How do I jump on my bike when it's moving?

By: Matt Kelly (Bicycling Magainze Dec. 2000) Q. I've tried jumping on my bike while it's rolling--like you cyclocross dogs--with varying degrees of success. How can I avoid squishing my sensitive stuff when I jump on?A. Matt Kelly: It took me a long time to get the hang of it. I finally started watching tapes of the '96 and '97 'cross Worlds and paid close attention to how the best riders did it. What I noticed--and started doing--was landing on the inside right thigh, rather than putting my crotch directly on the seat. That makes the move flow more: It looks like you're stepping onto the bike, instead of hopping.

Matt's 6 Rules for a Flying Mount
1. Don't lean forward: "While running with your bike, your upper body should be upright and balanced."
2. Lower your seat slightly: "It shouldn't be a hop to get on your saddle. You should be able to stand next to the bike and swing a leg over, and you shouldn't feel like you're coming down in the seat. It should feel like you're sliding on from the side."
3. Hands near the hoods: "This gives you immediate control--your fingers are close to the brakes."
4. Don't stutter-step: "Some people prolong their mount by making small steps before committing to throw a leg over. The fastest, most efficient way is to throw that leg over within one to two big steps after clearing a barrier or obstacle."
5. Right pedal forward: "You shouldn't have to search around for the pedal when your leg comes around. With the right pedal at the three o'clock position, the move is also more like a big step forward than a hop."
6. Land on the inside of your right thigh: "Don't aim to plant your butt directly on the saddle. Hit the inside right thigh and then slide down. This offsets the pressure and keeps your private parts safe."