How to Do a BMX Rocket Manual

The Rocket Manual's a basic variation on the manual, a classic BMX trick that's similar to a wheelie. Unlike the traditional wheelie, you'll need a pair of rear pegs on your bike to do the Rocket Manual. As long as you've got those and a good sense of balance, you're ready to give the trick a shot.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Find a small ramp to do the manual on. The air you get off of the ramp gives you a little more time to switch your feet from the pedals to the pegs during the trick.
2. Ride toward the ramp at a moderate speed. Taking a few pedals forward should give you enough speed to hit the ramp and get the air you need.
3. Lift your bike into the air at the top of the ramp. While you're in the air, push the bike forward and set your feet down on the rear pegs.
4. Land the hop on the bike's back wheel with your feet on the pegs.
5. Pull back on the handlebars to keep the front wheel lifted off of the ground. You should now be rolling forward, balanced on the back wheel.
6. Set the front wheel back on the ground smoothly and ride away from the ramp.

Tips & Warnings

• Gently squeeze your breaks when you're balancing the manual. This prevents your back wheel from spinning out and helps you control the bike.
• Make the hop off the ramp small. You only need about an inch or two of air to switch your feet from the pedals to the pegs.