Trials

Observed Trials

In most cases, motorcycle competition is all about speed and who can get from Point A to Point B in the least amount of time possible.

That is not the case with observed trials. In this form of motorsport, speed doesn’t matter at all. Observed trials is a test of technique, balance, and the ability to navigate over or around obstacles without stalling, crashing or touching a foot to the ground.

Trials, or MotoTrials as the sport is sometimes known to distinguish from its bicycle equivalent, is one of the oldest forms of motorcycle competition. It also is one of the best disciplines for developing safe, well-rounded riding skills that can make you a better racer in everything from motocross to road racing.

Trials puts no premium on speed. The winner is simply the most skilled (and sometimes the luckiest) rider on a particular course. The format is relatively simple. Trials competitors must negotiate individual sections of extremely difficult terrain without putting their feet down. Penalty points are assessed for mistakes, and the rider with the lowest overall score at the end of the day wins.

Trials bikes are purpose-built, off-highway motorcycles engineered to produce smooth, usable power across a wide rpm range. They are light, nimble and feature relatively soft, trail-friendly suspension.

Trials enthusiasts ride on trails, in backyards, in fields and over obstacles both natural and manmade, including logs, steep hillsides and through creeks. Routes are available for every skill level, and some sections assembled for advanced riders are so difficult it’s hard to imagine a mountain goat traversing them—much less a rider on two wheels.

Note - The above description of Observed Trials was copied from the AMA Trials website

The Maritime Trials Riders MTR hosts trials events all over the Maritimes (well NS and NB anyway), and these events provide an organized setting, new riding opportunities and a competitive outlet for an active community of trials competitors. The events are included on the NSORRA calendar of events each year. Updates from the NSORRA MTR can be found on the MTR facebook group here: Maritime Trials Riders Group | Facebook

The top rung of the sport in Canada the CMA Trials Nationals. The CMA selects top riders to compete against riders from other countries at the Trials des Nations each year.