BMX - So, how does an old dude like me get started in BMX?

I don't know if I want to race. I'm really interested in getting a lot of air in the dirt (not into concrete, but maybe ramps, pipes, etc.).

Like I said, I really want to get a lot of air and land them smoothly. Nothing too dangerous (okay, a little dangerous).

Here's the stats:

I'm almost 40 (next month), and six feet tall and weigh 200 pounds. I'm in okay physical condition from years of surfing and recently started riding about ten miles per day on my hybrid (to work and back), and have BMX experience from when I was a kid (mostly launching in the dirt).

So, any ideas what size bike I should get?

My budget is about 500-800 bucks, and I want a Redline (because my favorite LBS specializes in Redlines and because I could never afford one as a kid---I know, sounds dumb. But still).

Basically I want to ride around town getting air, jumping curbs, getting stupid, launching on the local track (we have a pretty good one), and just having fun bouncing around. Nothing serious, and I doubt I'll race. I'm not a competitive person. I just like having fun.

Thanks for any advice.


PS. On second thought: I might want to race afterall. :)

When I got back into an active sport after a loooong lay-off I got in a lots of stretching and an good medical plan.

Go to the track and see what the other senior citizens are riding;)
When my son started racing, I was suprised at how many guys my age(40 in NOV) were racing too. FWIW, they all seem to like the 24" cruisers- I do too, but that's probably because I spend so much time on MTB's and a 20" bike feels goofy to me.
good luck

I want a Redline (because my favorite LBS specializes in Redlines and because I could never afford one as a kid Are you sure you want to severely limit your options? I understand the nostalgia, but there are probably a dozen or so that would be better given your stature and type of riding you intend to do. For what's it's worth I'm 42 and getting back into it like you :).

Redline RL 7.1 or RL 7.1 XL (seem same except color) looks like your only logical Redline option. If you stray from that brand try something wit 21" TT and fully sealed which with your budget is definitely possible.
Off the top of my head this would be a strong contender; http://wethepeople.de/V3/product/380

He said he might want to race. A Redline option for racing could be the Flight Pro XXL. Top of the line racing bike.

Redline RL 7.1 or RL 7.1 XL (seem same except color) looks like your only logical Redline option. If you stray from that brand try something wit 21" TT and fully sealed which with your budget is definitely possible.
Off the top of my head this would be a strong contender; http://wethepeople.de/V3/product/380

The wtp bike is not for racing.

The truth is that I won't really race. I'm not a competitive person when alone against a group or an opponent. It's just not my thing.

I like competing in team sports where a bunch of us work together.

Anyway, mostly jumping and such. Not flat-ground freestyle. Launching.

Then the RL 7.1XL is the bike you want. I guess. Funky color but whatever.

The wtp bike is not for racing. I know. Based recommend off of;


Basically I want to ride around town getting air, jumping curbs, getting stupid

i would check out fit bike co. the fit trail bikes are sweet and priced well

Never too old to ride BMX Bike !
I 'm a BMX Bike fever !

if you would like 24" that could take a beating, check out the WTP Unified... yeah, it's probably too beautiful a bike for you to want to beat it up, but.... I felt and rode the bike in person... and I'd say it's one of the most solid bikes i've ever had my sexy butt on ^^

i would even say the frame itself is as solid as any of the old S&M dirt jumping bikes from back in the day when Crank was still on FSN!

check out the WTP Unified... Oh Yea! :thumb: That bike almost made me want a 24 instead of a new 20 ;). It's a shame for 09 they went a different direction and dropped the level of the specks :( and frame design.

with your size, i would advice against a pure racing bike. those are made for smooth racing and not street. get a dirt-ish bike. something with a strong, long chromoly frame, knobby tires and just a rear brake. the Fit TRL bike would be a good start- http://www.danscomp.com/101974.php?cat=BIKES

If you go with a 20 then look for sealed components and a 21" TT. These two get my vote: http://www.danscomp.com/101788.php?cat=BIKES http://www.danscomp.com/101740.php?cat=BIKES