How To Double Peg Grind On A BMX (8 Steps!)

Yo, dude, are you looking for the best step-by-step guide on how to double peg grind on a BMX?

You’re in the right place.

There’s nothing like pulling a smooth double peg (or 50-50) grind on your BMX.

Even after 20+ years of riding BMX, the feeling of pegs grinding on a ledge or rail is still something I enjoy OH SO much.

I’ve got the ultimate step-by-step guide that’s gonna take you from “What the heck is a double peg grind?” to “Man, did you see that smooth grind?” in no time.

Whether it’s grinding down those gritty rails in the urban jungle, making a statement at the local park, or just wanting to one-up your BMX buddies during a chill sesh, I’ve got your back, bro!

Okay, if your riding buddies don’t agree on it, one-upping sucks! (Don’t do it – you might be interested in reading my skatepark etiquette tips.)

Anyways, grab your bike, your bravado, and maybe a helmet (safety first, always! 🤘), and let’s get this show on the road.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the necessary knowledge to master double peg grinds on both rails and ledges.

This post covers:

• Why Learn A Double Peg Grind
• How To Double Peg On A BMX (Step-By-Step Guide)
• Conclusion: Master Double Peg Grinds!

Why Learn A Double Peg Grind

First, what is a double peg grind? It’s a BMX grind where you grind on a rail or ledge with your font and rear peg at the same time.

If you ride pegs on your bike, a double peg grind is a must-learn trick.

Heck even if you don’t (hey, Mike Hoder!), you might still learn a double peg.

Wondering why it’s a must-learn? Let’s break it down:

Street Cred

Mastering the double peg grind is important. When you can do this trick, people see you as someone who really knows BMX.

But in the end, it’s not really about others, it’s about your progression and having THE BEST time on your bike (more below).

Versatility

BMX isn’t just about big jumps and sick spins. It’s also about making the urban landscape your playground.

Rails, ledges, benches – they’re all potential grind spots. The double peg is your ticket to turning the ENTIRE city into your personal BMX arena.

Foundation For More

Think of the double peg grind as your gateway trick.

Once you’ve got this one down, it opens up the doors to many other grinds and tricks – and technical combos.

One of my favorite combos is the double peg grind to hard 180 out.

It’s About The Feeling

Let’s be real, bro. A smooth double peg grind doesn’t just look cool, it FEELS cool.

Rolling up to a spot, locking in both pegs, and sliding like you’re on ice? It’s pure BMX poetry.

Challenge Yourself

BMX isn’t just a sport; it’s a journey. Every trick you learn, every grind you nail, it’s all about pushing your limits and growing as a rider.

The double peg grind might seem daunting now, but with practice, it’s going to be one of those tricks you’ll whip out without a second thought.

And trust me, the satisfaction? 100% worth it.

How To Double Peg On A BMX (Step-By-Step Guide)

Grinding on a BMX bike can be an exciting trick when done right. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to nail a double peg grind on a BMX bike.

1. Safety First

Always wear a BMX helmet, and consider adding knee and elbow pads to protect yourself from potential falls.

Actually, out of all the pads, shin guards are, in my opinion, a must for a beginner BMX rider.

Getting a shinner is THE WORST!

Gloves can also help maintain a good grip on the handlebars (but I don’t prefer them).

2. Get To Know Your Pegs

Ensure you have pegs installed on the front and back axles on the side you intend to grind.

But which side is best to grind on?

If you are regularly footed, you will want to learn your first double peg grind on the side of your front foot.

I’m right foot forward, so my dominant grind side is right.

Pro tip: If you ride all four pegs, as soon as you learn regular double pegs, take some time to learn opposite, too.

Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

3. Choose The Right Spot

Start with a straight, smooth, and stable rail or ledge that isn’t too high. (Pegs height ideally.)

In fact, you might first start with a ledge, just to get the gist of it.

However, learning a double peg on a rail is much easier because it makes it easier to balance on the two pegs you grind on.

As I demonstrate above, use a ledge, place your bike in a double peg and stand on it before you attempt your first grind.

That’s the absolute first step to mastering a double peg.

4. Approach Speed

Begin by riding parallel to your chosen rail or ledge at a moderate speed. Don’t go too fast (feel free to go extremely slow); you need to maintain control.

As you see in the how-to video, I first do a double peg stall, which is a great way to get familiar with entering and exiting the grind.

However, you’ll need to learn a 180 or at least be 100% comfortable with the 90s first.

Note: Here’s my complete guide on how to 180 on a BMX.

The double peg stall is optional, but I think it can be highly rewarding.

Pro tip: If you’re learning the grind on a rail, don’t ride too close to the rail, so you don’t hit it on the way up.

5. Body Position

As you approach the rail, stand up slightly on your pedals, bend your knees, and keep your weight centered.

Start eyeing the ledge or the rail.

6. Jumping Onto the Rail/Ledge

Using a bunny hop, jump onto the rail/ledge so both pegs land on it simultaneously.

Note: Check my tutorial on how to bunny hop on a BMX.

Your aim should be to get both the front and back pegs onto the rail at the same time.

Still, I actually prefer to land slightly on the front peg first. I feel it’s easier to align the back peg with the rail/ledge then.

7. Grinding

Once you’re on the rail, lean slightly into the grind to maintain balance. Your body weight should be centered over the bike to keep the grind going. Your knees should be bent.

Look ahead, not directly down, to maintain balance and direction.

8. Exiting the Grind

Using a slight bunny hop motion to dismount, lift the bike off the rail.

Turn your handlebars in the direction you want to exit, and be prepared to pedal away smoothly.

You can also turn your handlebar and “pull yourself” of off the rail/ledge without the bunny hop.

And if you grind all the way to the end, you can also pull your front end up and let the rear peg drop off smoothly. (Just like you’d do a little manual when dropping from a curb.)

9. Practice

Like all BMX tricks, the double peg grind requires practice.

Begin with shorter rails or ledges and gradually work your way up to longer and more challenging ones as you gain confidence.

10. Troubleshooting

• Issue 1: If you find yourself falling to one side consistently, check your approach angle and ensure you’re jumping straight onto the rail.
• Issue 2: If you’re struggling with balance, practice bunny hopping onto the rail with 0 speed. This can help you get a feel for the correct weight distribution.

Remember, every rider has a unique style and technique.

This guide offers a foundational approach to the double peg grind, but don’t hesitate to MAKE adjustments that suit your style and comfort level.

Most importantly, stay patient and persistent; with practice, you’ll be nailing those grinds in no time!

Conclusion: Master Double Peg Grinds!

And there you have it, my BMX dude!

With these steps under your belt, you’re well on your way to mastering the iconic double peg grind.

Remember, every great BMX rider starts with the basics; consistency is key. The journey of mastering this trick is a blend of dedication, practice, and a touch of fearlessness.

So, gear up, stay safe, and hit those rails and ledges with confidence.

Before you know it, you’ll be grinding effortlessly! 🤘

Further reading:

• How To Smith Grind On A BMX
• How To Feeble Grind On A BMX
• 18 Common Skatepark Elements & Objects
• How To Manual On A BMX Bike
• 14 Easy Beginner BMX Tricks