Best BMX Bike for Wheelies

Strap your protective gear on because today, we’re diving into the exhilarating world of best BMX bikes for wheelies. Not just any old BMX bikes, though; we’re talking about those two-wheeled marvels made specifically for pulling off wheelies that make passersby ooh and ahh in awe. 

Our top pick, drumroll please, is the Mongoose Legion, an all-rounder that will get you off your seat and onto your back wheel quicker than you can say ‘BMX’.

For those who have outgrown their old bikes and are in need of a 24-inch, you might want to check out the Mongoose Title Pro. And for the little daredevils in the family, the Mongoose Legion Kids is your best bet.

Now buckle up and keep your helmets tight, folks. We’re going in for a wheelie good time! (See what we did there? Couldn’t resist :D)

What’s to come

Best Overall | Best 24-inch | Best for Kids | How We Picked | Buyer’s Guide | How to Wheelie

5 Best BMX Bikes for Wheelies

Wait, isn’t every BMX bike made for wheelies? It’s not just about having a bike; it’s about having the RIGHT bike. You know, the kind that feels like an extension of yourself when you’re riding, balancing perfectly on its rear wheel while you soak up the admiration of your spectators.

Intrigued? Let’s dive in!

Best Overall: Mongoose Legion 

When it comes to the universe of BMX bikes, the Mongoose Legion L500 stands proudly as a stellar entity, twinkling with quality and affordability. 

This BMX beast isn’t just about looks, though. Designed for both men and women, the Legion L500 screams versatility and durability with its full 4130 Chromoly frame. Accompanied by removable brake mounts and a mid BB shell, this bike is an ideal fit for riders who stand 5’8″ and up.

The Legion L500 is a tour de force in the world of BMX, boasting a drivetrain that features 175 mm two-piece tubular chromoly hollow spindle cranks with a 25T aluminum chainring and mid sealed bearing bottom bracket. 

Those 20″ x 2.4″ tires mounted on wide aluminum double wall 36H rims, paired with the 3/8″ female axle front hub and 9T cog sealed bearing freecoaster rear hub, deliver a ride that is both steady and thrilling.

A marriage of function and design, the Mongoose Legion L500 further impresses with its 4130 chromoly handlebar and fork, 50 mm stem, threadless sealed integrated headset, and aluminum U-brake and brake levers. 

Despite its impressive list of features, the bike manages to maintain an ideal weight of around 12 kilos – perfect for those daring wheelies and tricks.

While the Legion L500 is an impressive steed all-around, it truly shines as a learning platform for those dipping their toes into the vast ocean of BMX biking. 

What We Like

• Competitive pricing that brings quality within reach
• A sturdy, reliable frame that screams durability
• A perfect learning platform for beginners venturing into BMX biking
• Ability to withstand abuse and diverse terrains, making it an ideal partner for trick practice
• Balanced weight distribution that makes handling the bike easier for stunts

What People Like & Dislike

Likes	Dislikes
Competitive price	Can be a bit heavy for some riders
Sturdy and durable frame	Seat comfort could be improved
Excellent for beginners	Availability issues
Resilient to diverse terrains and rough handling

Best 24-inch: Mongoose Title Pro

Riding the wave of the popular Title series’ success, Mongoose has upped the ante with the Title Elite Pro BMX race bike. This stunning ride stands out from the crowd, flaunting its 6061 Tectonic T1 biaxial hydroformed and butted aluminum frame, adding an extra level of class and performance. 

With its professional-grade material, 86mm BB shell, and 20.75″ top tube length, the Title Elite Pro is indeed a formidable BMX racing bike.

This beauty isn’t all about aesthetics, though. Sporting a lightweight frame of just 3.28 lbs, the Title Elite Pro provides an agile ride with a commendable power-to-weight ratio. 

Its drivetrain comes equipped with 170mm 2-piece 24mm hollow spindle alloy cranks, accompanied by a 44T alloy chainring and BB86 press-fit sealed bottom bracket.

The bike’s wheelset is another star, featuring Arisen XLR8 20″ tires mounted on Xposure aluminum double wall rims. 

The bike’s front hub has a 10mm hollow axle seal, and the rear hub carries a 16T cog sealed bearing cassette. 

To add a cherry on top, the precision speed control is managed by the aluminum linear pull brake and Radius aluminum brake levers.

The Mongoose Title Elite Pro offers an excellent riding experience with its 4130 chrome handlebar and fork, sealed bearing headset, and 50mm stem, designed for maximum steering performance. 

This BMX racing bike is a great fit for riders standing 5’3″ – 6’0” tall, be they intermediate or professional.

All in all, the Mongoose Title Elite Pro, with its impressive feature list and design considerations, shows promising signs of being a crowd favorite. 

Offering high-end performance and catering to riders of varying skill levels, it’s an excellent option for those looking to step up their BMX game.

What We Like

• Professional-grade, lightweight 6061 Tectonic T1 aluminum frame
• Smooth drivetrain with hollow spindle alloy cranks
• Arisen XLR8 20″ tires for superior road grip
• Precision speed control with aluminum linear pull brake and Radius brake levers
• Chrome handlebar and fork for better control and maneuverability

What People Like & Dislike

Likes	Dislikes
Lightweight yet sturdy frame	Geared towards intermediates due to the slightly forward balance
High-end drivetrain	Some reported discoloration in the frame overtime
Precise braking system	Might need frequent upkeep
Superior steering performance

Best for Kids: Mongoose Legion Kids

The Mongoose Legion Kids is a freestyle BMX bike designed for intermediate riders. Constructed with a Hi-Ten steel frame and a mid BB shell, this bike is built for durability and performance. 

It features a 20.5″ top tube length, making it ideal for riders between 5’0″ and 5’6″. The drivetrain includes 175mm 3-piece tubular chromoly hollow spindle cranks, a 25T steel chainring, and a mid sealed bearing bottom bracket, making it capable of delivering a high-performance ride. 

The bike rolls on 20″ x 2.3″ tires mounted on aluminum single wall 36H rims with a 3/8″ in axle front hub and a 9T cog sealed bearing cassette rear hub. 

The handlebar and fork are also made of Hi-Ten steel, providing stability and control during rides. The Mongoose Legion Kids is available in multiple color options and is suitable for both boys and girls.

What We Like 

• Robust and lightweight Hi-Ten steel frame and fork.
• High-performance drivetrain for a smooth and efficient ride.
• Wide 20″ x 2.3″ tires for increased stability and grip.
• Available in multiple colors for personal preference.
• Designed for riders between 5’0″ and 5’6″, making it an excellent choice for kids.

What People Like & Dislike

Likes	Dislikes
Great quality for the price	Some concerns over the quality of certain parts, such as plastic brackets
Mongoose’s return to good quality, comparable to the 80s and early 90s	Minor issues with the paint job on some bikes
Comfortable seat and handlebar height	Rear pegs had no threads and were unusable according to some users.
Overall durability and performance

Joystar Gemsbok

The JOYSTAR Gemsbok BMX Style Freestyle 20 Inch Bike is an excellent BMX bike designed to offer a fun and safe riding experience for children aged 7 years and above. 

Built with a high-quality carbon steel frame, the bike boasts of sturdiness and durability, easily tolerating the multiple bumps you’ll encounter. Its rigid suspension contributes to the overall strength of the bike while keeping it lightweight for easy maneuverability.

The Gemsbok bike comes with 20-inch wheels and a single-speed drivetrain featuring a 130mm one-piece forged steel crank with a 36T steel chainring, providing a smoother ride. It is equipped with front and rear hand brakes for additional safety and control. To add to its utility, the bike includes front pegs that encourage kids to try out hops and tricks safely.

Another outstanding feature is the colorful, glossy jelly paint that adds to the stylish and sleek look of the bike. It comes 85% pre-assembled with easy-to-follow instructions and necessary assembly tools. The bike’s design caters to beginner level riders and is available in various attractive colors, such as Rainbow Oil Slick, Shining Blue, Silver, Teal, and Yellow & Black.

What We Like

• Robust carbon steel frame for longevity and durability.
• Lightweight design making it easy for kids to handle.
• Single-speed drivetrain for a smoother ride.
• Front and rear hand brakes offer enhanced safety and control.
• Front pegs that encourage kids to explore different tricks safely.
• Sleek and stylish design with a vibrant color range.
• The bike comes 85% pre-assembled, making the installation process straightforward.

What People Like & Dislike

Likes	Dislikes
The bike has a robust and durable steel frame.	Some customers reported damaged paint and inadequate packaging.
The design is sleek and attractive with vibrant color options.	The bike’s color might vary from the pictures, as reported by a few customers.
It offers a smooth and comfortable ride.	Shipping issues

Elite BMX

The Stealth 20″ series from Elite BMX is one of the brand’s prime offerings, delivering comprehensive entry-level bikes built with thoughtfulness and durability in mind.

The Stealth 20″ Series stands out as an excellent entry-level complete bicycle, perfectly suited for the demands of the street, dirt, and park riding. 

With a strong hi-tensile steel frame that features a 1-inch standard head-tube, this bike provides resilience and stability for riders. Moreover, the series also features Cro-MO 1-pc cranks with an unsealed American BB, rear aluminum U-brake, and aluminum brake lever. 

The Stealth 20″ series also comes with a set of grinding pegs, offering riders the opportunity to try out and master tricks and stunts. The bikes are also customizable, with options available for handlebar, saddle, and seat-post adjustments. 

The design and construction of this bike is well-thought-out and executed with precision. Despite the high level of performance and durability this bike offers, it remains affordable, making Elite BMX a go-to brand for many BMX enthusiasts.

What We Like

• Excellent entry-level BMX bike for different age groups.
• Robust hi-tensile steel frames for superior durability.
• Versatile performance across various terrains – street, dirt, and park.
• Grinding pegs included for added fun and variety.
• Low profile 6061 rims ensure stability and control.

What People Like & Dislike

Likes	Dislikes
Affordable	U-brake not of the highest quality or most responsive.
Versatile performance across various terrains.	Seat discomfort and instability.
Wide 2.5″ tires suitable for different surfaces.	Tools required for assembly are not included.
Excellent for both children and adults

How We Picked

While selecting these BMX bikes, we considered the diversity of riders in terms of their skill level, age, and preferred riding style. 

We wanted to include options that cater to all types of riders, from beginners and young enthusiasts to seasoned riders. We, therefore, took into account the size and design of the bikes, ensuring that they are appropriate for various age groups and skill levels.

We took a close look at the bike’s construction and components. We considered the durability and strength of the frame, the quality of the tires, the type of brakes, and the overall design. 

A good BMX bike must be robust and durable, capable of withstanding rough usage while maintaining its performance.

Furthermore, user reviews played a significant role in our selection process. We analyzed feedback from real users, focusing on the bike’s performance, comfort, ease of assembly, and durability over time. 

Users’ experiences provided valuable insights that helped us gauge the actual performance and quality of these bikes in everyday situations.

Buyers’ Guide

BMX biking is a popular sport and pastime, and the bike you choose can significantly influence your performance and enjoyment of the activity. 

If you’re specifically looking for a bike to perform wheelies, there are several factors to consider.

• Bike Frame: The frame is the backbone of your bike, so it’s critical to find one that’s durable and suitable for performing tricks. A lighter frame, typically made of Chromoly or high-tensile steel, is usually preferred because it makes it easier to perform tricks like wheelies.

• Wheel Size: For wheelies, a 20-inch wheel size is standard. Smaller wheels are more responsive and easier to control, which is essential when performing tricks.

• Gearing: Single-speed gearing is typical for BMX bikes, making them easier to maintain and more reliable. For wheelies, you’ll want a gear ratio that allows for good acceleration but also enough top speed to keep the wheelie going.

• Tires: Tire selection can make a significant difference when performing wheelies. BMX bikes typically come with wider, knobbier tires for better grip and control. Look for tires that offer a good balance of traction and durability.

• Handlebars and Stem: For wheelies and other tricks, you’ll want handlebars and a stem that offer good control and comfort. They should be robust enough to withstand the strain of tricks and stunts.

• Pedals: Choose pedals that offer excellent grip to keep your feet in place during tricks. Pedals made of lightweight materials such as alloy or plastic are usually preferred.

• Seat and Post: A seat that can be easily adjusted in terms of height and angle can make it easier to perform wheelies.

• Brakes: Good quality brakes are essential for controlling your speed during a wheelie. While many BMX bikes come with U-brakes, others might feature disc brakes that provide more stopping power.

How to Wheelie

Here’s a simple video that will help you learn how to wheelie quickly. 

Wheelies can be a fun way to add some flair to your bike riding, but they require practice and patience to master. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Choose Your Bike: Start with a bike you’re comfortable with. It should have a responsive brake and a gear system that’s easy to control. BMX bikes are great for wheelies due to their compact size and maneuverability.
2. Find a Suitable Location: Find a flat and open space with no traffic, like a parking lot or a quiet street. Make sure the surface is relatively smooth to help maintain balance.
3. Gear Up: Wear a helmet and protective gear. Safety should be your top priority, especially when learning new tricks.
4. Position Yourself: Sit towards the rear of the saddle and keep your dominant foot on the pedal at its lowest position. Hold the handlebars firmly, but not too tightly.
5. Start Pedaling: Begin by pedaling at a moderate speed. A steady pace is essential for maintaining balance during a wheelie.
6. Pop a Wheelie: As you’re pedaling, push down hard on the pedal with your dominant foot and simultaneously pull up on the handlebars. This will cause the front wheel to lift off the ground.
7. Maintain Balance: Once your front wheel is in the air, use your rear brake to control your balance. If you feel like you’re tipping too far back, apply the brake slightly to bring the front wheel down a bit. Lean your weight backwards to counterbalance the bike.
8. Keep Pedaling: To keep the wheelie going, continue pedaling while maintaining your balance. The aim is to find a ‘balance point’ where the bike is comfortable staying on one wheel.
9. Safely End the Wheelie: To end the wheelie, simply stop pedaling and gently apply the rear brake. Your front wheel will slowly come back to the ground.
10. Practice: Mastering a wheelie takes time, so be patient with yourself. Keep practicing, and with time, you’ll be able to wheelie like a pro!

Conclusion

This was a showdown of our top picks for best BMX bikes for wheelies. Mastering a wheelie on a BMX bike is a fun and exciting skill that requires understanding the right techniques, choosing the perfect bike, and lots of practice.

The world of BMX is filled with thrill and excitement, and pulling off a successful wheelie is just the beginning. So go ahead, grab your bike, hit the streets, and let the adventure begin!