Using Starting Ramps By Ben Chapman

A few weeks ago I went to my first official race in Jackson, Mississippi. When I arrived on race day I was pumped to see that they had starting ramps set up.Ramps are one of the aspects of slalom I had not yet tried. First I rode the course a few times without the ramp and then finally decided to step it up. As I got up on the ramp I noticed it wasn't to scary because I also skate park a lot and it is along the same idea as dropping in to a quarter pipe and exactly the same as doing a roll in at a skate park. If you can do that you're all set. In case you have never skated park before then with a little practice you will be able to do the roll in at your local race.

1. Ride the course a few times and get used to it before taking it to the roll in
2. Get up onto the roll in and get your feet positioned right and get balanced
3. Go over the roll with your knees bent leaning slightly forward
4. As you reach the transition extend your knees and pump
5. Be sure bring your weight centered
6. Get into riding position and charge the course

With a little practice roll ins will seem easy.