Bunny Hop on a Dirt Jumper (Bike)
The first basic trick performed on any bike is the bunny-hop. In the case of dirt jumpers or downhill bikes, the frames are slightly more heavy than that of a BMX, so it requires a little more "oomph."
Steps
- Get on the bike and begin to pedal until you reach a reasonable speed.
- Shift your center of gravity backwards so you lean just above the rear of the saddle.
- Stand on your pedals and stop pedaling, resting your feet at the same height.
- Quickly pull the handle bars upwards and towards you, balancing on your rear wheel.
- As this occurs, begin to lean forwards in order to stabilize as you begin to lift.
- This should result in a short jump in the air, like that of a bunny hopping.
- As you begin to come down, brace your legs and try to take as much of the impact as you can in your knees, the suspension will take the rest.
- After, you should touch down and continue to move along.
- Brake; get off your bike; and do a silly dance... you've done your first bunny-hop!
Tips
- This is the basis to getting all large air from jumps. From this further tricks can be added, such as tail whips, one-handers and table-tops.
- This is the key to clearing huge gaps and flat-lands. Without it, gap's would be near impossible!
- It takes practice, don't get frustrated if you can't do it first time... just try again!
- Once you've mastered this, go ahead and build a dirt park in your garden... with permission of course.
- Be sure to have a fairly good bike.
Warnings
- Make sure people know where you are; if you wipe out and hurt yourself, there's nothing worse than going missing.
- Biking of any kind is dangerous, remember to wear a helmet as minimum.
- If you get really into this (like me!) it is worth buying gloves, shin guard and a full-faced helmet etc.
- Always bring a mobile or cycle with a mate.
Things You'll Need
- A decent bike.
- A helmet and other safety gear.
- Flat land or steep downhill.
- Permission
