Welcome to New Paltz BMX
Where we're helping keep kids on track
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Where we're helping keep kids on track
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2007 New Paltz BMX NY State Team
What is BMX? BMX is Bicycle Motocross. It was started in California in the early 1970's by some kids who wanted to emulate motorcycle motocross racing. There are now hundreds of tracks across the country and around the world, and thousands of racers. BMX race tracks are usually around 1000 feet long and consist of banked turns (berms) and jumps. Most of the track is dirt but berms on some of the tracks are paved. Each race consist of three qualifying races, also called motos. The overall winner for the day is determined by their moto finishes. In some cases where there are enough riders. There may be a final race, called a "main event". This race is "winner takes all". Where your finishing position in the main is your overall finish for the event regardless of your moto finishes. There are three levels of proficiency in the amateur ranks, rookie (beginner), novice, & expert. Races are determined by the age and proficiency of the riders. For example: a brand new 13 year old rider would compete in the 13 rookie class. That rider would then move up in proficiency to novice either voluntarily or after they have won a certain amount of races as a rookie. And the same applies when moving from novice to expert. New Paltz BMX is a NBL sanctioned track. This means that the track is approved by the National Bicycle League, of which New Paltz is a member track. The NBL sets up the rules of racing and conduct on the track. In 2002 the New Paltz track was completely renovated by the NBL's professional designer. Anyone who races on a NBL track must be a member (or trial member) of the NBL. This binds the racer to the safety and conduct standards of the NBL and also provides the rider with insurance coverage while racing. Most of all though, BMX is fun! Ages run from the 5 and under class to the 55 and older class! Generally, boys race boys and girls race girls, but sometimes they are combined if the number of racers is small. How much does it cost to get started? Well, the expensive items are a bike and helmet. A pair of gloves is also a good idea. Otherwise, NBL membership is $45.00 per year ($30.00 for a trial membership - convert to full for $15.00), and includes insurance while on the track and a subscription to BMX Today. There's an $10.00 race day entry fee and $3.00 fee for practice days. Stop in and speak to a track representative to see about becoming a BMX racer. Ask about family rates.
Here's some often asked questions about BMX racing. Q. What equipment do I need so I can race BMX? A. You need
a "BMX" bike, and a helmet. You must also wear long pants and a long
sleeved shirt when you race. It's also a good idea to wear gloves. Once you have
raced for a while, you may want other equipment, but to get started that's all
you need, and for many racers that's all they ever use. Q. What's a "BMX" bike? A. A BMX
bike is any 20" bicycle. That's the size bike most kids ride. BMX bikes
usually don't have gears like mountain bikes. Also, to race at BMX tracks your
bike needs to be equipped with handlebar grips, pads on the stem, your
handlebar's crossbar (if it has one) and frame. Finally, the bikes can't have
kickstands, reflectors, chain guards or other gadgets on them, and they can't
have front brakes. This is for safety reasons - the gadgets can get caught on
clothing and front breaks can cause you to go over the handle bars. Any bike
store that sells BMX bikes can explain these requirements to you. (If they
can't, go to a different bike store!) Q. May I try out BMX before I pay to join the NBL? A. Yes. You
can come to the track on the day of our Open House and try out the track for
free. Or for insurance purpose, at any other time other than open house you can
buy a 30 day trial membership for $30.00. If you decide to become an NBL
member the $30.00 will be applied towards your full membership which is $45.00 a
year. Q. What if I don't have the right equipment now? A. We have
some things we can loan you: We have some bikes and helmets that you can use to
try out the track. Remember, you also need long pants and a long sleeve shirt. Q. How do I start racing? A. Just come to the track in time for a race or practice session. If you're under 18 years old you will need to have a parent or guardian come with you. Just go to the registration booth, snack bar, or ask anyone for help. It's really easy Q. Who runs the track? A. The track is staffed and maintained entirely by volunteers. We could always use a hand either on race nights or during the course of the season to maintain the facility. If you have a special skill and would like to volunteer some time to help, ask any of the track officials.
Contact Information
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Send mail to jerrypatterson@newpaltzbmx.org
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questions or comments about this web site.
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