Why are BMX bikes small?

The smaller frame size and lighter weight of BMX bikes makes them easier to do tricks with than regular sized bikes.

Do BMX bikes have brakes?

Most BMX bikes will be supplied with brakes. Some riders, particularly those riding street or park, may choose to remove them, however, an operable rear brake is required for most organized events.

Can you ride BMX bikes on the road?

While riding a BMX bike on the road is legal, we would not recommend it for both safety and comfort reasons. If you do choose to ride your BMX on the road we recommend raising the seat to the highest position.

How are BMX bikes measured?

BMX bikes are measured from the center of the seat tube, to the center of the head tube.

The 7 Best BMX Bike Brands In 2021

If you’ve already checked out our beginner’s guide to BMX, you’ll be on the hunt for a bike.

And, that poses a big problem; there’s too much choice. In our guide to the best BMX brands, we’ve done hours and hours of research…so you don’t have to.

Below, we’ve looked at the best BMX brands, as well as our top picks for the bikes offering the highest quality components from leading brands.

Update, July 2021

Due to the current situation with COVID-19, many of the best BMX bikes are out of stock at suppliers. If you’re struggling to find one, we recommend getting this bike from Mongoose, whilst it’s still in stock.

This Year’s Best BMX Brands

So, here’s our list of the best BMX bike brands on offer in 2021.

If you purchase a bike from any of these brands as a beginner, it’s going to give you a good base to learn with.

Your choice is really going to come down to two things:

Price
Design

1. Eastern

Eastern are a household name when it comes to BMX. They’re located in North Carolina and have been busting out quality BMXs for over 20 years.

Looking for specific recommendations?

We like the Eastern Cobra.

2. Haro

When you think BMX, you think Haro. It’s one of the most iconic BMX bike brands in the world.

Founded by Bob Haro, the company started by making numberplates for BMX racers. His passion for selling BMX gear grew, until he started making bikes.

One of the cheapest and best BMX bikes they offer is the H aro Mongoose.

3. Kink

A relative newcomer to the best BMX brands list, but a good one.

Being a smaller company in comparison to its competitors, Kink tends to offer top notch BMXs below the price of equivalents from other brands.

Their bikes are strong, lightweight, and absolutely stunning to look at.

You’ll be able to buy a Kink BMX for well below $300. A typical example would be their Kink Curb, which is fresh for 2019.

4. Mongoose

Mongoose are just bikes, bikes, bikes.

Their history in California dates to 1974. Since then, the company has changed hands a few times.

What Mongoose BMXs are known for are being an all-round excellent product for beginners. They’re not the lightest, but they are durable and cheap in comparison to their competitors.

A notable example is the Mongoose Legion that retails from $200-300 depending on size.

5. Sunday

OK, so they haven’t been around since 1974 like Mongoose, but that doesn’t mean they’re not good.

In fact, they’re much better than good. Sunday have been making some of the best BMX bikes on the scene since 2005.

The problem? Their bikes are known for being expensive.

A Sunday BMX could set you back $500 and beyond, so it’s not exactly the ideal choice for beginners.

6. Elite BMX

Back at the affordable end of the price scale, we’ve got Elite BMX. And again, they’re a fairly new company – which they’re not afraid to advertise. In fact, their tagline is “shredding since 2016”.

Elite’s BMX bikes have become popular sellers in a short space of time and rightly so. They make some excellent, affordable bikes.

Our favorite is the Elite Freestyle, which is well under the $300 mark and an excellent choice for your next (or first) BMX bike.

7. Stolen BMX

Stolen were founded in 2003 and have since grown to become one of the world’s leading BMX brands, although perhaps without quite the recognition as the likes of Eastern and Mongoose.

They make affordable BMX bikes and unlike many other manufacturers the parts for their bikes are made in Taiwan rather than China.

If you’re looking for a good quality BMX bike at a reasonable price, Stolen are a good shout. We like the wallet friendly Stolen Casino, or if you have a slightly bigger budget the wonderfully named “Stolen Heist”.

Why You Should Avoid Cheap BMX Bike Brands

Whether it’s motocross, mountain biking or camping, there’s one thing that’s consistent; cheap kit doesn’t last.

I’m not saying I’m a brand junkie for the sake of it. But, in my experience, branded products have outlasted (in both time, and value for money) non-branded or cheap equivalents.

Something like a basic camping mat? I’ll buy the cheapest I can find.

But, something like a BMX that takes loads of abuse? You’ll need something better.