A instrument designed for figuring out the optimum spoke size for BMX bicycle wheels considers elements resembling hub dimensions, rim diameter, variety of spokes, and lacing sample. This course of ensures correct wheel constructing, impacting each efficiency and security. As an illustration, utilizing incorrect spoke lengths can result in weakened wheels, poor trueness, and potential part failure.
Correct spoke size is essential for constructing robust and dependable BMX wheels able to withstanding the stresses of jumps, tips, and high-speed using. Traditionally, figuring out applicable spoke size concerned advanced calculations and infrequently trial and error. Digital instruments now streamline this course of, providing precision and effectivity, which is especially precious for customized wheel builds or when sourcing substitute spokes.
The next sections delve into the specifics of utilizing these instruments, exploring the variables concerned, and offering steerage for reaching optimum wheel development. Understanding these components is important for anybody looking for to take care of or construct BMX wheels successfully.
1. Hub dimensions (ERD, PCD, flange offset)
Correct hub dimensions are basic to spoke size calculations. A spoke calculator depends on these measurements to find out the exact distance between the hub flange and the nipple seat on the rim. Efficient Rim Diameter (ERD) represents the diameter of the circle shaped by the spoke ends the place they connect with the rim. Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD) is the diameter of the circle shaped by the spoke holes on the hub flange. Flange offset, the space between the middle of the hub and the hub flange, is equally essential. Discrepancies in any of those measurements will result in incorrect spoke size calculations. For instance, utilizing an ERD worth that’s too small will end in calculated spoke lengths which can be too lengthy, resulting in potential wheel-building points.
Think about a situation the place two seemingly equivalent hubs have barely completely different flange offsets attributable to manufacturing variations. Inputting the identical PCD and ERD right into a spoke calculator however neglecting the distinction in flange offset would produce inaccurate spoke lengths. This seemingly minor oversight can result in important issues like uneven spoke stress, problem in truing the wheel, and a compromised closing construct. Due to this fact, meticulous measurement of every dimension is important, ideally utilizing devoted instruments like a digital caliper. Understanding the interaction between ERD, PCD, and flange offset is vital for correct spoke size willpower and a profitable wheel construct.
Exact hub dimension enter ensures correct spoke size calculations, immediately impacting wheel integrity and efficiency. Overlooking these seemingly minor particulars can compromise wheel stability and sturdiness, underscoring the significance of correct measurement and knowledge entry inside the spoke calculator. Challenges come up when accessing correct hub dimensions, notably with older or much less widespread hubs the place producer specs is likely to be unavailable. In such circumstances, exact bodily measurements are paramount, demanding cautious consideration and using applicable instruments.
2. Rim diameter (ERD)
Efficient Rim Diameter (ERD) performs a vital position in spoke size calculations inside a BMX spoke calculator. ERD represents the diameter of the circle shaped by the spoke nipples’ seating factors on the rim. This measurement, usually missed, is essential as a result of it dictates the efficient ‘size’ the spokes should span. A spoke calculator makes use of ERD along side hub dimensions and lacing sample to compute the required spoke size precisely. Even a minor deviation in ERD measurement can result in important errors in calculated spoke size. As an illustration, a 1mm distinction in ERD may end up in a spoke size discrepancy that renders the wheel troublesome to true or compromises its structural integrity.
Think about two rims with equivalent said diameters however completely different inside profiles, leading to various ERDs. Utilizing the identical nominal diameter as a substitute of the exactly measured ERD in a spoke calculator would yield incorrect spoke lengths. One wheel is likely to be constructed with spokes too brief, making the wheel inconceivable to assemble, whereas the opposite might need spokes too lengthy, protruding dangerously inward and probably puncturing the interior tube. This illustrates the sensible significance of understanding and precisely measuring ERD.
Correct ERD measurement is paramount for reaching optimum wheel construct high quality and efficiency. Challenges come up when coping with rims missing manufacturer-provided ERD specs. In such eventualities, exact measurement utilizing devoted instruments, or established strategies just like the “chained spoke” approach, turns into important. Understanding the essential position of ERD inside spoke size calculations and using correct measurement methods ensures a profitable and dependable wheel construct, highlighting the interdependency between rim diameter (ERD) and the efficacy of a BMX spoke calculator. The implications of inaccurate ERD prolong past wheel trueness; they have an effect on the wheel’s general power, sturdiness, and resistance to stresses inherent in BMX using.
3. Spoke rely
Spoke rely, representing the variety of spokes utilized in a wheel construct, is a key parameter inside BMX spoke calculators. This worth immediately influences spoke size calculations because it dictates the angular spacing between spokes and their relationship to the hub and rim. The next spoke rely usually necessitates shorter spokes, whereas a decrease spoke rely requires longer spokes. Spoke calculators incorporate this variable to make sure correct size willpower primarily based on the chosen spoke rely. For instance, a 36-spoke wheel would require completely different spoke lengths in comparison with a 48-spoke wheel, even when all different parameters (hub dimensions, rim diameter, lacing sample) stay fixed. The calculator adjusts the size calculation primarily based on the particular spoke rely entered, making certain optimum match and performance.
The connection between spoke rely and spoke size shouldn’t be merely a mathematical abstraction; it carries important sensible implications. A wheel constructed with an incorrect spoke rely (and subsequently incorrect spoke lengths) can exhibit a number of points. A decrease spoke rely, utilizing spokes which can be too lengthy, may end up in spokes protruding inward, risking puncture of the interior tube. Conversely, a better spoke rely utilizing spokes which can be too brief might stop correct wheel meeting. Moreover, the chosen spoke rely impacts wheel stiffness and weight. The next spoke rely usually leads to a stiffer, however heavier wheel, whereas a decrease spoke rely results in a lighter, however probably much less sturdy wheel. These elements spotlight the essential position of spoke rely in wheel constructing and the significance of correct enter inside a BMX spoke calculator.
Correct spoke rely enter is important for profitable wheel constructing. Challenges can come up when repurposing hubs or rims designed for a unique spoke rely. Cautious consideration should be given to make sure compatibility and keep away from constructing a compromised wheel. Utilizing a spoke calculator appropriately, with correct spoke rely amongst different parameters, ensures that the calculated spoke lengths contribute to a powerful, true, and dependable wheel meeting. This understanding emphasizes the built-in nature of spoke rely inside the broader context of wheel constructing and the essential position of a BMX spoke calculator in mediating the complexities of this course of.
4. Lacing sample (e.g., radial, 3-cross)
Lacing sample, the best way spokes join the hub to the rim, considerably influences spoke size and wheel traits. Spoke calculators incorporate lacing sample as a vital parameter. Completely different patterns have an effect on the trail and efficient size of every spoke, necessitating particular calculations. Understanding the impression of lacing patterns is important for correct spoke size willpower and optimum wheel constructing.
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Radial Lacing
In radial lacing, spokes run immediately from the hub flange to the rim with out crossing some other spokes. This sample sometimes requires the longest spokes in comparison with different patterns because of the straight-line path. Whereas providing potential aerodynamic benefits and a lighter wheel construct, radial lacing usually leads to decrease lateral stiffness, making it much less appropriate for BMX functions that demand strong wheel development. Spoke calculators accommodate radial lacing, offering correct size calculations for this particular sample.
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One-Cross Lacing
One-cross lacing entails every spoke crossing one different spoke on its path from hub to rim. This can be a widespread sample, providing a steadiness of power, weight, and construct complexity. Spoke calculators account for the marginally shorter spoke lengths required in one-cross lacing in comparison with radial lacing. The one crossing provides some lateral stiffness in comparison with radial lacing, making it extra appropriate for basic biking, although much less widespread in BMX.
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Three-Cross Lacing
Three-cross lacing, the place every spoke intersects three others, is ceaselessly utilized in BMX attributable to its elevated power and sturdiness. The a number of crossings improve lateral stiffness, enabling the wheel to face up to the impacts and stresses of BMX using. Spoke calculators regulate size computations for three-cross lacing, recognizing the shorter spoke lengths required in comparison with radial or one-cross patterns. The elevated stiffness provided by three-cross lacing usually outweighs the added weight and complexity for BMX functions.
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4-Cross Lacing
4-cross lacing, involving 4 spoke crossings, gives most power and stability however provides complexity to the wheel-building course of. This sample usually requires the shortest spokes. Whereas strong, four-cross lacing is much less prevalent in BMX attributable to its added weight and the diminishing returns in stiffness in comparison with three-cross lacing. A spoke calculator accommodates four-cross lacing, precisely calculating the correspondingly shorter spoke lengths.
The chosen lacing sample considerably impacts spoke size, wheel power, weight, and constructing complexity. Precisely inputting the lacing sample right into a BMX spoke calculator ensures applicable spoke size calculations, contributing to a wheel construct optimized for supposed using circumstances. Understanding the interaction between lacing sample, spoke size, and wheel traits empowers knowledgeable choices throughout the wheel-building course of, highlighting the significance of this parameter inside BMX spoke calculators.
5. Spoke nipple size
Spoke nipple size, usually missed, performs a vital position in correct spoke size calculations inside a BMX spoke calculator. The calculator considers the mixed size of the spoke and nipple to find out applicable measurements. Failing to account for nipple size may end up in ineffective wheel constructing. Completely different nipple lengths exist, sometimes starting from 12mm to 16mm, and choosing the right size is paramount for reaching optimum wheel development.
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Influence on Efficient Spoke Size
Nipple size immediately impacts the efficient size of the spoke. An extended nipple successfully shortens the required spoke size, whereas a shorter nipple requires a correspondingly longer spoke. The spoke calculator compensates for this by factoring within the chosen nipple size. Utilizing a 16mm nipple as a substitute of a 12mm nipple with out adjusting the spoke size inside the calculator will end in a 4mm discrepancy, considerably impacting wheel meeting and trueness.
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Rim Depth Issues
Rim depth influences the selection of nipple size. Deeper rims usually require longer nipples to make sure ample thread engagement for safe spoke attachment. Conversely, shallower rims might necessitate shorter nipples. Spoke calculators don’t inherently account for rim depth, putting the onus on the builder to pick an applicable nipple size primarily based on the rim’s specs. Failure to think about this relationship can result in inadequate thread engagement, compromising wheel stability.
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Materials and Thread Pitch Variations
Nipples can be found in numerous supplies (brass, aluminum) and thread pitches (e.g., FG 2.3). Whereas the calculator primarily focuses on size, materials and thread pitch not directly have an effect on spoke stress and sturdiness. Aluminum nipples, being lighter, might require completely different tensioning in comparison with brass nipples. Equally, variations in thread pitch can affect the precision of spoke stress changes. Whereas not direct inputs inside the calculator, these elements warrant cautious consideration throughout the wheel-building course of.
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Sensible Implications of Incorrect Nipple Size
Utilizing an incorrect nipple size can have important sensible implications. Spokes which can be successfully too lengthy attributable to brief nipples might protrude inward, probably inflicting interior tube punctures. Conversely, spokes which can be successfully too brief attributable to lengthy nipples may stop correct wheel meeting or result in inadequate thread engagement, weakening the wheel. These eventualities underscore the significance of precisely accounting for nipple size inside the spoke calculator and the broader wheel-building course of. Overlooking this seemingly minor element can compromise wheel integrity and rider security.
Precisely inputting spoke nipple size is essential for reaching exact spoke lengths and profitable wheel constructing. Whereas the spoke calculator handles the size calculations, understanding the broader implications of nipple size, together with rim depth compatibility and materials issues, stays important for constructing strong and dependable BMX wheels. Overlooking these particulars can result in compromised wheel integrity, highlighting the built-in position of nipple size inside the bigger context of wheel constructing and the significance of exact inputs inside the BMX spoke calculator.
6. Unit of Measurement (mm/inches)
Correct unit choice inside a BMX spoke calculator is paramount for acquiring appropriate spoke lengths. Calculators sometimes provide choices for each millimeters (mm) and inches, and choosing the right unit is essential for avoiding errors. Inconsistencies in unit utilization throughout the measurement and calculation course of can result in important discrepancies in spoke size, rendering the calculated values ineffective and probably compromising the wheel construct.
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Constant Unit Utilization All through the Course of
Sustaining constant models all through all the course of, from measuring hub and rim dimensions to coming into values into the calculator, is important. Mixing models, resembling coming into ERD in millimeters whereas inputting PCD in inches, will result in faulty calculations. Spoke calculators function beneath the belief of constant models; deviations introduce inaccuracies that may compromise the integrity of the ultimate wheel construct.
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Understanding Calculator Default Settings
Understanding the default unit setting of the spoke calculator is essential. Some calculators default to millimeters, whereas others default to inches. Failing to acknowledge the default setting and inputting values in a unique unit will produce incorrect outcomes. At all times confirm the calculator’s unit setting earlier than coming into any values to make sure accuracy.
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Conversion Errors and their Implications
Conversion errors, arising from incorrect guide unit conversions or misinterpreting calculator outputs, can have important sensible penalties. A seemingly small conversion error can translate to a considerable discrepancy in spoke size, resulting in difficulties in wheel meeting, uneven spoke stress, and a weakened wheel. Counting on correct unit dealing with inside the calculator and avoiding guide conversions minimizes the chance of such errors.
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Precision and Decimal Locations
Spoke size calculations usually contain decimal values, notably when working in millimeters. Understanding the extent of precision required and dealing with decimal locations appropriately inside the calculator is vital. Rounding off values prematurely or inconsistently can introduce inaccuracies that accumulate throughout the calculation course of. Sustaining constant precision all through ensures the calculated spoke lengths are as correct as doable.
Correct unit administration is prime to utilizing a BMX spoke calculator successfully. Constant unit utilization, understanding calculator defaults, avoiding conversion errors, and sustaining applicable precision are vital for acquiring dependable spoke lengths. Overlooking these particulars can compromise all the wheel-building course of, emphasizing the significance of exact unit dealing with inside the context of BMX spoke calculators.
7. Materials issues (metal, aluminum)
Spoke materials choice considerably influences wheel constructing, although in a roundabout way included inside spoke size calculations carried out by a BMX spoke calculator. Whereas the calculator determines geometrically applicable lengths primarily based on hub, rim, and lacing sample inputs, the inherent properties of various spoke supplies necessitate additional issues throughout the wheel-building course of. Metal and aluminum symbolize the most typical spoke supplies, every possessing distinct traits affecting wheel efficiency and meeting.
Metal spokes, identified for his or her power and better tensile power, provide sturdiness and resistance to deformation. Their resilience makes them appropriate for withstanding the stresses of BMX using, together with impacts and excessive tensions. Nonetheless, metal’s greater weight in comparison with aluminum impacts general wheel weight. Aluminum spokes, alternatively, provide a weight benefit, contributing to a lighter and probably extra responsive wheel. Nonetheless, their decrease tensile power requires cautious tensioning throughout wheel constructing to keep away from overstressing and untimely failure. This distinction highlights the sensible implications of fabric alternative, impacting not solely wheel weight but additionally construct methodology and long-term sturdiness. For instance, a BMX racer may prioritize light-weight aluminum spokes for improved acceleration, accepting the trade-off of probably lowered sturdiness in comparison with metal spokes favored by a mud jumper prioritizing impression resistance.
Whereas a BMX spoke calculator supplies important spoke size knowledge, materials issues stay essential for knowledgeable wheel constructing. Spoke materials choice influences wheel weight, power, sturdiness, and construct procedures. Understanding these relationships permits builders to tailor wheel traits to particular using kinds and efficiency necessities, supplementing the geometric precision offered by the spoke calculator with sensible material-specific issues. Balancing power, weight, and price inside the context of supposed utilization stays a vital side of wheel constructing, extending past the scope of spoke size calculations alone.
8. Outcome Interpretation (Rounding, Tolerances)
Correct spoke size calculation is essential for BMX wheel constructing, however decoding the outcomes offered by a BMX spoke calculator requires cautious consideration of rounding and tolerances. Uncooked calculator output usually consists of decimal values, necessitating sensible choices concerning rounding and acknowledging inherent manufacturing tolerances in spokes and parts. These seemingly minor particulars considerably impression the ultimate wheel construct.
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Rounding Calculated Spoke Lengths
Spoke lengths are sometimes manufactured in discrete increments, usually to the closest millimeter or half-millimeter. Calculator outputs hardly ever align completely with these accessible lengths, requiring rounding. Rounding down usually poses fewer points than rounding up, as barely shorter spokes may be accommodated with elevated nipple size. Nonetheless, extreme rounding in both route can result in issues throughout wheel meeting and truing. For instance, rounding a calculated spoke size of 262.3mm right down to 262mm is mostly acceptable, whereas rounding as much as 263mm may introduce points.
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Understanding Manufacturing Tolerances
Spokes, rims, and hubs are topic to manufacturing tolerances, that means their dimensions can differ barely from said specs. These variations, whereas sometimes small, can accumulate and affect the efficient spoke size. A spoke calculator can’t account for these particular person part tolerances. Due to this fact, builders should acknowledge that calculated spoke lengths symbolize ideally suited values, and minor deviations attributable to manufacturing variations are anticipated.
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Sensible Implications of Rounding and Tolerances
Incorrect rounding or disregarding tolerances can result in a number of points. Spokes which can be too lengthy, attributable to rounding up or unaccounted tolerances, can protrude inward, risking interior tube punctures. Conversely, spokes which can be too brief may stop correct wheel meeting or end in inadequate thread engagement, compromising wheel stability. Recognizing the interaction between calculated spoke size, rounding, and tolerances is important for a profitable wheel construct.
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Beneficial Practices for Outcome Interpretation
Finest apply dictates rounding down calculated spoke lengths when needed and prioritizing available spoke sizes. Acknowledging manufacturing tolerances suggests constructing with a slight margin for error, probably favoring barely shorter spokes when confronted with rounding choices. Meticulous measurement of precise part dimensions, fairly than relying solely on producer specs, can additional refine the method and mitigate potential points arising from tolerances.
Efficient use of a BMX spoke calculator extends past mere numerical calculation. Cautious interpretation of outcomes, contemplating rounding conventions and part tolerances, is essential for translating calculated spoke lengths right into a profitable and dependable wheel construct. Understanding these sensible issues bridges the hole between theoretical calculation and the realities of bodily part meeting, in the end contributing to a stronger, more true, and extra sturdy BMX wheel.
Continuously Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread queries concerning BMX spoke calculators and their utility in wheel constructing.
Query 1: Why is utilizing a spoke calculator needed for BMX wheels?
BMX wheels expertise important stress attributable to jumps and landings. Exact spoke size ensures correct stress distribution, maximizing wheel power and sturdiness. Calculators get rid of guesswork, decreasing the chance of wheel failure and bettering general efficiency.
Query 2: What occurs if incorrect values are entered into the calculator?
Inaccurate inputs result in incorrect spoke size calculations. This may end up in a wheel that’s troublesome or inconceivable to assemble, has uneven spoke stress, is susceptible to failure, and performs poorly.
Query 3: How does lacing sample affect spoke size?
Completely different lacing patterns alter the trail every spoke takes from hub to rim, affecting the required spoke size. A 3-cross sample, widespread in BMX, requires shorter spokes than a radial sample. The calculator adjusts calculations primarily based on the chosen lacing sample.
Query 4: Can a spoke calculator account for manufacturing tolerances in parts?
Calculators present theoretically ideally suited spoke lengths. Nonetheless, they can’t account for minor variations in part dimensions attributable to manufacturing tolerances. Builders should pay attention to these tolerances and probably regulate rounding practices accordingly.
Query 5: What’s the significance of spoke nipple size in calculations?
Nipple size contributes to the general efficient spoke size. The calculator considers nipple size throughout calculations. Utilizing the incorrect nipple size with out adjusting the spoke size accordingly can result in meeting points and compromised wheel integrity.
Query 6: Are spoke calculators relevant to all sorts of BMX wheels?
Spoke calculators are relevant to varied BMX wheel varieties, together with these for freestyle, racing, and dust leaping. The secret’s to enter correct hub and rim dimensions, spoke rely, and lacing sample related to the particular wheel being constructed.
Correct knowledge enter and cautious consequence interpretation are essential for using spoke calculators successfully. Understanding the interaction between numerous parameters ensures profitable wheel constructing and optimized BMX wheel efficiency.
This concludes the FAQ part. The next sections will delve into superior wheel-building methods and upkeep practices.
Ideas for Utilizing a BMX Spoke Calculator
Optimizing BMX wheel efficiency by correct spoke size calculations requires cautious consideration to element and adherence to finest practices. The next ideas present steerage for successfully using a BMX spoke calculator.
Tip 1: Exact Measurement is Paramount
Correct measurements of hub and rim dimensions are basic. Make use of a digital caliper, making certain constant stress and exact placement for dependable readings. Even minor measurement errors can considerably impression calculated spoke lengths.
Tip 2: Confirm Unit Consistency
Preserve constant models (millimeters or inches) all through all the course of. Verify the calculator’s default unit setting and guarantee all inputs align with that setting. Mixing models results in inaccurate calculations and potential wheel-building points.
Tip 3: Double-Examine Information Entry
Human error is a typical supply of miscalculation. Double-check all entered values inside the calculator to make sure accuracy. A single incorrect digit can considerably alter calculated spoke lengths.
Tip 4: Perceive Lacing Sample Implications
Completely different lacing patterns require completely different spoke lengths. Precisely choose the supposed lacing sample inside the calculator, as this parameter immediately influences the calculated lengths.
Tip 5: Account for Nipple Size
Spoke nipple size contributes to the efficient spoke size. Enter the right nipple size inside the calculator to make sure correct general size calculations.
Tip 6: Think about Materials Properties
Whereas not a direct enter inside the calculator, spoke materials (metal or aluminum) influences wheel constructing and tensioning practices. Think about materials properties when decoding calculated spoke lengths and throughout the wheel-building course of.
Tip 7: Interpret Outcomes Fastidiously
Calculated spoke lengths usually require rounding. Spherical down when needed, as barely shorter spokes are usually preferable to barely longer ones. Acknowledge manufacturing tolerances and intention for a slight margin of error.
Tip 8: Seek the advice of Respected Sources
Confer with respected wheel-building guides and sources for supplemental data and finest practices. Spoke size calculation is one part of a bigger course of, and a holistic understanding enhances wheel-building success.
Adhering to those ideas maximizes the efficacy of BMX spoke calculators, contributing to robust, sturdy, and high-performing wheels. Correct knowledge enter, cautious consequence interpretation, and a complete understanding of the underlying ideas guarantee optimum wheel-building outcomes.
By following these tips and recognizing the broader context of wheel constructing, one can successfully make the most of a BMX spoke calculator to create wheels optimized for efficiency and sturdiness. The next conclusion will summarize the important thing takeaways and reiterate the significance of precision on this vital side of BMX upkeep and customization.
Conclusion
Correct spoke size willpower is paramount for BMX wheel efficiency and security. This exploration of BMX spoke calculators has highlighted the essential interaction between hub dimensions, rim diameter, spoke rely, lacing sample, nipple size, materials issues, and consequence interpretation. Exact measurement, constant unit utilization, cautious knowledge entry, and an understanding of inherent tolerances are important for using these instruments successfully.
Constructing strong BMX wheels calls for a complete method extending past mere calculation. Making use of the insights introduced herein, mixed with diligent wheel-building practices, empowers knowledgeable choices, contributing to wheels able to withstanding the pains of BMX using. The pursuit of precision in spoke size calculation underscores a dedication to efficiency, sturdiness, and rider security inside the demanding world of BMX.
