How to Build Mountain Bike Jumps

Mountain bikers are always looking for their next adrenaline rush, and performing jumps is an essential part of the sport. Dirt jumps allow riders to design and build their own take-off, tabletop and landing ramps, and provide a softer landing surface; offering protection during those inevitable falls. Construct your own dirt jumps, experience the rush of being airborne and practice your freestyle tricks.

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
  • Hose
  • Wheelbarrow
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scout the area for the perfect jump location. Find a site with enough space for a long run-up and safe landing, free from trees and rocks.

    • 2

      Mark out the build site using the corner of your shovel. Novice riders should build a 1 to 3 foot high take-off ramp, with a landing ramp position 2 to 6 feet after.

    • 3

      Fill your wheelbarrow with dirt and begin piling it up on the jump site. Be sure not to dig any earth from an area that will affect the run-up or landing. Remove any rocks or plants from the collected earth. Keep loading the site with dirt until you feel you have enough to begin the shaping process--you can always add more later.

    • 4

      Pack the dirt by hitting it with the back of your shovel to remove any air. Begin shaping your take-off ramp at about a 45 degree angle with a slight curve (the top of the jump should be steeper than the bottom).

    • 5

      Construct your landing ramp. Measure the height of the take-off ramp to determine the position of your landing ramp. Double the height of your take-off ramp to determine the approximate distance to space your landing ramp. For example, a 3 foot high take-off requires a landing ramp to be positioned 6 feet in front. Shape your landing ramp with an even 45-degree angle.

    • 6

      Fill the space between the take-off and landing ramps with more dirt to create a "table-top" jump. This is the safest type of dirt jump as it reduces the risk of injury should the rider fall short of the landing ramp.

    • 7

      Spray the jump with a hose until it is wet-through. Pack the earth down further with the back of your shovel or by walking across it several times.

    • 8

      Finalize the shaping and add more dirt if needed.