Why it matters
Obstacles — roots, rocks, barriers, steps and ruts — are part of MTB and cyclocross. Clearing them smoothly is about timing, body movement and commitment: lighten the wheels at the right moment and let the bike flow over rather than crash into.
▸When to teach: An advanced skill — once control is strong
The technique, step by step
01
The ready position
Stand on level pedals, knees and elbows bent, weight centred.
Approach at a controlled, committed speed — too slow is often worse.
Eyes up and past the obstacle to where you want to land.
02
Lifting the front wheel
Compress down into the bike, then pull up on the bars to unweight the front.
Time the lift so the front wheel clears the obstacle.
Keep the movement smooth — a pop, not a yank.
03
The bunny hop
Lift the front, then push the bike forward and up to bring the rear over too.
Level the bike in the air; spot the landing with the eyes.
Land both wheels together or rear-first, knees and elbows absorbing the impact.
04
Adapt to the obstacle
Barriers (CX): a clean dismount and remount is often faster than hopping.
Roots / rocks: unweight and let the bike float; keep a loose grip.
Steps / drops: weight back, let the front drop, absorb with the legs.
Gallery
Practice drills
Front-wheel lifts
Practise popping just the front wheel over a line on the ground, then a small stick.
Low-bar hops
Set a very low, soft barrier and practise clearing it at controlled speed.
Pick-your-line
Roll a rooty or rocky section slowly, choosing the smoothest line and unweighting.
Common mistakes & how to fix them
✕Approaching too slowly
→Commit to a controlled speed — momentum carries the bike over.
✕Stiff arms and legs
→Stay loose so the joints absorb the obstacle.
✕Looking down at the obstacle
→Look past it to the landing to keep the bike flowing.
Signs of progress
✓Lifts the front wheel on command
✓Clears small obstacles smoothly at speed
✓Stays loose and spots the landing
Parent pro insight
This is an advanced skill — protect confidence. Start on grass with a soft, low object, full pads optional, and never make it a dare. A rider who clears a small obstacle calmly will progress faster than one rushed into a big one.
Continue the path
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The full lesson library adds video breakdowns, printable drill cards and a coach-style progression tracker — currently under development.