Motorcycle Stunt Riding Gear: What to Wear, Ranked by Priority

Updated November 2026 | By Viking Bags

Motorcycle stunt riding, also called freestyle street bike riding, is a motorsport where highly skilled stunt riders use motorcycles to perform dangerous motorcycle maneuvers and thrilling tricks. Motorcycle stunts can be legally performed in closed areas, at stunt shows, in motorcycle rallies, shown in movies, and on designated public areas after creating a safe and controlled environment. Performing motorcycle stunts including wheelies on public roads is illegal in American states. Many stunt riders work in organized commercial teams that perform at private venues. Over the years, motorcycle stunt riding has gained immense popularity, compelling many motorcycle enthusiasts to learn and perform the stunts. However, stunt riding is still considered a controversial part of motorcycle culture.

Motorcycle stunt riding includes a wide range of stunts and maneuvers, each requiring precision and a specific skill set. All riders start by learning the basic maneuvers listed below. After you master these stunts, only then can you come up with new tricks, create a series of maneuvers, and try out advanced stunts. 

Wheelies involve lifting the motorcycle's front wheel off the ground and riding the bike on the rear wheel. Mastering this trick is no easy task as the rider must be able to maintain stability and balance on only a single wheel; otherwise, he can get seriously injured.

A stoppie is basically the opposite of a wheelie as it  involves using the front brake to lift the rear wheel off the ground, riding the motorcycle on the front wheel. This stunt requires knowing how much force to apply when using the brake or you risk flipping the motorcycle over.

Drifting involves sliding the rear wheel while moving the motorcycle in circles and  maintaining control throughout the movement. This stunt requires proper body positioning and throttle control that comes with practicing the move continuously.

Burnout is another basic stunt that involves rear tire spins while the motorcycle is stationary. The stunt is known for creating thick smoke and leaving tire marks on the road. Many riders perform burnouts off road or on gravel paths to make visible tire marks. For this, the rider must learn and master how to lock the rear brake and spin the rear wheel while keeping the bike in place.

Acrobatic stunts involve standing on the seat or the fuel tank while the bike is moving, letting go of the handlebars and extending your limbs, sitting on the bike backward, and other maneuvers that showcase balance, flexibility, and precision.

Motorcycle jumps involve launching the bike off a ramp and doing different tricks while in the air. Some riders also extend one or both legs while in mid-air. Timing is of the utmost importance in this stunt 

Professional motorcycle stunt riders often combine multiple maneuvers into a seamless sequence. Stunt series often transition smoothly from one trick to another.

Listed below are steps you can take to become a better motorcycle stunt rider:

The first step is to learn how to ride a motorcycle properly. It is best to complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or any other state-approved motorcycle training course to learn fundamental riding and safety skills. These courses will also help you earn a motorcycle endorsement/license. Moreover, you will become familiar with motorcycle operation and maintenance, allowing you to better understand your motorcycle’s capabilities. After completing a course, try to spend time practicing your riding skills on different roads and in various traffic and weather conditions.

Never try to pull off complex riding stunts while you are still learning. Focus on mastering basic motorcycle maneuvers, emergency braking, maintaining control at slow speeds, and cornering.

To learn how to do stunts, enroll in stunt riding schools and training programs. These programs are led by professional stunt riders who have mastered every advanced stunt and know how to create a safe environment to practice stunt riding. In the United States, there are several reputable stunt riding schools you can join, including:

California Superbike School teaches a range of skills useful for race tracks and high-speed riding. In this school, you will learn how to make the best of your motorcycle’s engine outputs on a track. Besides racing training, this school also offers one-day stunt riding classes in California. Aspirants learn how to perform common techniques, such as wheelies, stoppies, burnouts, drifting, and other basic stunts.

Founded and run by a professional stunt artist Nick “Apex” Brocha, Nick Stunt School offers personalized motorcycle stunt training sessions and related workshops. Nick has garnered much attention for his challenging stunts over the years and he teaches all his signature motorcycle moves in a safe environment during different sessions. You can learn more about Nick’s workshops through his official Instagram handle. You can also check out Nick’s YouTube video to find out about his prowess over the motosport.

XDL Street Jam frequently schedules stunt shows and workshops across America. At these events, experienced motorcycle stunt riders perform different stunts. Plus, aspiring stunt riders have an opportunity to learn basic stunt techniques from the prominent names of the stunt riding circuit. XDL is also known for organizing different stunt competitions that will inspire you to try out stunt riding. You can follow XDL Street Jam on social media platforms to stay updated on upcoming events.

After you have finished basic training, you will need to practice different stunts on your own. Practice common stunts like wheelies, burnouts,  and endos in areas with little to no traffic and have enough room to maneuver. Practicing on areas with soft dirt is recommended since you will suffer less injuries if you fall off your bike. Search for designated stunt parks or open off-road areas where motorcycle riding is allowed. Once you master basic stunts, you can start searching for training sessions that teach more advanced stunts.

Motorcycle stunt riding clubs are composed of novice and experienced stunt riders. Interactions allow club members to share and learn from each other’s experiences. Through these clubs, you can expand your network and find opportunities to participate in events and competitions.

When performing stunts, it is best to record it. The video will help you analyze your body position and technique. Plus, you can show the video to a trainer or a more experienced stunt rider for feedback. After reviewing a video of your performance, you can find areas that need further improvement. Any videos that demonstrate your mastery of stunts can be shared on social media platforms for self promotion and earn money.

By promoting yourself on social media, you might be able to attract sponsors. You also may be offered opportunities in the entertainment industry, such as movies, stunt shows, private venues, and other motorcycle events. Any stunt videos you record can be compiled into a portfolio.

To ensure your safety while riding, make sure to wear the following stunt riding safety gear:

A full-face helmet protects your skull, face and jaw, the areas that take hits in failed wheelies and stoppies. Choose one certified to ECE 22.06 or Snell M2020; DOT is the minimum required for US road use. Make sure it fits snugly, replace it after any hard impact, and never buy a used one. Many manufacturers recommend replacing a helmet every five to seven years. Per NHTSA estimates, helmets reduce motorcyclist deaths by about 37%.

Use a helmet visor or, on dirt-style stunt bikes, motocross goggles. Clear lenses work best for day and night practice, and an anti-fog or pinlock insert helps in humid weather.

A neck brace limits extreme head movement in a fall. It's optional, more common off-road and on track, and works only if it fits properly with your helmet and jacket. Try it on with all your gear before buying.

Wear a leather or abrasion-resistant textile jacket and matching pants with CE-rated armor. Look for EN 17092 ratings (AAA, AA and A are the higher classes) and choose Kevlar-blend or reinforced fabrics over fashion jackets. Thin mesh jackets are not enough for stunt riding. Check seams and stitching, since gear that fails at the seams offers little protection.

Choose gloves with reinforced palms, knuckle protection and a gauntlet cuff that secures over your sleeve. Pair them with motorcycle boots that cover and support the ankle, with a stiff sole and shin protection. Sneakers and short fashion boots won't hold up.

Look for CE Level 2 armor (EN 1621-1) at the knees, elbows, shoulders and hips. Armor should stay in place on impact. If your jacket and pants only come with thin foam, upgrade the inserts.

Fire-resistant layers matter only for stunt shows that use flames. Professionals use Nomex, CarbonX or similar materials, often with a fire-retardant gel, under the direction of a stunt coordinator. Don't attempt fire stunts on your own.

A back protector helps cushion the spine in falls and slides. Choose a CE Level 2 protector certified to EN 1621-2 that fits your jacket's back pocket and your torso length. If your jacket came with only a foam insert, upgrade it. Light, breathable models are comfortable enough to wear all session. Pack it in a motorcycle backpack or sportbike luggage when you're not wearing it.

The best stunt riding gear starts with a certified full-face helmet, then a Level 2 back protector, then armored jacket, pants, gloves and boots. Add knee, elbow and hip armor, and use earplugs on every ride. Even with the right gear, practice only on closed courses and build skills step by step. Next, explore the best motorcycles for stunts, learn how to pull a wheelie, or browse street and sportbike luggage.