BMX Cables and Hoses

A minimalist cable setup

The BMX has neither derailleur nor gears: its cable setup usually consists of just the rear brake cable, which connects the lever to the caliper. In racing, this brake is mandatory in competitions. In freestyle, many riders even ride brakeless, without a brake, to lighten the bike and free the handlebars, but the brake is highly recommended for beginners and in street riding.

The drivetrain

The BMX drivetrain also comes in different forms:

• Chains, Sprockets and Freewheels.
• Sprockets.
• Cranks.

All the drivetrain information is gathered on the drivetrain page.

Turning the handlebars freely

To perform barspins, tricks where the handlebars rotate 360 degrees, a traditional cable would get tangled around the stem. The rotor, or gyro, solves this issue: mounted under the stem, it splits the cable into two strands that follow the rotation without tangling. Another solution is stems and forks with internal cable routing, allowing for a setup with a single housing.

Installation and adjustment

We choose a linear housing, with longitudinal strands that do not compress for a firm braking feel, and a polished stainless steel cable that slides without friction. We cut the housing to the right length, without sharp angles, attach the ends, and then adjust the tension with the lever knob until the pads bite right from the start of the pull. We regularly check the cable for wear.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a brake necessary on a freestyle BMX?

Many riders ride brakeless to lighten the bike and free the handlebars, but a rear brake is highly recommended for beginners and in street riding. In racing, the rear brake is mandatory in competitions.

What is the purpose of a rotor on a BMX?

The rotor splits the brake cable into two cables connected to a bearing under the stem. It allows the handlebars to rotate 360 degrees for barspins without tangling the cable or losing braking function.

How do you route the brake cable through the stem?

Some stems and forks are drilled to allow the cable to pass through the centre of the headset. This solution, simpler than a rotor, also allows complete rotation of the handlebars, provided you leave enough length of housing.

What type of housing should be chosen for a BMX brake?

A low-friction housing, cut to the right length and without too tight curves, ensures firm and precise braking. Linear housings, popular in BMX, compress little and accurately transfer the lever's effort.

When should the brake cable on a BMX be replaced?

It should be replaced as soon as it frays near the lever or caliper, rusts, or if the lever becomes stiff. A new cable will stretch a little at first: a new tension adjustment is required after a few rides.