Bike Pegs: Sticking Out for Style and Skills

They may look unassuming, but those little cylinders jutting from BMX bike axles are more than meets the eye. Known as bike pegs, these accessories serve an important stunt purpose beyond just aesthetics.

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By providing a platform to centerweight over the spinning wheels, pegs give riders crucial balance and control when performing intricate maneuvers on the streets or in the skatepark. Flatland tricks, rail grinds, curb jumps – these are just some of the gravity-defying movements that become possible with a trusty set of pegs beneath the feet.

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The History and Evolution of Bike Pegs
Pegs originated in the 1970s as riders started experimenting with new freestyle techniques on their beefy Schwinn Sting-Rays. Early versions were simply hammered pieces of steel welded onto bikes by daring pioneers. Over the next decades, purpose-built pegs were manufactured as the sport gained momentum and specialization.
Nowadays, pegs are constructed out of chromoly steel or lightweight aluminum alloy. Rubberized coatings provide traction while various sleeves and bushings allow for smoother grinding. Some designs even incorporate spinning pegs for dynamic control.
Tips for Adding Pegs to Your Bike
While some bikes come pre-equipped, pegs are often purchased separately as accessories. Here’s what to consider when picking out a set:
Most pegs are built for the 14mm axles on freestyle BMX models. Adapters are available for converting race bikes with wider 3/8” axles.
A socket wrench with deep wall socket is needed to securely install pegs and tighten the axle nut inside.
Go for replaceable sleeves if focusing on grinding for longevity. Or try wax to reduce friction out on the streets.
Soft rubber pegs offer novice riders better grip as they build confidence.

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So next time you see an aspiring stunt devil bombing down a handrail, know there is careful engineering behind those deceivingly basic pegs supporting the action. The extensions may look humble, but they allow riders to achieve the unthi