How to J-Hop on a Mountain Bike

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(2 Ratings)

The bunny hop and the j-hop are the two main techniques mountain bikers use to jump over obstacles. Although more people seem to know about the bunny hop, the j-hop gives you more control over your bike during the jump and reduces the wear on your bike associated with hard landings.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Approach the obstacle at a moderate speed. You'll need some momentum to clear the obstacle, but you've also got to have control over the bike during take-off. Speeds around 5 mph work well for beginners.
Step 2

Lift your front wheel off of the ground as you approach the obstacle. This is different from the bunny hop, during which you lift both wheels at once.
Step 3

Continue to raise your tire until it's high enough to clear the obstacle.
Step 4

Raise your body and pull the back tire off the ground.
Step 5

Push the handlebars down a bit to level your tires out when you're over the obstacle. This is important because it prevents your back tire from hitting the object and causing a crash.
Step 6

Land with both wheels touching down at the same time. Avoid landing on your front tire, which can throw you into an endo and cause you to wreck.

Tips & Warnings

Keep a hand on the rear break during the jump, just in case you need to slow down or bail.
Performing the j-hop on a bike with pedal clips is easier than on one without them.

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