Potomac Vintage Riders -- Vintage Trials

Related Links

AMA

AHRMA

MAVT

Special Event

Sunday, May 4th 2008: PVR co-sponsored Vintage & Modern Trials at R and T Motorcycle Club of Frederick, MD's riding grounds in Ijamsville, Maryland. 10:30 sign-in and 12:00 noon start.

All details and directions may be found on the event flyer. Also see www.mavt.org and www.amadistrict7.com/trials
for the full 2008 season competition schedules.

What is Vintage Trials?

Vintage Trials is the sport of Observed Trials ridden on Trials motorcycles produced before the advent of the modern mono-shock machines. The bikes may be from the pre '65 era of British two and four stroke motorcycles, the early post '65 era of Spanish Trials bikes, or Japanese or European Trials motorcycles which came slightly later; all of these having either two rear shock absorbers or being of rigid frame. The object of "Observed Trials" is to ride through specified courses, called sections, without setting your feet down, riding out-of-bounds, or stopping. These sections are generally laid out in wooded areas and use the natural terrain to form different obstacles used to test the rider's balance and throttle control. The sections are placed along a trail which forms a loop. There may be eight to twelve or more "observed sections" along the loop which is ridden several times, giving the rider new chances to attempt each section. A set number of loops ridden is announced at the beginning of the Trial, as well as the "finish time". At the end of the Trial, riders hand in their score sheets, and their scores are tallied by rider/machine classes. The lowest score takes the highest place in each class.

The Sections

The sections of an "Observed Trial" are where the rider is scored by an observer or "checker". These sections vary in length but usually take less than a minute to negotiate. They have an entry and exit point which take effect as the front axle passes through them. The left boundary is marked with blue ribbon or flags, and the right is marked with red. Natural obstacles of mud, rocks, logs, streams etc... together with tight turns and hillsides are the heart of each section. At MAVT events there are three different "lines" in each section. Depending on the rider's ability and machine, he/she is assigned to ride one of these lines. The "3" line is the easiest and is designed for beginners. The "2" line is more difficult, and the "1" line is the most challenging. At the end of each section the riders are given their score and proceed on to the next section along the loop where they will be scored once again.

Scoring

Each rider begins each section with "0" points, as shown by the checker's raised, closed hand. If the rider exits the section without "dabbing", stopping, or going out of bounds he/she accumulates no points, and is given a "clean". If the rider dabs a foot once while in the section, the checker holds up one finger to signify the current score. If the rider dabs again, or uses another part of his body for support, the rider is given another point, and the checker now has two fingers raised. If the rider dabs a third or more times, he/she is given a third point. No more than three points are given for dabs no matter how many times the rider sets a foot down. Beyond getting three points, a rider will receive a "five" for either stopping in the section (balanced or not) or going out of bounds. Also if a rider chooses not to ride a section, he/she may request a five. The penalty for missing a section is ten points. At the end of the meet, each rider's points are added together for a total score. If there is a tie in any class, the person with the most "cleans" breaks the tie.

The Wrap Up

This is just a brief over-view of Vintage Trials. We hope that it perks your interest. This is a fun, inexpensive sport with lots of comradery as well as great competition. We invite you to come see for yourself, and bring a friend.

Getting Started In Vintage Trials

What Is It?

It is the sport of Observed Trials ridden, generally, on motorcycles produced before the advent of the modern monoshock machines. The bikes may be from the pre '65 era of British and European two and four stroke motorcycles, the early post '65 era of Spanish Trials bikes, or Japanese or European Trials motorcycles, which came slightly later. Most of the bikes have either two rear shock absorbers or a rigid frame. Though it appears deceptively simple, trials riding may well be the most difficult form of motorcycle competition because of the skills needed to successfully compete. But many are attracted to the sport because it is a very low-key form of competition with a low probability of injury. The camaraderie among riders also is special, making it one of the most attractive forms of vintage competition. What's more, veteran trialers are always ready and willing to give help and advice to newcomers.

How To Get Started

1. Join the AMA, which you can do on-line at: www.ama-cycle.com.

2. (Optional) join AHRMA. AHRMA has a national vintage trials series but none are in the Mid-Atlantic region.

3. Join MAVT: The Mid-Atlantic region is blessed with one of the most ambitious vintage trials series in the nation. This is the group that makes it happen. Check them out at: www.mavt.org.

4. Join a Local Club.This is the best way to network and find places to ride.

1. Purchase quality safety gear: Boots, helmet, gloves.

2. Choose your motorcycle carefully: Some brands have a good following, which means better parts sources and aftermarket suppliers. Before you buy, look at the MAVT rules. MAVT trophy classes are divided into two basic groups; Vintage classes are for four speed Spanish trials machines, and trials machines from other countries produced prior to 1973. Twinshock classes are for five speed Spanish trials machines, and trials machines from other countries produced after 1972. MAVT also has non-trophy classes for air-cooled monoshock bikes.

3. Sign up for the proper skill level. Trials offers four skill levels (1-4) ranging from expert to beginner. If you haven't ridden trials, it is wise to start out on the easier sections then work your way up.

4. Prepare your bike properly, Remember, 25 year-old parts like chains, tires, shocks, carburetors, anything rubber, bearings, cables, and such should either be replaced, refurbished, or updated to save you from pushing your broken bike back from the far side of the woods.

5. Start an exercise program. If you haven't ridden in ages, consult a physician before starting your exercise program. But remember, trials can be a physically demanding sport.

6. Practice on your motorcycle prior to competition. Speak to PVR members about local riding areas to refine your skills.

7. Come out and have fun ! If you have aspirations of being World Champion, vintage trials is not the proper venue! We all ride trials because we enjoy old bikes and hanging out with others who share that enthusiasm.

Useful Websites:

www.potomacvintageriders.com - www.mavt.org - www.ahrma.org.

Getting Started in VIntage