total lack of skill

Have you been practicing and not making progress? Or are you complaining because you can't do the things you see other people do, but not really working on your weaknesses?

Just ride dude, you are bound to improve.

Buy Ned Overends book, read it and practice.

Relax, have fun, that's what's important, not how many tricks you can or can't do.

probob said:

i enjoy mountain biking alot but i have a total lack of skill, all i can do is hop my front tyre up half a foot. am i alone in my lack of skill?

No you're not alone, I consider myself lacking skill too. But that hasn't stopped me from getting out and having fun, and I'm seeing some improvement. Keep at it and you'll get better.

just get out and practice, i switch off one day ill ride 14 miles on the road for fitness the next day ill go hit some trails in the woods or just putt around town trying to do wheelies and bunny hops for a few hours..

The only way you will get better is by practicing out there. Ride on.