Now a common sight in almost any urban setting across the nation, the small but solid type of cycle known as a BMX bike dates back to an underground fad among 1970's California teens. Inspired by dirt-track motorcycle (or Motocross) racers, groups of kids across the state began imitating their engine-powered heroes on standard multi-speed bicycles.
It soon became clear that the bike of choice for this unorthodox activity was the Schwinn Stingray. With a considerably lower frame, smaller wheels, and higher handlebars than most cycles, the already popular Stingray was a hit for those wanting to take their rides off-road in the most extreme way. It also proved easy to modify, a great boon to pioneering BMX (shorthand for Bicycle Motocross) enthusiasts.
Though isolated pockets of BMX racers had existed for several years, it was not until the 1971 documentary "On Any Sunday" that the world was truly exposed to this exhilarating pastime. Though the film focused on motorcycle racing, its opening scenes of kids tearing through dirt lots on their customized Stingrays captured the imaginations of thousands, and the sport began to spread like wildfire.
By the middle of the decade, bicycle manufacturers began to release models specifically designed for BMX. At the same time, the newly-created American Bicycle Association began to regulate the sport, producing guidelines for competition. Over the next decade or so, the "freestyle" form of BMX emerged as well, which emphasized tricks and "getting air" over speed. Drawing freely from skateboarding ideals, freestyle BMX is now a staple of the annual ESPN X-Games.
Contact Us
For more information on BMX gear and safety, and for all your bicycle-related needs, contact the bike lock experts of A & J's Bike Locks.
