BMX Parts Guide: How to Upgrade and Replace Components
One of the best parts of BMX is customizing your bike to make it your own. You can upgrade based off quality/performance, or simply for aesthetics. Every part comes in a wide variety of colors, allowing you to make your bike one of a kind.
While this is exciting, if you're new to BMX, this can be pretty intimidating. There are so many specific sizes, measurements, and styles and not everything works together. We're here to help walk you through what you need to know for each component in order to confidently upgrade your bike.
BMX Bike Anatomy
Click any component in the image below to learn all about it and what you need to know when purchasing an aftermarket upgrade. You can also scroll down to see a list of these components and a brief summary before getting full details. The list starts with more budget-friendly upgrades and works it's way up to the bigger components.
Grips
Grips are a very affordable way to add some color and comfort to your bike. Grips to wear down over time, so this is a fun one to change the color up on every now and then as well as trying different patterns to see which you like the feel of best. Putting them on can be a bit tricky, so check out our grip install page to learn how to make this quick and easy.
Pedals
Pedals are another low-cost upgrade with a wide variety of options. Pedals are pretty easy to swap out, but there are a few things to know to be sure you do not damage them or the crank arms.
Seat / Seat Post
Seats add a lot of character to your bike. Some people like loud, wild patterns on a fat-sized seat, others prefer a simple black or leather slim aesthetic. Learn about the different styles and compatibility options.
Chain
While chains are available in colors and can add a bit of pop to your bike, we often recommend chain upgrades for safety. All of our complete bikes come with proper chains, but aftermarket chains are generally stronger. While having a chain snap is rare, it can happen and be dangerous. We recommend a heavy duty chain as one of the first upgrades.
Headset
The headset is the is the bearing kit in the frame that allows the handlebars / fork to spin. If your bike comes with unsealed bearings in the headset then this is a great upgrade. If your bike already has sealed bearings, this is still a great upgrade to add a little color and originality to the front end of the bike.
Tires
Tires play a big role in both performance and aesthetics. Some riders prefer the classic all black tire, while others like a bright color or pattern. Some riders like a wide, grippy tire while others look for a light weight tire to save rotational mass. Take a deep dive in to the different types of tires and learn what will fit your bike.
Handlebars
Much like getting the right toptube size on your frame, handlebars play a big role in making the bike fit you properly and feel comfortable. Learn about the different size options and find what works best for you.
Stem
Stems are one of the components people often color-match with other components. Stems, sprockets, hubs, and seat post clamps are notoriously used to add some color and style. Stems can also help fine-tune your handlebar placement and how the bike feels and handles. Learn about the different stem types and their measurements.
Cranks / Sprocket / Bottom Bracket
We lumped cranks, sprocket, and bottom bracket together because you have to be sure each component is compatible with one another. These components can add a bit of aesthetic customization but the real benefit of upgrading these is performance and durability.
Fork
Now we get in to the bigger, higher priced upgrades. Aftermarket forks are generally made from 4130 chromoly, while a complete bike may come with a fork that uses slightly less durable material. Learn all about the different materials and why this may be worth upgrading.
Wheels
Wheels can be upgraded for a variety of reasons. Learn about each component of a wheel, the difference between cassettes and freecoasters, as well as the different types of rims and what allows some wheels to last much longer than others. There's a lot to dig in to here.
Frame
The heart and soul of the bike; the frame. There are so many difference lengths, angles, and sizes that go in to the frame. Nerd out with us about the geometry of a frame to help you select one that not only fits you properly, but also fits your desired riding style.