Dirt & Trail Aug2020

Jarvis in 2009
2021
Trials
bikes
Companies like Sherco, GasGas and Beta all
started as specialized trials manufacturers and
evolved into manufacturing enduro machines.
With the advent of electric technologies, the
sport is seeing a bit of a global resurgence
with giants like KTM taking an interest in the
latest electric technology.
Brent Le Riche
Brian Capper
What are observed trials?
Motorcycle trials, also termed observed trials, is
a non-speed event on specialized motorcycles.
The ability of the rider to negotiate obstacles
within each section without putting a foot down.
An observer monitors the rider through the
section and scores each rider for points lost. The
winner being the rider with the least points lost
within each class.
Modern trials motorcycles are distinctive in
that they have evolved to become extremely
lightweight, lack seating (they are designed to be
ridden standing up) and have suspension travel
that is short, relative to a motocross or enduro
motorcycle.
Motorcycle trials is often utilized by
competitors in other motorcycle sports (such
as motocross or road racers) as a way to crosstrain,
as trials requires fine throttle, balance, and
machine control.
You all know young Graham Jarvis? He started
out on a trials bike and is now one of the greatest
enduro champs of our time.
Trials is very active in SA – a niche sport, but
the guys we know who participate are among
the most enthusiastic lot that we have ever met.
We are sorting a story soon, where we’ll take a
weekend warrior endure guys and let him try his
hand with a certain Mr Le Riche…
That will be fun.
If you have never ridden a modern trials bike,
you simply don’t know what you’re missing. The
ability to negotiate rough terrain is unmatched
by anything on two wheels, but the real secret is
how much fun they are to ride! The combination
of light weight (70Kg), incredible low-speed
handling and a torquey engine allow them to go
practically anywhere with ease. Not only will
you have fun, but you’ll experience new places to
ride, meet new friends and learn new skills that
will take you to the next level of motorcycling.
Intrigued? nrtc.co.za for more info.
In the interim, a few of the trials manufacturers
have launched their new machines:
Toni Bou
Dougie Lamkin
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