Getting Started

Want to try BMX? How should we start?

• Lake Macquarie BMX track is CLOSED to the public when not being used for official club events - coaching (Monday / Thursday), Gate Practice (Wednesday) or Racing (Saturday). You are welcome to ride during these times. We encourage riders to always wear the appropriate equipment whether racing or free riding. 
• If your child can ride around the track un-assisted they are ready to start considering racing.

How old do you need to be to Race?

• BMX racing starts with “Mini Wheelers” at 2 years who ride balance bikes on a small section of track (assistance can be provided).
• “Sprockets” are riders 7 years or younger who are able to ride the whole track unassisted on a pedal bike.
• Riders 8 years and over are in “challenge” classes, this is when they begin racing competitively.

Do I need a BMX race bike?

• No. Before going out and buying a proper race bike we highly recommend that your child starts with any bike.
• Race bikes are very light and will be a lot faster than a standard bike. However, they typically start at about $500 for an entry level bike. If they enjoy the sport, then look at purchasing a proper race bike.
• There is also a large second-hand marketplace consisting of everything from bikes, helmets and clothing found on Facebook buy sell groups.

Do I need to do anything to my bike to race?

• Check that the bike is fully functioning and is safe to ride, making sure that handlebar ends are covered.
• Brakes, you must run a rear brake. We do not recommend the use of front brakes, but pegs, bike stands, bells and reflectors etc. must be removed.

Gate practice

• Attend a gate practice night. The start is one of the most important parts of a BMX race and as such the club runs regular gate practice nights.
• It’s certainly not expected that new member/s are to experience their first (any many more) gates starts alone, it can cause a little bit of fear especially in the younger riders – ALL PARENTS are welcome to be right there with the riders at the gate to help them learn the art of balance and support them until their confidents has grown.

How much is gate practice?

• For a Gate Practice night, it is $6 per rider (including Sqorz timing) / $15 per family.

Safety Equipment

There is a surprisingly small amount of equipment needed to attend a gates session or have your first race. Here are the absolute minimum requirements (the club has a limited number of helmets, gloves and bikes that can be borrowed while trying the sport).

• Full Face Helmet – must meet AUS standards (or a “Stack Hat” for Mini Wheelers only)  Helmet straps must be securely fastened 
• Long Sleeve Shirt
• Long Pants
• Shorts can be worn, however hard knee and shin armour is required
• Gloves
• Closed in Shoes
• A bike in sound working order
• Additional armour (e.g. elbow guards) can be worn by riders, however it is not mandatory for gates practice / racing.

AusCycling Membership: How much and where can I purchase?

• To ride and train with LMBMX (or any other Australian BMX Club) a valid AusCycling membership is required. A free 4 Week Trial Membership is available (clubby and gate fees still apply) which allows riders to try all AusCycling disciplines before purchasing a full membership.  https://www.auscycling.org.au/membership/other/free-trial
• An AusCycling “Race Off-Road” (covering BMX, MTB, CX, & BMX Freestyle) or “Race All Discipline” membership is required to race at our track. Prices vary depending on age, and family discounts are available.  We advise new riders to apply a day or so prior to your planned first race to enable maximum time to use it.
• Memberships can only be purchased through AusCycling: https://www.auscycling.org.au/membership
• Active Kids Voucher - AusCycling is a registered activity provider with the NSW Government’s Active Kids program.