How to Build Miniature Ramps for Bikes

Construct miniature ramps to design a dirt jumping course.

Unlike conventional genres of cycling, BMX bikers perform tricks that consist of spinning and flipping techniques. BMX dirt jumpers use angled ramps to execute these sometimes dangerous maneuvers. BMX ramps vary in construction and shape. However, these specialized bike ramps commonly feature a dirt or wood construction. Build your own miniature bike ramps with dirt to avoid spending money on expensive building materials. Designing miniature bike ramps will enable you to maximize space for other riding obstacles.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead shovel
• Watering can
• Tamp

Instructions

1. Locate an ideal ramp building area that features a slightly downward sloping terrain. Insert the flat head of your shovel into the dirt. Push down on shovel handle to dislodge the dirt from the ground. Carry the shovel full of dirt a few feet away from the hole.

2. Tilt the head of the shovel to dump the dirt into a pile. Repeat the digging process until you have built a small pile of dirt. Utilize the flat head of the shovel to shape the mound of dirt. Create a miniature inclined ramp that features a smooth face.

3. Add a small amount of water to the ramp face after completing the shaping process. Use a tamp tool to pack down the moistened dirt of the ramp. Add a small amount of dry dirt onto the ramp face. Repeat the smoothing process with the tamp tool.

4. Allow your newly built bike ramp to dry for 30 minutes. Ride your BMX or mountain bike off of the ramp to test the construction. Construct a miniature landing ramp a few feet away from the takeoff ramp.

References

• Ride BMX Magazine: How-To Build BMX Dirt Jumps and Trails
• Popular Mechanics: How to Build a Backyard Climbing Wall, Skate Ramp & BMX Jump
• Genes BMX: How To Build BMX Dirt Jumps