Who can race? As long as you can ride a bike without trainer wheels, you can race.Riders aged from under 5 to over 50 regularly race every weekend somewhere in Victoria. The emphasis is on involvement and fun.

How do I get a race licence? Getting a licence to race is as easy as joining a club, paying membership and licence fees. To join the Knox BMX club and start racing you will need to complete a number of forms and pay the appropriate fees.
Licence applications must be accompanied with proof of age regardless of your age (i.e. a copy of birth certificate, Drivers Licence etc) and be signed by a parent or guardian if the rider is under the age of 18.

How much does it cost? Your Licence and membership will cost you $140.00. A schedule of fees is included in the membership information pack.  In addition there is a $50 working bee fee.

What are the different licensing levels?
Sprocket Rocket Licence All riders aged under 8 are classified as Sprocket Rockets until their 8th birthday. A sprocket licence is valid for 12 months and allows a rider to compete in any event up to the Australian championships.
Day Licence A day licence is only valid for one day and only for club races. They are not acceptable for inter club or open events.
3 Day Licence a 3 Day Licence allows the rider to ride on three separate occasions. It can only be purchased once and is valid for three months.
Club Permit A club permit is valid for 12 months but only accepted for Club races for your own club. They are not acceptable for inter club or open events. (Not available for Children Under 8) This licence type is restrictive and not encouraged by Knox BMX Club.
Open Licence An open licence is valid for 12 months and allows a rider to compete in any event up to the Australian championships and International events held in Australia. Recommended for all riders aged 8 and over.

What are the levels of competition
Club Races Knox BMX Club races are held at least once per month. Entry is on the day and they are a rather informal affair so long as you arrive on time. Any level of licence (Day permit, Club, Open or Sprocket) is accepted for club races. Further details about Knox BMX Club race days are included elsewhere in this information pack and on our web site.
Open Races Open races are held at various tracks around Melbourne as well as most country clubs and interstate. Entry to open events is always by entry form prior to the event with entries closing three days or more prior to the event. Note: Entry forms for most events are available at the club rooms and also on the BMX Victoria Web site www.bmxv.com.au

How are riders classed in racing Most race classes are age based. Classes range from Under 5 to 50 plus depending on the event. All riders aged under 8 are referred to as Sprocket Rockets. Racing for Sprockets is not scored and the emphasis is on participation and fun.

What bike can I use? Competition is generally based on 20 inch or 24 inch BMX bikes although Sprocket Rockets (riders under 8 years of age) are permitted to use smaller bikes.

Can I use my street bike? As long as it is safe you can race on any bike. Street or freestyle bikes are OK to race on. As you gain experience you will probably benefit from a change to a lighter bike. Mountain bike style bikes (up to 26 inches) are ok for BMX use at club level and some regional events.

Bike preparation All reflectors, bells, freestyle pegs and chain guards must be removed and handle bar ends covered. The rules of BMX recommend the use of a suitable pad set covering Handlebar cross bar, Top tube and Head stem, These pad sets are not compulsory but can be purchased at most bike shops. The bike must be fitted with an operational rear brake (front brakes are optional). The club can help you with more detailed information on whether your bike is suitable.

What do I have to wear? Exciting sports like BMX have some risks associated with them. To reduce the risks without removing the fun the correct safety gear is compulsory.
Full-face helmet, A purpose built BMX helmet or a Motorbike helmet must be worn. (the club does have a limited number of helmets available for loan to new riders on training and race days).
Gloves, (must be full fingered gloves).
Long sleeved top, (must be full length sleeves).
Long pants, Track suit pants or jeans are ok. (3/4 pants or long shorts are permitted if the lower leg is covered by other leg protection such as knee/shin guards).
Socks that cover the ankles.
Shoes must be closed i.e. no sandals or thongs, (runners are ok, make sure long laces are tucked away).
While these requirements are compulsory it’s recommended that riders wear cloths of a sturdy nature, elbow, knee and shin guards are also highly recommended.
Many BMX tracks, Knox included, have quite abrasive surfaces and the club will not allow riders to participate in racing, coaching or practice sessions if they do not meet the compulsory requirements, no exceptions will be made regardless of weather conditions or any other reason