Three major publications-BMX Action, BMX Plus and Super BMX, boast a combined circulation of 600,000 targeted at the 14-years-old-and-under market.

"When a youngster does well in BMX, he knows it right away," [Stan Ross] said. "You'll never hear, `We lost the game because Freddie didn't catch the ball in center field.' Success in BMX is all up to you."

PHOTO: Eight of the estimated 60,000 registered BMX bicycle racers in the U.S. burst out of the gate during the start of a moto at the recently renovated Irvine BMX track. / SAM UPSHAW Jr. / Los Angeles Times Robert Beck, one of the new generation of young bicycle gladiators, waits for his race. The cycles run on feet-power, but these riders' expressions show the intensity of racing remains. Lisa Rohm uses her feet for braking in a Big Wheel class race at the Orange YMCA track. / GLENN KOENIG / For The Times