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What is BMX?

BMX is Bicycle Motocross. It was started in California in the early 1970's by some kids who wanted to emulate motorcycle motocross racing. There are now hundreds of tracks across the country and around the world and BMX racing will debut as a full medal sport in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games!

BMX race tracks are usually around 1000 feet long and consist of banked turns (berms) and jumps. Most of the track is dirt but berms on some of the tracks are paved.

Each race consist of three qualifying races called motos. The overall winner for the day is determined by their moto finishes. In some cases where there are enough riders, there may be a final race called a "main event". This race is "winner takes all", where your finishing position in the main is your overall finish for the event regardless of your moto finishes.

There are three levels of proficiency in the amateur ranks, rookie (beginner), novice, & expert. Races are determined by the age and proficiency of the riders. For example: a brand new 13 year old rider would compete in the 13 rookie class, racing only against other rookie 13 year olds. That rider would then move up in proficiency to novice either after they have won a certain amount of races as a rookie or voluntarily if they wish to race at the next level. The same applies when moving from novice to expert.

Hampton Supertrack is an NBL sanctioned track. This means that the track is approved by the National Bicycle League, of which Hampton Supertrack is a member track. The NBL sets up the rules of racing and conduct on the track.  Anyone who races on a NBL track must be a member (or trial member) of the NBL. This binds the racer to the safety and conduct standards of the NBL and also provides the rider with insurance coverage while racing. Most of all though, BMX is fun!  Ages run from the 5 and under class to the 55 and older class! Generally, boys race boys and girls race girls, but sometimes they are combined if the number of racers is small.

What do you need to get started? A bike and helmet. The helmet needs to be the 'full face' kind that protects your mouth and chin.

Equipment:   Most bikes can be used for competition as long as they are in mechanically safe working condition. No kickstand, chainguard, reflectors, freestyle pegs or other protruding dangerous equipment can be attached. Regarding bike size, if the wheel is 22.5" or under it will be classed with the 20" bikes. The 20" bikes are what people usually picture as a BMX bike. If the wheel is bigger than 22.5" it is classed with the Cruisers. That name goes back to the days when dads would race their beach cruiser after the kids were done. But don't let that throw you. Now some kids race cruisers and some dads race the 20" bikes too.

Clothing:   NBL rules require close toed shoes, long pants and long sleeves. Sneakers, jeans and any long sleeve shirt or jacket are fine. A full-face helmet is required and a pair of gloves is also a good idea.

NBL Membership:   A one year membership is $45.00 ($30.00 for a 30 day trial membership - convert to full for $15.00), and includes insurance while on the track, access to any NBL track in the US, and a subscription to BMX Today.

Race fees:   There's a $9.00 entry fee for races ($6.00 for points only - no trophy) and $2.00 fee for scheduled gate practices. Stop in and speak to a track representative to see about becoming a BMX racer. Ask about family rates.

Hampton Supertrack 2008
Hampton, Virginia
BMX by the Bay
NBL Sanctioned/Not-for-Profit Organization