Guide to Assembling a Complete BMX
When purchasing a complete BMX bike, most components are pre-assembled. However, due to packaging size constraints, the handlebars, pedals, and front wheel are not attached.
By following the video instructions and the guidelines below, assembling your new complete BMX bike is a straightforward task. You'll have it ready quickly!
This assembly process allows you to familiarize yourself with your bike. For passionate BMX riders, preparing it with care before your first ride is invaluable.
If you're uncertain about doing it yourself or lack bike assembly experience, it's strongly advised to consult a professional shop.
Which Tools Are Required for Assembling a Complete BMX Bike?
You'll only need a handful of tools for this task.
- Allen keys
- Wrenches
- 15 mm open-ended wrench specifically for pedals
- Air pump
Explore our range of BMX Tools to find exactly what you need!
Instructions for Unboxing and Assembling a Complete BMX
Begin by removing all packaging materials and verify that all components are present.
Initial Assembly Steps
- Apply grease to the pedal bolts.
- Determine the correct placement for left and right pedals.
- Tighten the right pedal by turning it clockwise using a wrench.
- Tighten the left pedal by turning it counterclockwise until secure using a wrench.
- Loosen the bolts on the stem.
- Take off the stem's faceplate.
- Grease the bolts on the stem.
- Attach the handlebar.
- Secure the faceplate over the stem, ensuring that the handlebar's knurled section is centred properly in the stem.
- Partially tighten the stem bolts in a criss-cross manner – no need to fully secure the faceplate yet.
- Use an Allen key to loosen the top cap/compression bolt.
- Align the handlebars with the fork.
Once aligned, proceed to mount the front wheel:
- Nearly remove the front axle nuts to accommodate the fork dropouts.
- Finger-tighten the nuts.
- Fully secure them with a wrench.
- Insert the BMX seat into the seat tube. Greasing the clamping area may facilitate future seat post removal.
- Use an Allen key to fasten the seat clamp.
After installing the seat, fine-tune the handlebars and fork alignment for optimal settings:
- Ensure alignment of the bar with the fork – use the front wheel as a reference.
- Fasten the top cap/compression bolt using an Allen key.
- Final tightening of the stem bolts involves a diagonal tightening pattern, which ensures balanced adjustments.
- Ensure parallel gaps between the stem faceplate and stem – uniform tightness is crucial for the faceplate.
Check the following before taking your first ride:
- Inspect the chain; if it has more than 2 centimetres of slack, it's too loose. Remedy this by loosening the wheel and pulling it backwards until the chain is properly taut.
- Ensure all nuts and bolts are adequately tightened.
- Inflate the tires to the recommended PSI, which is shown on the tire sidewall.
- Detach the valve cap and attach the pump.
- Inflate the tire and reattach the valve cap.
- Repeat the inflation process on the other wheel.
- You're all set to ride!
Explore our extensive collection of complete BMX Bikes.
For further details on installing brakes, refer to: How to Mount a BMX Brake.