How to Do a Wheelie Drop (Step-by-Step MTB Guide)
Learn how to do a smooth, controlled wheelie drop on your mountain bike. Step-by-step technique, tips for timing, and how to use it on real trails.
SKILLS
10/9/20253 min read
How to Do a Wheelie Drop (Step-by-Step Guide)
A wheelie drop is one of those super useful techniques that looks stylish but also has a real trail purpose. It’s what you use when you reach the edge of a drop and don’t have enough speed to roll or jump off cleanly. Instead of forcing it, you use a controlled front wheel lift and ride it out smoothly.
What Is a Wheelie Drop?
A wheelie drop is when you pop your front wheel up—like starting a standing wheelie—and ride the bike off a small ledge or drop. It lets you keep control and land level even when your approach speed is low.
You’re not trying to “send it” or launch forward; you’re just using the wheelie motion to clear the front wheel and guide the rear off the edge under control.
Technique Breakdown
Start Small – Begin on a curb or small ledge to get the feel.
Set Up Your Balance – Approach slowly, with pedals level or slightly offset so your strong foot is forward and ready for a downstroke.
3.Pop the Front Wheel – Just as your front wheel reaches the edge, push down hard on your front pedal while pulling up on the bars.
4.Cover the Rear Brake – Always keep a finger on the rear brake in case the front comes up too far. A small tap brings it back down.
5.Stay Centered – Stand up slightly, stay loose, and look ahead—not down.
6.Level the Bike – As the rear wheel rolls off, try to land with your pedals horizontal and both wheels touching down together.
Tips & Variations
Practice trackstands. Being able to hold balance in place helps a lot with timing your pedal stroke.
Either foot works. Use whichever feels natural for your downward pedal.
You don’t need a full wheelie. Even a partial lift—just enough to clear the front—gets the job done.
Common mistake: pulling up too early or too late. Focus on popping right as the front wheel meets the edge.
Trail Uses
Perfect for slow technical drops where you don’t have space to roll in fast.
Useful in freeride and enduro lines when you’re connecting features at lower speed.
Once mastered, it sets you up for bigger controlled drops and builds overall trail confidence.
Final Thoughts
Wheelie drops are all about timing and brake control. Start small, get comfortable with that instant front lift, and you’ll find yourself using this move all over the trail. It’s one of those low-speed skills that make you look smooth and in control.
Want to get smoother and more confident with balance and control?
Check out my Wheelie, Manual & Stoppie Balance Point Ebook — a step-by-step guide to mastering core MTB balance skills.
