DIY: Building Dirtbike Jumps and Single Tracks Like a Pro

This **Disclaimer:** Before we dive into the thrilling world of building your own dirt bike jumps and trails, we need to have a little chat. You see, while we're all about embracing our inner daredevils and pushing the limits of gravity, we also want to make sure everyone stays safe and sound. So, here's the deal: The following blog post is for entertainment purposes only. We're not responsible for any broken bones, bruised egos, or dirt-bike-shaped holes in your backyard. If you decide to go all Evel Knievel and attempt to recreate the jumps and trails described herein, well, that's on you, buddy. Remember, always wear your helmet, listen to your mom (or spouse), and never underestimate the power of a good insurance policy. And if you're ever in doubt, just ask yourself, "What would my dad do?" (Hint: He'd probably tell you to be careful and not do anything stupid.) Now, with that out of the way, let's get ready to build! Sick of same-old, same-old trail riding? Build your own dirtbike empire with DIY jumps and single tracks. Trust us, the rush of creating something with your own two hands is worth the effort. Bike jumping isn't just about racing, it's an art form that requires precision, skill, and a willingness to push boundaries. If you're eager to build your own jumps and single track trails, start by familiarizing yourself with safety guidelines and construction techniques. The time has come to take your dirtbike riding to new extremes! Are you ready to carve up the trails and blast through tight lines? Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, building a dirtbike jump or ramp is a challenge that requires careful planning and execution. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the physics, tools, and safety considerations that'll get you charging down the track in no time! How to Build a Dirt Bike Jump or Ramp For dirt bike enthusiasts, the call of the air is undeniable. Building your own bike jumps is an exhilarating way to take your riding to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, creating the perfect jump or ramp is equal parts art and science. Deciding What to Build The first step in any DIY: building a dirtbike jump or ramp is deciding what type of jump you want to tackle. Different jumps offer unique challenges and experiences. A beginner bike ramp might be a simple tabletop, while more advanced riders may opt for a gap jump or step-up. Consider your skill level and the space you have available when selecting your jump style. Building Dirt Jumps Once you've settled on a design, it's time to start shaping your masterpiece. The key to a great dirt jump is the takeoff lip and landing ramp. The takeoff should have a smooth transition and the right takeoff angle to launch you into the perfect jump flight. The landing should be steep enough to match your landing velocity but not so steep that you risk overshooting. Pay attention to drainage too. Consider installing a drainage pipe or culvert to keep water from pooling in your landing area. Muddy slip and slides are alot of fun when planned but less then ideal when coming down from catching some sweet air and trying to keep it tire side down. Building a Wood or Steel Ramp If dirt isn't your medium of choice, a wooden ramp can provide a more predictable and durable takeoff ramp. The principles are similar - you need a solid lip edge and the right lip angle to control your jump angle. Make sure your supports are sturdy and your surface provides good traction(wet wood does not provide traction). If you know how to weld or have a decent amount of disposable income, a steel ramp can be a better option as it will last longer then a wooden ramp and can be built into a towable trailer to be easily moveable. Wether using wood or steel, when building a ramp look at some online plans or tutorials on the typical geometry and vert, no one wants to spend all their time and money on something that sends you to the moon sideways (more below). No matter what type of jump you build, always prioritize safety. Follow proper safety procedures and never ride beyond your skill level. Start small and work your way up to bigger air. With careful planning and a bit of elbow grease, you'll be soaring over your very own terrain park jumps in no time. Remember, those guys you see at FMX shows or supercross have been riding and practicing for years, they all started small and just "make it look easy". Never start by trying to jump your neighbours house(Jason Borosky style) or the local swimming pool(Hot Rod 2007 film). Understanding the Physics Behind Dirt Bike Jumps Sickness-worthy dirt bike jumps don't just happen by chance they require a healthy dose of science and creativity. Learn the intricacies of jump building, and you'll be creating drool-worthy features in no time. Measurements and Geometry The shape of your jump - the takeoff angle, the transition curve, the landing slope - determines how a bike will move through the air. A steeper takeoff will launch you higher. A longer transition will give you more speed. The landing must match the trajectory of your flight. It's all about geometry. Thclothoid shape is often considered the ideal transition curve. It provides a smooth, predictable ramp up to the lip. The radius of the curve should be based on the expected speed - tighter for slower speeds, more open for higher speeds. Your wheel base angle at the lip essentially becomes your launch angle. This, along with your launch speed, determines your flight path. Developing a Construction Plan Before you start pushing dirt, it's crucial to have a plan. Sketch out your design on paper. Calculate your dimensions. Use a ramp calculator to dial in your geometry. Measure twice, dig once. Use a tape measure, inclinometer, and laser level to ensure your angles and distances are spot on. A radar gun can help you gauge speeds and adjust your design accordingly. Consider your transition length, takeoff equilibration, and landing speeds. A well-designed jump will feel smooth and predictable, letting the rider focus on style and technique rather than just survival. Remember, there's no shame in starting small. Even the pros build beginner moto ramps to dial in their designs. Use the witchcraft method - a little bit of science and a little bit of trial and error - to create the perfect jump. Punctual jumps start with an arsenal of fundamental physical concepts and a mastery of engineering techniques. Once you've got the basics down, clear obstacles with confidence and unleash your inner thrill-seeker. Keep a handy library of e-books and available documents handy for more in-depth information on landing ramp construction. Key Takeaway: When building a dirt bike jump or ramp, prioritize safety by starting small and working your way up to bigger air, and never ride beyond your skill level safety procedures and perseverance will have you soaring in no time. Designing and Constructing Single Track Trails Building great single track bike trails is a labor of love. It takes careful planning, hard work, and ongoing maintenance. But the rewards - an epic ride through the heart of nature - are well worth the effort. Get Permission and Build a Partnership Beyond the thrill of building a dirtbike jump or single track, building strong relationships with landowners is vital. When you take the time to understand their concerns, you can work together to create a trail that benefits everyone, all while avoiding potential legal issues. Use local maps showing crown land/BLM areas as these are good spots to build as well, if you ride enough or ask around others will know which areas are more lenient. Form a Team and Seek Input Before embarking on a dirtibke trail building adventure, rally fellow enthusiasts to collaborate on designing and building a thrilling trail. Seek out the expertise of seasoned trail builders who have a passion for crafting adrenaline-pumping courses. Host trail work days to get the community involved. The more rider input you get, the better your trail will be. Incorporate "A" and "B" lines in your design to cater to riders of all levels. If you're building pro lines I will assume you already know all this and won't dig into how to properly build gnarly features. Select a Location Not all terrain is suitable for single track. Look for areas with good drainage, interesting features, and durable surfaces. Avoid sensitive habitats, steep slopes, and high-traffic areas. Stay out of wetlands and environmentally sensitive areas as well as the alpine as most of these areas can have protected species. No one wants to be chased out of their new favourite trail by a helicopter and given a hefty fine, although the helicopter thing sounds pretty bad-ass. Work with your land manager to select a sustainable location for your trail. Consider the time riding to and from the trail to ensure accessibility. Develop a Risk Management Plan Dirtbiking inherently carries some risk. Minimize hazards through thoughtful design and regular maintenance. Develop an emergency response plan or carry around a can of "suck it up buttercup". There's a tangible bond that forms between riders and trail builders(aka trail fairy's) a shared love for adventure and the beauty of the great outdoors. To strengthen this bond, we must also prioritize the business side of things, just as our trust in one another will only continue to flourish. *Pro tip, If you dont want the chance of running into mountain bikers on your trail build them so hard they'll have to turn around and go back to the bike park. Develop an Effective Signage System Safe and fulfilling trail rides depend on a subtle yet vital component: effective signage. Signage that whispers guidance, rather than shouting rules, sets the tone for a seamless journey. Proper markers ensure riders stay on course, aware of challenges ahead, and prepared for any surprises. Keep signs simple, visible, and easy to understand. Incorporate trail news and updates into your signage system. Acquire Insurance Crafting a protective shield for yourself and your organization is pivotal. By working closely with your land manager and insurance provider, you'll be able to precisely tailor coverage to address your concerns. Sending valuable trails to disarray is not just a concern; it's a tangible risk. Without adequate insurance coverage, trail maintenance becomes an uphill battle, posing a real threat to their long-term vitality. Develop a Scheduled Inspection and Maintenance Program Vital pathways rely on our commitment to upkeep. Before traversing or enjoying the virtues of a winding trail, make sure you're giving back by actively inspecting, mapping, and caring for the terrain. Consider categorizing your tasks, from clearing brush to patching splits in gravel paths, to ensure nothing slips through the cracks. A watchful eye keeps the trail's path secure. Quick problem-solving removes dirt from sticking. Long-term upkeep highlights hidden dips, rocks and unexpected threats to trek progress. Keeping clean grounds aids adventure spirits remain. Encourage Stewardship The more people who feel a sense of ownership and pride in the trail, the better it will be. Share trail news to keep the community engaged. Getting Good Dirt One of the most important materials for building dirt bike jumps and trails is, of course, dirt. But not just any dirt will do. You need soil that will pack well and hold its shape. In my experience, a mix of clay and loam works best. Sandy soil can be too loose, while pure clay can become slippery when wet. When sourcing dirt, I recommend getting it from a reputable supplier. Some places may try to pass off construction debris or other unsuitable materials as fill dirt. Trust me, you don't want to be picking out chunks of concrete and rebar when you're trying to sculpt the perfect jump. This also comes into play when selecting the area to build your jumps in, scope out the area to look at what kinds of soild are around and dig test holes if needed. An area with rocks at surface means alot more rocks below ground, no one wants to be digging into rocky soils trying to find good dirt. Essential Tools and Materials for Building Dirt Bike Jumps and Trails Building dirt bike jumps and trails requires the right tools and materials. This will make your project easier and help you create a safe, durable track. Here are some must-haves for your dirt bike building toolkit: Shovels and rakes: You'll need sturdy shovels and rakes to move and shape dirt. Look for tools with strong handles and metal heads that can stand up to heavy use. Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is great for hauling dirt and other materials around your build site. Choose one with a deep tray and durable wheels. Tamper: A hand tamper or plate compactor is essential for packing down dirt and creating a firm surface for your jumps and berms. A pick up can work great as well if theres enough room and you don't mind driving your truck up and down a hill 30 times. Measuring tape and stakes: To lay out your track design, you'll need a long measuring tape and wooden stakes. Drive the stakes into the ground to mark key points like the start and end of jumps. Dirt: Of course, you can't build a dirt track without plenty of dirt! You may be able to use soil from your own property, or you might need to have dirt delivered. Look for a mix of clay and sandy soil for the best results. Watering tools: Moisture is key when building dirt jumps and berms. You'll need a hose or sprinkler to wet the soil as you work it. A watering can is also helpful for spot watering. In addition to these basics, you may want some other tools depending on your build. A chainsaw is useful for clearing brush and small trees. If you're building large jumps, you might need a tractor or skid-steer to move lots of dirt quickly. And if your soil is very dry, you may want to add some sawdust or mulch to help it retain water. With the right tools and materials on hand, you're ready to start shaping your ultimate dirt bike playground. Take your time to build each feature carefully and test it out before riding at full speed. Soon you'll have a backyard track that will be the envy of all your riding buddies! Grading the Site for Drainage Before you start building your jumps and trails, it's crucial to grade the site properly for drainage. You don't want your hard work to be washed away by the first rainstorm. I learned this lesson the hard way when I built my first set of jumps in a low-lying area. After a heavy rain, they were reduced to sad piles of mud. Ready to get started on your site grading project? Begin by gathering the essential tools: a reliable tape measure, a trusty slope meter, and a laser level. The former will allow you to measure the area with precision, while the latter two will help you calculate and establish a level surface, ensuring water drains away from your jumps and trails. Safety Considerations and Best Practices As thrilling as it is to build and ride your own dirt bike jumps and trails, safety should always be your top priority. I've seen too many riders get hurt because they didn't take the necessary precautions. Developing a Risk Management Plan Most of the sweetest jumps and trails are on private land wether your own or a friend's it is imperative that you cover yourself against liabilities and lawsuits. Everyone is your best friend till they are paralyzed and then come after you for money. It's the darker side of the fun of motorsports but has to be addressed none the less. Most tracks and trail systems have a waiver to sign when membership is paid for before entry. Clearly posting rules and regulations for using the jumps and trails. Requiring riders to wear appropriate safety gear (helmet, goggles, chest protector, etc.). Regularly inspecting and maintaining the jumps and trails. Have a waiver to sign, have a sign at the entrance with "must sign waiver to ride" Having a plan for emergency situations (first aid kit, designated contact person, etc.). Dirt bike adventures come with a risk of accidents, and the financial burden that follows. But with the right insurance coverage, you can ride with confidence. Make sure to review your homeowners' policy and consider additional coverage specifically for dirt bike activities, your wallet will thank you. Including Jumps for Everyone When designing your jumps and trails, it's important to include features for riders of all skill levels. Not everyone is ready to tackle a 30-foot gap jump right out of the gate. I like to include a mix of tabletops, step-ups, and smaller doubles that allow riders to progress at their own pace. It's also crucial to design your jumps with proper landing ramps that minimize the risk of injury. The landing should be long enough and at the correct angle to allow riders to touch down safely. I always refer to landing PDFs and design rationale documents to make sure I'm building jumps that are as safe as possible. Encouraging Stewardship One effective way to foster a sense of community among riders is to organize regular work days, where everyone can come together to fix jumps, clear debris, and make improvements to the trails. Having a few trusted riders serve as 'trail stewards' can also help maintain order and ensure the rules are respected, even when we're not around. By prioritizing safety and encouraging stewardship, you can create a sustainable and enjoyable space for dirt bike riders of all levels to enjoy. Be sure to check trespassing laws and get permission before building on any land that isn't yours. Learning from Other Action Sports While we're pushing the limits of what's possible with dirt bike jumps and trails, we can draw inspiration from other action sports that have been around for decades. BMX, skateboarding, and mountain biking have years of experience to draw upon, and their techniques and best practices can be valuable additions to our own pursuit. BMX and Skateboarding The dirt-jumping world has been significantly influenced by BMX and skateboarding, leading to the transfer of techniques and skills between these sports. Many practitioners of BMX and skatepark design have successfully adapted these techniques to create thrilling dirt bike jumps. For example, BMX riders often use a technique called "rolling" to shape their jumps. This involves using a large PVC pipe or other cylindrical object to smooth out the transitions and create a more predictable shape. This technique can be adapted for dirt bike jumps as well, using a larger pipe or even a 55-gallon drum. Next time you drive by your local skate park have a look and see if you can draw inspiration from any of the features. A good way to practice jumps and learn technique is to ride a bmx or mountain bike. Although they don't have throttles they can teach you valuable jumping skills and are lighter to deal with. Nothing is heavier then a dirtbike landing on you coming off a 30 foot jump. Mountain Biking From rugged mountainous terrain to dusty dirt tracks, both mountain bikers and dirt bikers cherish the freedom of riding on the open trail. What's striking is that some of the most popular mountain bike trails were actually crafted by passionate dirtbikers looking to create a scenic ride. Key Takeaway: Before breaking ground on your dirt bike jump or trail, take the time to grade your site for drainage, ensuring water flows away from your hard work, and source high-quality dirt that packs well and holds its shape, or you'll be left scrambling to rebuild after the first rainstorm. Conclusion Building your own dirtbike jumps and single track trails is a thrilling and fulfilling experience that allows you to take your riding skills to new heights. By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this guide, you can create a safe and enjoyable riding environment that caters to your specific needs and preferences. Remember, the key to a successful DIY jump or trail project is careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. With the right tools, materials, and mindset, you can transform your riding experience and take your skills to the next level. It's the moment we've all been waiting for: showcase your built jump, ramp, and winding hills to every thrill-seeking dirtbiker, tag us at @BluemotoOfficial or #Bluemotojumps