What is Observed Trials?

It's a form of motorcycle competition that emphasizes balance and control while riding through designated areas of terrain and obstacles, known as "sections."  A trials loop is usually 2-5 miles long, with 10-15 small sections where scoring takes place.  It's not a race . . . only one rider is "observed" at a time.  The challenge is to get through the sections without scoring any points.  Points are taken when the rider puts a foot down, or "dabs," rolls backwards, crashes or rides outside the designated section.  Each section has entry and exit gates and is marked on each side by color ribbon, blue on the left and red on the right.  So, observed trials is a battle between the rider and the terrain.  He or she who makes the fewest mistakes wins.  Trials clubs like PST offer classes for all ages and levels of riders.  The Novice or Beginner line focuses on the basics like throttle control and turning skills.  The Intermediate class will include small obstacles and tight turns.  Advanced riders encounter bigger obstacles.  Expert and Champion level riders are challenged with HUGE obstacles and very tight turns.

Who can ride trials?

Anyone who is reasonably fit and can ride a motorcycle fairly well can learn to ride trials.  PST has members from all walks of life:  male, female, 8 years old to 50+ years old.  Whether you're a hotshot looking for a new challenge or a casual weekend rider looking for some fun, you will find it in trials.  As in all motorsports, there is a risk of injury, but the goal of all trials clubs is to provide safe and enjoyable events for the entire family.

What equipment do you need to ride trials?

A trials motorcycle is required.  A helmet is also required for your safety.  Boots, kneepads and gloves are recommended.  The great thing about trials is that you don't need the latest, fastest motorcycle to be competitive and have fun.  Rider ability is the key.  Trials motorcycles of the mid-80's to 90's are very popular at the Beginner to Intermediate level and can be purchased for around $1,000 to $3,000.  This is the era when trials technology made a big step forward with smaller, lighter specialized bikes.  The bikes of the 80's are air-cooled and might have disk brakes.  The mid-90's saw another technological step which included quicker revving water-cooled engines, aluminum frames and better suspensions.  And now in 2002, the bikes are very specialized, almost exotic, costing $5,000 to $6,000.  If you have an older dual-shock trials motorcycle or are interested in vintage trials, most clubs offer a dual shock class.

What else will you need?

Practice, practice, practice!  You can practice almost anywhere because trials is a quiet, low-speed sport.  You only need a small space like a backyard or driveway to practice the basics like tight turns, balance, throttle, brake and clutch control.  PST offers trials schools and coaching for all new members.  PST also offers FREE event entry for first-time riders in the Novice class.

For more information on observed trials in the greater Seattle area, contact:  Mike Berg at 425-831-6133,  Jim Shive at 425-348-8886, Skagit Powersports (Gary Lawver or Bill Cameron) at 360-757-7999, or e-mail webmaster.