Tabletop Jump Construction Guide
Learn how to design and build a tabletop jump that is both fun to ride and built to last.
Introduction
Tabletop jumps are one of the most versatile and rider-friendly features you can add to a mountain bike trail. Unlike gap jumps, tabletops provide a flat "table" between the takeoff and landing, making them safer for riders of all skill levels. This tutorial will guide you through the process of designing and building a tabletop jump that is both fun to ride and built to last.
Understanding Jump Dynamics
Before you start building, it's important to understand the physics of jumping. A well-designed jump should:
- Launch riders at an appropriate angle (usually 25-45 degrees)
- Provide enough airtime to be fun but not intimidating
- Allow riders to clear the table or roll over it safely
- Have a landing that matches the trajectory of the rider
Site Selection
Choosing the right location for your jump is crucial. Look for:
- A straight section of trail with good visibility
- Enough approach distance to build speed (at least 30-50 feet)
- Adequate runout after the landing
- A slight downhill grade (2-5%) to help maintain speed
- Good drainage to prevent water damage
Jump Dimensions
The size of your jump should match the intended skill level and speed of the trail. Here are some general guidelines:
Beginner Jumps
- 1-2 feet tall
- 8-12 feet total length
- Gentle takeoff angle (15-25°)
Intermediate Jumps
- 2-3 feet tall
- 12-20 feet total length
- Moderate takeoff angle (25-35°)
Advanced Jumps
- 3-5+ feet tall
- 20-30+ feet total length
- Steeper takeoff angle (30-45°)
For this tutorial: We'll focus on building an intermediate-level tabletop jump that is approximately 2.5 feet tall and 15 feet in total length.
Tools Overview
Building a tabletop jump requires several specific tools. You'll need shovels, rakes, a tamper, measuring tape, and more. See the Tools tab for a complete list and detailed descriptions of all required equipment.
Having the right tools ready before you start will make the building process much more efficient. Make sure to check the Tools tab before beginning your project.
Mark Your Jump
Begin by marking the outline of your jump:
Use stakes and string to mark the takeoff, table, and landing areas
For our intermediate jump, mark approximately:
Takeoff
5 feet long
Table
5 feet long
Landing
5 feet long
Clear any organic material (leaves, plants, roots) from the entire area
Build the Takeoff
The takeoff (or lip) is critical for a good jump experience:
Start by creating a solid base of compacted dirt
Add dirt in 2-3 inch layers, compacting thoroughly between each layer
Shape the takeoff with a gradual transition from the trail to the lip
The final 1-2 feet of the takeoff should be at approximately 30-35 degrees for an intermediate jump
The lip (top edge) should be slightly rounded, not sharp
Compact the entire takeoff thoroughly
Build the Table
The table is the flat middle section of the jump:
Build up the table area to match the height of the takeoff lip
Make sure the table is flat or has a very slight downward angle
Add dirt in layers and compact thoroughly
The edges of the table should be slightly rounded for safety
The table should be wide enough for the trail (typically 4-6 feet wide)
Build the Landing
A good landing will make the jump feel smooth and controlled:
The landing should be at least as wide as the takeoff, if not wider
Shape the landing with a downward slope that matches the trajectory of riders
The landing should be longest at the point where most riders will land (typically 2/3 of the way down)
The transition back to the trail should be smooth and gradual
Compact the landing thoroughly to prevent braking bumps from forming
Add Drainage Features
Proper drainage is essential for jump longevity:
Create drainage channels on both sides of the jump
Ensure water can flow away from the takeoff, table, and landing
Consider adding a drain beneath the table if building in a wet area
The approach should have a slight crown to direct water away from the jump
Why Drainage Matters
Poor drainage is the #1 cause of jump deterioration. Water that pools on or around your jump will soften the dirt, create ruts, and eventually destroy the feature. Taking time to add proper drainage will extend the life of your jump by years.
Finish and Test
The final steps ensure your jump is ready to ride:
Smooth all surfaces with a rake
Compact the entire jump one final time
Add a thin layer of mineral soil on the riding surface
Test the jump at low speed first, making note of how it feels
Make adjustments as needed based on test rides
Safety First
Always have an experienced rider test the jump first. Start with slow speeds and gradually increase as you confirm the jump is working as intended. Be prepared to make adjustments based on rider feedback.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Building a jump requires attention to detail. Be sure to check the Troubleshooting tab for a complete guide on common mistakes to avoid and how to fix them if they occur.
Maintenance Is Essential
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your jump in good condition. Check the Maintenance tab for a detailed maintenance schedule and specific techniques to keep your jump riding well for years to come.
Progression
Consider building a series of progressively larger jumps to help riders develop their skills. Start with smaller tabletops and gradually increase the size and complexity as riders become more comfortable.
Progression Line Tips
- Space jumps with enough distance for riders to recover and prepare
- Increase height and distance gradually (6-12" increments)
- Maintain consistent style and flow between features
- Provide clear sight lines so riders can see what's ahead
- Consider adding optional bypass lines for beginners
Conclusion
Building a proper tabletop jump takes time and effort, but the results are worth it. A well-constructed tabletop will provide a fun, safe jumping experience for riders while standing up to years of use with proper maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- Proper planning and site selection are crucial for success
- Take time to compact thoroughly at every stage
- Pay special attention to drainage features
- Test and adjust based on rider feedback
- Regular maintenance will extend the life of your jump
- Always prioritize safety in your design