Learning how to perform a tailwhip is a crucial milestone for any budding scooter enthusiast. This trick involves propelling yourself and your scooter into the air, executing a full rotation of the deck around the handlebar post, and landing gracefully back on the deck. Despite its outward complexity, the tailwhip is actually quite accessible for most riders and can be learned relatively quickly. The key lies in proper setup and mastering the coordination required to execute the maneuver smoothly.
Steps to Success
Preparing for the Tailwhip

- Most riders adopt a “regular” stance, with the left foot forward. Left-handed riders may prefer the “goofy” stance, with the right foot forward.
- Proper foot placement is essential for a smooth takeoff and landing.

- Adjust the handlebars to a comfortable height.
- Keep your grip relaxed; holding on too tightly can make your arms stiff, affecting your jump and timing.

- Going too slow can lead to loss of balance, while excessive speed makes control more difficult.
- Ensure you're practicing in an area with sufficient space for a straight ride of 15–20 feet (4.6–6.1 m).

- One drawback of stationary tailwhips is the need to initiate the jump immediately upon both feet landing on the scooter, leaving minimal setup time.
Pro Tip: To prevent the scooter from rolling away as you practice, try on a patch of carpet or soft grass. The cushioned surface will inhibit wheel rotation.
Executing the Tailwhip

- Ensure the deck lifts after your feet to maintain proper timing.
- A higher jump grants more time to complete the rotation before landing.

- In a regular stance, kick with your right foot; in a goofy stance, use your left foot.
- Aim for the side of the brake for a larger target area.
Caution: Avoid crossing your legs during the kick to prevent disrupting your landing and risking injury.

- The arm motion may require practice; consider practicing spinning the scooter separately before incorporating it into the trick.
- Ensure your hands remain on the handlebar grips throughout the tailwhip.
Sticking the Landing

- Observe the average rotation time of the deck during practice to better gauge when to initiate your landing.

- With practice, you'll achieve higher rotations, enabling you to integrate tailwhips with grinds, stalls, and other tricks.
- If struggling to return both feet simultaneously, focus on stopping the deck with your lead foot first, then adjust your back foot as needed.
Tip: Aim to land on the balls of your feet, not the midfoot or heels.

- Landing with straight legs and momentum may cause you to lurch forward, leading to a fall.
- Mastering proper bracing techniques becomes crucial, especially when attempting tailwhips off higher obstacles or on ramps.

- Stay vigilant for nearby obstacles to avoid unexpected accidents, ensuring a successful rideaway.
Additional Tips
- Once you've mastered the tailwhip, explore advanced variations like the heel-whip, footplant tailwhip, tailwhip 360, and even the double rotation tailwhip.
- Don't get discouraged if you don't nail it on your first attempts. Like any skill, mastering the tailwhip takes practice and patience.
- Always wear protective gear such as a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards to ensure safety while learning new tricks. Falling is part of the process, so prioritize safety.
Warnings
- Be cautious of bruised shins or ankles from failed tailwhip attempts.