What is a pump track?

A pump track is a closed loop of rollers and banked turns, built so you can keep moving by pumping your body up and down rather than pedalling. Push down on the back of each roller and lift over the front, carry that speed into the berm, and a good lap needs no pedalling at all.

They suit every kind of rider. A first lap can be rolled slowly with wheels on the ground, while experienced riders pump for speed, link features together and jump them. Many are open to scooters, skateboards and inline skates as well as bikes.

Asphalt, concrete or dirt

• Asphalt is the most common surface. Asphalt tracks ride all year and drain quickly after rain.
• Concrete pump tracks usually come as part of a skate park, built alongside it or as an extension of it.
• Dirt tracks, usually with a compacted stone or dust surface, are softer and feel more like a trail. Many have asphalt berms, so the corners hold their shape. The dirt sections are easily damaged when wet, so give them time to dry out after rain.

Why BMX tracks are in these guides

We have included BMX tracks, because riders use both and the riding overlaps. They range from club race tracks with a start hill and big jumps to small BMX tracks in local parks. Each card says which it is, and where a track is run by a club, which may have members-only sessions or race days.

What to ride and wear

• Any bike will go round. Smaller, stiffer bikes such as a BMX or a dirt jump hardtail are the easiest to pump, but a trail bike works too, and riding one on a pump track is good practice for the trail.
• Not just bikes: skateboards, scooters and inline skates ride asphalt and concrete tracks too, so expect to share. Dirt tracks are usually for bikes only.
• A helmet, at the least. Gloves, and knee and elbow pads, are a good idea, and some tracks' own rules ask for them.
• Flat pedals make it easier to put a foot down while you learn.

Track etiquette

• Ride in the direction the track is marked, if it is marked.
• Look before you drop in, and take turns when it is busy.
• Do not stop on the track. If you come off, move out of the way quickly.
• Watch out for younger and newer riders, and give them space.
• Most tracks are no motorbikes and no e-scooters. Check the sign at the track.

More on pump tracks

For why pump tracks and jump lines are built so differently, and what riders enjoy about each, read Pump Tracks and Jump Lines in the UK: Why Designs Differ, and What Riders Enjoy.

Something missing?

Know a pump track or BMX track we have missed, or something in a region guide that is out of date? Leave a comment on this guide or get in touch, and we will check it and add it.

Hero photo by Chris L on Pexels.