If there’s one fundamental skill that every mountain biker should master, it’s the American Bunny Hop. Whether you're navigating technical trails, launching off obstacles, or simply adding more flow to your riding, this technique is a game-changer.
Unlike the English Bunny Hop, which relies on lifting both wheels simultaneously, the American Bunny Hop is performed as a two-stage movement, making it a more versatile and useful technique for real-world riding.
Why the American Bunny Hop Matters
Being able to lift both wheels off the ground efficiently allows riders to clear obstacles, maintain momentum, and adapt to varying terrain. Mastering this skill makes riding smoother, safer, and more controlled. The ability to hop effectively can mean the difference between rolling through a technical section with ease or coming to an abrupt stop when faced with a rock, root section.
Rider Height, Wheel Size, and Bunny Hops: The Physics of the Movement
One factor that plays a big role in the ease of executing the American Bunny Hop is rider height and wheel size. Taller riders generally have a mechanical advantage, as they can generate more leverage through a longer reach and limb extension.
However, shorter riders can still excel by making key positional adjustments.
Larger wheels, such as 29ers, can make the movement more difficult for shorter riders, as they require a greater range of motion to lift effectively. If you are a shorter rider on bigger wheels, patience is key—allow the bike to rotate under you before exploding upwards. Rushing the movement can make it harder to generate height and control.
The size and geometry of your bike play a crucial role in how easily you can execute an American Bunny Hop. Longer bikes, especially those with extended wheelbases, take more time to rotate beneath you. This means patience is key, allow the bike to move before exploding upwards.
Chainstay length also affects how easily the rear wheel follows through. Longer chainstays make it harder to lift the front wheel, requiring more precise timing and effort. This is why many riders find it beneficial to first learn the technique on a BMX or dirt jump bike. These shorter, more responsive bikes make it easier to refine the movement before transferring the skill to a full-size mountain bike. If you’re struggling with bunny hops on your trail or enduro bike, consider practicing on a smaller bike to dial in the technique before scaling up.
For shorter riders, starting with a more chin-forward position (in front the stem) this can help generate more effective body movement. This also allows for a deeper weight shift and more “push” through the bike, making it easier to unweight the front wheel and drive the back wheel up effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide to the American Bunny Hop
Step 1: The Setup.
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Start in a neutral riding position with level pedals, knees and elbows slightly bent.
- Look ahead, not down, and stay light on the bike, ready to move dynamically.
Step 2: Load (Compression Phase).
- Begin by compressing into the bike, pushing down into the pedals and handlebars.
- This preloads the suspension (or flex in a rigid bike), creating stored energy for the hop.
Step 3: The Front Wheel Lift
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Explosively extend your arms and legs while shifting your weight back, pulling the front wheel up.
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The movement should feel like a dynamic manual rather than just a tug on the bars.
- Shorter riders should ensure they push their chin forward initially to get a deeper weight shift.
Step 4: Explode
- Think about dynamically exploding upward in a stand position
- Do not allow your knees to bend forward (through the bike) as this will restrict your height of bunny hop.
Step 5: The Rear Wheel Lift
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Once the front wheel is at its peak, scoop the pedals backward while driving your bars forward.
- Think of it as a ‘stomp and scoop’ motion with your feet while pushing the bars slightly forward to level out the bike.
Step 6: Absorption and Landing
- As you reach the peak of the hop, prepare for a smooth landing by bending your arms and legs.
- Absorb the impact evenly, keeping the bike stable and controlled.
Practice Tips for Faster Progress Start Small: Practice lifting the front and rear wheels separately before combining the movements.
Use a Marker: Set up a small stick or curb as a goal to clear, gradually increasing height.
- Using a stick as a "kicker" can really help with your timing for the bunny hop.
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Film Yourself: Reviewing footage can highlight areas for improvement, such as timing and technique.
- Stay Relaxed: A stiff body will fight the movement—stay loose and let the bike move naturally.
Final Thoughts: The American Bunny Hop is an essential tool in any mountain biker’s skillset. While it may take time to master, the benefits are well worth the effort. Shorter riders may need to make slight technique adjustments, but with the right approach, anyone can learn to hop with confidence. Keep practicing, stay patient, and soon enough, you’ll be hopping effortlessly over trail obstacles and riding with more flow than ever!
If you need further help or want to fast-track your progression, book a course with us today. We never make promises but, we haven't yet met anyone who we couldn't get bunny hopping!