How to Make a Quarter Pipe

A quarter pipe is a sloping ramp used in extreme sports. The quarter pipe takes its name from its shape--it is one quarter of a circular pipe. Skateboarders, skiers and bikers use quarter pipes to gain speed and execute jumps. The extreme sports enthusiast can move quickly back and forth on the ramp. Two quarter pipes can be combined to make a half pipe for an even more challenging experience.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wooden 2 x 4's
• Cardboard
• Plywood
• Skatelite

1. Begin by building the base. The base of your quarter pipe should be equal in length to the height of the ramp. For a 5-foot quarter pipe select three 5-foot long 2 x 4's. Lay them out on the ground parallel to each other. The inner and outer 2 x 4's mark the limits of the width of your quarter pipe. The third 2 x 4 goes exactly in the middle.

2. Place additional 2 x 4's in between each of the 5-foot 2 x 4's. These should be placed about a foot apart and perpendicular to the longer 2 x 4's. You are creating a latticework of wooden beams. Secure all these pieces together with wood screws. The base must provide a firm foundation for the ramp.

3. Create a form out of cardboard. Draw a quarter of a circle that is 5-feet high. Cut out the form and place it on the floor or on a table. Next, arrange 2 x 4's on top of the form. The first 2 x 4 should be even with the high end of the form. Place the others each about 1 foot apart. Cut the tops of the 2 x 4's even with the curvature of the form. You will need to make three sets of these varied height 2 x 4's. Attach the 2 x 4's in an upright position to the three 5 foot beams on the base of the quarter pipe.

4. Fasten additional 2 x 4's across these upright beams. These crosspieces should also be about a foot apart. Take your plywood and lay it on top of the ramp. Trim to size and secure in place. Add a second layer of plywood on top. Make sure the entire structure is stable. If not, add additional supports.Finally, cover the ramp surface with a layer of Skatelite. Skatelite is a special material that provides proper traction for skateboards, bikes, and other extreme sports equipment.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear protective gear when using a quarter pipe. High speed falls can be dangerous.

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[cuspurs]

on 12/28/2008 This is stupid. Quarter pipe is not exactly one quarter of a circle. its a little less. I came to this link to find out the degrees. In this link it is said that a quarterpipe is exactly 90 degrees of a circle. Its NOT! Every BMXer will tell you that this is not true. Radius is longer than 5ft. Thanks for nothing!!!