Guide to Assembling a Complete BMX

When purchasing a complete BMX bike, you’ll find that most components are pre-assembled. However, to fit it into a manageable box, the handlebars, pedals, and front wheel will be separate.

Following the video instructions and the guidelines below makes it simple to put together your complete BMX bike. Soon enough, your new ride will be ready!

Building the bike provides an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with it. For keen BMX riders, there's nothing quite like giving your new bike some attention before embarking on your first ride.

If you’re hesitant about assembling it yourself or lack previous experience, taking it to an expert shop is strongly advised.

Essential Tools for Assembling a Complete BMX Bike

Only a few tools are necessary to begin.

Allen keys
Wrenches
15 mm open-ended wrench for pedals
Air pump

Explore our range of BMX Tools - We have exactly what you require!

Unboxing and Step-by-Step Assembly of a Complete BMX

Start by removing all plastic and foam, and unpack everything, ensuring nothing is missing from the box.

Initial assembly stage

Apply grease to the pedal bolts.
Determine the left and right pedals.
Rotate the right pedal clockwise - secure with a wrench.
Twist the left pedal anticlockwise - tighten thoroughly with a wrench.
Loosen the stem bolts.
Detach the stem faceplate.
Grease the stem bolts.
Position the handlebar.
Place the faceplate onto the stem, ensuring the knurled section of the handlebar is centred within the stem.
Tighten the stem bolts in a criss-cross pattern – at this point, it’s not necessary to fully secure the faceplate.
Loosen the top cap/compression bolt using an Allen key.
Align the handlebars with the fork.

Next, it’s time to fit the front wheel:

Almost completely unscrew the front axle nuts to allow space for the fork dropouts.
Secure the nuts by hand.
Fully tighten the nuts with a wrench.
Insert the BMX seat into the seat tube; greasing the inside of the clamping area may make future seat post removal easier.
Tighten the seat clamp with an Allen key.

Once the seat is fitted, adjust the handlebars and fork alignment while sitting on the bike. This facilitates perfect adjustments:

Align the bar with the fork – use the front wheel as a guide.
Secure the top cap/compression bolt with an Allen key.
Complete the tightening of the stem following a criss-cross pattern, always tightening the bolt diagonally opposite to the one just tightened.
Ensure there’s an even gap between the stem faceplate and the stem itself – even tightening of the faceplate is crucial.

Before hitting the road, conduct a final check:

Inspect the chain - if it moves over 2 centimetres, it’s too loose – rectify by loosening the wheel and pulling it backwards until the chain is suitably tight.
Ensure all nuts and bolts are securely fastened.
Inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure (noted in PSI on the tyre's side).
Remove the valve cap and attach the pump.
Inflate the tyre and replace the valve cap.
Repeat on the other wheel.
You’re now ready to go!

Check out our complete range of BMX Bikes.

For more detailed brake installation instructions, visit: How to Install a BMX Brake.