Are you ready to learn how to half cab on a BMX and see a few variations you can do with it?
In this article, I’ll break down the steps to master the half cab, a fundamental move in the world of BMX.
What is a half cab?
It’s a fakie 180 with a nice name.
Thus, you will first need to learn:
And mastering the half cab is totally within your grasp!
So, whether you’re reading this during a quick break at the park or you’re all cozied up at home, preparing mentally for your next session, get ready to add a fresh trick to your repertoire.
This post covers:
Why Learn Half Cabs
Understanding and mastering foundational BMX tricks like the half cab can significantly influence your proficiency and versatility.
Here’s why a BMX rider might want to learn a half cab:
1. Building Blocks
The half cab serves as a foundational trick that can lead to learning MORE complex maneuvers.
Once you nail the trick, it opens doors to variations and combinations that can be added to your bag of tricks.
I see you all you tech-hungry shredders.
2. Improving Bike Control
The half cab requires you to ride backward (fakie) and then turn 180 degrees.
This movement demands a great deal of bike control and balance.
By mastering it, you hone your overall skills. It’s important that you’re in control of the bike, and not bike controlling you.
3. Versatility
BMX parks, street spots, and even flatland often present situations where you might end up in a fakie (riding backward).
Knowing how to execute a half cab confidently allows you to smoothly transition from one trick to another, making their runs more fluid.
4. Personal Growth & Challenge
BMX, like any sport, is about personal progression.
Learning new tricks – even the basics – provides a sense of accomplishment and pushes you to CHALLENGE yourself continuously.
While the half cab might appear as just another trick, its importance in BMX cannot be understated.
It’s not just about looking cool (though it certainly does that!) but about building a foundational skill set that enhances a rider’s capabilities.
How To Half Cab On A BMX (Step-By-Step Guide)
Here’s my step-by-step guide to help you master half cabs:
| Step | Action |
| 1. Safety first | Wear a helmet, pads & gloves |
| 2. Find spot | Flat, smooth area like parking lots (but a quarter pipe is best) |
| 3. Start fakie | Ride backward while balancing |
| 4. Head & shoulders | Turn head & shoulders in spin direction |
| 5. Pop the spin | Push with legs & use hips to initiate the spin |
| 6. Mid-air | Rotate fully by looking over your shoulder |
| 7. Landing | Land with both wheels, absorb impact |
| 8. Roll away | Keep pedaling forward after landing |
| 9. Practice | Keep practicing for better muscle memory |
Step 1. Safety First
Before attempting any BMX trick, wear the appropriate safety gear.
This includes a helmet, elbow pads, shin pads, knee pads, and gloves.
Step 2. Find A Suitable Practice Area
A smooth, flat, and spacious area is ideal. Parking lots, driveways, or a quiet street can be good spots.
Ensure the area is free of traffic and obstructions.
However, as I demonstrate in the video above, a quarter pipe is IDEAL.
It allows you to focus more on the half cab and not so much on getting in the fakie (out of a 180).
Step 3. Start With A Fakie
Before diving into the half cab, you should be comfortable riding fakie (riding backward).
Keep your weight centered (you can move slightly more toward your back wheel) and ride backward in a straight line.
Practice until you can maintain balance and control while riding backward.
Step 4. Shoulder & Head Movement
As you prepare to execute the 180 spin, begin by turning your head and shoulders in the direction you intend to spin.
Your bike will naturally want to follow where your upper body leads.
Yes, you will turn your handlebar slightly, which helps execute the half cab much easier.
Step 5. Popping The Spin
Crouch down slightly and push off with your legs, using your pedals as leverage.
Use your hips to initiate the spin.
Remember, most of the rotation power comes from your core and hips.
As you start to turn, pull the handlebars upward and toward the direction of your spin. Your back wheel will start to lift, helping in the spin.
In short, picture yourself doing a bunny hop 180 in reverse.
Step 6. Mid-Air Maneuver
Once airborne, keep looking over your shoulder to ensure a full 180 rotation.
Pulling a half cab will be much more challenging if you don’t rotate your head toward the spin.
Keep your knees slightly bent and stay relaxed in the air to maintain control.
Step 7. Landing
As you complete the spin, begin to spot your landing.
Aim to land with both wheels hitting the ground simultaneously or slightly rear-wheel first.
Bend your knees upon landing to absorb the impact and maintain stability.
Step 8. Roll Away
Once you’ve landed, continue pedaling in the new direction.
And – most importantly – celebrate your SUCCESS.
Step 9. Practice, Practice, Practice
Like any BMX trick, mastering the half cab requires practice and persistence.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t nail it right away. Analyze what you might be doing wrong, adjust, and try again.
And that’s why filming yourself helps SO much. I constantly film myself to see where I can optimize, adjust and improve.
Step 10. Stay Patient & Positive
Remember that every rider progresses at their own pace. Celebrate the small VICTORIES and improvements you make along the way.
Now that you have the steps, the key is repetition.
The more you practice, the more muscle memory you build, and the more natural the half cab will feel.
Conclusion: Master Half Cabs!
In the dynamic world of BMX, the learning journey is as exciting as nailing the trick itself.
With its blend of balance, agility, and flair, the half cab stands as a testament to this journey.
Remember, every BMX legend started with the basics, just like you.
With the steps I’ve laid out and your dedication and passion, you’re on the right path to adding this MUST-KNOW iconic trick to your arsenal.
But beyond the techniques and tips, it’s the spirit of perseverance and the joy of riding that truly makes the difference.
So, wear that helmet, hop on your bike, and embrace the thrilling world of BMX with every half cab you attempt.
Further reading:
- How To Double Peg Grind On A BMX
- How To Feeble Grind On A BMX
- How To Manual On A BMX Bike
- 28 Common Beginner BMX Mistakes
- 18 Common Skatepark Elements & Objects
