Dirt jumping has been around forever, but it is now one of the fastest forms of BMX riding. You need a no-fear attitude and a super-strong bike. Follow these steps to get your bike dialed in.
Step Two
Use as many other jumping-specific components as possible. Do a quick check of the frame and everything else on the bike to be sure that nothing is cracked, bent or broken.
Step Three
Remove any reflectors, chain guards or kickstands. Remove the axle pegs and your front brake if you're only going to dirt jump.
Step Four
Position your handlebars so they're straight up and down or in line with the fork. You may be more comfortable with your bars a little more forward or back, but don't go too far in either direction. Some riders like to cut their handlebars' width to just a little wider than shoulder-width.
Step Five
Remove your old grips if they're torn or if the handlebar is showing through. Bar end caps will help protect the end of the handlebar.
Step Six
Choose a strong wheel set. Forty-eight spokes are a must. Try to find rims with double- or triple-wall construction and oversized axles (14mm). Inflate your tires to the maximum air pressure.
Step Seven
Tighten all nuts and bolts to their specifications, including axle nuts, stem bolts, pedals, cranks, seat and seat post nuts, brakes, and headset. Lubricate all moving parts, such as brake cables, brake pivot bolts and your chain.
Step Eight
Put the correct amount of tension on the chain so that it doesn't fall off when you're riding. Choose platform pedals over caged pedals.