TRANSPONDERS 

Beginning with the 2026 season, USA BMX will expand the list of classes requiring transponders at National Series events. Cruiser, Girl Cruiser, and Expert Open classes will now be included in the mandatory transponder categories. 

 

LANE SELECT TRANSFER 

Events utilizing the Lane Selection Transfer system (“Transfer All”) will see adjustments to transfer protocols for classes with 4, 6, or 8 riders. Based on feedback  from riders, parents, and volunteers, these classes will transfer fewer riders from the  first round as follows: 

• 4-rider classes: Transfer 1–3 to the main 

• 6-rider classes: Transfer 2–4 to the main 

• 8-rider classes: Transfer 3–5 to the main 

 

BONUS POINTS 

Both USA BMX and BMX Canada National Series events will now award bonus points for advancing through additional qualifying rounds (e.g., quarters and semis). These points will also be easier to roll into district totals. Each single-point race will now convert 10% of “district points earned at nationals” into district points—an increase from the previous 5% per single-point race. 

 

NAG SCORES COUNTED 

For riders pursuing a NAG ranking, please note an important update: the National Age  Group standings will now be calculated using a rider’s best eight (8) scores, reduced from ten. This adjustment is intended to keep more riders competitive in the chase for a NAG plate heading into Grands. 

 

FOREIGN RIDERS 

Beginning in 2026, all foreign riders (outside the United States and  Canada) will be required to compete in the Expert or Pro proficiency levels without exception.

* Please note that USA BMX reserves the right to adjust any rider’s proficiency classification at any time. 

Additionally, foreign riders who list a U.S. address but competed only in Open classes at the Race of Champions will be recorded as Experts in our system. 

USA BMX values the international participation that helps make the Grands “The  Greatest Race on Earth.” However, our foremost responsibility is to protect the integrity of the sport and ensure fair, equitable competition for our North American rider base.