Tvaneijk

I picked up an inspire hex 2012 with a hope trial tech front brake and a hs33 rear just wondering where I should start with tricks and weather or not I should ditch the 8speed setup that is on there now and go to single speed the bike came with a proper Crankset and single speed kit just needs a chain tensioner running a 22 up front on saint cranks with a 28 to 11 cassette the rim is brand new on the back I sanded it down but I'm guessing a grind is the way to go? Having lots of fun with back wheel hops but I am having a hard time with pedal kicks I can only move about 1 foot at a time if I'm lucky. Just wanted to say hi and see if anyone else has any good beginner advice