Haro Annex Si (alloy) 20" race BMX review

Full review

BMX racing is a separate world from park and street, and the Annex Si is a clear example of the difference. The frame is aluminium rather than steel, so the whole bike weighs about 11 kg, light enough to feel lively out of a start gate. The wheels are 20 inch with 1.95 inch tyres, which are narrow and roll quickly on a smooth track but do not offer the volume or grip a park rider wants.

The gearing is also race-focused. A 40-tooth chainring with a 16-tooth rear sprocket is a much taller gear than the 25/9 setup on freestyle bikes, which suits pedalling hard down a straight but would be awkward at a skatepark. Brakes are a V-brake with welded mounts, as is usual on race bikes, and cranks are one-piece steel, a spot where the parts cost is saved.

Haro lists the 19.5 inch frame as suiting roughly 120 to 160 cm, which makes it a good match for juniors and smaller adults. It works as an entry into local club racing, and also for riders who want a light, simple bike for a pump track.

If you want to ride bowls, ledges or rails, choose a freestyle bike instead. If you want to race on a track, this is a proven design at a sensible price.