Trial Definition

“A trial is a test of riding skill and balance over a variety of observed natural obstacles with riders incurring penalties for footing or stopping”.

This can be riding up a stream, grassy hill climb, over rock slabs etc. Officials are positioned at observed sections to record the riders’ performance and the scores are aggregated by the Event Secretary to determine the winner/s.

Trials are recognized as the cheapest form of motorcycle sport, with the prices of bike ranging from second hand at around £300 to £3000+ for the latest models. Bikes are specially manufactured and are road legal, but most events are completely of road and therefore the machine does not need to be registered or licensed. Engines range from 50cc to 320cc although the optimum is considered to be 250 for an adult. They have very low gearing, snappy powerful engines, and special soft compound tyres that will “get you up the side of a house!” As the bike is controlled whist standing up, it has a very low small seat and rear set footrests. This makes for little comfort if the bike has to be ridden for any distance on the road! As well as the bike, a rider also needs protective clothing and equipment. All riders at all times when riding the machine must wear helmets, which comply with the Road Traffic Act. Boots of approx. knee length must be worn. Leather, rubber, plastic or safety type Wellingtons will only be allowed. Clothing must cover legs and the body and it is recommended that the arms be also covered. All Youth riders must cover the arms and wear gloves covering hands and fingers.