What are some notable differences between a 20'' trial bike and a BMX bike?

Question

I was wondering what are the differences between a small (20'") trial bike and a BMX? Were I to choose one to buy, what should I consider before I make my decision?

Answer 1

• Trial bikes more often have flat handlebars rather than the "tall" bars common on BMX bikes.
• Trial bikes are more likely to come with "bash guards" around the chainring.
• BMX bikes may come with somewhat higher gears than trial bikes (but not always).
• Some trial bikes have no seat or seatpost at all, whereas most or all BMX bikes do have a seat.

Here are two bikes that (to me) are reasonable examples of each category at somewhat similar (and fairly high) price points:

• Trial: http://www.biketrialseller.com/product/286
• BMX: http://www.gtbicycles.com/bikes/bmx/race/2011-speed-series-pro-white-blue

As for which you should choose, well, I guess it depends on how you intend to ride (and whether you think a bike without a seat is ridiculous!).

Answer 2

I'm not sure on the frame geometry of trial bikes but it looks like they have a very short "top/down" tube and the handle bars are nearly over the front axle. This gives you very poor handling at high speeds, hence the slow technical balancing riding that is done on them. Basically, they only have tire size in common...so which to choose depends on what you want to ride.