How to Build Freestyle Motocross Landings

One of the best tests of skill with a motocross bike is doing jumps. You can make the takeoff of the jump from either wood or dirt, but the landing should almost always be made from dirt. Dirt provides more traction and a softer landing. The softer landing is especially important if a rider falls. The design of the landing ramp will depend greatly on the type of jump intended.

Things You'll Need

  • Dirt
  • Loader
  • Bulldozer (optional)
  • Water hose
Show More

Instructions

  1. Making the Landing

    • 1

      Evaluate the area you will use. Bigger ramps require more speed to jump and thus a larger landing area. The more space you have, the larger the ramp you can build.

    • 2

      Design the jumps. Once you have evaluated the area you are using, for its maximum potential, think about the skill level of the people who will be using the jumps. Beginners should have jumps that test their skill and offer challenges while still being safe.

    • 3

      Acquire some dirt. Landing ramps are built from dirt compacted down into a ramp shape. The bigger the ramp, the more dirt you will need. For smaller ramps, you can often just excavate another area and use that dirt; for bigger jumps, you will need extra dirt. Tip: Look for people digging out space for a swimming pool.

    • 4

      Use a loader or bulldozer to shape the landing area. The highest part of the landing should equal the height of the jump. Then it should taper gradually to the ground. For steeper ramps, use a steeper incline. Longer ramps need a longer landing to match the arc of the jump.

    • 5

      Use water from a hose to help solidify the shape of the new ramp. Do not oversaturate, or the ramp will erode. Use enough water to moisten the top couple of inches of dirt.