If you’re new to BMX, the language of the sport can feel overwhelming. This glossary of BMX terms will help you navigate the BMX world with confidence.
If you’re new to the sport of BMX, it may seem like everyone at the track is speaking a different language. This list of basic BMX terms that will give you a better understanding of what everyone is talking about when they say, “Good luck in your moto!”
Before heading down to the track for your first race, you need to understand some basic BMX terms. This glossary will help you get the vocabulary you need to confidently participate in BMX.
What Does BMX Stand For?
BMX stands for bicycle motocross. It is an exciting sport that involves specially designed bikes racing on dirt tracks. For more basic information about the sport of BMX, check out the article “What is BMX?”.
What Are the Basic Parts of a BMX Bike?
Frame: The bicycle frame supports the entire structure and affects the bike’s handling.
Handlebar: Used for steering and control, and often modified for different riding styles.
Pedal: Allows the rider to propel the bike forward and execute tricks.
Bottom Bracket: The part of the bicycle frame that holds the crankset and spindle, allowing the pedals to turn.
Front Wheel & Rear Wheel: The front wheel helps with balance, while the rear wheel provides stability and power.
Fork: The double pronged section of the bike, which holds the front wheel.
Axle: The shaft on which the wheel revolves.
Brake Lever: A lever mounted on the handlebars used for activating the brake by pulling a cable.
BMX Race Terms
Expert: Highest level of amateur competition.
Intermediate (aka Inter): Skill level of riders with limited experience and ability.
Main Event: Final class race, after all qualifying has taken place.
Moto: A single racing heat.
Moto Board: The area where the moto sheets are posted prior to the race.
Moto Number: Number corresponding with any specific race.
Moto Sheet: A printed sheet listing the riders and motos for the race day. Motos are numbered chronologically and is the order the races will be called.
Novice: The classification of a new/beginner rider to the sport.
Qualifier/Qualifying: Races that determine which riders in each class will race in the final, main even race.
Total Points: A method of scoring when all the points earned in each race are added up to determine the overall race score. The total points system is usually used when there are three riders in a moto. See more about race qualifying, scoring and points here.
Transfer Race: A way to qualify riders who will compete in the main event. The number of riders that will qualify in each race will depend on the total number of riders in the class. See more about race qualifying, scoring and points here.
BMX Track Terms
Berm: An embankment on a track built up on the outside of a turn to create a banked curve.
Double: A jump where two hills are placed close together.
Hole Shot: Taking the lead position out of the starting gate and going into the first turn.
Roller: An obstacle on a track that is rolled over as opposed to being jumped.
Rhythm Section: A series of jumps back to back on a track that pose as an obstacle.
Snake: A cut in front of someone else suddenly, disturbing their run or causing them to fall.
Staging Area: The area where the riders gather for loading into the gate.
Starting Gate: Flat formed area with a hinged portion, where each race begins.
Table Top: A jump on a track that is completely flat all the way across it from the takeoff to landing.
