Backyard Trail Layout: Slope, Corner Radius & Safety Zone

Quick answer: Keep straights ≤ 6–8% (beginners), add 2–4% cross-slope for drainage, design corners at R = 3–5 m (≥ 2 m minimum with berm), and reserve 1–1.5 m clearance per side with 3 m runout outside turns.

Plan the loop

• Width 1.8–2.4 m; single-direction traffic to start.
• Sightlines ≥ 12–15 m; trim inside-corner shrubs.

Slope & drainage

• Straights ≤ 6–8% (beginners), ≤ 10–12% for short advanced bits.
• Cross-slope 2–4% or a small crown to shed water.

Corner radius

• Flow corners: R = 3–5 m; Hairpins: R ≥ 2 m with 10–15 cm berm.
• 3–5 m tapers before/after apex for smooth inputs.

Safety zone

• Clear 1–1.5 m per side; 3 m outside turns for runout.
• Cones/rope boundaries; spectators ≥ 5 m from outside of corners.
  

Model 100–150 m loop

• Start/Finish straight 18–22 m; S-bend with R = 4 m; optional hairpin R = 2.5 m with berm; return sweeper R = 5 m.
• Materials: 20–30 cones, 50–80 m rope, 30–40 stakes, shovel, rake, tamper.

Recommended models

• Electric: 48V 2000W, 48V 1500W
• Gas: 212cc CVT, 90cc 2-Stroke

Off-road use only. Wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective gear.