Daniel Ricciardo Learns to Fly on a Dirt Bike Thanks to Axell Hodges

Daniel Ricciardo traded asphalt for adrenaline as he joined motocross star Axell Hodges for a day of dirt biking at the Slayground — and ended up flying off a jump like a natural.

In a video posted to Hodges’ YoutTube channel, Ricciardo can be seen gradually building up the courage to take on a significant double jump. The former Formula 1 driver, more at home hitting apexes than dirt ramps, listened carefully as Hodges walked him through the technique: “Third gear, corner throttle, smooth ride, smooth,” Hodges said before effortlessly soaring into the air.

Ricciardo, after watching Hodges hit the jump multiple times, studied his line and prepared to give it a shot himself.

“I think I’ll just start slightly right to angle myself… just so I can go up and jump straight if I need to,” Ricciardo said, clearly focused on the geometry of the takeoff. Hodges added, “You just gotta go over the roller and stay on the gas. You’ll be good.”