Can BMX Bikes Pedal Backwards?
 The Short Answer is: |
Yes, BMX bikes can pedal backwards, but they do not have a reverse gear and so cannot move in a backwards direction. Pedaling backwards will not cause the bike to move on its own. |
BMX bikes can pedal backwards due to their single gear and hubs for backpedaling and coasting. This allows riders to move in reverse by backpedaling, which is useful for tricks and stunts.
However, it is important to note that backpedaling should only be done in moderation when teaching a child to ride a bike, as too much backpedaling can cause the bike to become unbalanced.
Backpedaling has been around since the invention of the bicycle, with the first recorded “header” (or bike crash) occurring while trying to avoid a horse-drawn carriage.
Table of Contents
How Do BMX Bikes Pedal?
BMX bikes can technically pedal backwards, but they do not have a reverse gear and so cannot move the rider in a backward direction.
To install the pedals on a BMX bike, stand over it as if you are riding it and the crank arm on your right side is the right arm.
The Physics Behind BMX Bike Pedaling
The physics behind bmx bike pedaling involve frictional forces, wheels that spin, and the use of pedals and gears to turn the axle at the center.
Pedal forces are also required to accelerate the bike during a race start, and rolling resistance is felt when tires are underinflated or riding on soft ground.
Tricks such as bar spins involve a bunny hop followed by a full 360 degree spin of the handle bars in mid-air.
The Different Types of BMX Bike Pedals
BMX pedals come in two different spindle sizes for different types of cranks:
9/16″ for three-piece cranks and 1/2″ for one-piece cranks.
Plastic BMX pedals are shin-friendly and offer a range of features such as grip pins, concave design, and sealed bearings.
Other types of bicycle pedals include flat pedals, mountain bike clipless, and road clipless.
Can BMX Bikes Pedal Backwards? Really?
Yes, BMX bikes can pedal backwards, but this will not cause the bike to move in a backwards direction as there is no reverse gear for BMX bikes.
Pedaling backward is used to keep the bike rolling backwards when performing certain tricks such as a fakie.
How to Backpedal on a BMX Bike
BMX pedals can go backwards, but this will not cause the bike to move in a backwards direction as there is no reverse gear for BMX bikes.
Backpedaling is an essential skill for riders who are into tricks and stunts, such as jumping over obstacles or riding against the wall.
When pedaling backward for a fakie, it is necessary to pedal in order to keep the bike rolling backwards, otherwise the hub engages and you get stopped.
Some BMX bikes allow riders to ride backwards without having to pedal.
Backpedaling Techniques for BMX Riding
Backpedaling is a technique used by BMX riders to perform certain tricks, such as the ‘fakie’.
To do this, riders need their bikes to roll backwards and cassette rear hubs enable BMX bikes to pedal backwards.
Other techniques for backpedaling include leaning the body over the back wheel and pedaling backwards as the cranks go back at a steady speed.
Wheelies and manuals are also important skills for BMX riding.
Teaching children how to pedal a bike can be done by providing tips on how to get them started and fostering a life-long love of biking.
The Benefits of Backpedaling for BMX Riding
Backpedaling on a BMX bike is beneficial for riders who are into tricks and stunts, as it allows them to transition into more complex maneuvers over obstacles, against walls, and down half and quarter-pipes.
Backpedaling can also target muscles in new ways when used on an exercise bike.
While BMX bikes can pedal backward, they don’t have a reverse gear so only pedaling backward won’t allow the bike to move in a reverse direction.
Additionally, backpedaling can help riders look like they are cycling which can make them safer.
BMX Bike Maintenance: Caring for Your Pedals
To maintain your BMX bike pedals, it is important to regularly check for wear and tear, clean them, and lubricate them.
Additionally, you should inspect the pedal axle for any damage or looseness. If necessary, replace the pedals with new ones.
It is also important to keep your entire bike in good condition by cleaning it regularly and checking for any damage or loose parts.
Frequently Asked Questions about BMX Bike Pedaling
Is it bad to pedal backwards on a BMX bike?
BMX bikes can technically pedal backwards, but they do not have a reverse gear and so cannot move the rider in a backward direction.
Pedaling backwards is not bad for BMX bikes as they have one gear and feature hubs for backpedaling and coasting.
What is a freewheel hub on a BMX bike?
A freewheel hub on a BMX bike is a type of flip-flop hub that is threaded to accept fixed cogs and/or freewheels on both sides.
It allows the rider to roll back without pedaling backward, making it easier to perform certain tricks.
BMX hubs come in three basic types – cassette, free coaster, and freewheel, with drivers and freewheels available for all types of BMX bikes.
Do all BMX bikes have the ability to backpedal?
Yes, all BMX bikes have the ability to backpedal, but they do not have a reverse gear so pedaling backwards will not cause the bike to move in a backwards direction.
Some BMX bikes are equipped with front and rear brakes, while others may only have a rear brake.
Coaster brakes were sometimes used on cheaper chain store bikes in the past, but most BMX bikes did not have them.
What is a coaster brake on a BMX bike?
A coaster brake on a bike is a braking system that is set in motion by pedaling backward. It is commonly found on kids bikes and adult cruiser-style bicycles, but not on technical bikes such as mountain bikes or road bikes.
Coaster brakes are activated by pedaling backwards and the harder you pedal, the more braking power is applied.
They are sometimes referred to as backpedal brakes. Coaster brakes are often found on kids’ bikes instead of hand brakes due to their ease of use and safety features.
Can I damage my BMX bike pedals by backpedaling too much?
Pedaling backward is generally not bad for BMX bikes, as they have one gear and feature hubs for backpedaling and coasting. However, it can be bad for bikes with multiple gears, like mountain bikes, as it can damage the derailleur.
Backpedaling can also be difficult if the chain is not on a chainring/sprocket combination that is reasonably close to being in the same plane. Corrosion can also cause damage to pedal threads, making them brittle and potentially damaging the bike.
Conclusion and Final Words on BMX Bikes Pedal Backwards
BMX bikes can technically pedal backwards, but they cannot move the rider in a backwards direction as there is no reverse gear. Bar spins involve the rider leaning backwards and spinning the bars with one hand while in the air. To create a bicycle that rolls backwards when pedaling, one could arrange the chain in a figure eight shape.
