How Much Does a BMX Bike Weigh? (6 Main Components That Add to Its Weight)
For stunters and riders, the weight of a BMX bike dramatically matters. This is because it’s the main factor that affects their cycling speed, acceleration, and performance. Without these standards, you aren’t likely to perform stunts and tricks that require lifting, twisting, or flying in the air.
BMX bikes generally have an average weight of 25 lbs. (11.33 kg.). Meanwhile, some recognized BMX bike manufacturers in the market cater to lighter components, weighing around 18 to 20 lbs. (8.1 to 9 kg). It’s worth mentioning that the more lightweight the BMX bike, the more expensive it gets.
Several components add up to a BMX bike’s overall weight, and the most influential is the frame material used. Thus, knowing the different types of frames will make a significant difference if you’re a weight weenie.
The rest of this article will give you an idea of how a frame material (plus the other components) adds to a BMX bike’s total weight. In the end, you’ll get to know more of the advantages and disadvantages of getting a lighter or heavier BMX bike.
Table of Contents
How Does the Size Affect the Average Weight of a BMX Bike?
When buying a BMX bike online, you’ll find several “size names” as well. These names cater to different ages and riders, which means they also vary when it comes to average weight. The table below outlines the size names along with their general weight.
Size Name | Average Weight |
Micro Mini | 9 to 12 lbs. (4 to 5.4 kg.) |
Mini | 13 to 15 lbs. (5.8 to 6.8 kg.) |
Junior | 16 to 20 lbs. (7.2 to 9.07 kg.) |
Expert | 20 to 24 lbs. (9 to 10.8 kg.) |
Pro | 21 to 25 lbs. (9.5 to 11.3 kg.) |
Pro XL | 22 to 26 lbs. (9.9 to 11.7 kg.) |
Pro XXL | 24 to 27 lbs. (10.8 to 12.2 kg.) |
Pro XXX | 25 to 28 lbs. (11.3 to 12.7 kg.) |
Cruiser | 25 to 28 lbs. (11.3 to 12.7 kg.) |
What Are the Components That Add Up to a BMX Bike’s Weight?
The materials used to construct BMX bikes should provide a bike that’s lightweight but rigid and strong. Such frames, tires, and other accessories have been made from a variety of materials over the years.
Frame Materials
The lighter and sturdier the components of a BMX bike, the more expensive it becomes. BMX bikes, on the other hand, are often built of Chromoly steel or aluminum. Further, here are the important notes you’ll need to know about various frame materials:
1. Chromoly Steel
Chromoly BMX frame materials are highly durable. In addition to an excellent weight-to-strength ratio, Chromoly BMX frames are light enough to keep bicycles from becoming overly heavy. This frame, often known as the 4230 metal, is used in the majority of BMX bikes today.
2. Aluminum
Aluminum is a standard metal for constructing BMX frames because of its ability to create durable but light frames. As such, this material type is frequently built of large or unusually shaped tubes. And since it’s significantly less dense than steel, it takes a lot of material to attain its strength ratio.
3. Titanium
Titanium frames are lighter and stronger than steel frames. However, it is not as thick and strong as steel and is significantly more costly. Titanium frames encompass exceptional shock-absorption features.
Like aluminum, titanium frames create BMX frames that are rust- and corrosion-resistant, implying that such structures are incredibly robust. One downside of titanium frames is that they are expensive.
4. Carbon Fiber
This material is commonly utilized in aerial vehicles. It can build light in weight frames yet strong in strength, combining malleability with rigidity. A carbon fiber bike frame might be a God-send gift for weight-weenies.
Most racers eventually choose a BMX bike with this material because of its stiffness. Nevertheless, it’s still subject to direct damages and effects. Carbon fiber-framed BMX bikes are also the most costly.
5. Carbon Steel
Carbon steel, also known as high-tensile steel, is a robust, strong, and long-lasting frame material. One thing to note is that it isn’t as light as its more high-tech sibling, Chromoly steel. On the other hand, carbon steel is not utilized in an adult BMX bike since it is heavier than other metals.
6. 1020 Steel
Steel comes in various grades, and the commonly used in BMX bikes is the 1020 steel. You’ll appreciate that it’s a cost-effective option as well. Despite the fact that this frame type doesn’t cater to a high strength-to-weight ratio, it is utilized to make the bike less expensive. In this way, more BMX bike users can have access to it.
BMX frames are frequently built from a combination of Chromoly steel and 1020 steel. The process certainly makes the bike more robust and lightweight but also helps to reduce expenses.
Wheels
Double-wall rims and single-wall rims are the two types of rims seen on BMX bikes. The quality difference between these two types of rims is enormous. Nonetheless, it cannot be denied that the rims add up to the BMX bike’s “system weight.”
1. Single-Wall Rims
There is just one “chamber” in a single wall rim. Furthermore, it’s safe to say that they’re more lightweight when used in a BMX bike. Single-wall rims are the most common type of rim, with only one horizontal wall.
These rims are not particularly strong, but they are generally the least pricey compared to double-wall rims. Having said that, single wall rims are standard on most low-cost entry-level BMX Bikes.
2. Double-Wall Rims
The rim of a double-wall rim is made up of two “chambers.” This implies your rim has two horizontal walls, giving it the highest strength-to-weight ratio. Most mid-level to pro-level bikes have this type of rims as well.
They outperform single-wall rims in every way and are recommended for all levels of BMX riding. A disadvantage is that these rims are much heavier than single-wall rims.
Saddle
Some BMX bikes feature smaller or wider saddles, which help you experience maximum comfort when doing tricks. To minimize weight, performance saddles generally have less cushioning, which is crucial for racers.
Comfort bike seats are similar to other saddles in form but with more foam or gel added. They’re generally composed of aluminum or carbon fiber, but each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Be prepared to spend extra if you want to lose some saddle weight.
Pedal
Aside from the apparent components that influence a BMX bike’s weight, the pedal is another part you’ll need to look after. Steel pedals, for example, are used on heavy BMX bikes. As such, steel-padded pedals are used by sprinters and racers because they give better traction.
Your BMX bike will theoretically ride quicker if you use lighter pedals. Light BMX bikes have pedals made of either plastic or metal in this example. It’s a truth that riding a lightweight bike uses less energy than riding a heavy one.
Handlebar
The optimum handlebar for you should have a smooth transition that you can practically use for controlling the BMX bike. They shouldn’t, however, affect the rideability or weight of your BMX bike.
Switching to carbon bars saves just a tiny amount of weight in comparison to the cost. Whereas simple aluminum bars provide virtually the same performance at a considerably lower price. In an accident, an aluminum handlebar is also less likely to be damaged beyond repair.
Pegs
Many BMX bikes come with pegs as standard equipment. BMX bike pegs are generally constructed of stainless steel. In this way, the bike lets you improve durability, show off stunts, and add a little flair. Pegs might be replaced with lighter counterparts to make the bike lighter. For example, utilizing plastic and aluminum might be preferable if you’re after a light BMX bike.
Lightweight or Heavier BMX Bike: Which Should You Choose?
With today’s technology, frames may be built light while maintaining structural integrity. You will, however, pay a premium for its quality. For instance,, the Sunday Sound Wave is constructed with lightweight components and innovative tube designs. Yet, they’re able to maintain the frame incredibly robust. Welds are the most prone to break on most bikes before anything else.
In choosing between a light or heavy BMX bike, the selection depends on your preferred method and style of riding. If you ride a lot of trails, a medium-weight BMX bike will help you maintain momentum as you leap from one jump to the next. If you pedal a lot in the city, you might choose something lighter for better control. After all, it all boils down to a matter of personal choice.
Lightweight BMX Bike Pros and Cons
Losing a few pounds can always help you cycle quicker on your BMX bike. The following are some of the other advantages of light BMX bikes:
- They are swift and agile.
- They are excellent for competitive reasons since they let you pedal quickly.
- They have a higher resale value.
Meanwhile, here are the cons of light BMX bikes:
- They are more costly.
- They have a “twitchy” sense about them.
- They are generally more sensitive to road bumps.
- They aren’t designed for off-road driving.
Heavy BMX Bike Pros and Cons
Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of heavy BMX bikes:
- They provide you with a more stable and durable cycling experience.
- They are cheaper compared to light BMX bikes.
- They let you perform with style.
- They are generally rigid than other bikes.
Yet, it’s also worth noting heavy BMX bikes disadvantages, which are as follows:
- They need to be pedaled with more energy.
- They aren’t preferred for road racing.
Regardless of your decision, your BMX bike must meet the following requirements:
It must be portable and controllable. When executing air stunts, the weight of your BMX bike influences how easily it can be raised and handled. When buying a BMX bike for stunts, this is one of the things you should look for.
It must be rigid and durable. To ride on off-roads, bumpy streets, and dirt trails, BMX bikes must be sturdy and stiff. Well-known BMX manufacturers cater to this standard, which allows their bikes to withstand severe strain.
It must be responsive. Finally, the weight can influence the responsiveness of your BMX bikes. This ability allows you to ride your bike without restrictions, giving you the edge and confidence you need to do tricks stunts.