
Framed Team 20in BMX Bike
- • Frame: Hi-Ten Steel
• Fork: 1-1/8th Hi-Ten Steel
• Handlebars: Framed Bars 8 x 28in
• Grips: Velo Mushroom 150 mm
• Stem: Framed Alloy Front Load
• Headset: Neco Press in
Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing Your New Framed BMX Bike
BMX bikes are popular for recreation and sport, allowing you to perform tricks, race, or just cruise around. Framed BMX bikes are some of the best in the business, known for their quality construction and performance. This buying guide will provide key information to help you select the perfect Framed BMX bike for your needs and budget.
What are Framed BMX Bikes Known For?
Framed BMX was founded in Minneapolis, MN in 1996 and has grown into one of the most reputable BMX brands. Here’s what makes Framed BMX bikes stand out:
- Quality Construction: Framed uses lightweight, durable materials like 4130 Chromoly steel or 6061 aluminum to create stiff and responsive frames. The parts are name-brand like Sealed bearings hubs and cranks.
- Customizable: You can truly make a Framed BMX your own with the huge selection of color and component options. Build your dream ride from the frame up.
- Performance: Framed bikes are designed by real BMX riders for exceptional handling, stability, and control to help you progress your skills.
- Affordability: While pro-level, Framed BMX bikes are very reasonably priced, especially compared to competing brands. Great for any budget.
- Variety: Whatever BMX discipline you’re into, Framed has a bike for it – street, park, dirt jumps, or flatland. Plus options for men, women and kids.
With their reputation for quality, performance, customization and value, it’s easy to see why Framed BMX bikes have become a favorite for BMX riders across many skill levels and specialties.
How to Choose the Right Framed BMX Bike
Choosing the ideal Framed BMX bike involves considering several key factors:
Bike Type
Framed offers diverse BMX bike types for different riding styles:
- Park/Street: Robust frames and parts for jumping, rails, ramps, and tricks at the skatepark or in urban areas.
- Dirt Jumping: Hardtail frames with suspension forks to handle big jumps and rough terrain. Light and nimble.
- Flatland: Creative flat ground trick bikes with zero cable detanglers for unhindered handlebar spinning.
- Race: Fast race bikes with tall gearing, lightweight frames, and aerodynamic parts to achieve maximum speeds.
Consider how you plan to ride and your terrain to choose the appropriate bike type.
Size
Get the right size Framed BMX to suit your height and age. Size affects control, comfort and proper technique. Framed sizes bikes by wheel diameter:
- 16-inch: Kids ages 3-5
- 18-inch: Kids ages 5-9
- 20-inch: Older kids and adult small
- 21-inch: Adult medium to large
Visit a bike shop to test sizes if unsure. BMX bikes run a bit small.
Frame Material
Framed uses steel or aluminum frames:
- Chromoly Steel: Durable but heavier. Optimal shock absorption. Great value.
- Hi-Ten Steel: Heavier but more affordable steel. Beginner to intermediate option.
- 6061 Aluminum: Lightweight, responsive, and rust-resistant. For experienced riders.
- Alloy: Stronger than aluminum. Found on flatland bikes.
Consider budget, weight, strength and vibration dampening when choosing frame material.
Components
Quality components directly impact the bike’s durability, performance and functionality:
- Wheels – Double-walled alloy rims, sealed bearing hubs and pegs for grinds/stalls
- Cranks – Tubular Chromoly or alloy cranks for stiffness
- Brakes – Reliable u-brakes front and rear
- Drivetrain – Cassette or single speed drivetrains for changing gears
- Tires – Wide street/park tires or dirt jump knobby tires
- Pegs – Steel pegs allow grinds and stall tricks
Aim for sealed, smooth-rolling components even on budget bikes. Upgrade as skills progress.
By dialing in the bike type, size, frame material and components to match your needs and ability level, you’ll be able to select the ideal Framed BMX bike for maximum enjoyment.
Where Can I Buy Framed BMX Bikes?
Here are some of the best places to buy new and pre-owned Framed BMX bikes:
- Local Bike Shops: Support your neighborhood bike shop! Test ride different Framed models and get expert sizing and fitting.
- Framed Website: Order direct from Framed BMX to customize your build and colors. Ships to bike shops or your door.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Dan’s Comp, Albe’s, and J&R Bicycles stock Framed BMX range. Price compare.
- Used Bikes: Save money buying pre-owned Framed BMX bikes from Craiglist, Pinkbike, eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Vet condition carefully.
- Amazon: Select Framed BMX bikes available for convenient shipping through Amazon. Check seller reputation.
For the best prices, selection, and service, visit your local bike shop to find the perfect new or used Framed BMX bike for you.
Are Framed BMX Bikes Good for Beginners?
Absolutely. Here’s what makes Framed BMX bikes a fantastic choice for beginners:
- Affordable Price Points: Aluminum and steel Framed options under $500, ideal as a first BMX bike.
- Quality Parts: Reliable components stand up to new rider use and inevitable crashes.
- Durable Frames: Hi-ten steel or alloy options provide a rigid and strong platform to progress skills.
- Complete Packages: Just add the pedals, no complicated component decisions required.
- Neutral Geometry: Balanced handling instills confidence in new riders getting comfortable on a BMX bike.
- Weight: Heavier than pro bikes which provides stability for learners.
- Upgrade Path: Component specs allow improving the bike as abilities grow.
- Good Resale Value: Framed bikes maintain value when it’s time to upgrade.
Starting out on a quality, affordable Framed BMX bike will set any new rider up for success as they develop their skills in the park, streets or dirt jumps.
What Sizes Are Available for Framed BMX Bikes?
One great perk of Framed BMX is that they offer their bikes in diverse sizes to fit kids, women, and men:
Wheel Sizes
- 16″ wheeled bikes: For young kids 3-5 years old around 36-44″ tall.
- 18″ wheeled bikes: For kids ages 5-9 years old or 42-52″ tall.
- 20″ wheeled bikes: Older kids and adults 52-6′ tall. Most common BMX wheel size.
- 21″ wheeled bikes: For taller adult riders 5’8″ and above.
Frame Sizes
Within each wheel size, Framed has frame sizes to get the perfect fit:
- 16″ bikes: One compact kids frame size
- 18″ bikes: One mid-size kids frame
- 20″ bikes: Three frame sizes – 16″, 18″, 20″
- 21″ bikes: Two large frame sizes – 19.5″ and 21″
With multiple wheel and frame sizes available, riders of all ages will be able to find the ideal sized Framed BMX bike to suit their height and age as they progress in the sport.
How to Maintain a Framed BMX Bike?
Framed BMX bikes are built incredibly tough but still require regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity:
- Clean Often: Use bike cleaner and rags to remove dirt and grime after each ride to prevent component wear. Hose entire bike off monthly.
- Lube the Chain: Keep the chain lubed with wet lube to prevent rust and reduce friction. Reapply every few rides.
- Check Tire Pressure: Inflate tires to the PSI rating on the sidewall. Top up air pressure before each ride.
- Inspect Tires: Replace excessively worn tires with cuts and bald spots which indicate aging rubber.
- Brake Adjustment: Re-center brake pads when they start rubbing the rims. Keep brakes tuned up.
- Check Bolts: Ensure all bolts on the frame, components and axles are tight before every ride.
- Suspension Service: For bikes with suspension forks, follow the manufacturer’s service intervals.
With regular cleaning, lubricating and parts inspection, a Framed BMX bike will deliver miles of fun while withstanding daily abuse of tricks and jumps.
What is the Weight of a Typical Framed BMX Bike?
Most Framed BMX bikes weigh between 25 to 30 pounds, depending on the size, frame material and components.
Here’s the typical weight range by BMX category:
- Race BMX Bikes: 25-28 lbs – Light and rigid for acceleration
- Freestyle/Jump Bikes: 28-30 lbs – Stronger for big air
- Flatland Bikes: 25-27 lbs – Moderately light for spin tricks
Heavier riders may need 36 spoke wheels and other reinforced components which can add 1-2 lbs.
Chromoly steel frames like the Framed Sleeper weigh in around 30 pounds whereas aluminum frames like the Framed Circuit shave off several pounds for a lighter 25 pound bike.
While not as featherlight as high end pro BMX race bikes, Framed bike weights are very reasonable for the price. Plus the extra heft adds stability which most riders appreciate.
How to Customize a Framed BMX Bike?
One of the coolest things about Framed is the ability to fully customize your BMX build. You have options to tailor it to your style and riding needs:
- Pick Frame Material: Chromoly steel, Hi-Ten steel, 6061 aluminum or alloy
- Select Size: Wheel size plus different frame sizes
- Choose Geometry: Top tube lengths to tweak bike handling
- Upgrade Components: Start with a frameset only and hand pick parts like wheels, cranks, handlebars, etc.
- Custom Colors: Select the frame and component colors for your dream color scheme. Even customize the logos!
- Add Accessories: Pegs, axle pegs, bash guards, rotors, chains, pedals, pads and grips. Make it your own!
From colors to parts, you can individualize your perfect Framed BMX bike. Build it once or modify it over time as your skills progress. The possibilities are endless!
What Materials Are Used in Framed BMX Bikes?
Framed BMX constructs their bikes from quality materials built to withstand hardcore riding. Here’s an overview:
Frame Materials
- 4130 Chromoly steel: The gold standard – lightweight and strong. Dampens vibration well for a smooth ride. Used for race, street and park bikes.
- Hi-Ten steel: Affordable steel alloy option – thick tubing, more flex and heavier. Seen on complete beginner bikes.
- 6061 Aluminum: The lightest and snappiest material used on pro-level frames. Sensitivity requires experience.
- Alloy: Stronger than aluminum. Mainly used on flatland bike frames to resist cracking.
Component Materials
- Forged Alloy: Strong crank arms, bars, stems, rims and more are constructed from sturdy alloys.
- Heat Treated Chromoly: Pegs, spindle bolts and handlebars undergo heat strengthening for added toughness.
- Hi-Tensile Steel: Frame dropouts, hub axles and bolts are made of rigid high-tensile steel.
- Nylon Composite: Durable yet lightweight pedal bodies and pegs made of nylon.
- Rubber: Soft rubber tires with grippy tread patterns anddensity options from wire bead to folding.
Framed uses the ideal materials in each bike part – designed to withstand hardcore riding session after session.
Are Framed BMX Bikes Suitable for Racing?
Framed offers a specific line of Framed BMX race bikes that are optimized for competing on BMX race tracks:
- Lightweight 6061 aluminum frames with race geometry – short chainstays, 75.5° headtube angle, and low BB for quick acceleration.
- 10″ frame heights fit the UCI regulations for track racing.
- Race tires up to 2.4″ wide for straight line speed. Options for slicks or mini knobs.
- Direct mount top pull brakes for fast stops and handling.
- Race saddle with fitness positioning.
- Alloy rims and hubs built for the demands of sprinting.
While not as high-end as elite pro race bikes, Framed BMX race bikes have the right specs for amateur racing at an affordable price point. Ideal for juniors to adult categoriesto get into competitive BMX racing and improve lap times.
What is the Price Range for Framed BMX Bikes?
Framed offers exceptional value across all their BMX models. Here’s what to expect:
Entry Level – $200 to $500
- Hi-ten steel beginner bikes
- 20″ and 24″ wheel sizes
- Single speed or 6-speed drivetrains
Mid Range – $500 – $800
- Chromoly steel or aluminum frames
- Sealed bearing wheelsets
- Custom color and component options
Pro Level – $800 – $1500+
- 6061 Racing aluminum frames
- Aftermarket branded components
- Integrated headsets
- Custom geometry
While prices can exceed $1500 for highly customized builds, most Framed bikes fall in the affordable entry and mid-range. Compared to other brands, you get better components and materials at each price point from Framed.
How to Assemble a Framed BMX Bike?
Framed BMX bikes come 90% assembled out of the box. Here’s how to get your new Framed bike ready to shred in a few quick steps:
- Attach front wheel to the fork and secure with axle bolts
- Install handlebars into stem and tighten stem bolts
- Add pedals to the crank arms (pedals sold separately)
- Ensure saddle and seat post are tightened securely
- Inflate tires to pressure marked on the tire sidewall
- Check all nuts and bolts are tightened properly
- Make any adjustments needed to brake pads
- Test ride checking for proper braking and shifting
Refer to the included owner’s manual for specific details on assembly and adjustments for your model. Or visit your local bike shop and have them complete the final assembly and tuning.
What Are the Best Accessories for Framed BMX Bikes?
Personalize your Framed BMX bike with cool upgrades! Here are must-have accessories:
- Pegs – For grinds and stalls. Add front and rear axle pegs.
- Bar Ends – Grippy bar ends enhance control and provide protection from handlebar crashes.
- Gyro Kit – Allows barspins by preventing cables from winding with a detangler mechanism.
- Rotors – Larger brake rotors boost braking power for bigger air.
- ** bash Guard** – Covers the sprocket to prevent chain drops and protect the chainring.
- Hub Guards – These rings shield hubs and extend cassette life.
- GPX Bottom Bracket – Sealed bearing mid BB for smooth, reliable performance.
- Bar Pads – Protect hands and allow learning barspins/tailwhips with slip resistance.
- Steel Sprocket – Upgrade to a strong 25T or 28T steel driver sprocket.
Make your Framed BMX uniquely yours with must-have accessories to match your riding style!
Can Framed BMX Bikes Be Used for Tricks?
Framed BMX bikes are designed for tricks! Both their freestyle and flatland bikes are built to handle the impacts and abuse that comes along with progressing your skills at the skatepark, streets or flat ground:
- Durable Frame Materials – Hi-ten steel and chromoly frames can withstand harsh landings. Alloy resists cracking on flatland bikes.
- Sealed Components – Sealed wheel bearings and mid bottom brackets stand up to constant grinding.
- Landing Gear Geometry – Steeper headtube angles, shorter rear ends and low BB height make landing tricks easier.
- Snappy Handling – Responsive frames and parts help riders maneuver quickly into tricks like tailwhips.
- Grippy Tires – Wide freestyle tires or street tires with specially formulated rubber sticks to smooth concrete.
- Pegs Included – Trick bikes come with front and rear pegs standard for perfect grinds right away.
Framed freestyle and flatland bikes are designed to progress and land new tricks session after session!
How Durable Are Framed BMX Bikes?
Framed BMX bikes have a well-earned reputation for taking abuse and delivering years of reliable performance. Here’s why Framed bikes are so tough:
- Proprietary Heat-Treating – Frames and components undergo special heat treatment for additional strength.
- Multi-Butted Tubing – Frame tubes are triple butted 2.5mm/1.6mm/2.5mm for the best thickness in high stress areas.
- Forged and CNC Parts – Elements like crank arms, stems, and rims are forged or CNC machined from solid chunks of alloy.
- Integrated Headsets – Integrated headset design eliminates cup loosening by pressing the cups into the frame.
- Reinforced Deck Plates – Deck plates around the headset undergo additional reinforcement to withstand compressions.
- Quality Welding – All frames are TIG welded by skilled welders for smooth strong joints.
- Warranty Coverage – Most models have a lifetime frame and one year component warranty.
Thanks to premium construction techniques and components, Framed BMX frames and parts will keep performing season after season.
What Are the Popular Models of Framed BMX Bikes?
Within their BMX range, these Framed models stand out as perennial favorites:
Sleeper
The iconic Sleeper features a full 4130 Chromoly frame and fork primed for custom builds. Available in 20″ and 21″ wheel sizes.
Observatory
This street and park shredder has a sturdy hi-ten steel frame to handle big tricks on a budget.
Legion
Built of 6061 aluminum with an integrated headtube, the Legion is a featherlight yet durable flatland bike.
Circuit
Chromoly front triangle meets alloy rear end on this dialed pro-level park bike for popping huge airs.
Impact XL
Big and tall riders love the 21″ Impact XL. Full chromoly with extra long toptube for maximum stability.
Prewitt
The Prewitt race bike has an ultra stiff hydroformed alloy race frame to maximize gate speed and handling.
Framed offers diverse models tailored to all riding styles – find the right one for your type of riding!
Are Framed BMX Bikes Easy to Repair?
One advantage of Framed is that their bikes are designed to be user-serviceable. Here’s what makes repairs and upgrades easy:
- Standard Parts – Framed uses standard BMX parts so replacements are easy to find. No proprietary components.
- Basic Tools – Only basic metric tools needed for adjustments and replacing most components.
- Bolt-on Parts – Majority of parts like wheels, bars, cranks, etc. are bolted on for simple swap out.
- Open Frame Access – BMX frames offer wide open access which allows working on internal parts like headsets and bottom brackets.
- Common Bottom Brackets – Mid type sealed bearing bottom brackets can be purchased anywhere.
- Basic Drivetrains – Single speed or cassette hubs mean fewer complex components and adjustments.
- Part Availability – As a major brand, Framed parts and upgrades can be ordered online.
- Friendly Geometry– Relaxed frame angles provide clearance for tools when working on bikes.
Thanks to logical construction and reputable components, Framed BMX bikes can be easily maintained at home or upgraded as skills progress.
How to Adjust the Brakes on a Framed BMX Bike?
Keeping your Framed BMX brakes tuned for optimum stopping power only requires a few key adjustments:
1. Center the brake pads – Loosen the pad bolts and slide each pad equally outward until centered on the rim braking surface.
2. Toe-in pads – Angle pads slightly to make first contact at the front tip when braking. Stops squealing.
3. Equal pad tension – Turn in each pad bolt until they make even contact with the rim with no twisting.
4. Align the caliper – On rear u-brakes, verify the caliper body is parallel to the frame for straight braking.
5. Replace worn pads – Check pad thickness and swap pads under 2mm thick for fresh ones front and rear.
6. Clean rims – Dirty rims greatly reduce stopping power. Keep rim sidewalls clean with isopropyl alcohol.
Adjusting and maintaining your brakes ensures you can slow down quickly and safely when landing big tricks and jumps!
What is the Warranty on Framed BMX Bikes?
Framed stands behind their bikes with one of the best warranties in BMX:
- Lifetime Frame Warranty: Covers any manufacturer defects on the frame and forks. Includes paint and finish.
- One Year Component Warranty: Covers defects on OEM parts like wheels, drivetrain, brakes, etc. Normal wear not covered.
- 60 Day Fit & Finish Warranty: Includes assembly flaws, painting defects and missing parts on new bikes.
To enact the warranty, contact Framed or your bike shop with photos of the damage/defects. Framed reviews and repairs/replaces warrantied issues at no cost.
The comprehensive Framed BMX warranty provides peace of mind that any manufacturing defects will be corrected so you can keep shredding worry-free. Read the full terms on their website.
How to Clean a Framed BMX Bike Properly?
Regular cleaning keeps a Framed BMX bike running smoothly and looking fresh. Here’s how to wash it safely:
- Use a bucket of water with a small amount of dish soap – avoid high pressure water.
- Gently wipe down the entire frame with a soft rag.
- Scrub dirty components with a brush and rinse with the soapy water.
- Wipe stanchions of suspension forks with an oil-dampened cloth.
- Carefully rinse water into hard to reach areas like headtube or dropouts.
- Dry the bike with a towel – don’t let water air dry.
- Lubricate the chain after cleaning to displace water.
- Spray a silicon protectant like Armor-Dilloz on the frame.
- Avoid using degreasers which strip lubrication from components.
With proper cleaning techniques, your Framed BMX bike will continue performing at its best ride after ride.
Conclusion
From materials and sizing to warranty coverage, this guide covers everything to select the ideal Framed BMX bike for your style and budget. Their affordable quality across BMX disciplines makes Framed one of the top choices for new and experienced riders. Use this advice to pick your perfect Framed ride to start progressing today!