Jumping A Mountain Bike: The Fundamentals

Mountain Biking is one of the most varied ways of cycling, and travelling in general - a mountain bike unlocks so much different terrain, demanding certain skill sets and capabilities from the bikes and riders. Jumping a mountain bike is one area which most mountain bikers want to learn how to do in the first instance, and improve once they have mastered the basics. Although we would say that jumping a mountain bike was never completely essential - as mountain biking, and mountain bikes have evolved - bigger and better jumps are becoming more of a regular occurrence out on the trails, meaning that trail riders will at some point, all have to work on their jumping skills.

Full Suspension mountain bike technology has ensured that today’s bikes can jump harder and bigger than ever before - and the limiting factor with regards to MTB jumping performance is most definitely the rider. This makes the mental and physical challenges of jumping a mountain bike, more important than ever. The size of the jump is the first aspect of overcoming the mental challenge of jumping on a moutnain bike, a small jump is manageable both mentally and physically - with a smaller jump being more forgiving on man and machine. As riders challenge themselves with bigger jumps, poor technique can lead to big accidents - with the bike travelling through the air for longer. If you find yourself having a few ‘risky’ moments on smaller jumps, think about the basic techniques of jumping before trying anything bigger. The ideal place to start is these smaller jumps - which are more forgiving. The first indication of jump going well is really simple, the bike is landed relatively softly - and doesn't smash into the ground with a bang.

Suspension Changes

Suspension plays a vital role in how your bike jumps - but with suspension set up incorrectly, jumping the bike and more importantly, landing the bike can be very difficult. Slow down rebound speeds if they are set fast, so the suspension does not fire you back up when you land. Also think about softening up the suspension to give you extra cushion when you land, but don’t set it so soft that it causes you to bottom out, when you land it.

Check Your Bike

At the beginning of any session where you will jumping - always give your bike a once over, look for play in bearings and fixings - as well as any deformities on the wheel/spokes - these areas are under a great amount of strain when jumping, so it’s important to check and rectify any issues. Whilst looking, also check the frame for cracks and damage, as well as movement and play in the pedals.

Seat Height

Most trail riders are familiar with dropper seatposts - which drop down to ensure the seat is out of the way when on the trails. Dropping seat height is really important when jumping, getting the seat out of the way from your clothing - meaning there is less chance of your shorts snagging on the seat as you jump - throwing you way off course. Don’t just set the seat height as low as it will go, make small changes and adjustments so the changes feel less alien.

MTB Pedals For Jumping

Although regular mountain bike pedals will do for jumping - ensure that your pedals are secure, and you are able to get a good grip on the pedals. Ensure that your feet are not slipping off your pedals, as your feet and hands are the only desirable contact points with the bike when jumping.

MTB Armour And Helmets

It goes without saying that anybody riding a mountain bike should be wearing a helmet as a minimum level of protection. MIPS helmets are popular with trail riders, with greater levels of impact protection through unique technology. Many trail riders also consider buying MTB body armour, in the form of knee, shin and elbow pads - it’s important to remember that a crash will still hurt, with or without this body armour, so purchasing armour is not a reason to feel invincible.

MTB Jump Entry And Exit

Many riders believe that the lip of the jump is the entry point of a jump - but the entry point is much sooner - and by the time the rider hits the lip of the jump, only tiny changes to position should really be taking place. The exit of the jump, the landing should also not be focussed on a specific spot, treat the landing of a jump as you would any other obstacle on a trail, look through it, and do not become fixated on it.

Entering The Jump

On approaching the jump, focus on keeping your body relaxed but in firm control of the bike. Keep your eyes well ahead, and whilst taking notice of the landing zone - look ahead of it.

Getting Airbourne

Once you approach the exit of the jump, try and compress down onto the bike. Drop your body weight into the bike and bend your legs. Push the bike through the air with your heels dropped, allowing you to push the bike as your body rises. Keep your body behind the centre line of the bike, pumping just before you jump will allow you to generate more lift and acceleration.

In The Air

Once you are in the air, the majority of the hard work is done. Spot your landing zone, whilst remaining looking ahead of what’s coming on the trail. Try and match the bike with the ground you are landing on, and try to land both wheels at the same time. If you touch the rear wheel down first, you can wash out. If you land too harshly on the front wheel, you can easily end up going over the handlebars.

Landing The Bike

As mentioned in the above, when you land the bike - try to land on both wheels at the same time, if possible. Face the direction of travel, as if your head and body are looking at where you need to buy, it’s a safe bet that the bike will follow. Keep a decent level of flex in your body, ready for the compression of landing, absorbing the impact through your body.

Visualise The Jump

Be confident and visualise the jump, and successfully landing the jump. Play around with your timings and positions of an ‘easier’ jump to perfect the technique. Try practicing on a single jump, rather than a double jump - allowing you a flat area to land on.