BMX Brakes

Is Adding Brakes to My BMX Necessary?

Brakes on a BMX are crucial for ensuring your safety. For racing, a rear brake is mandatory, but when it comes to freestyling, the decision is yours to make. In both racing and freestyle scenarios, having brakes is not just about stopping; they also help in regulating speed and performing tricks. Additionally, in numerous areas, it is compulsory to have brakes if riding on the street.

When purchasing brakes, you have the option to buy an entire BMX brake kit or individual components like BMX brake pads, levers, and cables. A BMX brake system consists of four components: pads, arms, springs, and pivots.

Various BMX Brake Systems

Freestyle bikes generally feature a rear U brake, whereas race BMX bikes typically have a rear V brake. U brakes on BMXes are positioned beneath the frame for minimal disruption to the rest of the bike setup. Due to their resilience and sleek, simple design, U brakes have become the typical choice on many modern BMX models.

Another brake configuration is the BMX gyro brake, which allows the handlebars to fully rotate 360 degrees without the cables getting tangled.

Are Brakes Included on Race BMX Bikes?

Indeed, to comply with safety standards at the race track, race BMX bikes must have a brake. The prevalent setup is a single rear V brake. Although race BMX bikes come equipped with this brake, the pads will eventually wear out and will require replacement. Replacing worn brake pads will enhance the bike's braking efficiency.

If you are considering other upgrades for your BMX, explore our extensive range of parts, including BMX Frames and Tires.