The bunny hop is one of the most useful skills a mountain biker can learn. It helps riders clear roots, rocks, trail debris, and small gaps without losing speed or slamming into obstacles. It also builds confidence, improves bike control, and sets the foundation for more advanced moves on technical terrain.

Even though it can look effortless when experienced riders do it, the bunny hop is a skill that comes from timing and technique—not brute strength. With the right approach and a little repetition, most riders can learn it.

advertisement

Why the Bunny Hop Matters

A strong bunny hop makes trail riding smoother and safer. It can help riders:

• Maintain speed through technical sections
• Reduce impacts to wheels and suspension
• Stay more stable on rough trails
• Handle surprise obstacles with more confidence

It is not just about jumping for fun. A good bunny hop is about efficiency, flow, and protecting both rider and bike.

Understanding the Two-Part Movement

A proper mountain bike bunny hop is not one single jump. It is a two-part movement: lifting the front wheel first, then lifting the rear wheel.

1) Front Wheel Lift

The bunny hop begins with a controlled front wheel lift—similar to a manual. The goal is to bring the front wheel up using body movement rather than yanking with the arms.

• Shift the weight slightly back
• Press down into the bike, then pull the bars up smoothly
• Keep elbows bent and eyes looking ahead

2) Rear Wheel Lift

Once the front wheel is up, the rear wheel follows. This happens by moving the body forward and upward while using the feet to “scoop” the bike.

• Drive hips forward and upward
• Scoop the pedals backward and up with the feet
• Bring the bike up underneath the body

The rear wheel lift is created by technique and timing—not by simply jumping straight into the air.

Dial In the Right Body Position

Body position is a major factor in how controlled and effective a bunny hop feels.

• Neutral stance: Knees bent, elbows slightly out, chest centered
• Flat back: Hinge at the hips rather than rounding the spine
• Heavy feet, light hands: Push through the pedals instead of pulling hard on the bars

A relaxed body makes the movement smoother and helps the bike respond more naturally.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If the bunny hop feels awkward or inconsistent, one of these issues is often the cause:

• Jumping straight up: This usually limits height and control
• Pulling only with the arms: A bunny hop should involve the whole body
• Locked elbows or stiff legs: Tension reduces lift and stability
• Trying to go too fast too soon: Speed magnifies small errors

Slowing down and cleaning up the motion leads to faster progress than rushing.

Drills to Build Bunny Hop Skills

Front Wheel Lift Practice

On flat ground, practice lifting the front wheel and setting it down smoothly. Focus on shifting weight back and using a controlled pull—not a sudden yank.

Rear Wheel Lift Practice

Practice lifting the rear wheel by shifting the body forward and using the feet to scoop the pedals. This builds foot control and helps riders understand how the rear wheel actually comes up.

Obstacle Progression

Start with something small and forgiving, like a stick or a soft water bottle. Increase the height only after the hop feels consistent and controlled.

Slow-Speed Hops

Practice at walking speed. A clean bunny hop at low speed usually translates into better technique at trail speed.

Timing and Flow

Timing is what makes a bunny hop feel effortless.

• Compress into the bike first
• Lift the front wheel
• Then lift the rear wheel
• Stay relaxed and let the bike move underneath

The goal is to feel like the bike is following the rider’s movement—not fighting it.

Taking to the Trail

Once it feels comfortable on flat ground, start using it on real terrain:

• Hop over roots instead of smashing through them
• Clear small rocks without braking
• Maintain momentum on narrow singletrack
• Handle unexpected trail clutter more safely

With practice, the bunny hop becomes a tool riders use without thinking—especially when the trail gets rough or unpredictable.

advertisement

Final Thoughts

Mastering the bunny hop is less about strength and more about technique, coordination, and patience. Riders who break it into steps, practice regularly, and pay attention to body position tend to improve quickly.

Over time, obstacles feel smaller, trails feel smoother, and confidence grows with every clean lift. A strong bunny hop does not just look good—it makes mountain biking more fun, more efficient, and easier on the body and bike.

advertisement