Glad You Asked Tayte: Mastering BMX Bunny Hops

Glad You Asked Tayte: Mastering BMX Bunny Hops

When it comes to BMX riding, there’s one skill that stands above the rest as a must-learn: the bunny hop.

Whether you’re looking to clear obstacles, perfect your jumps, or simply gain better control of your bike, mastering the bunny hop is key. This guide is tailored just for you, Tayte, to help you elevate your BMX skills at Red Centre BMX.

Why Bunny Hops Matter in BMX

The bunny hop is a fundamental technique in BMX riding, especially when it comes to racing and freestyle.

Being able to lift both wheels off the ground without the aid of a ramp gives you a significant advantage on the track. Whether you’re navigating over obstacles or setting up for a big trick, the bunny hop is your go-to move.

Plus, it’s a skill that every rider at Red Centre BMX should have in their arsenal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bunny Hops

Here’s how you can start perfecting your bunny hop:

 1. Body Position

  - Neutral Stance: Stand on your pedals with your knees slightly bent, and keep your weight centered over the bike. Your arms should be relaxed, with a slight bend at the elbows. Always look ahead, not down at your bike.

  - Compression: Lower your body by bending your knees and elbows, compressing the bike beneath you. This compression is what will give you the spring needed to hop.

2. Lift the Front Wheel

  - Shift Weight Back: To get the front wheel off the ground, shift your weight back while pulling up on the handlebars. Use your body weight more than just your arms to lift the front wheel.

  - Smooth Timing: Ensure that your lift is smooth and controlled. Avoid yanking the handlebars too hard, as this can disrupt your balance.

3. Lift the Rear Wheel

  - Shift Weight Forward: Once the front wheel is in the air, shift your weight forward and scoop your feet upward as if scraping mud off the pedals.

This motion will bring the rear wheel off the ground.

  - Stay Centered: Keep your body centered over the bike as you lift the rear wheel. The higher you want to hop, the more you need to compress and explode upward.

4. The Bunny Hop

  - Combine Movements: The bunny hop is all about combining the lift of the front and rear wheels in one smooth motion. The better you blend these two movements, the higher and more controlled your hop will be.

  - Practice: Start with small hops and gradually increase the height as you gain confidence and control.

Training Tips for Perfecting Your Bunny Hop

1. Start Small: Focus on getting both wheels off the ground in a controlled manner before worrying about height.

2. Use a Broomstick for Practice: Like we did at training, place a broomstick on the ground as a target to hop over. This visual target helps you practice lifting both wheels evenly and improves your precision. Start with the broomstick on the ground, and as you get better, raise it slightly to challenge yourself.

3. Vary Surfaces: Try bunny hopping on different surfaces—grass, dirt, and pavement—to adapt to different conditions.

4. Strength and Flexibility: Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and planks into your routine to build leg and core strength, which are crucial for powerful bunny hops. Regular stretching helps maintain flexibility.

5. Watch and Learn: Study videos of pro riders, especially those competing at Red Centre BMX, to see how they execute their bunny hops.

6. Practice Every Day: As a novice rider, this is an essential skill to practice every day. The more you practice, the better and more confident you’ll become on the track.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- Over-Pulling the Handlebars: Remember, the bunny hop is more about timing and body movement than raw strength. Over-pulling can lead to awkward landings.

- Rushing: Ensure each part of the hop is smooth and controlled. Don’t rush the process.

- Looking Down: Keep your eyes on what’s ahead, not on your bike. This helps maintain balance and prepare for the next move.

The Importance of Practicing at Red Centre BMX

At Red Centre BMX, you have access to some of the best facilities and tracks in the region. Regular practice on these tracks will not only help you perfect your bunny hop but also prepare you for competitive racing. The diverse terrain at Red Centre BMX is ideal for practicing your bunny hops on different surfaces and obstacles.

To get more details on training and racing opportunities at Red Centre BMX.

It’s a great resource to stay updated on upcoming sessions and events, ensuring you make the most of your time on the track.

Get Licensed with AusCycling

If you’re serious about taking your BMX skills to the next level and competing at events like those at Red Centre BMX, it’s important to be properly licensed. AusCycling offers various licenses that cater to BMX riders at all levels. Whether you’re racing or riding for fun, having a license ensures you’re covered in competitions and can access a range of events.

Check out the AusCycling Off-Road Race Membership to find the one that’s right for you. This membership will help you get involved in competitive racing and make the most out of your BMX experience.

Final Thoughts

The bunny hop is a foundational skill in BMX that will open the door to countless other techniques and tricks. For you, Tayte, mastering this move will not only boost your riding confidence but also set you up for success in competitions at Red Centre BMX. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there, hop to it, and keep pushing your limits!

See you on the track, Tayte!