3 Ways to Build Dirt Jumps
Introduction
Dirt jumps are a fundamental element of mountain biking and BMX, providing both thrills and challenges to riders. Building your own dirt jumps can be an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing you to tailor the difficulty and complexity of the obstacles to suit your riding style. In this article, we will explore three ways to build dirt jumps: single-track, double track, and pump track.
1. Single-Track Dirt Jumps
Single-track dirt jumps are individual mounds of dirt built in a straight line, designed for riders to jump from one mound to another. These jumps require precision and control, as riders need to navigate the distance between each jump while maintaining their balance.
To build single-track dirt jumps:
a. Choose a suitable location: Find a relatively flat area with enough space for multiple jumps and a safe run-up and landing areas.
b. Mark the jump sequence: Plan each jump’s placement using marker flags or spray paint.
c. Dig and shape the mounds: Start by shaping a take-off mound using a spade or shovel and gradually build its height with soil. Repeat this process for each intended jump in the sequence.
d. Compact the mounds: Firmly pack the soil using your hands or a tamp to ensure stability.
2. Double Track Dirt Jumps
Double track dirt jumps are designed for side-by-side racing or skill development between friends. Two parallel sets of single-track jumps challenge riders to navigate through the course simultaneously while competing against one another.
To build double track dirt jumps:
a. Follow steps 1a-1d above for each parallel set of jumps.
b. Ensure adequate spacing: Maintain sufficient distance (at least 6-8 feet) between the two sets of tracks to enable safe side-by-side riding.
c. Test ride and adjust as necessary: Ride through each set of jumps and make any required adjustments to the spacing, height, or shape of individual mounds.
3. Pump Track Dirt Jumps
Pump tracks are circuits composed of dirt jumps, berms, and rollers that riders navigate repeatedly by “pumping” — that is, using their body movements to generate momentum. These tracks are designed to improve bike handling skills while offering a fun and rhythmic riding experience.
To build a pump track:
a. Plan your layout: Draft the pump track’s design on paper or via mapping software, including jumps, rollers, and berms.
b. Mark the course: Spray paint or flag the intended path to visualize the layout in your location.
c. Build the features: Following steps 1c-1d above, construct the jumps, adding rollers (smaller mounds) and berms (semi-circular mounds for cornering) as required for your design.
d. Compact and test ride: Ensure all features are appropriately compacted for safe riding, and test ride the track to refine any necessary changes in height, width, or obstacle sequence.
Conclusion
Creating your own dirt jumps can be a fun and satisfying project for any bike enthusiast. Whether you’re honing your skills on a single-track course or with friends on a double-track setup, or mastering momentum on a pump track — each jump type presents unique challenges and rewards. With careful planning and construction, you can create a customized dirt jump playground in your backyard or local riding area to enjoy for years to come.