TrialsRiderBear in mind eon’s video is 28 years older than the one I linked, and the Kick Start series is part of a ‘Time Trial’, as compared to the worlds current top rider doing freestyle stuff. Indeed there are variations on the sport including ‘Scott Trials’ that combine observed sections and an Enduro style loop between sections where speed is considered. ‘Stadium Trials’ are the events that incorporate man made obstacles, such as cars and culverts etc. I’ve ridden in both but far prefer natural terrain events. ‘Urban Freestyle Trials’ is a relatively new concept having very questionable legal ramifications, that is where guys ride over public buildings and historic monuments… can’t see myself doing that any time soon.
Once upon a time, Trials bikes were nothing like the super light weight modern machines. Here is a very heavy 500cc vintage Ariel thumper demonstrating the type of obstacle that even these big lugs can negotiate, given a skilled rider on-board; http://www.twnclub.ch/classic_trial_files/Soultz2005/MOV391_Ariel_jump.MPG note: this 1950’s bike weighs in excess of 300 lbs. and has very limited suspension and brakes.
