Getting Started: Trials riding

The danger rating for this sport may be about the same as peeling an orange, but the skill required is unquestioned. The aim is to complete a predetermined route (up to 70 miles), and at various points around the way, complete small obstacle sections (as many as 70) whilst keeping their feet on their foot pegs.

Getting Started: Trials riding

The danger rating for this sport may be about the same as peeling an orange, but the skill required is unquestioned. The aim is to complete a predetermined route (up to 70 miles), and at various points around the way, complete small obstacle sections (as many as 70) whilst keeping their feet on their foot pegs.

Competitors are penalised for failing to do this, as follows:

1 for putting a steadying foot down once,

2 for twice, up to a maximum of 5 for falling off or going outside the designated 'taped' route, (or taking longer than 3 minutes in a section, at World Championship level).

As with show jumping, the entrant with the fewest faults throughout the day is the winner. The bikes have just a single shock absorber to give more smooth progressive travel. There is improved instant power from the engine and better tyres that will provide grip in very muddy conditions and also on very hard or rocky terrain. Riders can start very young right up to retirement age.

Getting started can again be attempted by either going out and buying a bike and entering a beginners (wobblers) trial or by booking yourself onto a course. These don't seem to be too thick on the ground, but the beauty of trials is that you can enter a competition and lose with dignity but putting your feet down everywhere.

Again the ACU are the main organising body and a youth series also exists.

What you will need:

	A basic trials bike can cost from £500 used or from £2500 new. The Japanese manufacturers have all given up on the trials scene and the best machinery comes from the specialist Spanish manufacturers like Bultaco, Beta and Gas Gas
Bike	£500 - £3000
Gloves	£30
Race Jeans	£100
Race Shirt	£45
MX Boots	from £80
Trailer or Van	find a friend
Crash Helmet	from £70
Cost per Event	Average race fees are about £15, you may also need tires at around £40-60 per tire. A can of fuel will be all you need.

Article supplied courtesy of Doctor Danger

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