Can you do it?

The lowdown

Turn the bars a full 180 degrees so your arms cross into an X, then turn them back. You can do it rolling along. No hop needed.

Fun fact

It is the first bar trick most riders get, and it is the doorway to barspins and turndowns.

Tips

Try it standing still holding a wall first. Loosen your grip so your wrists are not fighting the turn.

Why it isn't working4 common mistakes

Hands too far out on the grips. Move your hands inwards a little; a narrower grip gives your arms room to cross.
Turning the bars slowly. Turn them fast and fully, then bring them straight before the front wheel touches down.
Leaning back as the bars cross. Stay centred over the bike so the front end stays under control.
Landing with the bars still turned. If they are not straight, drop the bike and step off; a half-turned landing hurts.

What you need

BMX bike, helmet, and pads for ramps and rails

The road to it1 step

The road to it

X-UpYou are here · where every road starts

Land this and you unlock

Pull-Up Barspin Turndown Toboggan

Where to practise

Flatground tricks want smooth flat ground. find spots with flat near you →

Where it sits

1 of 8

Flatground tricks at Easy on BMX

In the BMX library

Easy

Difficulty 2 of 5

Why it's Easy: Nothing comes before it, but your arms are crossed in a position they hate, and a wide bar catches your knees. Balance and a full, quick turn are the two things being tested.

Same trick, other sports1 other sport

Same trick, other sports

On aScooterthis is theX-Up