BMX virgin

[neslon]

Does anyone know anything about the various makes & models? The nipper wants one for xmas & I know nothing about them.

 

[jpembroke]

Don't know much about them but Winstanley's is worth a look (they have a large clearance section):

http://www.winstanleysbmx.com/

There are various different types: street, dirt, race. Depends what he wants it for. I suggest avoiding the models with gyros (rotating cable guide fitted to the headtube which allow you to spin the bars without tangling the cables). They are a bit of a pain. Again, it depends what he wants it for but I reckon going for one which has a direct cable to the rear brake. Simple and looks nicer.

 

[Losidan]

I've been known to have a dabble in the 20" thing. what is it he wants it for? Just general messing around? How old is he?

 

[neslon]

Hi
He's 12 and I think he wants to join his mates looning around the back lanes and the moor - no spectacular stuff. Thanks for the tip about that weird front brake hub thing - no idea how that works.

 

[BigSteev]

I can totally recommend these guys

http://http://www.radbmxshop.co.uk/

Run by guys that have been into BMX since way back in the 80s. Very helpful, and they'll price match too.

 

[Losidan]

I can totally recommend these guys

http://http://www.radbmxshop.co.uk/

Run by guys that have been into BMX since way back in the 80s. Very helpful, and they'll price match too.

I'd totally agree about Radbmx. How about going with something like a GT Slammer. Something that can do a bit of everything really then move on if he gets more serious later on:
http://www.radbmxshop.co.uk/shop/article_465.001/GT-Slammer-2010.html?shop_param=cid=39&aid=465.001&

If he starts taking his seat post off and gluing the saddle to the frame and wearing jeans so skinny you need fairy liquid to get them off you know he is "a bmxer"
I have to disagree with the point about avoiding bikes with a gyro. Even though it is just for general messing around I think he'll want it. They are pretty reliable though so not going to be a hassle.
Dont worry though he'll probably be running brakeless in no time

 

[jpembroke]

Dont worry though he'll probably be running brakeless in no time

Front brake = trainer rammed between tyre and fork crown

Just think gyros look a bit busy. BMXs look so much cleaner with just a simple back brake but that's aesthetics I guess. Agree with GT recommendations. Nice bikes, GTs, and very well built. Felt are worth a look too. Then there's Fit or WeThePeople if you want something ubercool (and uberstealable).

 

[neslon]

Thanks fellas. the Gt slammer is what I will look at first. Will let you know how it goes. I suppose I will have to try it myself and break something

 

[Cubist]

Thanks fellas. the Gt slammer is what I will look at first. Will let you know how it goes. I suppose I will have to try it myself and break something

Yep, compulsory (limps away clutching crushed vertebrae....)

 

[jpembroke]

Winstanleys have got a GT Slammer in for £169:

http://www.winstanleysbmx.com/product/17600/GT_Slammer_Bike_2009

They've also got a bunch of Felts in the clearance section, too.