By Josh Whitmore, Owner and Head Coach, MTB Skills Factory
The bump jump is one of the most underused air skills for technical trails. Instead of trying to clear a full feature or working overtime with a massive bunny hop, you let the trail do the heavy lifting for you.
By using small roots or rocks as a tiny launchpad, you save energy, maintain momentum and stay smoother through rough terrain.
How to Bump Jump
Look for the spot. Find a root or rock 2 to 10 inches tall with a clear landing. Bonus points if you’re gapping over trail chatter or another obstacle.
Approach tall. Stay centered and balanced on the bike.
Pre-load. Right before the object, press through your feet to load both wheels equally.
Explode and scoop. Explode upward while scooping the rear wheel up with your feet. Think level-lift, not a full bunny hop.
Make contact. Bump the object with your front wheel on the way up.
Boost. Let that tiny “ramp” push you into the air with total control.
How to Learn and Practice
Step 1: Master the level-lift (flat ground).
Practice getting both wheels off the ground at the same time and to the same height, then landing both wheels together.
Step 2: Add a low-risk obstacle.
Use a small log, rock or rounded curb. Time your level-lift right before the object so your front wheel lightly bonks it on the way up.
Try different approach speeds to dial in your timing.
Experiment with bumping heavier versus lighter to see how much boost you get.
Step 3: Take it to the trail.
Start with single objects that have clear landings. Then progress to using bump jumps to gap over rough sections, roots or holes into a smooth landing zone.
About the author: Josh Whitmore is the owner and head coach of MTB Skills Factory. Learn more at www.mtbskillsfactory.com or call 828-226-4156.