How to Ride No Handed on a Bike

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Last Updated: August 12, 2025 References

Riding without hands can be a fun and exciting thing to do, but it can also be dangerous if you don't practice and stay alert!

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You may find that one hand is easier to ride with than the other. If you practice enough it will become easier.
Keep them close so you can grab the bars again and not fall if you get nervous.^{[1]
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This will let you coast downhill and maintain your speed without pedaling.
Focus your weight on the seat and pedals before taking your hands off the handlebars.
Take your hands off of the handlebars, but only lift them about one inch above the handlebars at first because then you can easily regain control of the bike by grabbing the handlebars if necessary.^{[2]
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To turn while riding no-handed, move your lower body in the direction you want to turn, but try to keep a grip on the bike with your knees and keep your upper body straight. Pointing your knees in the direction you wish to turn helps.^{[4]
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How do I stop the biking from turning when I try to ride no-handed?

Raif

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Tilt your knees slightly towards the opposite side to counteract the turn.

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Can you fall if you go slow?

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Yes. If you are on a two-wheeled bike and go too slow, you will fall. You won't necessarily hurt yourself, but the bike will fall.

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Why can't I go longer than 5 seconds?

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You're learning. Going faster will help you maintain your balance better.

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Tips

Riding without your hands is all about balance be careful not to over-correct if you feel like you are going to fall. Small corrections are very effective.

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Going slower while doing this is much harder than riding at a regular speed, just like riding a bike with your hands you will be more stable while traveling faster.

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Be aware of the direction you are pointing your knees. This really affects your balance. You can also use your knees to regain balance if you are unsteady.

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Warnings

Don't attempt sharp turns no-handed, and be careful if the road is wet.

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Beware of potholes and uneven surfaces.

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Riding no handed on a windy day is much more difficult.

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Don't try learning on grass. Riding on grass is very difficult because you're always jolting around; you need to learn on a smooth and stable surface.

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Be careful, and don't do anything stupid.

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Needless to say, always wear a helmet while riding a bike. If you are going to ride no handed (especially if this is your first time trying it) you might also want to wear elbow and knee protection.

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This is very dangerous while you are learning, be careful and wear the appropriate safety equipment.

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In some countries (including Australia), laws prohibit riding in public areas with less than one hand on the handlebars.^{[5]
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