Day by day, BMX is introducing us to its different looks. One version that is becoming increasingly popular is BMX without brakes, which allows riders to explore the sport in a more thrilling way. There are many reasons why this trend has taken off. Last year, I followed this style and became a fan of it. That’s when I thought, why not write an article on the guides and reviews of brakeless BMX bikes?
This article includes tips, guides, rules, and reviews to help you ride with no brakes. So, without wasting any time on the intro, let’s dive into the core content.
Quick Recommendations
Best Overall: Mongoose Legion L100 Freestyle BMX Bike
20″ wheel, 26.46 pounds weight
For Kids: Mongoose Legion L20 BMX Bike
20″ wheel, 24.4 pounds weight
Best Value: Dynacraft Tony Hawk Park Series 720 BMX Cycle
24″ wheel, 31.09 pounds weight
All-Rounder: Mongoose Legion L60 BMX Bike
20″ wheel, 26.5 pounds weight
Why Do You Need to Ride BMX Brakeless?
Perhaps you know the reasons for riding like that. After that, let’s know the elaborate facts behind this.
So, when or why do you need to deal with a BMX bike with no brakes?
First of all, it’s stylish and trendy. If you ride BMX and want it to look cool and trendy, you can go with the no-brake bike. Moreover, cleanness can be another reason, as in the brakeless cycle you don’t face any wire parts.
Furthermore, to apply the tricks easily and smoothly, some riders go without brakes. Especially for whips, bars, and others, those bike work awesome.
For adventure-loving people, it can be a good choice. As there is no break, you need to be skillful and adventurous during your riding or at the time of stopping. Again, some cyclists say, this type of riding can make one more attentive on the spot. And yeah, that’s true indeed.
So, those are the possible features for that you can go with the brakeless experience.
Facts You Should Remember While Purchasing
To choose the right brakeless BMX, there are some important factors to keep in mind. Let’s discuss them briefly.
Firstly, you need to ensure that the bike has removable brakes that are easy to take off.
Next, you should consider the weight, frame quality, and size of the bike to ensure it’s suitable for BMX riding and matches your body type based on your height.
The tires of the bike are also crucial, and you should look for ones with knobs that provide good grip and can handle various surfaces.
If you are a beginner, it’s important to check if the bike is suitable for starters and what areas it can be used in. The more versatile the bike, the more options you have to practice.
Lastly, it’s essential to check the durability and quality of the handlebar, crank, chainring, and other parts.
These are the primary factors that you should consider before purchasing a brakeless BMX.
4 Best Brakeless BMX Bikes
Most of the time, it’s tough to find a BMX bike without brakes. Because most of the cycling brands are made with added brakes. However, few bikes come with an easy brake-removing advantage. Here, I mentioned and reviewed the 4 best brake mounts removing bikes as well as brakeless bikes.
1. Mongoose Legion L100 Freestyle BMX Bike
Specifications
Model: L100
Color: Blue
Wheel Size: 20 Inch
Frame Component: Chromoly Steel
Speed Number: 1
Brake Types: U Brake (Removal)
Item Weight: 26.46 lbs
Features
Quality Materials: The Mongoose L100 frame is made with 4130 Chromoly steel which provides strong and high-quality service. The handlebar is also made of using material capable of absorbing vibrations perfectly. If you are searching for the wheelset, then aluminum is used here. So, overall the build material is in a satisfactory stage.
Desirable Size Measurements: This bike has a 20-inch wheel size, and the ideal height for riders is from 5.8 feet up. The size of the top tube is 21 inches. These measurements are perfect for the mentioned height for both men and women. Both beginners and advanced riders can operate this bike. However, for smaller heights, you may need to try another model as this bike is not fitted for shorter riders.
Precious Brake and Tires: This model comes with a U brake. The aluminum brake performs excellently for effective speed control. The feature that you should focus on is its removal brake mount, which makes it usable in both conditions. The tire measurement is 20” x 2. 4”, which is attached to the 36H rims and 9T rear hub. You don’t have to worry about its durability as it can hold more weight. Moreover, with its excellent tires, you will get a good grip in any hard condition.
Drivetrain Specs: The model comes with 175mm cranks, which are two-piece. The 25T aluminum is added here as the chain ring. These together offer great performance in spots. Additionally, the 50mm stem also contributes. The bike is capable of handling any condition, whether dirt, street, or park.
In conclusion, if you want to ride BMX as an adult without brakes, this bike offers quality and essential features at a reasonable cost, making it an excellent option.
Pros
- Comes with 4130 Chromoly steel for strong and durable performance
- Quality tires serve best on street, dirt, or any situations
- This good controlling bike can be used without a brake
- Suitable design for both beginner and pro
Cons
- Not ideal for people of small height.
2. Mongoose Legion L20 BMX Bike
Specifications
Model: L20
Color: Red
Wheel Size: 20 Inch
Frame Component: Steel
Speed Number: 1
Brake Types: U Brake (Removal)
Item Weight: 24.4 lbs
Features
Durable Design: The L20 is built with sturdy and durable materials. The frame is made of Hi-Ten steel that protects from minor collisions, while the walls are made of aluminum. Even the brake is made of aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity.
Medium Size: The bike has a 20-inch wheel size and a 20.25-inch top tube. This makes it a good option for children between 4.8 to 5.4 feet in height to ride comfortably. The cool red color is an added bonus.
Desirable Wheelset: The bike’s wheelset specs are decent, with 20 x 2.3-inch tires with 145 mm mush providing excellent grip. The bike also features 36H single rims, 3/8″ front hubs, and a 9T cog seal for the rear hub.
Other Features: The L20 also boasts impressive drivetrain specs, including 170mm one-piece cranks and a 25T alloy chainring. The adjustable brake mount and U brake made of aluminum offer fast and accurate stopping control. Additionally, the stem and high-quality headset provide excellent steering performance.
In conclusion, the L20 is a great bike in various aspects, but it may require some expertise in the setup process. If you are comfortable with assembly, then this bike is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Durable and sturdy build quality
- Comfortable and cool-looking bike
- Provides excellent grip in a tough time
- Accuracy and quality specs on brakes and wheelset
- Good price range
Cons
- Not for the big guys
- Assembling may seem difficult to beginners
3. Dynacraft Tony Hawk Park Series 720 BMX Cycle
Specifications
Model: Park Series 720
Color: Matte Black
Wheel Size: 24 Inch
Frame Component: Steel
Speed Number: 1
Brake Types: U Brake (Removal)
Item Weight: 31.09 lbs
Features
Frame Size and Build Quality: Unlike most BMX bikes, this one is 24 inches in size with a 21-inch top tube, making it ideal for tall riders who need extra room for tricks. The steel frame comes with graphics and a Hawk finish, and the unique color makes it even more attractive.
3-Piece Cranks and Grippy Tires: The 3-piece cranks make the installation process easier and enhance strength. The cycle also comes with tires with knobs that provide a strong grip on the ground. Additionally, the bike can hold up to 275 pounds with better balance.
Technolized Alloy Seam and Brakes: With a threaded handlebar, the bike provides strength, control, and functionality, allowing for fast stem swapping. The u-brake provides accurate riding downhill, and the bike has excellent stopping capacity even if you ride it without brakes. The saddle seat is adjustable with an alloy key.
Price and Service: The company offers a one-year warranty for this model, which shows they stand behind their product. The price of this well-featured bike is also excellent, making it a great value.
Overall, if you are a tall rider looking for a cheap, well-featured bike to ride, the Dynacraft 720 is a great option.
Pros
- Larger size and well-built frame
- Has enough room to perform BMX with fun
- Comes with grippy tires and 3 pieces of Crank
- Strong and useful alloy seam and U brake
- Good seat with a custom clamp
- Available in a budget value
Cons
- Users have complained about poor assemble instruction
- Some consumers got bent tires
4. Mongoose Legion L60 BMX Bike
Specifications
Model: L60
Color: Green
Wheel Size: 20 Inch
Frame Component: Hi-Ten Steel
Speed Number: 1
Brake Types: U Brake (Removal)
Item Weight: 26.5 lbs
Features
Size and Usage: The L60 model also comes with 20-inch wheels like the previous version. The length of the top tube is approximately 20.5 inches, making it suitable for kids and youths with a height between 5 to 5.6 feet. If you’re taller than that, you can consider the L80 model instead. This bike is great for use in parks, dirt tracks, or on the streets.
Steel Frame and Removable Brake: The frame is made of Hi-Ten steel material, which ensures a strong and stable structure. The bike comes with an aluminum U brake, which can be easily removed if you prefer riding without it. It has a regular single speed.
Tires and Steering: The 20 x 2.4 tires play a crucial role in providing a good grip on surfaces. They are mounted on single aluminum 36H rims. The front and rear hub are respectively 3/8” and 9T cassettes. The rear hub has sealed bearings for smoothness. The threadless sealed and 50mm seam work together to ensure smooth steering.
Crank and Chain: The three cranks are made of chromo hollow material, which makes installation easier and enhances strength. The chainring is made of 25T steel, and it has a mid-sealed bracket. The bike has a lightweight design, weighing only 26.5 lbs.
In conclusion, I would recommend this bike to riders with an average height who are looking for a BMX bike with a removable brake system and essential specifications.
Pros
- Tricks can be applied suitably in variant places
- Desire size and design for all ages of people
- Easy and effective to use with or without brakes
- Builds with high-quality tires and cranks
- Have less weight comparing other models and brands
Cons
- The customer response isn’t so much satisfaction
How to Stop BMX Bikes without Brakes?
Having the right gear alone can’t complete your job, as you also need to acquire skills. Choosing the right bike is not the final task; knowing how to deal with it is equally important. Therefore, as part of the sport, it is essential to acquire the stopping power of a BMX bike with no brakes.
So, how can this be achieved? Here are some tips you can follow:
Tip 1: Use your leg as a medium in this situation. Slow down the bike speed and then place your foot on the ground to control the stopping equally. Remember, it is dangerous to try to stop immediately while the bike is moving fast.
Tip 2: An ideal BMX shoe can be helpful in working as a brake. All you need to do is press the rear tire using your shoes. This pressing will pause the spinning of the back tire, and as a result, you will get your desired output. This tip works well if applied properly and is best suited for the pro level.
Tip 3: Your back and forward pedaling with a quick flow can bring out the result of stopping. As a starter, this tip isn’t bad to apply.
The above 3 are the frequent playing ways to stop your brakeless cycle.
Is It Illegal to BMX with No Brake?
What’s your thoughts about legal or illegal in such types of biking? Actually, those things are variable in different countries. Like in UK and Au, it is forbidden to go without a brake. But in the US, it depends on the state.
Anyways, I will tell here clear and easy understanding rules on it. So what’s it?
A bike that will come by default brakeless, then it is illegal. The interesting thing is almost all brands make the bike with a minimum of one brake to avoid the law.
If your bike has a brake and it is removed then it is okay to ride without breaking the law. But there is also a restriction. It will be illegal if you ride on a busy or public road, or use it as transport. In that circumstance, your private property, BMX areas, or any silent places will be safe and rules violation-free zones.
Conclusion
Brakeless riding doesn’t come for no reason, it bears advantages for BMX riding. So, among the above four brakeless BMX bikes, what’s your favorite one? It isn’t mainly a matter of choice, it basically compares your structure and skill to which meets the bike most.
As an adult, I like the Legion L100 most. Because it seems perfect from every angle.
However, I hope you now found the bike that suits you well. Additionally, is standing to prepare yourself by being aware of the facts discussed above. So, wish you a thrilling and safe ride on your next BMX journey.
FAQ about Brakeless BMX Bikes
What is the most common injury in BMX?
The most common injuries in BMX are to the wrist, ankle, and elbow. Wrist injuries occur from falling and attempting to break the fall with the hand. Ankle injuries can occur from landing on the foot at an awkward angle or from catching the pedal while attempting a trick. Elbow injuries are often caused by falls onto the elbow or by attempting to break a fall with the arm. It is also common to see injuries to the shoulder, knee, and head. To prevent these types of injuries, it is important to wear proper safety gear such as a helmet, gloves, elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards, as well as to properly warm up and stretch before riding.
What BMX bikes do pros use?
BMX professionals typically use high-end BMX race bikes or freestyle BMX bikes. These bikes are designed to be lightweight, strong, and durable, and are often made of high-quality materials such as chromoly steel or carbon fiber.
For BMX racing, the most common brands used by pro riders are GT, Redline, and Haro. These bikes are often made of chromoly steel and have a lightweight aluminum frame. They also have a high-performance drivetrain, such as a single-speed or multi-speed set up, and lightweight components such as wheels and brakes.
For BMX freestyle, the most common brands used by pro riders are Sunday, Cult, and Subrosa. These bikes have a stronger frame and forks to withstand the demands of street, park and vert riding. They also have a variety of brake options such as U-brake, V-brake or no brake at all (brakeless) and may have a more relaxed geometry to allow for more maneuverability.
It’s important to note that there are many great BMX bike brands and models, and the best bike for you will depend on your riding style and what you’re looking for in a bike. Pro riders also have sponsorship deal with the brands they use.
How do you slow down a brakeless BMX?
There are a few ways to slow down or stop a brakeless BMX bike:
- Skidding: Skidding is a technique where you drag your rear wheel to slow down or stop. This technique can be done by dragging the rear wheel on the ground while leaning back to slow down or by locking up the rear wheel while pedaling backwards to come to a stop.
- Foot braking: This technique involves using your foot to slow down or stop the bike. To do this, you’ll need to lift your foot off the pedal and place it on the ground to slow down or come to a stop.
- Endo: An endo is a BMX trick where you stop the bike by lifting the front wheel off the ground and balancing on the back wheel.
- Manual: A manual is a BMX trick where you balance on the rear wheel while the front wheel is off the ground, this can also be used to slow down.
It’s important to note that braking on a BMX bike can be difficult and requires practice. It’s also important to keep in mind that riding without brakes can be dangerous and should only be done by experienced riders who are comfortable with the risks involved.
Why do people ride BMX brakeless?
People ride BMX brakeless for a variety of reasons, including personal preference, aesthetics, and style. Some riders feel that riding brakeless gives them more control and a greater sense of freedom on the bike, allowing them to perform tricks and maneuvers that they might not be able to do with brakes. Additionally, riding without brakes can simplify the bike’s design and reduce its weight, which can be an advantage for certain types of riding, such as racing or street riding. However, it’s important to note that riding brakeless can also be more dangerous, as it requires a higher level of skill and control, and can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Therefore, it’s important for riders to weigh the pros and cons of riding brakeless and make an informed decision based on their experience and skill level.
Related Posts