Looking for the best BMX sprockets for street riding?
I’ve been riding street for over twenty years and have tried a bunch of different sprockets, starting with a 44T!
I recommend a sprocket with a guard for street riding, especially for beginners.
Now, you can choose between two types: sprockets with removable plastic guards or integrated metal ones.
The plastic guards tend to be lighter and easy to swap out once worn down, while metal guards bring that heavy-duty feel and last longer through rough use.
If you aren’t focused exclusively on doing a lot of sprocket stalls, go for the sprocket with a plastic guard.
It’s lighter and when it’s time to replace it, you just need to get the sprocket guard, no need to pay for the whole sprocket.
The sweet spot for street sprocket sizes is usually 25T or 28T – they’re tough and strike the best balance between durability and performance.
In this article, I’ll break down some of the best BMX sprockets for street riding, covering both plastic-guard and metal-guard options.
Beginners and seasoned shredders, here’s something for everyone!
This post covers:
Best BMX Sprockets For Street Riding
1. Sunday Knox V2 Guard Sprocket
The Sunday Knox V2 Guard Sprocket is a solid choice if you’re hitting the streets hard.
This thing not only shields your chain from any unexpected hits, but it’s also got a sleek design that looks good on any setup.
The refined geometry just feels right, plus it fits all BMX chains and lets you swap between 5 bolt positions for extra flexibility and longevity.
Made from tough 7075-T6 alloy, it’s durable but still light.
Whether running the 25T or 28T, it’s easy to set up with adapters for 19mm and 22mm spindles. (Or use it without and it’ll fit a 24mm one.)
It’s a sprocket that’s built to last and looks good doing it.
Price: $59.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS2. Fiend Omicron Guard Sprocket
The Fiend Omicron Guard Sprocket is exactly what you need if you’re serious about street riding.
Crafted from solid 6061 aluminum, it’s built to take the hits, and the guard design keeps your chain safe. Ride harder without worrying about damage.
The offset teeth are a nice touch, too, keeping the chain perfectly aligned for smoother pedaling.
Plus, it’s CNC machined, giving it that precision feel that just fits right.
It’s easy to install with the included adapters, and it won’t weigh you down at 9.6 oz for the 25T.
Price: $74.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS3. Odyssey La Guardia Sprocket
The Odyssey La Guardia Sprocket is all about protecting your chain like a champ.
It has this cool design, where the sprocket gets thicker near the guard, which just feels extra solid.
Made from 7075 aluminum, it’s super durable and weighs only 4.5 oz for the 25T.
The installation is effortless, too, with a 24mm bore and adapters for 19mm and 22mm spindles included.
Perfect for any setup and ready for whatever the streets throw at it.
Price: $59.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS4. Colony BMX Menace Guard Sprocket
The Colony BMX Menace Guard Sprocket is the real deal if you’re looking for something that can take a beating.
It’s Jourdan Barba’s signature model, and you can tell it’s built for serious street shredding.
I love the split 5-spoke design – it’s unique and looked killer on my setup.
The built-in guard keeps the chain and sprocket teeth safe during grinds, so you won’t have to stress about damage.
CNC machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, it’s super solid yet light at just 4.4 oz for the 25T.
Install it on any cranks you have with the included adapters, and enjoy murdering the street with one less thing to worry about.
Price: $62.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS5. Odyssey Utility Pro Guard Sprocket
The Odyssey Utility Pro Guard Sprocket is a cool throwback, nodding to that classic 90’s Havok vibe but with modern touches.
It’s awesome and all-around, made from 7075-T6 aluminum to ensure an epic strength-to-weight ratio.
The best part?
The removable plastic guard.
It’s awesome to have the flexibility to rock it with or without the guard, depending on the look or protection you need.
This sprocket is as stylish as it is functional, perfect for anyone who appreciates a bit of BMX history on their ride.
Price: $49.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS6. Stolen Sumo Guard Sprocket
This is still one of my favorite Sprocket names in the game!
The Stolen Sumo Guard Sprocket is a top-notch pick for durability without adding bulk.
I grabbed one some time ago, and, although I’m not using it anymore, it’s still going strong on my friend’s bike.
I love how it’s designed to handle rough riding.
Stolen used their signature Thermalite material for the guard, so it’s built to last even with constant grind abuse.
Plus, they went with mountain bike-style chainring bolts, so you know it’s strong and stable.
At 5.1 oz for the 25T, it’s light but tough enough (and very affordable) to keep up with your street sessions.
Price: $39.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS7. Cinema Beta Guard Sprocket
The Cinema Beta Guard is one of my best-looking sprockets with plastic guards available on the market.
If you’re doing big stuff on the streets, you definitely need to check it out.
I’m stoked about how solid it feels — the sprocket itself is made from 6061-T6 aluminum and is 8 mm thick at the spindle, so it’s not going anywhere.
The high-impact plastic guard sits perfectly on the sprocket, secured by four bolts that thread right into the sprocket, keeping everything tight and rattle-free.
It’s built to take on heavy sessions, with no parts coming loose mid-ride.
At 6.3 oz for the 25T, it’s a powerhouse sprocket that’s all about durability and street-ready performance.
Price: $54.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS8. Federal Impact Guard Sprocket
The Federal Bikes Impact Guard sprocket is a lifesaver!
While this sprocket isn’t the lightest, but that’s OK because we need extra durability for street riding.
You can really go all out without worrying about damage.
It’s made from solid alloy and comes in 25T and 28T options, perfect for dialing in your setup.
If you need quick acceleration often, pick a 25T, and if top speed is more important, a 28T will fit you nicely.
The Impact Guard sprocket is ready for anything you throw its way.
Price: $34.99 (may vary)
GET YOURS9. Shadow Sabotage Guard Sprocket
The Shadow Conspiracy Sabotage guard sprocket is the sprocket I currently ride.
I love the high-impact, low-friction plastic guard – it’s perfect for grinding without slowing you down.
Bolted to a 5mm thick 6061-T6 aluminum sprocket, it feels solid and can handle rough street sessions.
At first, I was a bit sceptical about the 5mm sprocket thickness, but this thing is holding up really nicely.
In fact, I think the Sabotage sprocket has the absolutely best price-to-strength ratio of all sprockets available right now.
And once it’s worn out, just replace the guard, no need to replace the whole sprocket.
It’s versatile because it’s compatible with all 1/8″ BMX chains, including the Shadow Interlock and Supreme.
Easy install with adapters for 19mm and 22mm spindles, and at 5.3 oz for the 25T, it’s sturdy but light.
Price: $38.99 (may vary)
GET YOURSHow To Make Your BMX Street Sprocket Last Longer
Making your sprocket last can save you a ton of time, money, and hassle.
You know how rough things can get on your setup if you’re into street riding.
Here are my tips to help you keep that sprocket in great shape.
1. Pick The Right Sprocket For Street Riding
First off, using a guarded sprocket is a game-changer.
Whether a plastic or metal guard, this extra layer protects your chain and sprocket teeth from grind damage.
I’ve been riding street without the guard for a long time, but switching to a guarded one made all the difference.
Never going back!
2. Check & Tighten Bolts Regularly
With all the banging and grinding, bolts can loosen over time.
Make it a habit to check and tighten them regularly. This will prevent unwanted rattling and potential wear from a loose setup.
3. Replace Guards When Needed
If you’re using a removable guard, inspect it often.
If it’s wearing out, swapping it out with a fresh one will protect your sprocket itself and make the whole setup last longer.
4. Keep The Chain Aligned
Proper chain alignment is essential.
If your chain’s misaligned, it’ll put uneven pressure on the sprocket teeth, causing faster wear.
Ensure the chain’s straight and tensioned correctly to keep everything running smoothly.
5. Avoid Riding In Wet Or Gritty Conditions
Water and grit are your sprocket’s enemies. They lead to rust and unnecessary wear.
If you’re caught in bad weather, try to wipe down your sprocket afterward.
Keeping it clean and dry will extend its life.
6. Lubricate Your Chain Regularly
A well-lubricated chain isn’t just good for the chain – it’s good for the sprocket, too.
A smooth chain will reduce wear on the teeth, making the whole setup last longer and sound smoother.
Just be careful not to over-lubricate, as it can attract dirt and grime.
Further reading:
- Will a sprocket fit my BMX bike? (how to know)
- BMX sprocket maintenance (6 tips!)
- Bent BMX sprocket (worth fixing?)
- How BMX sprockets impact grind tricks?
- Street vs. park BMX sprockets (beginner’s guide)
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Note: This article was originally published on October 28, 2024. But I regularly review it and update it with necessary improvements for accuracy.
