BMX commuting
 

Right, I am seriously considering of getting a used BMX for commuting (I don't own a bike). I live in a very dense urban area full of small sidewalks, streets and big avenues and lost of people. I will commute with the bike like a mile every day or two, and once a week I may ride a 3-mile distance. (a big straight avenue)

I am considering a BMX because of its weight, versatility and size. But I haven't rode a bike for like 10 years (22 now) and I am 6'3'' (but very very thin) which may be an issue. You think I can lift the seat and ride the bike all the time seated even with my size?

Any suggestions? You think it is a good idea?

I commuted when I was 15 or so on a BMX (not really, it was a HARO Master, which was more freestyle/vert) 10 miles each way for a summer. I was 6'2" and skinny.

The seat was really uncomfortable hard plastic and that was the worst thing about it. I had the seat post way high and the handlebars forward.

If you have a 1-2 mile commute, it will only take a few minutes, so it shouldn't be a problem.

However, IMHO, I would recommend whatever used bike you can get for 50 USD from CL and just chain it up outside. When it breaks/is stolen just get another. Or never chain it up and get a new bike every few months.

I wouldn't by anything new, at all.

Recycle and used something already manufactured/packaged/shipped/displayed/transported/unpackaged/assembled/used rather than something that has to go through all of those steps again.

With a BMX you would be limited to very short rides only. If your ok with that it's up to you. Personnaly I would get a bike that fit me more. As Acidfast7 said you can get a decent used bike for low money.

nature of BMX is there is no sit down and cruise, the saddle sits quite low..

Bike Friday uses the rugged Wheel size, but engineered a frame,
with tall masts for the seat and handlebars, it's a proper bike.

My son's Haro X2 is my back-up commuter. Even after rotating the bars forward and extending the seat post, it was still awkward and uncomfortable to pedal without standing, and I'm barely 6'.

Something else to consider would be a mini or a folder.

I am amazed at how many adults I see riding BMX bikes around. You would still probably be better off getting a higher-end, older MTB with a large frame. You can usually get a used one dirt cheap.

if you're dead set on a BMX bike, look for a "cruiser" BMX bike. it's a BMX race bike with 24" wheels. it'll feel a lot better for someone your size.

+1 ^ I kinda like this idea, but HEY ---->

Better yet! Just get a cruiser! Some of 'em are cheaper than a BMX. I think you'd make life so much harder on yourself, otherwise...

It's really difficult to do distance on a BMX!

Of course, if you were 4' 10" or below, it would be the most perfect commuter! :thumb:

PS.

Besides, BMX's aren't more versatile than Cruisers, unless your talking about transporting them somewhere.