Jump Face (Take-Off Side)

The face, or frontside, is the side of a jump that faces you as you approach – the ramp you ride up before take-off. The other side is the landing or backside.

A steep, short face kicks the bike upward and needs smooth throttle; a long, gradual face is easier and more forgiving. On tracks, faces develop braking bumps, ruts and kickers (small holes or ridges) that can throw the rear wheel up unexpectedly.

• Pick a smooth line up the face and stay centred, standing on the pegs.
• Keep the throttle steady or slightly rolling on to the lip – chopping it pitches the nose down.
• Look at the landing, not the lip.