Must-Have BMX Accessories for Every Rider

BMX riding isn’t just a sport—it’s an expression of skill, creativity, and, sometimes, pure guts. Every serious rider knows that having the right setup can make or break a session. But it’s not just about the bike. The right accessories can be the difference between a smooth ride and a rough day. Some add safety, some boost comfort, and some just make the whole experience better. Whether you’re hitting the park, the trails, or the streets, these accessories will keep you rolling strong.

Safety First: Gear That Keeps You in One Piece

Riding BMX isn’t about playing it safe, but it is about riding smart. If you’re going to push your limits, you need to protect yourself while doing it.

Helmet

This one’s non-negotiable. A BMX helmet isn’t the same as a road bike helmet—it’s built for impact, designed to take hard hits and keep your head safe. Look for one that sits snug, covers the back of your head properly, and has solid ventilation. A good helmet should feel like a natural part of your gear, not a bulky afterthought.

Pads and Guards

• Knee and shin guards – These will save your legs from painful pedal slams.
• Elbow pads – If you’re learning new tricks, expect to land on these a lot.
• Gloves – Not just for grip but also to keep your hands from getting shredded if you take a spill.

Mouthguard

Not just for boxers. A mouthguard protects your teeth, but it also reduces the risk of concussions by absorbing some of the impact from a fall. If you ride hard, it’s worth using.

Comfort and Control: Gear That Helps You Ride Longer

No one wants to cut a session short because their hands are raw or their feet keep slipping. These accessories help you keep control and stay comfortable.

Grips

The right grips make a huge difference. Too soft, and they wear out too fast. Too hard, and your hands will hate you. Lock-on grips are great for riders who hate them slipping, but some still swear by traditional slide-ons.

Pedals

Metal or plastic? Metal gives you crazy grip but will shred your shins if you slip. Plastic is lighter and still offers good grip, plus it doesn’t gouge ledges and rails. Either way, get pedals with solid pins to keep your feet where they should be.

Shoes

BMX-specific shoes have stiffer soles to handle impacts and give better pedal feel. If you ride street, look for ones with extra ankle support. Trails and park riders might prefer thinner soles for more board feel.

Tools and Maintenance: Keep Your Bike Running Right

If your bike isn’t dialed in, you’re asking for trouble. A loose chain, a wobbly wheel, or weak brakes can turn a fun session into a frustrating mess.

Multi-Tool

A solid BMX multi-tool should include:

• Allen keys (most BMX parts use these)
• A socket wrench for axle bolts
• A spoke wrench for quick wheel truing
• A chain breaker for emergency fixes

Chain Tensioner

If your chain keeps getting loose, a tensioner will keep it tight. A slipping chain can lead to nasty falls, so this small accessory is worth its weight in gold.

Peg Wax

If you ride street, you know that not all ledges are created equal. Wax helps keep your grinds smooth and consistent. Just don’t overdo it—there’s a difference between helping and ruining a spot.

Performance Boosters: Accessories That Make Riding Better

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a huge difference. These are the extras that fine-tune your ride and keep things feeling right.

Bar Ends

Ever slammed your bars into your stomach or caught your shin on the exposed end? Metal bar ends are dangerous, and plastic ones wear out. The best option is solid nylon or rubberized bar ends that won’t crack on impact.

Seat Clamp Quick-Release

If you switch between riding styles, a quick-release seat clamp lets you adjust your seat height fast. Keep it low for tricks, raise it for pedaling longer distances.

Spoke Covers or Wheel Stickers

These don’t just add style—they make your bike stand out, which is helpful if you ride in a crowded park. Plus, they can protect your spokes from small dings.

Tech and Storage: BMX Beyond the Ride

BMX isn’t just about riding—it’s about keeping your gear ready, capturing sessions, and making sure your bike is always good to go.

Bike Bag

A solid bike bag is a must if you travel to ride. It keeps your bike safe and makes it easier to bring on planes, in cars, or even just for storing it at home.

Action Camera Mount

Riders are always looking for new ways to capture clips. Helmet mounts are great for POV shots, but frame mounts or chest mounts give a different angle. If you’re filming clips for social media or edits, a stable mount is key.

Phone Holder and Power Bank

Street riders especially know the struggle of checking maps for new spots. A solid phone mount lets you keep your phone handy for navigation or filming. And if you’re using your phone for filming or GPS, a power bank keeps it from dying mid-session.

Extra Style: Because BMX is About Personality Too

Riding BMX isn’t just about performance—it’s also about how you express yourself.

Frame Stickers and Decals

Custom stickers can turn a basic frame into something unique. Some riders go full custom with wraps, while others just add small touches like logo stickers, name tags, or inside jokes only their crew gets.

Colored Chains and Tires

A small color change can completely change the look of a bike. Colored tires, a unique chain, or even anodized bolts add a personal touch without affecting performance.

Handlebar Tassels (Yes, Really)

Okay, maybe not for everyone, but some riders throw on wild bar decorations just for fun. Whether it’s tassels, tiny bells, or something unexpected, BMX has always been about breaking rules. Why not throw a little chaos into the mix?

Final Thoughts

BMX is more than just riding—it’s about feeling connected to your bike and making it your own. The right accessories won’t just make your bike look better, they’ll help you ride longer, safer, and with more confidence. Whether you’re upgrading grips, adding protective gear, or tweaking your setup, every small change can make a big impact.

At the end of the day, the best BMX setup is the one that feels right for you. Keep pushing, keep riding, and keep making it yours.