive to ensure there are no broken pieces on the chain. This check should be done immediately after a crash to ensure minimal damage to the chain and its surrounding parts.
2. Place the bike on a bike stand. If you do not have a bike stand, you may place the bike upside down instead.
3. Note the gear the bike is in by looking at the derailleurs on the front and back gears.
4. Line the chain back up on its gear. 
5. Reduce the tension in the chain by pushing the rear derailleur forward.
6. With one hand creating the slack needed, slip the chain back onto its gear with your other hand. You can pick one part of the chain up and place it on the appropriate gear, and then put the other part of the chain on the other gear.
7. Once the teeth of the chain have been successfully placed, slowly release the derailleur.
8. Place your hand on the pedals and pedal backward slowly to test the repair. Confirm that the teeth are guiding the rest of the chain back into place. After pedaling to reattach the chain, pedal again to ensure that the chain is secured properly.  

Conclusion

BMX chains can loosen and appear to stretch over time, usually because certain parts of the chain are worn out.

One way to ensure that your bike’s chain does not wear out quickly is to clean and lubricate it regularly.

If your chains do become damaged and you are unable to fix it, you should call in the services of an expert.

Resources

• http://madegood.org/bikes/repair/set-a-limit-screw-on-a-rear-derailleur/http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/bike-chain.html
• https://bmxunion.com/blog/5-keys-to-keeping-your-bmx-bike-dialed/
• https://www.biketorqueracing.co.uk/pages/about/btr-tech-station/chain-tight-spots.htm
• https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Slipped-Bike-Chain
• https://www.tresna.co.uk/blog/chain-tightening.htm