BMX
The sport developed in California in the late ’60s and early ’70s. Acronym for bicycle motocross, a short sprint race around a dirt track with jumps and bermed turns, ridden on single-geared 20-inch-wheeled bikes.
Chrome-Moly
A lightweight steel alloy named for two of its components, Cromium and Molybednum. The chrome-moly alloy known by the designation 4130 is the most popular variety and the most common frame material among BMX bikes, though lighter aluminum tubing is often found on racing bikes.
Dirt Jumping
Getting airborne on a BMX (or mountain) bike, generally on a specifically designed course, but outside of the racing context.
Dropouts
The rear portion of all bicycle frames, designed to accept the rear wheel’s axle. Large or thick dropouts should accompany BMX bikes, which are meant to withstand the stresses of jumps and torque caused by the use of freestyle (or grinding) pegs.
Cruiser Class
BMX racing class that uses larger 24-inch-diameter wheels. Cruiser class riders tend to be older, bigger racers or parents participating with their kids.
Detangler
Rotor that attaches to the bicycle’s stem and allows the handlebars to be spun a full 360 degrees for tricks without tangling up the brake cables.
