Wheelie

A wheelie means riding with the front wheel in the air and only the rear wheel on the ground. It happens when acceleration transfers so much weight to the rear that the front lifts, or when the rider lifts it deliberately with the throttle, the clutch and a body movement.

Short, controlled front-wheel lifts are a practical off-road skill: they help you get over logs, ditches and steps without hitting the front wheel. Long wheelies are a stunt discipline; the rider balances the bike near its balance point and controls height with the rear brake.

On public roads, wheelies are dangerous and may be illegal. Many modern bikes have wheelie control that limits power when the front lifts. Learn on a small, light bike on a safe, closed area, always covering the rear brake.