What are they & why are we using them?

Taking the term above back to the basics, the "transponder" is a small part of a complete system. The MyLaps system is a digital timing system made up of sensors. At the beginning of a BMX moto, a sensor starts the race time when the gate is dropped. Then other sensors in the form of wire loops in the ground detect when the 'transponder' on your bike as it passes over the loop. These loops let the race system know a rider ID & the time when you pass over the loop. The system records all the riders & times in that moto, then the finish line loop stops the moto time for each rider. Then the next moto is started when its gate is dropped. The decision to use transponders has multiple sides, it gives the sport a new data in the form of race times, it is a more accurate way to determining finishing positions and it also speeds up race days due to the efficiencies of the finishing process, with no manual finish line decisions, no points board line up.

Having the loops at your local track & a transponder also means you can use the system to record times for training purposes. With multiple loops to give riders start times, straight times, corner times, it all comes down to the amount of loops in the ground & the system that records each segment.

The Transponder

The small red sensor that you attach to your bike is the 'transponder'. This has an id number unique to each transponder. This is so the system can tell when you start & finish & the time you complete a track. Once you have purchased it, you need to go online to register the unit. Once this is done, the ID number is used when you enter a race. Your transponder has a subscription for a set time, generally a year, or you can set that for more. At the end of the term, you will be advised that you need to re-register, this is done easily online in a matter of minutes and you are ready to race again.

MEMBERS: your transponder number must be updated to your current licence form.

When purchasing a new device or requesting a replacement BMXNZ will automatically update your details.

The registrant is able to update their details, including transponder & plate numbers, uploading their photo by completing the Members - Update Details Online Form

The MyLaps System

This is the part that is installed by your club or by BMXNZ for events. It contains the mechanisms for the start, the loops, the decoders & connection to the race system (SQORZ). Many clubs have these systems installed and run them for racing or training. 

Transponder Requirements

BMXNZ requires all riders entering the following key events must have a registered transponder for each bike. 

OCC Oceania Championships - When held in New Zealand

BMXNZ three Major Events - Norths, Souths & Nationals

BMXNZ Regions Champs - All seven events

From 1st January 2025 ALL NQM events must use transponders

Any event where it is noted on the event flyer

Transponder on bike installation

Each transponder with its unique number is motion activated to transmit. The transponder should be mounted on your front fork (either side) with two strong cable ties to secure in place. The transponder is required to be mounted on the outside of the fork (not the inside).

It is recommended to attached the transponder with the cap facing up. Should you lose your transponder cap, you can request one from BMXNZ. Email: admin@bmxnewzealand.co.nz

Bike Types & Transponders

BMXNZ will require each of your bikes being raced to have its own transponder. So if you ride 20" & Cruiser at the BMXNZ major events, each bike will need their own transponder.

SPROCKETS and Transponders

Due to the sports focus on participation and skills for our youngest riders. Those 7yrs & under will not be requiring transponders for any BMXNZ Major Event. Once these riders turn UCI8 they will need transponders for all Regions Champs and BMXNZ Major Events.

Reselling Transponders

If you are buying a used Transponder or reselling your one, there are few things to think about.

All transponders have a subscription, if you are buying a second-hand one, does it still have a subscription left? If so, ask the owner to show you online what is still active, especially if this is part of the sale price. Then all transponders are also registered to the owner, so this needs to change. If you are the original owner you can contact MYLAPS to have your detail removed from the transponder before you sell it. If you are buying a second-hand transponder you need to contact MYLAPS to make sure it is free from the previous person's account and then register it to your own account. If you the buyer needs to change the registration, then you need to contact MYLAPS with the previous owner's name & e-mail address, so this can be removed. This is a security process to stop stolen transponders being reassigned & resold.

You can contact MYLAPS on this link  -  www.mylaps.com/about-us/contact-mylaps/

HELP OR ASSISTANCE NEEDED

If you need help please e-mail the following admin@bmxnewzealand.co.nz