While recreational bikers ride to burn calories, freestyle bikers ride for the rush of adrenaline. Freestyle bike riding, also defined as BMX, consists of aerial tricks and balancing techniques. BMX professionals have constructed designated parks that feature freestyle biking ramps, rails and ledges. The freestyle bike has been equipped with a specialized design to aid in trick riding maneuvers.
Manual/Wheelie
The manual, or wheelie, remains an ideal starting place for novice freestyle riders, enabling you to improve your balancing skills and bike control before moving on to more difficult tricks. As you reach a comfortable speed, pull on the handlebars while shifting your body weight backwards. Lift the front tire of your freestyle bike off the ground and begin to balance on the rear tire. BMX Plus Magazine recommends bending your knees to stay centered directly over the bike during the manual.
Wall Rides
The wall ride refers to a versatile freestyle trick that can be executed in the streets as well as in designated parks. Professional freestylers can perform the wall ride without the use of a ramp. When learning the wall ride, find a wall that features an inclined ramp leading up to it. Ride towards the wall at a slight angle. Pull up on the handlebars to allow your wheels to ride onto the wall. Try and keep your bike frame perpendicular to the wall. Lean back as your tires roll across the wall and back onto the ramp.
180 Spin
When learning to spin your bike, start out with the 180. Be certain to learn how to ride backwards before attempting the 180. Ride up a slight incline and balance your bike. Allow your bike to roll down the incline backwards. Pedal backwards to maintain your balance. To begin the 180 spin, pedal forward on a flat terrain. As you reach a comfortable speed, pull up on the handlebars. Jump vertically while rotating your shoulders. Lift your knees to raise the back tire off the pavement. Spin 180 degrees before the tires touch the ground.
Bunny Hop Nothing
The bunny hop nothing refers to an intermediate freestyle trick. Professional BMX rider Kym Grosser recommends learning the bunny hop nothing on a small ramp. Roll up the ramp at a medium speed. Pull up on the handlebars while jumping as you reach the apex of the ramp. Release your hands from the handlebar grips while removing your feet from the pedals. Maintain this position for a brief moment before placing your hands back onto the grips. Align your feet over the pedals. Bend your knees as you land.
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