So.... I have a family friend who's just turned 12, and has opted for a BMX for Xmas, as he enjoyed an afternoon larking around the local skatepark on my BMX (Haro 300.3), and enjoyed an afternoon watching the BMX Racing too...
The BMX I have chosen for him is the Radio Bikes Saiko (2011 model) - I think it's a sensible choice for a lad of his size (quite tall now). Short TT and cheap in the sale (£150)
What would fellow BMX riders think be the first things to teach him/concentrate on, considering his physical strength?
Smooth pumping of ramps?
Manuals?
I can't remember what I did first, as it's all so second-nature now !?
Jedi - have you taught any kids BMX stuff?
Cheers for any help!
Ali
has he ridden a skatepark before?
Practice building jumps from a plank and some bricks.
At that age riding (especially a bmx) should be about fun. It's it's fun, he'll stick at it. If he sticks at it he will get better.
We've got a small outdoor park behind the house which he's enjoyed riding. 95% of the park users just "ride up and down" the ramps, so he falls into that category.
I honestly don't know at what point I stopped 'riding' around the skatepark, and airing the ramps... even just an inch off the ground!
I'm think along the lines of pumping the ramps, and getting used to the 'feel' of the bike....
yeah pump first then pick the lowest and get him to ride out. then ride in etc... teach ettiquette of the park
First thing I taught him was looking out for other people - regardless of their preferred mode of transport..
Should be fun, I'm looking forward to weekly park sessions with a protege!
high5 🙂