When calling your local track, you'll probably want to ask a few questions:

• What time are your sign-ups and practice?

• What time do you begin racing?

• How much will it cost to begin racing?

Once you know where to go racing, there is a simple checklist to go down in order to make sure your bike is safe & ready for the track:

• Make sure all bolts are tight - especially your axle bolts and stem bolts.

• All reflectors must be removed for safety purposes.

• If your bike has a kickstand, it must be taken off.

• Your bike requires three pads - a) covering the crossbar of your handlebars b) covering the handlebar stem (or gooseneck) and c) on the top tube of your frame.

• You'll also need a number plate. Most tracks will supply you with a plate when you sign up. If not, a simple pie plate will do just fine.

Next, there's the checklist of what you will need to wear in order to race. When you first start out racing BMX, think cheap. You don't need a fancy uniform - jeans and a long sleeve shirt will do.

• Long sleeve shirt.

• Long pants.

• A helmet. Most tracks have “loaner” helmets for beginners to use.

• Sneakers