No! BMX Bikes are not a good choice for commuting. They are designed to be used in the park, track, or, for short distances, a mile or two. It is sturdy and inexpensive to maintain; low gear and saddle exhaust you.
You know BMX Bikes are not a wise choice for commuting, but what if you do not have any options left.
Well, I can understand your dilemma. Therefore, this article will discuss all the pros and cons, alternatives, and pro tips.
Keep scrolling till the end, and you’ll surely get your answer.
Top Reasons Why BMX Bikes Are Not Good For Commuting
Most commuters love to take challenges and argue. But below are the major reasons to convince you not to use BMX Bikes for long commuting.
1. Riding Position Causes The Biggest Issue
Let me ask you one question – how much time can you ride a bike in a standing position?
You’ll say for 5 to 10 minutes but not more than that (maybe 30 minutes). But interestingly, while riding a BMX bike, you have to stand still.
Almost every BMX Bike has a short Seatpost, which clearly does not allow you to pedal comfortably while sitting. So you have to ride a bike in a standing position till you reach your destination. Ultimately, it absorbs all your energy.
2. Not Contain Adequate Gearing
BMX Bikes provide a single speed (being a BMX biker, you indeed knew about this), which is a good thing as single-speed commuting is preferable. But before coming to any conclusion, you should understand what’s wrong with one gear.
Almost every BMX Bike comes with 55″ gearing, which is low as per the urban cycling standards. But it is primarily designed for tracks and jumps. Therefore, 55″ gearing works best when it comes to quick acceleration and modest speed.
In contrast, it has been seen that for single-speed rides, commuters choose around 65″-75″ gearing. Further, it can be varied depending on the countryside they live in. This way, you can comfortably pedal without putting all your energy as required in BMX bikes.
However, if you are thinking of changing your BMX bike’s gearing, your BMX bike will no longer remain the BMX. Just think for a sec – Why did you buy this BMX Bike?
3. Difficult To Mount A Rack Or Fenders
For long commuting, racks and fenders are essential, but it becomes difficult to find them for 20″ BMX wheels. Even though you find them, BMX Bikes do not have eyelets and screws to mount them, which is not the case with other road bikes.
After a lot of struggle, let’s consider that you manage to mount them but have to remove them again to use a BMX bike for actual riding.
So, the only option left is to keep the BMX as it is and be ready to get splashed or find other alternatives.
4. Braking Is A Big Problem
BMX Bikes have very low tendency brakes, which is only helpful in reducing speed and not for emergency stops. Most interestingly, BMX Bikes only have rear brakes; this is where the real problem started.
The front brakes have almost 70% braking power, which is necessary when commuting on the roads.
Contrary, BMX Bikes brakes are designed to reduce speed to some extent as they are mainly used on tracks and skate parks. And sudden use of stop brakes there can cause a wreck.
But while riding a BMX bike on the roads, you better understand how things work.
You do not have control over other people and sudden climate change. There are carefree riders, holes on the roads, and you can witness sudden rain. All such situations call for hard braking, and with BMX Bikes, you can’t.
5. Short Chain stay Length
Bike enthusiasts who love to fly in the air go for BMX Bikes due to their short chainstay length.
But you will lack stability when riding the same bike on your terrain as it has a short chainstay. Contrary, the long chainstays are specifically designed to increase stability.
So, if you are a beginner at riding a BMX Bike, you should not use it for commuting. Otherwise, you’ll end up hurting yourself or someone else.
6. Other Alternatives Are Affordable
Buying a BMX Bike only for commuting is clearly a wrong decision. If you haven’t bought it, you definitely look for other commuter bikes. They are actually affordable and safe for commuting.
The starting price is around $400, which is the best deal one can opt for. Those who are not having this budget can go for used bikes, which will cost you almost half the amount I mentioned.
However, if you already have a BMX Bike, you can try it for commuting but make sure you follow all the points mentioned above.
Also Read : Are Bmx Bikes Good For Trails (Answered)
How To Make Your BMX Better For Commuting?
If you are really passionate about using the BMX Bike for commuting, you must follow a few tips.
Tip #1 – Increase The Saddle Height
It would help if you raised the seat height for a comfortable BMX bike ride. Ensure that your saddle height is almost the same as your waist. It will reduce pressure on your legs.
Tip #2 – Consider Changing The Saddle Type
Plastic seats are not comfortable to sit and ride, especially if you are commuting for a long time. However, you’ll find BMX Bikes come with plastic seats.
So, you can change the plastic seat with a padded seat. Many saddle options are present out there to make your selection stand out.
Tip #3 – Fit A Front And Rear Brake
Brakeless riding is the best choice when doing stunts on skateparks. Whoa! But don’t try such negligence on the roads. Add front and rear brakes to your BMX Bike.
How To Be Safe Commuting On A BMX?
Safety comes first! It doesn’t matter where you are riding on the roads or skate park; you have to be careful. Not only for your safety but others as well.
Always Wear A Helmet
Every other day we hear news about accidents. Therefore, it becomes our duty to wear helmets as you can’t control others’ harsh driving.
Fix the Bolts
Whether you are using the BMX for commuting or not, you should tighten the bolts twice a year. This will keep your BMX Bike in perfect shape. However, don’t over-tighten anything.
Put on Some Lights
Typically, BMX bikes don’t come with attached lights. So you won’t mind adding some lights to your BMX Bike. It becomes clearer for other drivers to see you in the dark.
Extra Precautions
Don’t forget to wear elbow guards, gloves, and knee guards for your own safety.
Alternative Bikes For Commuting
Have you changed your mind after reading all the above reasons? If yes, check out the following alternatives. If not, reading them will give you other options.
1. Folding Bikes
These bikes are highly recommendable for commutes. They are easy to carry and foldable. The best part is they do not take storage space. One more to add – it requires less maintenance.
2. Urban And Recreational Hybrid Bikes
As the name suggests, these bikes combine mountain bicycles and road bikes. The shape replicates the mountain bicycles, but in terms of wheel size and style, they look like road bikes.
So, these bikes are perfect for commuting and racing, offering comfort simultaneously.
3. Lifestyle Hybrid Bikes
With Lifestyle Hybrid Bikes, one can cycle to work and go for a weekend ride too. If you’d like, you can add a basket to it. A good option is to carry one or two grocery items.
Final Thoughts
In the end, you want a cozy ride, not one which is filled with stress and lots of adjustments.
To your question – yes, you can use BMX bikes for commuting. But at your own risk. If you are someone who loves to take risks and challenge yourself, you are free to go for it.
But ensure that you make all the essential adjustments before using it for commuting.
Otherwise, we have already mentioned a few alternatives for your convenience.
After all, safety should be your first concern.
So before taking any decision, think twice.
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