Jump Bikes – A New Type Of Bike
Nearly everyone has seen the YouTube videos of people dirt jumping on bicycles and performing spectacular stunts but not everyone knows that almost any kind of bike can be used for these stunts. You may be surprised to learn that mountain bikes are suitable for this purposes in addition to BMXs. Most ordinary bicycles are set up for racing but with the proper modifications they can also be used.
There are many types of bikes that are suitable for use in dirt jumping including the standard jump bike. Jump bikes are designed specifically for jumping on dirt and they look quite similar to ordinary mountain bikes. The seat is typically lowered to allow the rider a better chance of staying on the bike while performing difficult tricks. The frames are extremely rugged as are the wheels, which are designed to absorb the forces that are encountered when doing vertical stunts. These bikes are built to be as lightweight as possible yet still strong enough to stand the repeated abuse from jump tricks. Installing a front suspension is the preferred setup because it gives the rider better control over the bike.
A mountain bike can be modified to be used in this application as well. Users prefer a smaller than normal frame that sports small wheels and shocks built into the front suspension. The shocks are not mandatory but any user will definitely appreciate the smoother ride that they will provide.
There are modified BMX frames available that can be used for dirt jumping. The main modification has to do with the top tube which is extended to allow more of the rider’s weight to be distributed over the rear tire. This makes it easier for the bike to do wheelies and other stunts. The shorter chainstay featured on a BMX jumping bike also works to redistribute weight. Slicks are traded in for tyres that have treads and they are usually set at a lower PSI which makes for better absorption on hard landings.
Jump bike manufacturers are still relatively scarce and the ones that are out there have had to set the standard as they go since the sport is still relatively new. This is probably why there are so many modified versions that can be seen around these days. With the continued rise in popularity it will not be long before jump bikes are standard inventory carried in every bike shop.
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