Building a BMX isn't just about the frame, wheels, and handlebars. The parts in between - the sprocket driving your chain, the seat you're sitting on, the helmet on your head, the gloves on your hands - those things matter too. A lot, actually.
At Billet BMX, we stock the full range. Whether you're putting together a new build, replacing worn-out parts, or just filling in the gaps on a bike you've had for a while, this is a good place to start.
BMX Sprockets - More Than Just a Chain Ring
The bmx sprocket is what transfers power from your cranks to your rear wheel. It sounds simple, and in one way it is. But the size and material of your sprocket affects how your bike feels to ride more than most people expect.
Most freestyle riders run a 25 tooth sprocket. It's a good middle ground - enough mechanical advantage for pedaling around but small enough to clear the ground on grounds and manuals. Some street riders go smaller, running 23t or 24t for a tighter, more responsive feel. Race setups often run larger sprockets for more speed on the straight.
Material matters too. Aluminum sprockets - especially 7075 or 6061 alloy - are lighter than steel and hold up better over time. CNC machined aluminum gives you tighter tolerances, which means better chain alignment and less slop in the drivetrain.
A sprocket that's worn out or bent throws your chain line off, causes skipping, and makes pedaling feel inconsistent. If your chain is jumping or you're noticing play where there shouldn't be any, the sprocket is usually the first thing worth checking.
BMX Seats and Saddles - Comfort Matters More Than You Think
A bmx bike seat doesn't get much attention until it starts causing problems. A seat that's too hard, too soft, too wide, or mounted at the wrong height can actually affect how you ride - especially during longer sessions or technical street work where you're shifting your weight constantly.
BMX seats - also called bmx saddles - come in a few basic styles. Pivotal seats are the most common on modern builds. They attach to a single-bolt pivotal post, which makes height and angle adjustments quick and easy. Railed seats use a traditional two-rail system and seat clamp, which gives you more adjustment range.
For freestyle and street riding, a slim, minimal saddle works best. It stays out of the way when you're spinning bars or throwing tricks. For BMX race builds, a slightly more padded seat makes long training sessions more manageable without adding much weight.
The seat post matters too. Getting the right diameter for your frame and a post that clamps down properly keeps everything locked in position through rough landings and hard sessions.
BMX Helmets - The One Part You Don't Compromise On
A good bmx helmet is the most important piece of kit you can own. Not the most exciting purchase, but the most important one.
The two main options are open face and full face. Open face helmets - the classic skate-style low-pro shape - are what most park and street riders use for everyday sessions. They're lighter, cooler in warm weather, and give you better peripheral vision. For casual riding, flatland, or beginner sessions, they're a solid choice.
Full face helmets add a chin bar, which matters a lot if you're riding a race, doing aggressive dirt jumps, or spending time on fast-moving setups where a face-first fall is a real possibility. They're heavier and warmer, but the protection difference is significant.
BMX Gloves - Small Addition, Real Difference
BMX gloves are one of those things most new riders skip until they've had one bad fall on bare hands. After that, most of them don't ride without gloves again.
The palm is where it matters most. When you fall, your hands hit the ground first. A thin layer of reinforced material between your palm and the concrete makes a real difference to how bad that landing feels. Most riding gloves use a suede or clarino palm that's durable, grippy, and thin enough that you still have full bar feel.
Beyond protection, gloves help with grip during long sessions. Sweaty hands on rubber grips get slippery. A good pair of gloves solves that without adding any bulk.
Putting It All Together
If you're building out a complete setup or upgrading several parts at once, it helps to think about things in groups. Drivetrain parts sprocket, chain, cog work together, so replacing one often means checking the others. Protective gear helmet, gloves, pads should all be sized and fitted properly before you ride.
For a full breakdown of how to build or upgrade a BMX from scratch, our BMX build guide covers the order most riders follow and what to prioritize first. And if you're shopping for multiple parts at once, the full Billet BMX parts range has everything in one place which is exactly what a dedicated bmx shop should offer. No hunting across five different sites for compatible parts. Just everything you need, from people who actually ride.
FAQs
Q: What size BMX sprocket do most freestyle riders run?
Most freestyle BMX riders run a 25 tooth sprocket with a 25x9 chain. Some street riders go smaller at 23t or 24t for a tighter feel and better ground clearance on grinds.
Q: Do I need a full face helmet for BMX riding?
For race and aggressive park riding, full face helmets are strongly recommended. For casual street or flatland sessions, a certified open face BMX helmet works well.
Q: Are BMX gloves worth it for street and park riding?
Yes. BMX gloves protect your palms during falls and improve grip on the bars during long sessions. Most riders who try them regularly don't go back to riding without them.
