LUXBMX Blog

Stocking Fillers!

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 15 December 2020  

Stocking fillers from LUXBMX this Christmas 

With Christmas just around the corner, LUXBMX is gearing up for another big year getting all the Christmas bikes out the door and in time for your Christmas morning. We know this time of the year can be tricky when it comes to getting all the right stocking filler and last-minute gifts before the big day we have made it a little easier for you. We have made it a little easier for you putting together a collection of bits and pieces for some last-minute gift ideas. 

See the stoke on Christmas morning with some Brock Radford signature Odyssey grip’s in more colours then you could ever need! LUXBMX has you covered when it comes to grips and so don’t miss out! 

For all those rainy days locked in the house during Australias wetter months, get your hands on this Fast and Loose DVD with team rider Cody Pollard plus many more local and foreign riders, filmed all over the world this is a must-have for all young shredders this Christmas.

Being riders ourselves we know what every young shredder actually needs this Christmas is a multi-tool and we have just that. Our very own LUXBMX tool kit comes with a 15mm pedal wrench, 5mm/6// double-sided Allen key, 15mm, 17mm and 19mm socket bits and a socket extension to suit riders with pegs. 

Last but not least no Christmas stocking is completed without a few stickers from your favourite brands including; Federal, Colony, BSD, Fitbike Co.  

From all of us here at LUXBMX have a Merry Christmas and if you have any questions contact us here.

Christmas Shipping Cut-offs 2020

Author: Mitch   Date Posted: 9 December 2020  

Need it for Christmas? 

We will be shipping orders right up until Thursday 24 December - but if you want to ensure you have your order in time for Christmas Day, these are our guaranteed order cut-offs for Express Post:

• 2pm (AEST) Friday 18 December - for postcodes in the National Express Network
• 2pm (AEST) Tuesday 15 December - all other locations (see below for a complete list and a detailed breakdown by postcode).

Important: Please consider either marking your parcel as Signature Not Required (you can select this option at the checkout), or allow an additional day in case the parcel cannot be delivered as no-one is home to sign, and you need to go to the post office the next day to collect it. 

 What happens if your parcel doesn't arrive in time? 

If you choose Express Post, order by the times/dates specified above, and your parcel does not arrive by Tuesday 24 December 2019, we will provide a credit for the value of the Express Post charge you paid on your order.  Just email us at help@luxbmx.com to let us know. 

Regular Post

We cannot provide any guarantees around Regular Post, as the system can be pretty busy at this time of year! So if you need it for Christmas and it's getting close, we definitely recommend choosing Express Post.

Bike Delivery

Bike delivery times can vary greatly depending on location. While most metro areas will receive bikes within 2-6 business days some regional areas can take much longer. Please get in contact with us if you need a delivery date estimate at help@luxbmx.com

DETAILED EXPRESS POST CUT OFF GUIDE:

LUXBMX's Custom BMX bikes!

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 25 November 2020  

Custom Bikes rolling out the door

When you started riding you probably rode something that came as a complete bike, it might have been from Kmart or Target and it probably isn't going to last. If it wasn't a new bike it could very well be second-hand parts that you got from a sibling or a friend, and when your at the park it's a good time to see some new parts you might want to get on your bike. A few years have passed and you’re ready to upgrade your bike again but this time you know what you want and you want it built properly. Here at LUXBMX we offer over 10,000 awesome bmx products and have a bunch of rad bmx riding mechanics that know how to make your bike feel and look the way you want it. This week we have built up some pretty epic looking customs, some of which are still available on the website! 

See these good looking bikes below, starting with Brandon Luopos's signature Hyper Lunatic custom.   

  

  

 

  

 

Freestyle BMX vs BMX Racing- Whats the difference?

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 24 November 2020  

BMX race Vs BMX freestyle 

When buying a bike for someone or for yourself you should ask “what are you going to be using it for?” When it comes to bmx there are a few different disciplines that will dictate how your bike is set up to ride. There are two main variations when it comes to a BMX bike, freestyle or racing. 

LUXBMX Team Rider Boyd Hilder On his Freestyle BMX bike

Bmx freestyle bikes have really changed over the past 20 years originating from BMX racing freestyle began to take flight and doing tricks changed the way the frames were built, the materials they were made from and the sizes of the tubing. As freestyle BMX further dissected into sub-genres bikes changed again, they were more specifically built for flat land, street, dirt and skatepark riding. The race bikes became much lighter due to the materials and technology developing as the years went on. More modern designed frames added power to ground which is ultimately what these bikes are built for. 

LUXBMX team rider Tristan Scott getting out of the gate first!

Bruce morris is a bmx racer/rider/lifer and knows bmx race bikes better than most with over 40 years of BMX racing experience under his belt. Bruce and Dale sit down to give you the main things to think about before you buy a bike for your self or someone else this Christmas time. 

See the full video below

RAW AETERNA SESSIONS

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 4 November 2020  

Denby Chandler- The Raw Clips

A little over 5 years ago we proposed the idea of adding Toowoomba native Denby Chandler to the LUXBMX team and shortly after got underway in filming for our first full-length Aeterna. After meeting more of the Brisbane BMX scene and making the move to Brisbane after a few injuries, Denby’s destructive power on his bike became more apparent to the BMX riders of Brisbane. From the first clip, he filmed through to the last Denby put 110% IN every time he went to toe to toe with whatever spot was in front of him. Travelling around Australia and being shown some of the best spots our country has to offer, Denby took full advantage and got to work in a mad trance. As Denby collected clips with Mike it became apparent he wasn’t playing around and the spots got bigger and bigger.    

The more Denby filmed the more everyone around him realised his high energy and insane BMX prowess. As the DVD deadline got closer Denby turned the burners up once again returning to Botanical Gardens rail time and time again to add more fuel to the fire. One memorable session at the 'Gardens' rail was watching Denby over smith down the one of Brisbane’s best-looking rails, slipping and sliding until he got the clip he wanted.    

As you can imagine Denby’s riding doesn’t come without a few crashes along the way, paired with his antics while out in the streets, enjoy 9 minutes of Denby handling big spots and taking a few spills.

OUT THE BACK! BMX SESSIONS

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 9 October 2020  

Out the Back 

A new playlist on our youtube channel, Out the Back features riders coming and getting in a session “out the back” of LUXBMX. The addition of the new ramp has been something that owner/riders Mitch and Ev have dreamt about for years. Finally, with the new space, there was room to have Jason watts come and build an epic ramp for the boys to shred. 

Last week we had Alex and newly added team rider Josh Dove come through and get in a couple hours on the ramp. Alex shut it down with his signature technical style, powering through some insane combos and putting the work in once again to bring you more hammers! 

See Alex’s Out The Back video here: 

After that your probably wondering “how long did that take?” Alex puts the work in to bring you the insane level of riding and as you can imagine it doesn’t happen without a few slams as well.

See all the attempts and b-sides here: 

Next on the list is Josh Dove, Dovey is the newest to the LUXBMX team and keen to get in and have a rip on the ramp. Josh rides a bike like a rocket ship blasting his Fly Sierra to the moon and back on a regular occasion. Dovey gave the ramp his special touch and the result was epic! 

See Josh shredding out the back here:

Josh spent no time getting work on the ramp and unsurprisingly landed everything pretty much first try.

Here are the raw clips from that morning and a few clips that didn’t make the cut.

See Josh's Raw clips here:

Video Comp Winners

Author: Mitch   Date Posted: 1 October 2020  

When our good friend Chris Lembo approached us with the idea of giving away his old camera gear we knew we had to do something special. The decision to hold a competition to give it away was the obvious choice but we couldn't have predicted how much interest it received and how supportive everyone has been of the competition in general. We were absolutely blown away by the quantity and quality of entries and, to be honest, the task of viewing, organising and judging all of them has been a massive one! We got there in the end and, after much deliberation, we're beyond stoked to announce the winners of the 2020 LUXBMX Video Comp...

Winner - Archie Kenward

It was a tough call to pick a winner from all the amazing entries but in the end, it was Archie Kenward that our judges all agreed on. The edit has an awesome vibe, is perfectly paced, extremely well filmed and creatively makes use of a mix of cameras with some excellent custom animated titles to boot. Archie wins the camera setup and we can't wait to see what he can produce with it in the future.

Runner Up - Finn Maurer

Finn Maurer's entry had one of the most creative concepts of the bunch with the theme being one continuous shot in one location. We'd definitely love to see more like this! Props Finn!

Runner Up - Boris Tribunsky

Boris Tribunsky's edit embodies BMX perfectly and what we think an edit should be. Great vibe, super fun with a bunch of antics. We loved the music and the raw feel.

Massive thanks to anyone that put in the effort to submit a video for the competition. We were blown away by the number of entries and the amount of talent and quality that's out there in the BMX world.

We had so much great feedback from the competition and we can't wait to have some more in the future to celebrate the more creative aspects of BMX. Stay tuned!

Top Sellers- With Dale Hodgson

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 30 September 2020  

Get the right bike for you- With Dale Hodgson

Like all of us here that work at LUXBMX, Dale is just as keen on BMX as you and me. With the new parts that have made their way to market over the past decade, it’s no wonder that picking out a new bike can be a little tricky. Getting the right fitting bike for you is very important and similar to buying new parts, you need to get the right size. 

In this new series, Dale is going to talk us through all the parts on our bikes making sure you understand what all the technical stuff means and why it’s important to pay attention to. Dale starts us off by talking us through LUXBMX’s most popular grips and differences in most grips out there, what makes a good grip and which grips are the longest lasting. 

Focussing on the four of our most popular grips including 

Cult X Vans Flangeless Grip: 

S&M Bikes Hoder Grips

Odyssey Brock Raidford Grips:

ODI Longneck ST:

See the full video below. 

Next up to the grips and an important part of your bikes front end, Dale discusses everything handlebars and what to look for when you are choosing your new set of bars. Have you ever wondered what backsweep, upsweep, height or width refers to and the impacts they make to your riding? Focussing on the Eclat Chocolate bar in both regular clamp size and the newer, larger 25.4 mm clamp and the Federal v2 4pc bars. Dale has all the answers after the jump! 

See the eclat chocolate bars here:

Chocolate Oversize clamp

Federal 4pc V2 Drop bars

See the full video here

Following your front end straight down from your bars will be your stem. Another part of your bike that could be overlooked if you don’t know what’s the right size for you. The ultimate height and “reach” of your handlebars will be determined by your stem. Dale also runs through all the technical terms and lets you know about clamp size in relation to your stem and bar combo. 

See the Wethepeople hydra stem here: 

See the Eclat Domain front load stem here: 

See the full video: 

Holding your front wheel to your bike are your forks, the next piece of the puzzle in the front end. Your forks can make quite a difference to how responsive and “twitchy” your front end will feel. Depending on the type of riding you’ll be doing will determine the type of forks that will be right for you. Dale gives you all the information you need featuring the famous and much loved R series forks from Odyssey. Discussing axel size, offset, steerer tube, and top caps, dale runs you through all the important stuff you’ll need to know when purchasing a new set of forks. 

See the R series forks here:

Odyssey R15: 

Odyssey R25:

Odyssey R32:   

See the full video: 

"Wheres My BIKE?"

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 16 September 2020  

This year LUXBMX has gone through some huge changes being in our new location: the ramp out the back, new staff and new systems to make the shipping process smoother and faster to get your parts and bikes to you quicker with minimal contact. Abiding by the new and ever-changing COVID19 guidelines has been a tricky balancing act. As we have all adjusted and adopted new more streamline processes there has been some (understandable) confusion so hopefully, this will clear everything up.

Denby riding his Sunday Soundwave v3

1. Add to Cart: In Stock.

This one is pretty self-explanatory but this refers to us having the physical product in stock in our warehouse. So in this scenario, this frame will be sent within 24 hours of the order being placed (on average). Basically, that means if you ordered this frame before 12 pm that most likely it will be sent out the same day that you order it. This doesn’t mean that you will receive your frame the same day, but it will be on it’s way!

We always recommend opting for express shipping when possible, so you can get your parts nice and quick!

 

2. Add to Cart: 1-2 Days handling.

“1-2 days handling” refers to the time that it takes to get the frame from an external warehouse to the LUXBMX showroom. In this example, the customer would order the frame from the website, we then transfer the frame from an external warehouse. (The 1-2 days handling refers to this time spent transferring between the warehouses) Once that frame hits our showroom, Sean gets it into a box and then off it goes to your front door.

 

 

3. Notify Me.

We don’t currently have this frame in stock, the “Notify Me” button will send you an email when the frame has been restocked. If you let us know that you want this frame we can either try to order you one (if it’s available) or we can recommend something similar for you. If you are unsure about any of the products we stock, please send us an email so Dale, Jack or Dave (our customer service legends) can get back to you!

 

 

 

4. Stock in Transit.

 

Once you have made your order you will be able to click through to your account on the website. On this page, you can check the status of your order. In this example, the amount owed is $1 and this has not been paid yet. You can pay your balance with the “Pay” button. (Orders must be fully paid before we can ship them out!) It shows the order placed and the date the payment is due. It will also show you the status of your order. As shown in the top right-hand part shown in orange “Stock In Transit”. This refers to your order being transferred from an external warehouse to our showroom in Woolloongabba

 

 

5. The dispatch Email.

 

If you receive an email that looks like this, that means your item has been picked up by the postal/courier service and is en route. Yeeew At this point, you will be given a tracking number from the shipping company and you will be able to track your item from here. (Tracking details may take up to 24 hours to update on the courier’s website)

 

 

 

Boyd Hilder- NEW VIDEO ON THE WAY!

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 15 September 2020  

NEW BOYD HILDER ODYSSEY VIDEO ON THE WAY!

Back to the top

Boyd has been on a mission for the past few years, and despite not being able to travel the good majority of this year, Boyd has been hard at work with Troy Charlesworth working together on a new video for Odyssey that should be due out in the not too distant future. Boyd has been pushing himself and battling some huge set-ups and a diverse amount of spots making sure you will be glued to the screen from start to finish. 

Boyd- double peg. Photo by Tim Storey

This isn’t the first time Boyd and Troy have worked together, back in 2015 Boyd was riding for Mankind and the duo paired up to bring us a first look at Boyds new-age, hybrid style of riding. Covering everything from rails to trails and of course a few of Brisbane and the Gold Coast Skateparks. After this video dropped Boyds mark on the BMX scene was starting to be seen and as the years have gone on Boyd has further refined his style while keeping the same fun attitude to his riding that he has become so well known for.  

During the weekend Boyd and Troy got together to film a few more clips to go towards this new video they are working on. This rail Boyd had in mind on the weekend wasn’t for the faint-hearted a tall steep rail nestled in the heart of the Goldcoast between the two houses in a quiet little suburban street. 

Opposite double peg. Photo- Tim Storey

Boyd rides his signature frame from Federal Bikes. The Boyd ICS2 Frame features: 

Tapered seat stays

Stamped down tube gusset

Removable brake mounts

Head Tube 75.2º

Seat Tube 71º

Chain Stays 13.4” Slammed

Top Tube 21”, 21.2” or 21.5”

Stand Over 9”

BB Height 11.7”

Built with Boyds riding in mind this frame is strong and responsive but offers a size built for the taller riders out there. Coming in matte black and turquoise these frames look the part and handle anything that Boyd throws at it!

What have Mitch and Evan been up to?

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 10 September 2020  

Evan and Mitch started LUXBMX 10 years ago in a little back street in The Valley, but you guys know all that. What you might not know is how things have changed as we have been transitioning into the new space.   

The guys sit down to discuss everything that’s going on inside and out of LUXBMX.

Covering all things new with LUXBMX, the new direction in the showroom, requiring appointments, COVID19, the NEW BACKYARD RAMP and much more. Tune in to our youtube channel and don’t forget to subscribe and click the notification bell.

MY FREECOASTER ISN'T WORKING!

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 7 September 2020  

Fixing your bike can be a real headache and most of the time when it's something more then a simple fix we take it to the bike shop. Luckily for us here at LUXBMX, we have Evan and his endless supply of BMX knowledge. A qualified bicycle mechanic and BMX lifer Ev has just about seen it all. 

In this video, Ev sits down and runs through some common questions, shows you how to troubleshoot reoccurring issues and discusses the importance of greasing your hub. Stay tuned for more informative videos from Ev covering everything BMX!

Weekend Warriors

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 25 August 2020  

The Brisbane BMX scene has been strong for years, fluctuating in popularity over the years there has always been a huge group of talent coming from the great southeast. During the uncertain times that we have been facing some of the QLD team guys have been utilizing the empty parks and centers all over this huge sunny state. Over the past weekend, a few of the guys got together and went “on tour” with Troy Charlesworth behind the lens all weekend and good friend Jason Watts at the wheel of the Fast and Loose bus. Jake Norris, Boyd Hilder, Denby Chandler, Troy and a whole bunch of crew headed to the north side of Brisbane to see what was on offer. With Troy filming for his latest video project “tear the club up” due out some time late this year/early next year, the weekend was set to be a productive one. Starting from when the sun went down on Friday, the fellas headed into the streets, strapped up with cameras and lights they were ready from whatever the night had to through at them. Here are a few looks at some of what went down.

Jake Norris Starting the weekend off on a good looking outrail in Brisbane, Troy capturing the magic. Photo's By Tim Storey

Check out our BSD Pro Bike Builder!

Thesee drains were super fun and Norris made short work of them. Over the barrier to flat, opposite barspin and a table top with ease before filming the real clip.

Norris's Grip of choice- BSD Leezus Grip

Boyd Hilder can ride just about anything. Half Cab from top to bottom.

   

  

Jake Norris - King of Cow Town

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 19 August 2020  

Jake Norris hails from Rockhampton but has been spending more and more time in Brisbane over the years. Traveling in search of newer spots to ride, new people to ride with and a new place to enjoy a beer at the end of the day's riding. Jake has an incredible amount of bike control and can make some of the most technical combos look simple.

Norris Enjoying the sun on stradbroke island. Photo by Cody Webb

Watching Jake handle big setups while remaining calm and collected is something that shines through his riding. The mental battle in riding is something that all riders deal with when they are facing their fears. Hopping onto a bigger rail, jumping a larger set of trails, or doing a trick that has been mentally defeating you for a while at the skate park. These are skills that bmx riders learn from the get-go and Jake is no different. If you haven’t already seen it, Jake featured in our Full-length DVD, "Aeterna" that you can see here:

BSD Soft goods look the goods!

Jake rides for Scottish owned brand BSD, and if you have seen Jake ride you’ll know that his bike can withstand some abuse. Check out his welcome to LUXBMX video here.

Jake runs the BSD safari frame. With a whole bunch of BSD parts that keep him rolling to the next spot, skatepark, or occasional set of trails. See the BSD safari Frame here:

Then watch it get built here:

Don’t forget to subscribe to our Youtube channel as we are creating new content every single day for you guys to enjoy. 

Content Being Created Everyday.

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 11 August 2020  

Being rider owned means we love bikes just as much as you do, which ensures we always have the newest and most up-to-date products on the market. LUXBMX cares about getting the right parts to you so your bike feels as good as it can while your shredding. With an expert team of bike mechanics, and over 40 years of experience between them your ride will be in safe hands at LUXBMX. Browse our website for over 10,000 products and build your perfect bike, upgrade to that new year's model or change up the colour with some little details. LUXBMX has been creating more videos to give you a closer look at the pats your all so interested in. Don't forget to subscribe our youtube channel, new videos are being created everyday and we don't want you guys to miss out.

Don’t forget to make an appointment if your planning on coming to the store, so we can help get you sorted quicker, and back on your bike faster. 

Clint Reynolds Credence/S&M Gear is Rad!

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 10 August 2020  

Clint Reynolds Credence/S&M gear is Awesome! 

From private bowls to epic trails, timeless video parts, and extreme bike control Clint Reynolds has been a figure in BMX for years. Striving toward a similar dream that most BMX riders have at some point. Clint was able to produce frames for his friends and family and beyond. Designed and constructed by him, Clint toiled with the welder until asking FBM to help him produce the frames. With BMX being the unpredictable beast it is Clint decided to slow down on the production of Credence frames and withdrew from working with FBM. Several years later the owner of S&M (Chris Moeller) would call Clint and see if he was interested in manufacturing Credence frames out of S&M as a merger and not a separate company. Thankfully Credence got its lifeline and now Credence frames are available and come in a bunch of brand new colours and geometries and built by one of the oldest BMX companies around. 

Clint has also been able to release a swag of products through Credence/S&M which are all available at LUXBMX today! Shop online or make an appointment to drop instore to get all the new S&M/Creedence gear now! 

Alex Hiam going H.A.M. for the Fans

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 31 July 2020  

It’s no lie that Alex Hiam has become a household name in BMX in Australia and beyond. Winning multiple national and international competitions, a serious contender for the prestigious Vans Pro Cup Series and a Dave Mirra best trick gold medal Alex has cemented his position in BMX. 

Alex reached out to his Instagram followers this week for some fakie tricks he could have a go at, and that’s just what he did. Only having 20 minutes of sunlight left didn’t stop Alex from getting some wild moves done. Watch Alex land some mind-boggling fakie tricks that his fans wanted to see. Do't miss anything from Alex and follow him on Instagram. 

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss great videos like this one!

Win a Pro BMX Filming Setup

Author: Mitch   Date Posted: 20 July 2020  

As long as people have been doing crazy things on bikes others have been documenting it. Filming, BMX and creativity go hand in hand and the process of filming a video part to share with the world can be one of the most rewarding experiences ever.

For the first time ever we're putting the focus on the often under-appreciated heroes of the world, the humble BMX filmer. We want to set one lucky BMX filmer's career on the right track with the chance to win this professional filming setup worth well into the thousands of dollars. Massive thanks to our good friend Chris Lembo for supplying the prize and for the desire to see his equipment put to good use. It's gestures like his that make the BMX community as strong as it is.

The Rules:

The film should obviously be focused on BMX.

Competition is open to anywhere in the world.

Entries should be 3-10 minutes in length.

Include the LUXBMX logo in the edit. Download here: https://www.luxbmx.com/logos

All clips must be filmed by you. No additional filmers.

Videos will be voted based on the following criteria by a panel of judges:

• Camera work
• Creativity
• Editing
• Song choice

You've got until Monday the 24th of August to submit your video. Entries should be emailed to videocomp@luxbmx.com with a download link.

The Prize:

The prize is a complete setup of everything you need to kickstart your BMX filming journey. The prize is a well looked after preowned collection that had been generously supplied by our good friend Chris Lembo. Two runners up will receive $200 in LUXBMX store credit each.

• Panasonic AG-HMC152EN AVCHD Camera
• Opteka Titanium Series 0.3X HD Super Fisheye Lens
• 16X9 HDVSF5X82 Super Fisheye
• Rode NTG2 Shotgun Microphone
• Comer CM-LBPS1800 LED Camera Light Kit
• Ogio Ty Video Bag
• Spare Panasonic Long Life Battery Pack
• Multiple lens cleaning accessories, filters and more
• All relevant chargers and manuals

Brisbane To Cairns and back again.

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 16 July 2020  

Brisbane To cairns and Back Again. 

After a year of uncertainty, bushfires, and a pandemic, traveling the east coast of Australia has become almost impossible for many BMX riders that make the yearly trip at some point during the year. Jumping in your car with a bunch of mates and taking off with a general destination in mind can be some of the best times you will ever have. This is exactly what Wilton, Pollard, Jase, Joe, Chris, Jayke, Jerry, Pa, Turley, Sean, Damo and Myself did. A trip to Cairns with a massive crew of 12 sounded like the best thing after not going anywhere all year. So on the 3rd of July, the fellas took off with Cairns as the destination. With no shortage of good skateparks, epic camping spots and local legends to meet along the way, the trip looked like a winner before it began.    

Left- Cody Giving the Sugar Bowl Hell. Right- Damien Kluva folding one over. Photo By Sean Connor.

Day one 

Day one began in a few places, and on a couple of days, with some of the crew leaving Thursday and some Friday the first stop for everyone to meet was Boyne Island. A beautiful little beach town 6 hours north of Brisbane. Everyone arrived at the skatepark and the fellas enjoyed the sunset with some transition to stretch the legs. As the sun went down we all moved camp to Cody’s brother’s house where we all we able to get a few beers and a place to crash for the night.   

Joe sliding the top of the vert wall in Gladstone.  Photo by Sean Connor

Josh Turley Downside Smithinbg the vert wall. Photo by Sean Connor

Day two

As we woke up in Boyne Island, everyone was pretty eager to get on the road, so after some coffee and a quick bite, the convoy left Boyne island for Gladstone skatepark. We arrived in Gladstone and the guys got to work quickly excited to shred something unfamiliar. After a few hours at Gladstone and plenty of wild lines and big gaps, the crew packed up and made their way to Mackay’s  Sugar bowl. We all arrived after the sun started to fall into the canes fields and the session was well and truly on. Everyone jumping in the bowl and giving the massive concrete construction their all. Jaak Bailey, a Mackay legend that had spent some time in Brisbane came down to meet up with the crew and have a shred. Once the dudes had finished riding the guys all headed back to Jaaks place, parked 8 cars in his back yard, and enjoyed the pool table and Jason’s electric shock machine. 

Left- Wilton getting up there over the spine. Right- Jason Transferring over Joe.  Photos By Sean Connor.

Day three 

Day three we woke up to Jerry V joining the trip, making the 11hour drive the night before. The crew was finally all together and ready to make their way to far north tropical Queensland. From Mackay, we left for a short(er) drive to Bowen. A small town on the coast with some incredible beaches and two great skateparks. The convoy pulled in and got a few hours in at the local skatepark by the water. The shade cloths were prooving a little low for the dudes so they decided to head to the Grandview Hotel for a quick schooner and a brainstorm. After finding an epic camping spot on the water next to some rock cliffs the guys made a fire and put their feet up for the night. The stars were incredible in this location, and the feeling of being on the edge of the earth was definitely real. Around 11 pm we were all met by a security guard that was nice enough to let us stay so long as we “pretended to leave until the other parties were gone”. So following his instruction a few troopy’s got started up and then before we knew it we were alone with the just the sound of the waves against the rocks. 

Left- Pahau handplant at Gladstone over the step up. Right- Jayke flying out of the Gladstone park. Photos by Sean Connor. 

Day  four

After waking to an amazing sunset the guys all went their separate ways for an hour or two sorting things out, doing shopping, and looking around town. Meeting back up at Bowens second brand new skatepark. The park was great and the spot was perfect for breakfast and some coffee. While watching the session some of the guys met the local Policemen that gave us some good local knowledge and told us to “keep an eye out for cops”, which was followed by a big laugh. After that, the guys packed up their cars for a pretty special session at an abandoned full pipe.

Turely cleaning while Pollard rips. Photo by Sean Connor.

Goldring getting up in the pipe moments before the session got cut short. Photo by Sean Connor.

Driving west from Bowen and into what felt like the middle of Australia, the search started and after not too long we found it! The moment we got their everyone knew it might be a shortlived ride so all hands on deck to clean the years of sand and dirt that had been building up in the pipe. The session began and the guys carved the pipe for a solid 10 minutes before having the session cut short by the local law enforcement. Thankfully he was really understanding and explained the local situation, he sent us on our way. Half the crew decided to spend a night a little further west so half the gang headed to a spot nearby and the others to a small town called Collinsville for the night. The pub in Collinsville was one for the books, awesome food, awesome hospitality, and some locals that might not have seen out of towners in a while. The showground came with hot showers and after a few days on the road, the whole crew gave them a go. Big thanks to the caretaker at the showgrounds, that signed us in and orginised the courtesy bus and let us stay for free!   

Day 5

The next morning the crew met back up at Collinsville skatepark for a quick rip before heading to Ayr skatepark. Ayr park was perfect, old transition, good hips and nice coping the guys had an awesome ride, blasting the quarters to the shade cloth. Thankfully the hip wasn’t covered by shade and the guys were really able to let it rip. The park session was starting to heat up and the guys were figuring out the lines. At one point during the session, Wilton looks up to see a familiar face in an unfamiliar part of QLD. Stoney, a past Fairfield local comes cruising into the park. The session really got going everyone was having a good go! From there we headed to some local trails that have been around for 20 years. Daniel Kelly an Ayr local took us to his spot and despite the wind, the guys had a red hot crack and managed to have a pretty good session there. The local guys told us about a beach not far from there where camping was fine so the cars got packed and the crew headed off. That afternoon the 4WD’s on the trip really came into play, pulling out Jason’s Fast&Loose bus multiple times, plenty of fun on the beach in the cars but it was time to set up and camp and get ready for the final drive the next day. That night the fellas went fishing, with Pa and Kluva coming out on top as the king fishermen. The next morning the pack headed north once again to their final destination. 

Early Morning session at Bowen's Second Park before heading to Mackay. Photo by Sean Connor.

Day 6. 

The next morning the crew left at different times, some more eager to get their then others. Damien left the trip to head back to work and by the afternoon everyone had arrived in Cairns. First stop, the skatepark. Once everyone had arrived and rested after the 5-hour drive the guys started warming up the bowl, figuring out the lines and working their way around the capsule. It was rad to see the scene up there is alive and well with heaps of shredders all over. That night the guys ripped the bowl a new one. Finding new lines new gaps and faster ways around the capsule. The session started to wind down and the guys headed to cairns local Micheal Marks Place for the night. Micheal was able to have us all in his backyard so with camp sorted and Bungalow pub within walking distance we all went for dinner and couple quiet ones before waking up for the croc farm the next day, minus Pollard who was starting the long trip back south the next morning.   

 Day 7. 

The next morning everyone was looking forward to a day off. Jason put his hand up to be the tour guide for the day and everyone piled into the bus. Pinocolada’s were the drink of choice and fellas enjoyed a scenic drive north, with picturesque views of the reef on one side and rainforest on the other was an incredible sight. A short but beautiful drive to Hartleys Crocidile Adventures later we arrived and everyone was excited to see the crocs in action. The boat ride was a big highlight seeing the crocs jump out of the water. Really puts in perspective how dangerous these animals could potentially be. Everyone was pretty amazed by what they had just seen, but the day was far from over. Tourist day also included meeting up with Cairns legend Levi Jackonia and seeing some of the cairns nightlife. Off to Gilligans we all went and that’s where that day ended for most.  

The worlds deadliest predator- the north Queensland croc. 

Day 8. 

After a rather long night at Gilligan's, A few more of the guys headed more north in search of wild crocs while some Chris, Sean, and myself headed south for Brisbane. Before we could make it back to Brisbane there was one last stop left in Rockhampton. Jake Norris is a central QLD legend and it was only right to finish the trip on Mount Rocky (Mount Archer), with some beers while we watched the sunset over this great sunburned land. 

Jake giving Mount Archer a rip while the traffic watches. Photo by Sean Connor

The trip was definitely one for the books and something that all BMX riders should give a go at some point. Where ever you go, Australia has a lot to offer in ways of skateparks and places to ride, not to mention some incredible scenery to back it up. With restrictions around Australia still uncertain maybe a trip in your own state. Thanks to all the guys on the trip, all the locals we met, the security guard for letting us sleep the night twice, and BMX for bringing this trip together!

Finally a few words from the guy that shot all the photos...

This was the first proper biking road trip I had been on in a number of years.  In fact, it had probably been very close to 10 years since I last tossed my bike in a vehicle, and hopped on the road with a convoy of riders, going from town to town, riding parks, pipes, and anything else we could pedal around on, with the sole goal of having as much fun as possible on and off our bikes. 

Throughout the trip, I was reminded of how welcoming and helpful the community within BMX can be, even to a complete stranger.  In our case, a local from the skatepark in Cairns, after hearing us discussing options for camping, invited us all back to his place, generously allowing 8 trucks, vans, and even a bus to park in his massive backyard, so we could not only sleep, but also walk to the pub, to enjoy the non-riding time as mentioned earlier.

Being provided places to stay for the night, cook food, have much needed showers, or opportunities to ride trails without requiring us to lift a shovel were all examples of hospitality and generosity provided by fellow bike riders we met along the way.  United by our enjoyment of utilizing a bicycle to express ourselves we found ourselves surrounded by a family of sorts, whether that was 5 hours from home, 2000 kms away, or halfway across the world.  This trip reminded me of how thankful I am for all that BMX has provided over the last 20 years.  Thanks to all the fellas on the trip, thanks to all the locals we met along the way, thanks to the friendly police officer who let us off with a warning at the full pipe, thanks to security officer who gave us two warnings for sleeping where we weren’t supposed to in Bowen, Jason for driving and being bus driver to the croc farm and most of all, Thank You BMX!  

What do you like to ride?

Author: Tim at LUXBMX   Date Posted: 30 June 2020  

Where are you going to ride?

Riding a bicycle seems pretty straight forward (quite literally) when you start to dive into the diverse subculture of  BMX, you will notice that most riders have their “thing” they like to ride. For some, this could be as simple as being really good at riding the flat ground or as complex as building your own skatepark with a range of specific obstacles. Most of the time what we ride is destined by our early years riding. If you grow up surrounded by park riders then you will probably ride the skatepark more. Similarly, if you grow up in a city with no skateparks but lots of street spots, you will probably end up leaning more towards the street dudes. So where does this leave you if you’re just starting out as a BMX rider? 

Skateparks

For most of us, we started at a skatepark somewhere, whether it was “good or bad” it probably had a couple of local riders that will or have become your friend. This is probably the best place to start, learning basic bike control, meeting riders, and of course, learning a solid foundation of tricks. The skateparks provide a safe place that is allowed to be ridden by BMX riders and skateboarders. In Australia, we are so lucky to have some incredible parks scattered across the country. With more parks going up every year, we are very lucky in Aus with the selection of parks and the variety of obstacles that will ultimately enable more riders to find the huge world of BMX.

Having a large array of parks gives riders the option to develop their styles and skills at a variety of parks that offer different obstacles specific to certain types of riding. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone will encourage progression, just the same way newer, bigger parks will encourage riders to not only learn more but to travel and meet new people in the process. 

Street

For the riders that stick to the ledges and rails in the skateparks, these guys are probably going to be heading out into the streets. Learning the basics at a skatepark is a great idea, but once the rails and ledges get old your going to want to find something new to ride right? That’s where the ever-changing cityscape can present itself as a huge playground. For the parents reading this your probably thinking “buts that’s not allowed”, your right. At the end of the day, street riding CAN be illegal, that’s why it’s important to know what you are doing could cause damage to other peoples property. Respecting people's property and getting that crazy clip can be a fine line at times and we encourage all riders to be respectful to other people's property. 

Riding street can teach so much more than just the tricks you’re learning. Being out in the streets will expose you to things that you might not see at the skatepark. Learning to deal with these real-life situations can help in life, where others may not have had those experiences you have had. The other exciting thing about riding street is that unlike the skatepark, it’s not built to ride and this in itself can create new challenges. Finding “perfect”’ spots to ride doesn’t happen all that often so being creative can “open” a spot, developing your riding further. As you navigate from spot to spot you will probably further develop your style as a rider. Whether it’s big rails, technical ledge lines, or a strong flat ground game, the more you ride your city the more you will learn about your own riding. 

Trails

Finally, there are the guys that aren’t afraid of hard work, big airs, and shovels. Trail riders are a special type of BMX rider, contempt with digging holes in a remote location and spending a lot of time alone are a few things that seem to appeal. The beauty of trail riding is the creative process, crafting pieces of art from nothing, with no other interest then to ride and build more. Trails have a huge history in BMX, from the very start of BMX or Bicycle Motocross originating on the track and slowly taking to the bushland around the suburbs. Due to the number of man-hours needed to build and maintain trails, spots are often kept secret, and the guys that dig wants to keep it that way. With several spots around Australia, our trail scene has always been strong. Starting your own spot can be daunting but all trails had to start somewhere. Get a group of mates a few shovels and find a good spot of land far enough away from the public to give your spot the best chance of survival. 

Regardless of what you love to ride, remember that all avenues of BMX are still just that- BMX, so don’t forget why you started and try to ride a little bit of everything. Riding everything will open your eyes to so much BMX that you might otherwise miss.