If after reading the below Q&A you have additional questions you need answered, please send us an email to ottawabmx@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ottawabmx.
Q: What is BMX Racing?
Answer: BMX (Bicycle Motocross) is for kids from 4 to 40 where similarly aged and skilled riders race each other on a dirt track of jumps and banked corners. It is for boys, girls, parents and friends, and it is one of the most exciting sports in the world. Ottawa BMX is a volunteer, non-profit association dedicated to facilitating BMX races in the Nation’s Capital. We are sanctioned by the Canadian Program of the ABA, and fully insured in Canada.
Q: What is the American Bicycle Association (“ABA”)?
Answer: The ABA is our sanctioning body who’s duty it is to establish rules of racing that provide fair competition and fun family entertainment for all. All racers at Ottawa BMX are required to be ABA members which is now $60.00. Download the Membership Application HERE.
Q: Are there official rules for BMX racing, where can I find them?
Answer: Yes, there are official rules which we have to follow strictly as they are provided by the ABA. You should receive a copy of the rule book along with your ABA Membership, if not, please ask any one of our track officials and we will be glad to provide you with your own copy. Alternatively, you can download the PDF version of the rule book HERE.
Q: Is it possible to try it out prior to buying the ABA membership?
Answer: Absolutely! The ABA offers first time racers a non transferable Single Day ABA Membership for free. And if you are still unsure, you may purchase a 30 day ABA Trial Membership for $35.00 and should you wish to become a full member you only have to pay the difference of $25.00 that remains.
Q: What are the race entry fees?
Answer: Race fees are as follows: (Please note, the entry fees for first time racers are waived for single point races only.).
- Single Points Race: $10.00
- Double Points Race: $20.00
- Triple Points Race: $30.00
Q: What is the “Ottawa BMX Membership”?
Answer: The Ottawa BMX Membership is ideal for riders who will be racing a majority, if not all, of the races hosted at our track. The membership covers the rider for all of the above mentioned race entry fees for the complete racing season of that year, including their ABA Membership. This is beneficial as it provides a savings rather than “pay as you go”. Download the Membership Application HERE.
Q: What is “Pay as you go”?
Answer: Pay as you go is a system where the rider has only purchased their $60 ABA Membership, the rider is required to pay the applicable entry fees for each race and/or practice he or she chooses to attend. It is great for new riders who are unsure as to how often they will be racing throughout the season.
Q: What kind of bike is needed?
Answer: Any BMX type and size bike will do, but it is recommended that you start with one that has no more than a 20″ wheel diameter as that is the allowable limit in the Novice class. We do ask that you make sure that the bike is in good and working condition as well as the following: – Make sure all bolts are tight, especially your axle and stem bolts. – Remove any freestyle type equipment such as axle pegs, gryo’s etc. – All reflectors/brackets must be removed for safety purposes. – Remove the kickstand if your bike has one. – You will eventually need a number plate. You will be provided a temporary numberplate your first race, but we do have number plates available for purchase at the track.
Q: What kind of clothing and safety equipment is required?
Answer: All riders, regardless of age, are required to wear long sleeved shirts, long pants or jeans, enclosed shoes, skateboard style shoes are suggested, and finally a helmet. A full face helmet is recommended. If you have any questions regarding helmets, feel free to contact us by email or on Facebook, or even ask anybody who may be at the track. You will find that the BMX community is always willing to help and lend advise to new riders/parents.
Q: Does Ottawa BMX provide any formal training?
Answer: While Ottawa BMX does not provide formal training or coaching to riders of any skill level, from time to time we may arrange professional BMX racers to come to our track and host a clinic of their own. Details of any clinic would be announces on ottawabmx.com, our facebook page, and at the track.
