What is
Trials?
Trials can be defined as follows: “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 climbs, over rock slabs etc. Officials are on
hand at observed sections to record the riders’ performance
and the scores are aggregated by the Event Secretary to determine
the winner.
This is recognised as the most affordable form
of motor cycle sport, with the prices of bikes ranging from
second hand at £500 to over £5000 for the latest
models. The bikes used are specially manufactured for this
branch of the sport and are road legal, although most events
are completely off-road and therefore do not need to be licensed.
You are advised, however, to get your bike insured against
theft and keep it secured in a locked garage. Off-road bikes
seem to attract some unwelcome visitors!
Engine sizes range from 125 cc to 320 cc,
although the optimum is considered to be 250. They have low
gearing, responsive two-stroke engines and special soft
‘grippy’ tyres and will ‘go up the side
of a house!’ Indeed the World Champion, Britain's’ Dougie Lampkin, has been reported as having gone up a vertical
wall over 3 metres in height! The rider controls the bike
whilst standing up, for which reason it has a very low small
seat and specially positioned footrests. This of course does not make for
comfort when any distance has to be covered on the road.
Undoubtedly the most prestigious event in
Scotland is the Edinburgh & District Motor Clubs’
Scottish Six Days Trial that takes place each May. Up until
1976 it used to start from Edinburgh, but these days it
is centred in Fort William and regularly has an international
entry of top riders. Scottish Auto Cycle Union clubs hold
trials most weekends throughout Scotland, culminating in Scottish
Championships which are determined after a series of events.
Rider’s ages can vary from Cadets
at 6 years to Senior Citizen Adults; each ride in their own
class, with the course laid out to suit the skill levels present.
For further information contact one of the clubs listed on
the clubs page.
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Trials - How do I get Started?
• |
Join a club
that is close to you or one which organises Trials. |
| • |
Find out about training
and if possible attend a Trials School. |
| • |
Purchase your machine,
riding suit, helmet, boots etc. |
| • |
Apply for a Competition
Licence - this must to be through your Club. |
| • |
Contact Organising Clubs
for entry forms. |
| • |
Complete the entry forms
correctly and return them to the event secretary. |
| • |
Follow any final instructions
sent to you, be on time and enjoy your Trial. |
| |
| Youth Age Groups |
| |
| • |
Class D - 6 to 9 years
50cc mono or
80cc twinshock |
| • |
Class C - 10 to 12 years
80cc maximum engine capacity |
| • |
Class B - 13 to 15 years
125cc maximum engine capacity |
| • |
Class A - 16 to 17 years
125cc maximum engine capacity |
Protective Clothing and Equipment
Clothing must cover legs and body and it
is recommended that arms should also be covered. Boots of
approximately knee length must be worn. Leather, rubber, plastic
or safety type Wellington boots only will be allowed.
Helmets, which must be in compliance with
the Road Traffic Act, must be worn by riders at all times
when riding the machine.
All Youth competitors must have clothing
covering arms and wear gloves covering hands and fingers.
The wearing of gloves is recommended for all competitors.
Before purchasing any of these items take
advice from established riders and club officials.
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