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For extreme sports lovers, BMX bikes are a boon in the cycling world. The craze for this sport increased after its involvement in big events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.
Since there are so many options available from leading brands, choosing the right BMX requires careful consideration. Also, some of you may want to simply cruise around the town with a little bit of freestyling – a simple BMX bike will do the job. Don’t worry, I have got your back.
In this article, I have listed the 9 best BMX bikes for riders of different ages and skill levels. Whether you are a professional or casual freestyler, you will find the best bike within your budget.
Let’s start by knowing more about BMX bikes.
What is a BMX Bike?
A BMX bike is a small, sturdy bicycle designed for off-road cycling, stunts, and tricks. Unlike traditional bikes, they are not suited for casual riding or trekking. These bikes often require different areas or spaces depending on the riding style.
You can find a variety of BMX bikes in the market. Here are some popular ones:
- Street: Street BMX bikes are best for agile handling on rails, ledges, and man-made barriers.
- Park: These BMX bikes have deep knobby tires that are ideal for jumping ramps and small ariel stunts.
- Flatland: This bike is suitable for performing tricks on flat surfaces.
- Vert: These bikes are designed for extreme sports and tricks.
9 Best BMX Bikes In 2024 (At Glance)
Here is a chart of the best BMX bikes for a quick overview.
S.No | Best BMX Bike | Best For |
1 | Mongoose Legion L16 | Kids |
2 | SWFT BMX | Learning Riders |
3 | Elite BMX – Outlaw | All rider sizes |
4 | Schwinn Sting Pro | Teenagers |
5 | Huffy Enigma BMX Race Bike | Teenagers |
6 | Specialized P.4 | Tall riders |
7 | Elite BMX – Stealth | Kids |
8 | Kink Liberty | Professional |
9 | Sunday Primer BMX | Beginners |
Here is the complete review of all the BMX bikes listed in the table.
1. Mongoose Legion L16
Key Specs:
- Frame: Hi-ten Steel
- Tires: 16” Wire Bead
- Brakes: Aluminum U-brakes
- Weight: 21.45 lbs
Price: $299
The Mongoose Legion L16 is an ideal starter BMX bike for kids ages 5 to 9. It has a durable Hi 10 steel frame and for built for learning tricks and handling BMX tracks.
Its 16” wheels keep the bike stable and compliant for beginners. The rear U-brake provides responsive stopping power without being too sharp.
It also includes components like a padded seat, narrow handlebars, and small platform pedals, which make it perfect for children. If your kids are interested in activities with bikes, this bike is the best option to look for.
Pros
- Durable steel frame and fork
- Adjustable brake levers
- Gyro brakes allow flexible handlebar spin
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- Rigid steel makes it very heavy
- Brakes require strength for force stop
2. SWFT BMX
Key Specs:
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Tires: 20” Wanda
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc brakes
- Weight: 39.6 lbs
Price: $1099
Next on the list is SWFT BMX, which combines a classic BMX bike design with a simple electric bike setup. This combination makes it a versatile yet affordable option for stunt lovers.
It has a 350W motor and 270Wh battery built into the frame, giving it enough power to go up to 20 miles per hour. The single-speed drivetrain and no fenders make it best for short trips, not for major commuting.
Its small size and ability to mount pegs make it fun for around-town riding and stunts. In terms of electric BMX bikes, this is one of the most affordable bikes in the market.
Pros
- Nostalgic style and small in size
- The rear hub motor provides electric assist
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Pegs allow tricks and carrying a friend
Cons
- Pricey compared to traditional BMX bikes
- Single-speed drivetrain limits pedaling options
3. Elite BMX – Outlaw 26”
Key Specs:
- Frame: Hi-ten Steel
- Tires: 26”
- Brakes: Tektro Alloy U-brake
- Weight: 41 lbs
Price: $499
The Elite Outlaw is an affordable BMX cruiser with eye-catching white and chrome styling. Its hi-tensile steel frame keeps costs down while chromoly fork and cranks add durability.
It is equipped for light street riding with platform pedals, sealed bearings, 2-piece bars, and alloy components. The 26-inch wheels and upright geometry make it comfortable for cruising but limit trick capabilities.
Overall, it’s a sharp-looking bike for new riders who prioritize style over hardcore shredding. However, this is not completely suitable for pro-level stunting, but its attractive BMX style can make an exemption.
Pros
- Attractive color and style
- Affordable pricing
- Comfortable for casual riding and freestyle
- Fits for all sizes of people
Cons
- Heavy steel frame
- Not suitable for professional performers
4. Schwinn Sting Pro
Key Specs:
- Frame: Alloy Steel
- Tires: 20”
- Brakes: Caliper brakes
- Weight: 23 lbs
Price: $330
Schwinn’s Sting Pro pays tribute to the legendary 1989 design with its iconic flared tubing and retro styling. Weighing around 23 lbs, this nimble boasts a lightweight chromoly frame and fork.
Other high-end components include a 3-piece crankset, alloy hubs, and a laidback alloy seat and padded saddle for comfort. Combined with smooth-rolling tires and fast-rolling freewheel, this bike delivers a fast yet stable ride.
This quality throwback bike looks and rides like a dream, bringing the best of ‘80s BMX to the modern day.
Pros
- Feather-light frame and fork
- Responsive and agile
- Smooth-rolling tires
- Fit for riders 4’8” to 5’4” in height
Cons
- Entry-level BMX bike
- Lacks ability to perform tailwhips and barspins
5. Huffy Enigma BMX Race Bike
Key Specs:
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 20-inch
- Brakes: V-brakes
- Weight: 23.59 lbs
Price: $249.99
The new Enigma model from Huffy Bikes is an affordable entry-level BMX racing bike. It has an aluminum frame with hydroformed tubes and an integrated headset. The geometry is dialed for younger riders with a 20.5″ top tube, 74° head tube angle, and 11.4″ bottom bracket height.
It comes equipped with basic components like hi-ten steel forks and bars but has niceties like chain tensioners and V-brakes.
At just $249.99, it leaves plenty of room in the budget to upgrade parts as skills progress. The Enigma offers a solid foundation for aspiring young BMX racers.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and durable
- Geometry optimized for young riders
- Integrated headset and euro button
Cons
- Forks and bars are basic hi-ten steel
- Only comes in one size
6. Specialized P.4
Key Specs:
- Frame: A1 Aluminum frame
- Tires: 27.5” Specialized
- Brakes: Mechanical and Hydraulic Disc brakes
- Weight: Varies
Price: $2100
Specialized has released a versatile new range of P.Series dirt jump bikes and BMX bikes available in four sizes from 20 to 27.5 inches. The redesigned P.4 features 27.5-inch wheels for a smoother ride and compatibility with MTB components.
It has an A1 aluminum frame with internal cable routing for a dropper post, making it capable of pump tracks and jumps alike. Other features include a Boost sliding dropout, SRAM Level T brakes, Marzocchi Bomber DJ 100mm fork, and Specialized Kicker tires.
The P.4 brings modern mountain bike technology to BMXing. With its bigger wheels, it caters to larger riders while retaining dirt jump capabilities.
Pros
- Adjustable seat post
- Boost hub spacing increases rear triangle stiffness
- Available in many sizes
- Built for tall riders
Cons
- Can’t perform all types of stunts
- Highly priced
7. Elite BMX – Stealth
Key Specs:
- Frame: Hi-ten steel
- Tires: 20”
- Brakes: Alloy Cease U-brake
- Weight: 29.2 lbs
The Elite BMX Stealth is an affordable entry-level freestyle bike good for basic tricks like wheelies. It has wide tires for dirt or pavement and is easy to assemble, though tools are required.
While suitable for riders of all ages, it is best for children learning tricks. However, testers found issues like unresponsive brakes, broken pedals, a loose seat, and missing instructions. The bike also broke when a rider attempted an advanced bunny hop trick.
Overall, the Stealth works for simple tricks but lacks durability for more advanced techniques. Beginners should consider it with caution.
Price: $279
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Wide tires provide good traction
- Easy to assemble
- Good options for learning kids
Cons
- U-brakes are not very responsive
- Durability issue reported by experienced users
8. Kink Liberty
Key Specs:
- Frame: 4130 Full Chromoly
- Tires: 20” Kink Sever
- Brakes: Removable Mission Cease V2
- Weight: 27 lbs
Price: $459
The Kink Liberty is an excellent street BMX bike for under $500. It has a chromoly frame, fork, bars, and cranks for durability. Notable components include Kink Trident forks, Eagle handlebars, and Ridge cranks.
It comes equipped with removable brake mounts and a full brake set for versatility. With the included plastic pegs and Kink Sever tires, the Liberty is optimized for street riding right out of the box.
The unique gloss navy fade colorway looks great, while the quality components make this bike a tremendous value. If you are looking for quality, comfort, and affordability, this bike is the right option for you.
Pros
- Powerful and durable
- Equipped with quality components
- Removable brake mounts
- Comes with plastic pegs and street tires
Cons
- Available in one color
- Some riders may prefer aftermarket parts over stock components
9. Sunday Primer BMX
Key Specs:
- Frame: Fully hi-ten steel
- Tires: 20” Sunday Current
- Brakes: Aluminum U-brakes
- Weight: 25.8 lbs
Price: $439.99
The Sunday Primer is a beginner-friendly BMX bike made with a high-tensile steel frame and single-wall rims. Weighing only 25.8 lbs, it features modern geometry similar to pro bikes for $440.
With four color and four size options, it offers some customization. While upgradable, the lower quality components like steel frames and rims may not hold up to aggressive riding.
The Sunday Primer is best for new riders, especially smaller ones, who want an affordable entry-level BMX bike. More experienced riders or those seeking higher performance should consider other options.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly design
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- High-quality components
- Available in different sizes and colors
Cons
- Lacks hub guards and pegs
- Not suitable for heavy riders
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike?
With many types and models now available, picking the right BMX bike involves assessing your riding style, skill level, and budget. Follow these tips for choosing the best BMX bike for your needs:
1. Identify how you want to ride –
Are you looking to race, do street tricks, ride dirt jumps, or practice flatland techniques? Each discipline requires specific bike capabilities.
2. Consider your skill level –
Beginners need quality yet affordable options with reliable brakes and handling. Advanced riders need lighter frames and dialed components to take on technical tricks.
3. Determine a frame material –
Chromoly steel offers the best strength-to-weight ratio. Hi-tensile steel is more affordable but heavier. Aluminum is the lightest yet the most expensive.
4. Compare components –
Look for sealed bearings, quality brakes, 360 rotors if doing bar spins, zero offset forks for flatland, etc.
5. Find the right fit –
Ensure the top tube length suits your height. Low standover helps with street tricks. Test ride to assess comfort.
6. Factor in the budget –
Prices range widely from under $200 to over $1000. Define how much you can invest in your skill level.
7. Consider aftermarket customization –
Many enthusiasts upgrade components like wheels, pedals, and handlebars to personalize their ride.
8. Review bike weight –
Lighter bikes are easier to maneuver but may sacrifice durability. Heavy bikes resist impact better.
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Conclusion
With increasing popularity in dirt jumping, racing, and freestyling, BMX bikes have evolved into high-specialized machines dedicated to these tasks. When choosing the best BMX bike, consider your riding style and skill level first. For hardcore trick riding and stunts, the Kink Liberty and Sunday Primer offer quality components at reasonable prices.
For seasoned riders, Schwinn Sting Pro and Elite Outlaw are the best options. However, you need to evaluate your needs and skill level before choosing the right BMX bike. Also, consider which type of frame material and components you will need. If you are into hardcore freestyling, consider hi-ten steel bikes for durability. For comfort and lightweight, choose aluminum BMX bikes.
With the right knowledge and options in hand, you will find the perfect BMX bike in time.
FAQs
BMX bikes are suitable for anyone, from kids learning to ride to professional athletes. But ultimately, it is designed for off-road excitements, such as stunts and freestyling.
Yes, you can use BMX bikes on rough trails, but it is not ideal. These bikes are designed for tricks and racing on smooth surfaces.
In terms of durability and sturdiness, mountain bikes are much better than BMX bikes. However, BMX bikes are designed for a completely different purpose, so both bikes are great on their own terrain.