Originally posted as ‘Pattaya’s new attraction’ in
Life section of Bangkok Post 19/01/2012. Article by Pongpet Mekloy

Pattaya. What comes to mind when you think of the infamous resort? Many things, perhaps. But whatever they are, after you have read this article, there will probably be a new addition to your list: the BMX track at PRC Bike Park.

Obviously one of the best in the Kingdom, this new venue for the sport of BMX racing boasts a quality built permanent facility, contrary to the majority of the others which are kind of makeshift tracks with a backyard playground feel.

The bike park is part of the PRC complex that also includes a dirt course for radio controlled (RC) off-road cars and trucks, and ponds for RC boats as well as for fishing. Its new BMX track, which is expected to open officially in March, features four straight sections strewn with jumps of different types and sizes, two sets of rollers and three huge banked curves which are paved with asphalt.

One of the things that make this particular track stand out is that the riding surface is nicely smoothed and well-packed throughout. Also, with systematic anti-erosion measures and drainage system, the track can be used any time of the year.

At the moment, while the construction of the four-metre-high start ramp, which will house saunas underneath, is still underway, the track is already serving as a training ground for BMXers of all ages in Pattaya and surrounding areas, as well as some from Bangkok.

There is no fee for track usage but once the project is 100% completed, membership plans will be introduced for riders who wish to keep their bikes at the park. These so-called VIPs will be able to simply come and enjoy the ride, and leave it to the park staff to take care of bike maintenance and laundry after they finish riding.

Despite its arguably superior standard, this BMX track in Pattaya has not been designated as one of the race venues for this years’ five races of the national championship. But the bike park plans to hold a series of competitions of its own, starting June, after the national event comes to an end.

Apart from the BMX track, the bike park also has a 5.5km-long cross country mountain bike trail where last Halloween it held a spooky night race in which staff dressed as ghosts ambushed unsuspecting participants at different spots along the track. A downhill trail over a kilometre long will soon be completed, after that a dirt-jumping park will follow.

Suddenly, a trip to Pattaya sounds like fun, doesn’t it?

BMX track at PRC Bike Park

GPS info: N 12 88.963 E 100 91.340

Trail condition: Like what shown in BMX videos from the West!

Distance: 380 metres

Getting there: From Bangkok, take Highway 7 (Motorway) all the way to its Pattaya end, where it meets with Sukhumvit Highway. Drive southward on Sukhumvit past South Pattaya to Soi 89. (Note: There are sois with the same number. Take the second one.) Then follow the given map.

Parking: Plenty!

Food & drinks: The bike park’s restaurant is about two minutes walk from the BMX track.

What your family can enjoy while waiting: Apart from watching the practising BMXers, they can engage in a host of activities offered at facilities within the complex.

Accommodation: Right now 4 bungalows are available within the compound at 800 baht per night. Ten more will be added in the next few months.

Contact: Prasert Rattanaphoom, Tel: 081-807-1237