THE ULTIMATE BMX RACE GUIDE
BMX Racing offers something to everyone.
Welcome to the ultimate guide to BMX racing! Whether you're a new rider, a parent, or an experienced racer, this page covers everything you need to know about BMX racing. From club races to regional, national, and international events, plus essential equipment, race formats, and how to progress through the sport.
This page is designed to be your go-to resource for BMX racing, so if you’re new or looking for answers – you’ll find everything you need here.
Getting Started in BMX Racing
If you’re new to BMX, follow these steps to get started:
1️⃣ Find a BMX Club Near You
Most clubs offer coaching sessions and open gate sessions
Check their club website or social media pages for session times
2️⃣ Attend a Coaching Session First
Before racing, it’s best to learn the basics in a safe environment
Coaches will teach cornering, jumping, manualing & gate starts
3️⃣ Make Sure You Have the Right Kit
Helmet: Full-face required
Gloves: Mandatory
Clothing: Long sleeves & pants
Bike: Race BMX (you can hire a bike, helmet, and gloves from most clubs)
4️⃣ Enter Your First Club Race!
Club races are perfect for beginners before trying a regional race
Check the club’s website or social media for entry details
✅ You must check the club’s website/social media for entry details – You CANNOT just turn up!
What is BMX Racing?
BMX racing is an exhilarating sport where up to 8 riders start from a hilltop and navigate a track featuring jumps, straights, and berms to cross the finish line first. The thrill of competition and the skill required make it a fantastic sport to both watch and participate in.
Skills Required: Success in BMX racing demands power, strength, balance, bravery, and skill. If you're eager to learn, our expert coaches will guide you through the necessary techniques and strategies.
The BMX Track
Each BMX track is unique, but they all share some common features:
The Gate: The starting mechanism that ensures all riders begin at the same level. An automated sequence controls the start, with lights indicating when the gate will drop and the race begins.
The Start Hill: The longest downhill section, designed to help riders gain speed and position themselves for the first straight.
Straights: These sections often feature larger jumps. Riders must decide whether to go airborne or keep their wheels grounded. Leading into the corners provides a significant advantage.
Berms: Banked corners that connect the straights, where thrilling overtaking often occurs as riders battle for the ideal racing line
The Rhythm Section: A straight with closely spaced smaller jumps, presenting a unique challenge for all riders.
The Finish: Located shortly after the last jump, where the race can still be decided. Riders must pedal hard and lean their bikes across the finish line to secure victory.
Important BMX Race Dates (2025 Season)
Our Spring Series (Club Racing)
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Round 3 – 29th March
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Round 4 – 12th April (Perfect regional practice)
Our Summer Series (Club Racing)
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Round 1 – 17th May
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Round 2 – 21st June
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Round 3 – 12th July
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Round 4 – 2nd August
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Round 5 – 16th August
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Round 6 – 30th August
North Region BMX Series (Regional Racing)
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Round 1 – Hartlepool – 23rd March
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Round 2 – Merseyside – 13th April
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Round 3 – Crewe – 27th April
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Round 4 – Platt Fields – 11th May
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Round 5 – Blackpool – 1st June
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Round 6 – Mid Lancs – 8th June
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Round 7 – Preston – 29th June
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Round 8 – Bradford – 20th July
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Club Championships – Bruntwood – 7th September
British National BMX Series
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Rounds 1 & 2 – National Cycling Centre – 5/6 April
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Rounds 3 & 4 – Cumbernauld – 3/4 May
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Rounds 5 & 6 – Manchester – 24/25 May
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Rounds 7 & 8 – Gosport – 14/15 June
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Rounds 9 & 10 – Birmingham – 5/6 July
British Championships
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Cyclopark – 23/24 August
UEC BMX European Cup
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Rounds 1/2: March 29-30 – Verona, Italy
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Rounds 3/4: April 19-21 – Heusden-Zolder, Belgium
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Rounds 5/6: May 10-11 – Lempdes, France
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Rounds 7/8: May 31 - June 1 – Tiel, Netherlands
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Rounds 9/10: July 19-20 – Ängelholm, Sweden
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Rounds 11/12: September 6-7 – Benátky nad Jizerou, Czechia
European Championships
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Latvia – July 10-13
BMX World Championships
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Copenhagen – July 28 to August 3
Novice & Expert Racing
Novice Racing:
Novice racing is the perfect starting point for new riders looking to experience BMX racing in a fun and supportive environment. It allows beginners to build confidence, learn race-day procedures, and develop essential track skills before progressing to expert racing. At regional level, riders can race up to five novice rounds before they must transition to expert. Novice categories are structured to help riders adjust, ensuring they understand everything from start gates to race formats before moving up.
Expert Racing:
Expert racing is for riders ready to take their BMX journey to the next level, competing at regional, national, and even international events. Riders must have a British Cycling race license and a MYLAPS transponder for accurate timing. Expert categories are more competitive, with experienced riders battling for ranking points and qualification for major events like the British Championships. To qualify for the Brits, an expert rider must complete five regional races in a season, making expert racing an exciting and challenging step forward in BMX.
Plate Numbers & Licenses
Plate Numbers:
Every BMX racer must have a number plate to compete, with specific rules depending on their level. Novice riders can use any number of their choice at club and regional events, while expert riders must use the last three digits of their British Cycling licence number. National riders will use their National ranking from the previous season. Side plates are mandatory for all expert riders, and riders must check Sqorz before racing in case they need to add an "X" to their number if merged with another category. Incorrect race numbers can lead to relegation, so it's essential to get it right!
Licenses:
A British Cycling race licence is required for all expert-level regional and national BMX races. Riders competing at novice level do not need a licence, but once they progress to expert, a Silver British Cycling membership and a provisional race licence are required. This licence allows riders to earn ranking points and qualify for major events like the British Championships. First-time members can take advantage of discount codes to reduce costs, making it easier for new riders to get started in competitive BMX racing.
Rider Age Categories in BMX Racing
BMX racing categories are based on the rider’s age as of December 31st of the racing year. This means that even if a rider has a birthday later in the year, they will compete in the age group they will be by the end of that year. For example, if a rider is currently 9 years old but turns 10 in November, they will race in the 10-year-old category for the entire season.
BMX racing includes categories for all ages, from 6 & Under to 17+ and beyond, with additional Cruiser classes for 24-inch wheel bikes. Understanding age groups is essential for entering the correct category at club, regional, national, and international events.
Racing Event Types
Club racing
Organised by club volunteers, these races are open to anyone with a bike suitable for riding a track. You'll need a number plate and a number (any number can be used). These races take place throughout the summer, with various winter series held by clubs each year.
regionals
This regional race series is managed by British Cycling and various clubs across the North region. Each season, from April to October, features 7-10 regional races. Riders who complete five regional races at the expert level qualify for the British Championships.
nationals
The British BMX Series is the premier domestic series in the UK, drawing the best riders from across the country. To be eligible for national level racing, riders must have competed at the regional level for one season and completed at least five regional rounds.
The British Championships
Known as "the Brits," this prestigious event is held on the August bank holiday to determine the top rider in the country, who will earn the honor of riding with the number 1 plate for the following year. To compete, riders must qualify through the regional race series.
European and World Championships
Held annually, this prestigious event is for riders who have met the British Cycling criteria through either the national series or the Brits. Riders who reach the final earn the honor of carrying an E# or W# plate in the following season, with the W1 plate distinguishing the world's best rider.
The Olympics
The pinnacle of sporting achievement, held every four years, where only the top elite riders are selected to represent their country and compete for the prestigious gold medal.
The Race Bike
Not all bikes are created equal. Race BMX bikes are specifically engineered for speed and agility, enabling riders to master the jumps and turns of a BMX track.
These bikes feature a low seat for enhanced mobility, large gear ratios for maximum power transfer, and small wheels for increased maneuverability. The frame and fork are typically made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber, and they usually come equipped with a single rear brake to control speed effectively.
Unlike park (trick) bikes, race BMX bikes are lighter with larger gearing, narrower wheels, and lack stunt pegs on the wheel axles. This design helps optimize performance and agility on the track.
Bike Sizes
Race BMX bikes are available in two main categories: 20-inch and Cruiser. The 20-inch bikes are the standard choice for most riders, including those seen competing in the Olympics, and come in sizes suitable for all ages. Cruiser bikes, with their larger 24-inch wheels, are typically used by riders aged 9 and older. Cruisers offer a more relaxed geometry and are especially popular among older riders.
Bike sizes are categorized by names that increase as riders grow taller:
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Micro Mini (extra small, with 18-inch wheels)
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Mini
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Junior
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Expert
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Pro
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Pro XL (and continuing to XXL, XXXL, etc.)
At Merseyside BMX Club, we offer a range of bikes in various styles and sizes available for hire during club sessions and race events.
Safety Equipment
BMX racing involves risks, but wearing the proper safety gear can greatly reduce them. At Knowsley BMX Club, we offer a range of safety equipment for hire during practice sessions and races.
Helmets
Full-face helmets provide comprehensive protection for the head and face in case of a crash. It’s recommended to replace your helmet after a significant impact, even if it appears intact.
Knee & Elbow Pads
These pads safeguard major joints from impacts with the track, bike, and other riders. Available in various styles, they come with hard shells or softer padding for different levels of coverage.
Gloves
Gloves protect the hands from abrasions and enhance grip on the handlebars, crucial for control and safety.
Body Armour
This optional gear covers the torso and arms, typically worn as a jacket or under a race jersey. Most riders opt for body armour to add an extra layer of protection.
At Merseyside BMX Club, we ensure you have access to the right equipment to stay safe while enjoying the sport.
What to expect on race day
Our Club Race Days
Our Spring & Summer Series is designed to introduce riders to racing in a fun, competitive environment while helping them prepare for bigger events like regionals and nationals.
Arrival & Sign-On
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Sign-on & Registration: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
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Head to the green container near the track to check in.
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Ensure you’re entered in the correct category before racing starts.
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No entries on the day – all must be pre-booked online.
Warm-Up & Practice
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10:30 AM – 11:45 AM: Riders get track time to practice their gates and corners.
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There will be marshals and coaches around to assist riders.
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This is a great opportunity for novices to familiarize themselves with the track and the start gate.
Racing Begins
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First race starts at 12:00 PM.
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Racing is done in motos (heats), where riders accumulate points.
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Riders will be placed in races according to their age group and ability (categories cannot be changed once the series has started).
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We use Sqorz for race results, so check online to see your race number and gate position.
Format & Prizes
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Riders will compete in multiple motos, followed by finals if there are enough riders in the category.
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Cash Holeshot Prizes – fastest rider off the gate in selected motos gets a cash prize, thanks to Crank BMX Coaching.
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Trophies for Novice Riders – Based on the Novice Leaderboard standings across the series.
Post-Race & Wrap-Up
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Results will be uploaded to Sqorz for final standings.
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Riders can check their points and rankings for the series.
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Spectators are encouraged to stay and support all riders!
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Tuck Shop will be open for drinks, snacks, and hot food.
Regional Racing
A regional race is the next step up from club racing and follows a structured format with strict British Cycling regulations.
Arrival & Sign-On
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9:00 AM – 11:15 AM: All riders must sign in. No sign-in = No racing!
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You must pre-enter the race via the British Cycling website.
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Collect your wristband to confirm you’ve signed in.
Practice Schedule
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09:15 – 10:00 AM – Open practice (riders of all ages)
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10:00 – 10:30 AM – 10 & under practice gates
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10:30 – 11:00 AM – 11-15 practice gates
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11:00 – 11:30 AM – 16+ practice gates
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11:30 – 11:45 AM – Pro section practice (if available)
Racing Format
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Racing starts at 12:00 PM.
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Riders compete in 3 motos, with points determining if they advance to the finals.
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If there are fewer than 8 riders in a category, the results will be determined by a Grand Prix format (points over 4 motos).
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If there are 9+ riders, semi-finals and finals will determine placements.
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Riders MUST have a transponder attached to their bike – no transponder, no lap time, no race results.
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Parents and riders must check Sqorz before racing to confirm their correct race plate number and ensure their transponder is working.
Finals & Awards
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Top 8 riders in the final will receive awards.
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Series points awarded to all riders finishing in the top 16 for overall rankings.
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Riders competing at expert level are working toward British Championships qualification (5 regional rounds required).
Things to Remember
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Make sure your transponder is charged and activated!
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Riders should wear their correct race plates with side numbers (mandatory for experts).
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Parking may be limited due to event size, so arrive early.
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The tuck shop and food vendors will be available.
National Racing
A National Series race is a high-level competition featuring some of the best riders from across the UK and internationally.
Arrival & Check-In
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Friday Check-In: 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM
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Saturday Check-In: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
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Sunday Check-In: 8:30 AM – 9:15 AM
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No check-in = Automatic removal from event.
Practice & Warm-Up
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Friday: Host club practice sessions
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Saturday & Sunday Practice:
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Age group-specific times announced before each event.
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Riders must complete at least one practice lap with their transponder to check-in.
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Racing Format
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Racing starts at 12:00 PM and follows a similar format to regionals but at a higher competition level.
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Riders must complete 6 out of 10 rounds to qualify for an overall ranking.
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Points system is strict, and riders must ensure they meet all national standards.
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Superclass & Championship Women race from the 8m start hill (if available).
Finals & Awards
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Prize money available for Championship and Superclass riders.
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Top 8 finishers in Challenge classes receive awards.
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National rankings determine British Championship eligibility.
Key Differences from Club & Regional Races
✔ Larger fields – often 100+ riders per category
✔ Stricter regulations (transponder timing, official check-in, and bike inspection)
✔ Must have a valid British Cycling Silver or Gold Membership & race license
✔ More media coverage and photography presence
Final Notes for All Race Days
✔ Bring everything you need – bike, helmet, gloves, long sleeves/pants, and spare parts.
✔ Check your race category and transponder status before racing.
✔ Be on time for sign-in and practice.
✔ Listen for announcements and check Sqorz for your race number and gate positions.
✔ Enjoy the day and support your fellow riders!
BMX Racing FAQ – Your Questions Answered!
Here’s everything you need to know about BMX racing, from getting started to expert racing. If you still have questions after reading, feel free to ask a coach or message us directly!
Getting Started with BMX Racing
❓ I’m new to BMX, how do I start?
✅ Find your nearest BMX club (like Merseyside BMX Club)
✅ Attend a coaching session to learn the basics
✅ Make sure you have the right kit (bike, helmet, gloves, long sleeves)
✅ Enter your first club race!
❓ Can I just turn up to a race?
No – check the club’s website or social media for race entry details. Most races require online entry in advance.
❓ Do I need to be a club member to race?
No, but club members usually get discounted race entry & benefits. Some races (like regionals) require British Cycling membership.
❓ What equipment do I need to race?
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Full-face helmet (mandatory)
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Gloves (mandatory)
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Long sleeves & pants
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Race number plate
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BMX race bike (no pegs, front brakes, or freestyle bikes)
💡 If you don’t have your own BMX bike, most clubs offer bike & equipment hire.
❓ How old do you need to be to start racing?
Kids as young as 3-4 years old can start on balance bikes. Racing categories start at 6 & under and go up to Veterans (40+ years old)!
🌍 Race Types & Categories
❓ What are the different types of BMX races?
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🏠 Club Racing: Great for beginners & club riders
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🌍 Regional Racing (North Region BMX Series): The next step after club races
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🇬🇧 National Racing (British BMX Series): The highest level of racing in the UK
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🌍 European & World Championships: International competition for top riders
❓ What’s the difference between Novice & Expert?
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Novice: For new riders, can race up to 5 regional rounds before moving to Expert.
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Expert: More competitive, requires a British Cycling race license & transponder.
❓ Can I race in any age category?
No – your race category is based on your year of birth. Example: If you were born in 2015, you will race in the 10-year-old category for all of 2025.
📅 Race Day Information
❓ What should I do before race day?
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Check race entry details (pre-registration required for most races)
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Make sure your bike & gear is race-ready
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Check your transponder is activated (if needed)
❓ What time do races start?
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Club Racing: Varies by club – check their website or social media
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Regional Racing:
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9:00 AM – Registration opens
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10:00 AM – Practice laps & warm-up
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12:00 PM – Racing starts
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❓ How do race formats work?
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Motos (Qualifiers): Everyone races 3-4 times
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Finals: Top riders qualify for A, B, or C finals depending on results
📊 Transponders & Race Numbers
❓ Do I need a transponder to race?
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No for club racing
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Yes for expert regional/national racing
❓ Where do I get a transponder?
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Order from Merseyside BMX Club
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Attach it to your left fork leg
❓ What if my transponder battery dies?
If your transponder battery dies while your subscription is still active, MYLAPS will send you a free replacement.
❓ What number do I use on my race plate?
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National riders: Use your national ranking
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Regional riders: Use the last 3 digits of your British Cycling membership
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Side plates are mandatory for expert riders
🎟️ British Cycling Membership & Entry Fees
❓ Do I need a British Cycling membership?
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Novice riders: Must have a free British Cycling membership to race regionals.
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Expert riders: Need silver membership & a race license.
❓ How much does it cost to race?
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Club Race Entry: Usually £10 per rider
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Regional Race Entry:
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Expert: £19 + £1 BC fee
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Novice: £12 + £1 BC fee
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💡 First-time British Cycling members can get a 40% discount on membership fees!
🚴 Training & Coaching
❓ Do I need to be part of a club to train?
No, but joining a club gives you access to structured coaching.
❓ What coaching does Merseyside BMX Club offer?
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Tuesday Night Coaching: Advanced training for national riders
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Thursday Night Coaching: Level 1-4 for all riders
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Sunday Sessions: Private coaching with Crank BMX Coaching
❓ Can I hire a bike & safety gear?
Yes! Bike & kit hire is £3 per session (limited availability).
🏆 Qualifying for Major Events
❓ How do I qualify for the British Championships?
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Race at least 5 regional rounds as an expert.
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Any expert rider who completes 5 rounds qualifies!
❓ How do I qualify for the European & World Championships?
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Riders must compete in nationals and meet British Cycling criteria.
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European riders must qualify through their national federation.
❓ What happens at the British Championships?
The "Brits" determine the top rider in the UK. The winner earns British #1 (B1) plate for the next year!
💡 Miscellaneous Questions
❓ Can parents help on race day?
Yes! BMX is run entirely by volunteers – help is always welcome!
❓ Can I bring a gazebo to a race?
Yes, but if the ground is tarmac, use weights instead of pegs.
❓ Can I bring my dog to the track?
Yes, but dogs are not allowed inside the velodrome area.
❓ What happens if it rains?
BMX races go ahead in all weather, unless the track is unsafe. Check social media for updates.
📢 Still Have Questions?
If you still have questions after reading this FAQ, feel free to:
📩 Get in touch by clicking here
🎤 Speak to a coach or volunteer at the track
📞 Check British Cycling’s website for national race details
🚴 Now you’re ready to race! See you at the track! 🏁