Trial Magazine Issue 83 October-November 2020

83

E E R F I S E DED DOUBL R E P OST INS IDE

RETRO

2021

ELECTRIC MOTION

1990 PROFILE QUICK SPIN GAS GAS SAM CONNOR 771753 004072

771753 004072

9

9

8 3

8 3

SN 1 7 5 3 - 0 0 4 0 ISSUEI S83 • UK: £5.99

1753-0040

www.trialmaguk.com

October-November 2020

ISSN

MOTORCYCLE • CYCLE • SIDECAR • CLASSIC • COMPETITION • FEATURES

PROFILE

RETRO

QUICK SPIN

LBR GGS FILM 48MM 6P

CONFIDENCE • 6 7 3 FAT B A R ® • T O N I B O U • 2 7 W O R L D T I T L E S •

www.renthal.com

PHOTO CREDIT : TRIAL MAGAZINE

Trial Magazine • Welcome

CONTACT Online: www.trialmaguk.com Telephone: 01663 749163 Email: england@trialmag.com Address: 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX United Kingdom

WELCOME FEATURES

Editorial Staff Cyrille Barthe, Jean Caillou, Phil Disney, Nick Shield, Matthew Heppleston, Heath Brindley and John Moffat.

INTERNATIONAL

30

QUICK SPIN

46

INVITATION

50

2021

64

PROFILE

70

SPORT

83

RETRO

88

DEALER VISIT

98

FIM Trial World Championship GASGAS Racing 300

Executive Director Philippe Benhamou

(NUJ No: 949620)

22

2021

THE TEAM Co-Managing Directors John Hulme & Charles Benhamou

Editor John Hulme

NEW MODELS

30

22

Noassar Trial

Electric Motion Sam Connor

White Rose Trial 1990

Photographers Colin Bullock, Eric Kitchen, Cyrille Barthe, Josh Turner, Yoomee, Trials Media, Barry Robinson, Don Morley, Mauri/Fontserè Collection and the Giulio Mauri Copyright, Andy Gregory, Toon Van De Vliet, Brian Holder and Leah Robinson.

Camio Trial

YOUTH

102

Isle of Man Two Day

Proof reading Jane Hulme and Davina Brooks Commercial Manager John Hulme england@trialmag.com

88

Design and Production Dean Cook The Magazine Production Company www.magazineproduction.com Printing: Buxtons Press Distribution: Warners Group Publications © 2020 CJ Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the Publishers.

Great care is taken to ensure accuracy in the preparation of this publication, but neither CJ Publishing Ltd or the editor can be held responsible for its contents.

The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Publishers.

Trial Magazine is published by: CJ Publishing Limited, registered in England Number: 5947718.

Trial Magazine: ISSN: 1753-0040.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

64

REGULAR SECTIONS

98

TALK TRIALS: TONI BOU NEWS OBSERVATION: BERNIE SCHREIBER SHOPPING PADDOCK POSTERS SUPERSTORE BACK ISSUES DEALER LOCATOR SUBSCRIPTION FORM

8 10 14 18 28 57 96 101 108 110

Cover: Michael Brown (Electric Motion) Photo Credit: Trials Media

7

Talk trials • Toni Bou

PAIN TONI BOU

Yes, pain. I have been struggling with an old back injury which has caused me to have cramp and discomfort in my forearms, but I must not complain as I am still winning. With a much shorter series this year, I have had no time to recover properly but now we have a short break before the final round in Italy (unless Covid-19 interrupts the calendar) I can seek medical advice for the best way to find a solution to the problem.

Words: Toni Bou with John Hulme • Pictures: Trials Media

I must congratulate Gabriel Marcelli on his recent form and his first trip to the podium in his first year of TrialGP. He has proved, that in the right hands, just how good the four-stroke Montesa Cota 4RT can be. He is one of a small group of young riders who have started to show their form in this premier class, and the breakthrough will be very important to him to give him the confidence to believe in himself.

This fight for the 2020 TrialGP championship feels more pressurised than for many years, maybe because of the Covid-19 situation. I am so used to the fight for the title, which as always includes my old rival and fellow Spanish rider Adam Raga. I have the upper hand with six victories to his two, but even with the ten-point advantage in the series, I will have to be at my very best in Italy in October. The strength in the team is one of my main motivations and the manager Miquel Cirera always has good advice in so many difficult situations, and as I have stated before, the victory and the fight for the title is a team effort, always.

My Repsol Honda is without a doubt the best machine for the job and yes, when I am on my very top form, I do feel unbeatable. As for my rivals, they must understand that Toni Bou is going nowhere, and the fight for the fourteenth consecutive World Title continues. See you in Italy!

Until next time – Toni ‘Dynamite’ Bou

8

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

THE CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS.

13 27

20YM COTA 301RR REPRESENTATIVE FINANCE EXAMPLE* Manufacturer’s Recommended Retail Price (Cash Price) £7,999.00 Deposit

£2,162.20

Amount of Credit

£5,836.80

36 Monthly Payments

£109.00

Final Payment inc Option to Purchase Fee

£2,809.65

Total Amount Payable

£8,895.85

Representative APR

6.9%

Fixed Interest Rate p.a.

6.60%

6.9% APR

REPRESENTATIVE

ON 20YM MONTESA COTA 301RR MODELS

INTRODUCING THE NEW COTA 301RR - THE MOST RACING-ORIENTED TRIAL BIKE. Dominate the competition with the new 2020 Montesa Cota 301RR — a racing-oriented Trials machine built to take you to the top step.

An enlarged 298 cc engine with a new ECU and redesigned crankcase help make the machine feel lighter and more controllable.

The higher rear fender, new slimmer and more angular fuel tank and new LED headlight all add to the more aggressive and sharper lines, giving the Cota 301RR a sportier look and a modern touch. The new Montesa Cota 301RR: How high will you take it?

Visit your local dealer to find out more.

honda.co.uk

0345 200 8000

Lease Purchase Terms & Conditions: *New Montesa Honda RT301RR 20YM (all variants) orders from 01 September 2020 to 04 January 2021 and registered by 04 January 2021. Subject to model and colour availability. Representative Example based on 3 years 6.9% LP; £10 option to purchase fee applies. The final payment must be paid at the end of the term. Offers applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter’s absolute discretion (excluding Channel Islands). Indemnities may be required in certain circumstances. Finance is only available to persons aged 18 or over, subject to status. All figures are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change. Honda Franchise Dealers are credit brokers, not lenders. Credit provided by Honda Finance Europe Plc. Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL. Honda Financial Services is a trading name of Honda Finance Europe Plc. a company registered at Companies House No 03289418. Honda Finance Europe plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register number 312541.

News • The world of trials

PUTTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT Ongoing research into the history of trials continues to throw up some surprises. The first one was when we found out that Finland’s Yrjo Vesterinen had used Michelin tyres for his winning ride at the 1980 SSDT on the Montesa. We were always under the impression that he had used Pirelli tyres, but then he informed us that it was Michelin rubber that was used on the Cota 349.

We had previously stated that French rider Gilles Burgat was the first Michelin winner on the SWM in 1981. So it is time to apologise to Michelin and Gilles Burgat for getting it wrong!

Looking into the 1990 FIM World Trials Championship we also found another error. In the ever-changing world of motorcycle trials development we had overlooked the fact that Fantic were still using air-cooled models in 1990.

We had previously stated that the last winner of a FIM World Championship round on an air-cooled machine was in 1989 with the Thierry Michaud

IT’S ALL ELECTRIC MOTION FOR MICHAEL BROWN

Following a successful career on Gas Gas which included an ACU British Trials Championship title and a Scott Trial victory, Michael Brown has made the move to Electric Motion with support from its official UK importers Electric Motion UK. Michael Brown: “In an everchanging world, I am very excited to make the move to an electric powered motorcycle with Electric Motion UK. Having ridden them when I was in the stage show in Las Vegas I started to think that it was maybe time to look at riding one in UK trials. The Trial Magazine test confirmed my thoughts on riding, as I was pleasantly surprised just how competitive they were when ridden on UK soil. Now I am back living here I will make my competitive UK debut at the ACU British Championship rounds to be held shortly. I would like to thank everyone at John Shirt Motorcycles for their support in the past as I now move to pastures new.”

10

(Fantic-FRA) in Ireland. It was in fact at the final FIM World Championship round of the 1990 season in the Czech Republic, with Italian rider Donato Miglio on the Fantic 307.

SCORPA LONG RIDE Go on longer excursions, thanks to the new ‘Long Ride Kit’ developed for the Scorpa trials models.

It’s easily adaptable and it gives you a much greater riding time thanks to its large capacity fuel tank and a comfortable seat with its thin saddle which remains suitable for trials use. You can install your new tank kit in less than five minutes and a manual is included that tells you how to assemble the ‘Long Ride Kit’ in seven simple steps.

RENTHAL – UK DISTRIBUTOR

Trialendurodirect, based at Buxton in Derbyshire, are the official UK distributor for all Renthal trials products, including: Handlebars, Handlebar Grips, Bar Pads and Chain Wheels to suit all machines. Renthal comes with a fantastic sporting heritage including many FIM Trials World titles and sponsored riders that include the TrialGP World Champions Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP), Dougie Lampkin (VertigoGBR) and Emma Bristow (Sherco-GBR).

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

THE CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS

TONI BOU 14 x FIM X-Trial World Champion (Indoor) 13 x FIM Trial World Champion (Outdoor)

To discover the MICHELIN Trial range visit: www.michelin.co.uk/motorbike

News • The world of trials

VERTIGO MILESTONE

Spanish motorcycle manufacturer Vertigo reached a milestone in July 2020 when they produced 110 machines in a single month. Vertigo would like to thank all their international importers, distributors, partners, clients and friends for their part in helping to achieve this milestone for the brand.

The fact that it has been achieved during the challenging times the entire world is experiencing gives the record even more merit. Headed by the brand ambassador Dougie Lampkin, Vertigo Motors is expanding into new markets and, more than ever, their motorcycles are finding new clients and fans in every corner of the world. Always looking to the future, Vertigo Motors has some ambitious new projects on the horizon as well as exciting presentations, such as the arrival of the new models arriving from September onwards.

They would like to thank all the new clients and fans who have joined the Vertigo family during the past 12 months of exceptional growth for the brand, and are very much looking forward to welcoming even more new clients who share their core values and passion for the sport of motorcycle trials.

ALAN MOREWOOD: 1935–2020 The well-known motorcycle enthusiast, Alan Morewood recently passed away after suffering a second stroke. He was born in Sheffield in 1935 and worked as a jig-and-tool designer at GKN Laycocks from the age of 16 until taking early retirement at 51 years old. At 16 he got his first motorcycle, following in his father’s footsteps who was also a trials rider as well as a despatch rider in the army.

It was at a local trial that Alan met Merle, his wife to be, and they married in 1960. Alan had a successful solo trials career including winning the Best Newcomer in the Scottish Six Days Trial in 1957, an event he rode in until 1976.

After that he continued spectating and helping other riders including both his sons, Davy and Robin, at the event. He and Merle started sidecar trials in 1960 and went on to win 18 national events including the

12

prestigious Manx Two-Day Trial on the Isle of Man. Merle retired from the sidecar at the end of 1964 to start a family, and Alan carried on to win the

British Sidecar Championship three times with three different passengers, Andy Barber, Phil Granby and Gerry Holmes.

After retirement Alan and Merle travelled Europe in their motorhome, following the World Trials Championship scene for many years until Merle’s passing. Alan continued competing in Pre-65 and long-distance trials until the age of 75 when he suffered his first stroke.

The trials gene was passed on to his sons, with eldest Davy winning the British Clubman title and being a regular top-ten rider in the British championship, whilst Robin followed the three-wheeled route, initially winning a British Championship as a passenger for Scott Rowland before taking on the driving duties to win five British titles with wife Gill. The family success has continued, with another generation with Davy’s eldest son Reece winning a British Enduro title, the youngest, Callum, also competing in trials and Robin’s son, Adam, being a five-times cycle Biketrial world champion.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

125cc/ 200cc / 250cc / 280cc / 300cc

AVAILABLE NOW FROM YOUR NEAREST VERTIGO DEALER Key Features New air box with integrated mapping switch

Adjustable reiger shock

Vertigo billet factory machine hubs

New 2021 works graphics

New spec maps for wet and dry conditions

Black anodised tech alloy forks

Vertigo stainless steel exhaust

Vertigo green multi tubular frame

Optimised cylinder head combustion chamber

Vertigo handle bar

Progressive response throttle body

Anodised green & black detailing

New design inlet manifold

Vertigo bar pad

FIM homologated magnetic kill switch

Weight 68kgs

www.vertigomotors.com

www.shopvertigotrial.com

Observation • Schreiber’s Section

G SCHREIBER

WINNERS KEEP WINNING

Winning championships season after season is a matter of mind. The body controls the motorcycle, but the mind controls the winning. Believing in yourself is a great asset. Genuine confidence, created by hard work and past results, fuels the discipline needed for consistent, winning performance.

Words: Bernie Schreiber with John Hulme • Pictures: Trials Media and Italjet

I

n 1979 I said that I saw no reason why a rider couldn’t win eight of 12 world trials in any given year. It was in 1980 that my record shows six world wins with two DNFs that year.

Toni Bou has proven over and over again, what is possible. His ability, attitude and preparation feed his confidence, which has resulted in consistent results for over a decade. Confidence and winning offer a double-plus factor. It can boost your spirits while demoralising your competition. A competitor who thinks he can’t win usually won’t.

Motivation is the initiative for starting a task. It includes a person’s reasons and desires for engaging in a particular behaviour to achieve a goal. Dedication goes beyond a mere desire, though — if you think about it, anyone can be motivated to do something.

Toni Bou has total dedication to practising and improving his performance. Winning streaks eventually end because winners can get over-confident, slipping into arrogance or complacency, or because the competition gets better. But champions can build on a positive spirit, disciplined focus and respect, lots of practice on the details, and lasting support systems that can make success more likely. Behind every high14

Bernie with his father

performance athlete is a team support system; a cadre of coaches, friends and fans that fuel motivation. Winning enlarges the circle of support.

In 1980 and 1982, I changed manufacturers, and that had a major effect on my confidence at first. Staying motivated when changing from one manufacturer to another is a very difficult task due to many uncertainties.

My father taught me not to be afraid of failure by not helping me up when I fell! I thank him for his guidance to dust off, rise again and continue moving ahead. The mountain usually isn’t so tall, once you check it out.

Eliminating the unknown can really increase your confidence. Being a champion is not about talent, resources, connections, wealth or luck, it’s about resourcefulness and work ethic, doing whatever it takes to achieve the goal. Period. Champions don’t just do a job, they excel at it, reinvent it, define it and exceed expectations. They own their craft, they own their potential, they own their game, and their performance.

Take it one section at a time. That advice is easy to give, but not always easy to follow!

Keep safe and well – Bernie Schreiber.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

GET ON THE Authorised Dealerships:

GAS!

AMS Motorcycles, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire

ET James & Sons, Rhayader, Powys

JD Racing, Saltash, Cornwall

CCM Racing, Tallaght, Dublin

Eurotek, Ripon, North Yorkshire

John Lee Motorcycles, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire

CF Racing, Corwen, Denbighshire

Gear 4 Motorcycles, Market Deeping, Peterborough

John Shirt Motorcycles, Buxton, Derbyshire

CPS Motorcycles, Hinckley, Leicestershire

Holeshot Motocross, Sailsbury, Wiltshire

Marsh MX, Merthyr Tydfil, Wales

Craigs Motorcycles, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire

HTM Motorcycles, Ballymena, N.Ireland

Triple D Motosport, Kendal, Cumbria

Drysdale Motorcycles, Perth, Tayside

The new TXT RACING 300 from GASGAS motorcycles.

For more details visit www.gasgas.com

@gasgas.official

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Shopping • What’s new

WHAT’S ON YOUR SHOPPING LIST? APICO RACELINE ALUMINUM FOOTRESTS Adjustable 60mm Wide. Colour Ways: Black & Silver Web: www.apico.co.uk

TRIALENDURODIRECT RENTHAL Handlebar Grips. All Makes and Machines.

Web: www.trialendurodirect.com

APICO BOYESEN Pro Series Trials Reeds.

All Models – Two Stroke Web: www.apico.co.uk

S3 PARTS VINTAGE RIDING KIT Various Colour Ways Web: www.trialendurodirect.com Web: www.s3parts.com

TRIALENDURODIRECT RENTHAL Chain Wheels. All Makes and Machines Various Colour Ways Web: www.trialendurodirect.com

TRIALENDURODIRECT S3 CLAMPS CLASSIC TRIAL MAGAZINE 34 Web: www.trialmaguk.com

18

TECH Front Forks. 39mm Ø Beta model fitment Web: www.trialendurodirect.com Web: www.s3parts.com

TIMBERLAND SHEDS

All styles, shapes and sizes Supplied Tel: 01484 723757 Web: www.timberlandsheds.co.uk

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

What’s new • Shopping

TRIALREPLIC 1:6 SCALE MODELS

Various machines. Available in UK soon.

Web: www.trialreplic.com

S3 PARTS CARBON FORK PROTECTORS Fitment: Showa & Tech Forks. Various Colour Ways.

Web: www.trialendurodirect.com Web: www.s3parts.com

APICO HEBO

Toni Bou 11 Lime Glove Web: www.apico.co.uk

TRIALENDURODIRECT RENTHAL

Handlebars 7/8th and ‘Fatbar’. All makes and machines. Various colour ways.

Web: www.trialendurodirect.com

TRAIL AND TRIALS UK HONDA RTL

APICO HEBO

2020 Repsol Honda. Replica Riding Kit. Web: www.apico.co.uk

Various Parts Available Web: www.tytrials.com

OSET ELITE OVER JACKET Web: www.shop.osetbikes.com

TRIALENDURODIRECT MOTS GO2 Crash Helmet. Various Colour Ways. Sizes: XS-XL. Web: www.trialendurodirect.com

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

STYLMARTIN ‘IMPACT RS’ BOOTS Colour: Brown. Sizes: 39 to 47.

Web: www.trialendurodirect.com

19

New Models • Beta

BETA

EVO MY 21

Following a path of continuous improvement and fine-tuning the new model Beta Evo 2021 has been updated with various modifications, aiming to enhance further its reputation for ease of use, reliability and better performance. Even though competitions were postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Beta-motor technicians, in Italy, have managed to keep the development activity going forward. Working with information from the factory international riders James Dabill (GBR), Benoit Bincaz (FRA), Matteo Grattarola (ITA) and Luca Petrella (ITA) it arrived to deliver the Beta Evo MY 21 model.

Photo: Beta

MACHINE CHANGES: TWOAND FOUR-STROKE

With a completely renewed look and new aesthetics, the EVO My 21 models now look more modern and aggressive. Breaking down the technical improvements they have changed, it includes the suspension settings both in the front forks and in the rear shock absorber.

At the front forks, they have enhanced the hydraulic calibration, which provides a more progressive approach when facing major 22

obstacles and better absorption capacity for small impacts to improve the handling.

On the rear shock absorber, the hydraulic operation has been revised to guarantee better balancing and a pitching reduction, once again when encountering a series of small impacts.

ENGINE

Carburetion has been revised and improved on all the two- and four-stroke variants to ensure a smoother power delivery,

providing better control for the rider in all conditions. Complementing these carburetion improvements the ignition mapping has also been improved, resulting in more linear power delivery.

With a choice of three engine capacities, the model range can fully address the rider’s needs, from the clubman to the one who wants to achieve at the highest level.

TWO-STROKE EVO MY 2021

The two-stroke single-cylinder water-cooled model is available in three engine capacities to suit riders of all abilities: 125cc, 250cc and 300cc.

FOUR-STROKE EVO MY 2021

With its usual 300cc engine displacement the four-stroke version comes with a proven track record in terms of both reliability and a smooth, powerful performance record that is second to none.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Montesa • New Models

MONTESA

COTA 301RR 75 ANNIVERSARY EDITION

So very proud of its sporting heritage, Montesa has announced that the Cota 301RR has been chosen to celebrate the 75th anniversary of this legendary manufacturer with its customers. This successful four-stroke world championship model has won the coveted FIM Trial World Championship in the Trial2 category over the last two seasons. It incorporates a specific colour decoration that will show the 75th-anniversary logo on the front fork bottoms and the rear mudguard just below the fuel tank.

Photo: Montesa

A

s you can see in the picture of the ‘Race’ version, the new colour scheme incorporates the red colour in the fuel tank that is associated with Montesa’s history

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

and the grey rear mudguard from the recordbreaking 301RR. Grey was also the colour that was chosen for the first Montesa A-45 model, hence the association in the aesthetics.

They have also changed the colour of the front suspension bottoms to black. These also carry the golden ‘75 years’ logo, which offers a very nice contrast with the black background and can be appreciated by all who view the machine.

An additional 75 years logo can be found on the rear mudguard, and very close to the fuel tank. It is an important location as it can be seen by the rider while using the machine to remind them that they are in control of a special anniversary model which reminds the rider of the brand’s heritage.

The decoration of the wheel rims has also changed, and besides the proud Cota nameplate, it also shows the Montesa ‘M’ in white on a red background. Besides the red fuel tank, you will notice that there is a red sticker on the chassis that gives the optical illusion of having a bigger fuel tank. This is done intentionally as a tribute to the typical red fuel tanks of the early Montesa motorcycles.

The 75 model is very typical of the early days of Montesa which were the black chassis, black front forks and black mudguards. All the 300RR and 301RR models have always had a black chassis, and this has been retained for next season.

To embrace and enhance the Montesa heritage, they have also changed the gold colour of the front fork bottoms that have been a part of this top-of-the-range Cota since its launch.

These have been changed to black, but with the Cota lettering in gold to further celebrate this new model.

The Cota 301RR 75 Anniversary has the red fuel tank and proudly displays a big ‘M’ on it; don’t be confused, this is a Montesa and it’s a time to celebrate!

23

New Models • Scorpa

SCORPA

21 SC FACTORY

French motorcycle manufacturer Scorpa is excited to introduce the new 2021 SC Factory trials range. With a strong reputation for producing machines to suit all levels of riders and abilities, they continue with their three-model range in 2021 which includes a 125cc, 250cc and 300cc.

Pictures: Scorpa

H

aving listened to such experienced importers as Nigel Birkett in the UK, Scorpa have delivered a level of performance from the two-stroke singlecylinder water-cooled engines that can be suited to the clubman rider, or the one who wants to challenge their abilities at the very highest level.

Refinements can be found in many areas to improve the overall performance of this wellproven trials motorcycle.

As the official UK importers for all Scorpa machines and products, Birkett Motorsport is the place to contact for more details on the 2021 model range.

24

SC FACTORY 2021 SPECIFICATIONS • New 2021 Factory graphics kit featuring a stronger bonding system.

• Optimisation and simplification of the electrical wiring harness.

• A new ‘Plug and Play’ lighting system.

• New lighter aluminium swinging arm.

• Revised gearing with a 42-tooth rear sprocket.

• Striking graphite-coloured frame.

• Black wheel rims with white hubs.

• Updated rear suspension links – dog bones.

• New Reiger rear shock absorber settings, resulting in smoother action of all its cycles on both compression and rebound.

• S3 brand ‘Hard Rock’ aluminium footrests.

• TECH brand Aluminium front forks with a black bottom outer tube.

• Orange anodised cylinder head with interchangeable dome.

• Brake discs by Galfer.

SC FACTORY ENGINE EVOLUTIONS

The exhaust system redesigned to improve power at low RPM and give smoother delivery as soon as the throttle is opened. In turn this improves the response time to the rider.

Evolution of the engine cylinder exhaust port to improve performance.

Revised cylinder head insert with increased volume for optimised engine response.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Vertigo • New Models

VERTIGO

2021 WORKS MODEL

The Vertigo Works model has proved itself to be one of the most competitive trials machines on the market over the last seasons. In the FIM TrialGP World Championship, and in the most iconic events of the sport, it has demonstrated its impressive performance, reliability and pedigree. Vertigo is now pleased to unveil its latest evolution for the 2021 season. It capitalises on the hard work, and many improvements learnt over the past years. With engines sizes available including 125cc, 200cc, 250cc, 280cc and 300cc this is a machine to suit all riders, from club level right through to the most demanding riders competing at the highest level in all conditions.

Pictures: Vertigo

V

ertigo’s supported riders, together with their brand ambassador Dougie Lampkin, have been working closely and relentlessly with the factory’s engineers to develop this new model. Many engine components have been updated, providing an improved response and power delivery.

The new cylinder head is one of these components, which for 2021 has a redesigned combustion chamber to provide enhanced combustion.

The throttle body has also been improved to Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

provide the rider with even more progressive and precise throttle response.

The dry and wet maps have also been updated, offering even better traction and power delivery in all conditions. The map switch is now located on the airbox cover, allowing the rider to quickly and easily change between maps on the go. A new induction tube provides a better seal between the airbox and throttle body, and for 2021 the exhaust pipe on this works model is in stainless steel.

Working in harmony with these engine

improvements, the new ‘Works’ model features a range of high-end and adjustable components, which will assist all riders to extract the maximum performance. It comes equipped with the fully adjustable Tech aluminium black front forks and the Reiger shock at the rear which is adjustable in compression, extension and spring preload.

These quality suspension components are linked to the innovative and exclusive Vertigo multi-tubular frame, which, for 2021, is finished in the traditional Vertigo green. Together it helps balance, manoeuvrability and the ability of the machine to find that all-important traction in all conditions and terrain which will keep Vertigo in a class of its own.

Vertigo’s iconic green also returns to be the main colour in the machine’s aesthetics, complemented by black and white to provide a stunning combination, giving an aggressive and modern overall look.

Attention to detail is what Vertigo Motors is all about, and the 2021 Works model is no exception. With many detailed and highquality green anodised components, such as the new billet wheel hubs, it all provides an added touch of class to this very attractive new model.

Evolution of the engine cylinder exhaust port to improve performance.

Revised cylinder head insert with increased volume for optimised engine response.

25

Paddock • Caught on camera

SMILE

FORWARD

HANG ON

GASGAS

BALANCE

STEADY

28

EJECT

ENOUGH

ON FILM

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

@timberlandsheds

THE BEST ERECTION Visit: www.timberlandsheds.co.uk • Call: 01484 723757

Timberland Sheds are a family-run business for over 30 years, experienced in suppyling everything from a valuetanalised shed, home of�ices, log cabins, summerhouses, man caves and she sheds where the wife can relax with friends while you’re away riding your bike!

Should you want a bespoke building, give Big Tim a call on 01484 723757!

Concrete garages and greenhouses also available.

10% OFF TITAN RANGE INCLUDES • Tanalising • T&G Throughout • 15 Year Anti-Rot Guarantee • Delivery, fitting and VAT!

10% DISCOUNT Anyone with an ACU Licence will receive 10% DISCOUNT on any order

International • FIM Trial World Championship

TRIAL GP

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP)

BOU’S IN CHARGE With just four days and eight points scoring rounds this was always going to be a high-pressure championship.

Early season injuries had no time to heal and affected Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) who has a niggling back injury. This is no excuse as we all know he always gives 100%. The fight at each round for supremacy has seen Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) take the top spot of the podium twice but its his arch-rival who holds the ten point advantage as the short break before Italy in October takes place. Behind Bou and Raga we have had the new TrialGP sensation Gabriel Marcelli (Montesa-ESP) on the podium, and twice in Andorra Jorge Casales (GASGAS-ESP). We also have a new manufacturer, TRRS, leading the world championship, the first time they have stood proud at the top of the table.

COVID 19

Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP)

30

To adjust to the various government guidelines concerning Covid 19, the series start has moved from May to September.

There is no qualification process with the riders using their final 2019 championship positions to dictate their start position in France. After France at round two, the riders finishing positions from the opening day would determine their start position on day two. The hazards have been reduced to just ten to be covered three times,once again due to Covid 19 guidelines, with changes made to them for the second day. This year’s shortened championship will be run over two days with four proposed rounds, with all eight scoring rounds counting.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

FIM Trial World Championship • International

Jaime Busto (Vertigo-ESP)

Jorge Casales (GASGAS-ESP)

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000, 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER

Under a blazing sun and at high altitude, the action on both days was very hot to say the least. Day one was plagued by time problems after the FIM introduced a new time limit for the first five sections which would force the scrapping of all the first lap scores. Toni Bou was in superb form taking the win despite challenges from both Jaime Busto and Jeroni Fajardo, as Adam Raga was kept down in fourth position just off the pace of the top three.

Day two was the closest action the TrialGP class had seen for some time as Jeroni Fajardo focussed on a victory, leading after the opening lap as Toni Bou suffered with back problems causing him some discomfort. It was the turn of Jaime Busto to make a charge for victory as Fajardo still held the lead after the second lap. With Adam Raga watching the action with a close eye, he had a storming last lap score of just three marks lost to snatch a clear victory on the final lap. Bou had been beaten, for the first time since Japan in 2018, but he came away from France leading the championship table.

DAY 1: 1: Bou 6; 2: Busto 11; 3: Fajardo 14; 4: Raga 20; 5: Casales 25; 6: Fujinami 29; 7: Bincaz 33; 8: Gelabert 34; 9: Dabill 36; 10: Price 52; 11: Peace 55; 12: Marcelli 58.

DAY 2: 1: Raga 33; 2: Busto 40; 3: Bou 41; 4: Fajardo 46; 5: Casales 48; 6: Fujinami 53; 7: Gelabert 55; 8: Bincaz 59; 9: Price 72; 10: Marcelli 74; 11: Dabill 76; 12: Peace 102.

Gabriel Marcelli and Toni Bou

2020 TRIALGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

3 OF 4 ROUNDS COMPLETED

POSITIONS: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) 112; 2: Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 102; 3: Jamie Busto (Vertigo-ESP) 81; 4: Jorge Casales (GASGASESP) 66; 5: Gabriel Marcelli (Montesa-ESP) 59; 6: Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN) 57; 7: Miquel Gelabert (GASGAS-ESP) 56; 8: Jeroni Fajardo (Sherco-ESP) 54; 9: James Dabill (BetaGBR) 48; 10: Benoit Bincaz (Beta-FRA) 42; 11: Dan Peace (Sherco-GBR) 33; 12: Jack Price (VertigoGBR) 32.

2020 FIM MANUFACTURES’ CHAMPIONSHIP 3 OF 4 ROUNDS COMPLETED

POSITIONS: 1: TRRS 206; 2: Montesa 188; 3: Beta 171; 4: Sherco 134; 5: Vertigo 1028 6: GASGAS 74; 7: Scorpa 9.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN)

31

International • FIM Trial World Championship

Miquel Gelabert (GASGAS-ESP)

SPAIN: POBLADURA DE LES REGUERAS, 12TH AND 13TH SEPTEMBER

Once again, the sun shone in Spain on this eightkilometre course taking in the three laps of a wide variety of ten hazards. You can never put a good man down and showing true strength of character, Toni Bou came back on day one in Spain with a very dominant statement by taking a clear win.

With time problems now a thing of the past, it looked like Jaime Busto could challenge the dominance of Bou but once again it was not to be.

A surprise to the established podium takers was Gabriel Marcelli (Montesa-ESP) in a fighting fourth position.

Day two would witness a day long fight between the old adversaries Bou and Raga with the win once again going to the defending world champion. With a mechanical failure taking out Jeroni Fajardo on the Sherco, it was Gabriel Marcelli who took full advantage of the opportunity to take his maiden trip to the podium in his first year in the TrialGP class.

French rider Benoit Bincaz (Beta) also showed the form we all know he has with a good solid fourth position. For Great Britain’s Jack Price (Vertigo) it was a very difficult day after a massive crash on day one. He struggled all day with troubling injuries. but

Jeroni Fajardo (Sherco-ESP)

James Dabill (Beta-GBR)

showed true spirit to finish and take some valuable points.

DAY 1: 1: Bou 28; 2: Busto 49; 3: Raga 57; 4: Marcelli 68; 5: Gelabert 69; 6: Fajardo 69; 7: Dabill 70; 8: Fujinami 86; 9: Peace 93; 10: Casales 115; 11: Price 136; 12: Bincaz 147.

DAY 2: 1: Bou 48; 2: Raga 56; 3: Marcelli 62; 4: Bincaz 66; 5: Gelabert 68; 6: Busto 69; 7: Dabill 69; 8: Casales 75; 9: Fujinami 77; 10: Peace 78; 11: Price 150.

ANDORRA: SANT JULIA, 19TH AND 20TH SEPTEMBER

Very much a ‘Home’ round for Toni Bou this highaltitude venue was shrouded in damp moist air for both days as cold September weather moved into the area. Yes, the sun did shine through, but it made for some very tough conditions as the huge rocks polished up offering very little wheel grip.

Day one was all about the battle between the top two, Bou and Raga. It went to the very last lap as Raga took the advantage to record his second win in 2020. A rejuvenated Jorge Casales (GASGASESP) pulled himself onto the podium for the first time for the new Austrian GASGAS owners.

On day two the fight for supremacy was all about one man, yes Toni Bou. He took no prisoners on his

Benoit Bincaz (Beta-FRA)

way to a clear twenty-mark victory over Raga. As we have seen before, it is the self-belief that matters, and it was a very proud Casales who once again took the last step on the podium. Have suffered with a drop in form, Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN) came within two points of a podium finish much to his delight. After looking very much like a championship challenger in France, Jamie Busto (Vertigo-ESP) has lost that confident touch needed to fight for the wins but he still holds third in the championship. Of the British riders, James Dabill on the Beta has shown on his day just how competitive he can be, and Dan Peace continues to gain experience all the time. One rider looking forward to a short session of ‘TLC’ will be the injured Jack Price after his big crash in Spain.

DAY 1: 1: Raga 50; 2: Bou 56; 3: Casales 73; 4: Marcelli 79; 5: Dabill 82; 6: Busto 83; 7: Fujinami 93; 8: Bincaz 98; 9: Fajardo 98; 10: Gelabert 101; 11: Peace 105; 12: Price 105.

DAY 2: 1: Bou 28; 2: Raga 48; 3: Casales 70; 4: Fujinami 72; 5: Gelabert 74; 6: Busto 77; 7: Fajardo 79; 8: Marcelli 80; 9: Dabill 94; 10: Peace 96; 11: Price 99.

The 2020 FIM TrialGP World Championship will now take a short break before resuming in Italy on the 10th and 11th October.

Jack Price (Vertigo-GBR)

Dan Peace (Sherco-GBR)

32

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

OUTER - Leather upper / Specific Trial double density compound rubber sole / Thermoformed ankle shield for added protection / Injection moulded plastic protections / Shaped shin plate with air ventilation pockets / Personalized suede leather heat protector / Adjustable velcro closure / Replaceable/adjustable GH plastic buckles.

AVAILABLE AT DEALERS

WWW.APICO.CO.UK

BLACK | RED | YELLOW FLUO

BLACK | WHITE

INNER - Padded inner lining / Polyurethane nylon reinforcements / Soft polymer padding with memory foam / I.N.&F.S. (Incorporated Nylon & Fiberglass Shank) midsole / Anti-bacterial replaceable footbed with A.P.S. (Air Pump System).

International • FIM Trial World Championship

Matteo Grattarola (Beta-ITA)

TRIAL 2

‘GRATTA’ TAKES A GRIP

Jack Peace (Sherco-GBR)

34

Alexandre Ferrer (TRRS-FRA)

Showing fantastic consistent form, Italy’s Matteo Grattarola has put one hand on the trophy for the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Beta in 2020. The challengers have come and gone, but in truth he has shown the mature head that is needed to win championships, and this has put him in such a strong position for the ‘Crown’ this year. Alexandre Ferrer (TRRS-FRA) looks to have done enough to secure second position, but no doubt at the final round in Italy the young British rider Jack Peace (Sherco-GBR) will try all he knows to take the fight to the Frenchman.

Pablo Suarez (Montesa-ESP)

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

FIM Trial World Championship • International

Toby Martyn (TRRS-GBR)

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000, 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER

Aniol Gelabert (TRRS-ESP)

An Italian rider winning on an Italian machine is always good to see, and on day one in France no one had an answer to the awesome display from Matteo Grattarola on the Beta.

A clean score parting with no marks on the opening lap was very impressive. His nearest challenger, Pablo Suarez, had parted with three marks putting him in front of Alexandre Ferrer by a single mark who was on four. Ferrer overtook Suarez on the final lap, but he was still too far behind Grattarola, who only lost one more mark, to challenge him.

With a full ten hazards and three laps to ride on the second day the battle was between Ferrer and Grattarola who battled all the way and had to be separated by the tie break giving the advantage to Ferrer. Finishing third and recovering from a very poor first day was Great Britain’s Toby Martyn who looked much more confident than on the opening day as he fought off his fellow countryman Jack Peace by a single mark to claim the last spot on the podium. In this closely contested class who would be able to challenge Ferrer and Grattarola in Spain?

DAY 1: 1: Grattarola 1; 2: Ferrer 7; 3: Suarez 10; 4: Haga 10; 5: Gondola 12; 6: Defrese 16; 7: Moret 16; 8: Farre 17; 9: Petrella 19; 10: Peace 19; 11: Martyn 19; 12: Ribo 22; 13: Rabino 22; 14: Green 23; 15: Gelabert 26.

DAY 2: 1: Ferrer 11; 2: Grattarola 11; 3: Martyn 22; 4: Peace 23; 5: Moret 28; 6: Gelabert 31; 7: Haga 37; 8: Suarez 39; 9: Petrella 40; 10: Defrese 40; 11: Farre 45; 12: Gondola 46; 13: Green 51; 14: Miquel 56; 15: Mempor 57.

Sondre Haga (TRRS-NOR)

2020 TRIAL2 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 3 OF 4 ROUNDS COMPLETED

POSITIONS: 1: Matteo Grattarola (Beta-ITA) 114; 2: Alexandre Ferrer (TRRS-FRA) 87; 3: Jack Peace (Sherco-GBR) 74; 4: Toby Martyn (TRRS-GBR) 63; 5: Aniol Gelabert (TRRS-ESP) 57; 6: Sondre Haga (TRRS-NOR) 57; 7: Pablo Suarez (MontesaESP) 53; 8: Francesc Moret (Montesa-ESP) 48; 9: Arnau Farre (TRRS-ESP) 45; 10: Luca Petrella (Beta-ITA) 45; 11: Lorenzo Gondola (Vertigo-ITA) 42; 12: Hugo Defrese (Vertigo-FRA) 35; 13: Billy Green (Montesa-GBR) 26; 14: Eric Miquel (TRRS-ESP) 17; 15: Sergio Ribo (Scorpa-ESP) 9.

Pablo Suarez (Montesa-ESP)

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020 35

International • FIM Trial World Championship

Francesc Moret (Montesa-ESP)

Arnau Farre (TRRS-ESP)

Luca Petrella (Beta-ITA)

ANDORRA: SANT JULIA 19TH AND 20TH SEPTEMBER

Lorenzo Gondola (Vertigo-ITA)

Billy Green (Montesa-GBR)

SPAIN: POBLADURA DE LES REGUERAS 12TH AND 13TH SEPTEMBER

Making a very clear statement that he wants the Trial2 title back was Italy’s Matteo Grattarola (Beta) who took a very convincing win in front of a real fight for the other two podium positions. Great Britain’s Jack Peace was the front runner showing his potential before dropping to fourth at the close of the day.

Showing his day one podium result in France was no fluke, Pablo Suarez (Montesa-ESP) put the four stroke onto the podium in Spain one step up in second.

Day two winner in France Alexandre Ferrer (TRRS) carried on with his championship fight with third. After finishing seventh on day one, a very tense finish on day two would see Aniol Gelabert (TRRS-ESP) win a tie break decider with the series leader Matteo Grattarola taking his first win in Trial2, much to his delight.

The biggest set back to his championship aspirations came to Alexandre Ferrer who found himself down in eleventh position. With such a close competitive group of riders, all capable of winning, it allowed the series leader Grattarola to open up a seventeen-point advantage at the top of the points table at the halfway point of the 2020 series.

DAY 1: 1: Grattarola 13; 2: Suarez 20; 3: Ferrer 21; 4: Peace 25; 5: Martyn 26; 6: Petrella 32; 7: Gelabert 35; 8: Haga 40; 9: Miquel 42; 10: Gondola 42; 11: Ribau 51; 12: Farre 52; 13: Riva 62; 14: Green 64; 15: Moret 64.

DAY 2: 1: Gelabert 17; 2: Grattarola 17; 3: Haga 29; 4: Farre 46; 5: Moret 37; 6: Peace 40; 7: Gondola 45; 8: Petrella 46; 9: Martyn 47; 10: Defrese 50; 11: Ferrer 53; 12: Suarez 57; 13: Miquel 57; 14: Riva 64; 15: Mempor 70.

Hugo Defrese (Vertigo-FRA)

36

Having missed last year’s Trial2 world championship title by eight points, Matteo Grattarola (Beta-ITA) wants the title back that he last won in 2018. He gave out a clear message in Andorra with two wins to hold a strong twenty seven point championship advantage. After a short break, the championship will resume in Italy, the home of Beta and an Italian rider, no pressure!

It’s only the inconsistency that has kept Alexandre Ferrer (TRRS-FRA) away from Grattarola in the championship, but he knows as we approach the end of the series he will have to be on guard from a ‘Brit’ attack. Both Jack Peace (Sherco-GBR) and Toby Martyn (TRRS-GBR) are winners as we have seen before and both them wanted more from the 2020 championship. In Andorra they both looked more comfortable with their riding, and on day two both took to the podium.

The fight in Italy will be interesting and don’t be surprised to see them fighting for the wins. Don’t forget Billy Green (Montesa-GBR) after he took the lead on both days in Andorra. He dropped to eighth on day one, but learning all the time, took fifth on day two showing that once the confidence is there you can let your ability do the talking. New winners in this class include Aniol Gelabert (TRRS-ESP) who won for the first time on day two in Spain on the tie break decider.

DAY 1: 1: Grattarola 40; 2: Ferrer 51; 3: Peace 53; 4: Gelabert 55; 5: Moret 56; 6: Martyn 59; 7: Suarez 59; 8: Green 59; 9: Farre 64; 10: Gondola 64; 11: Haga 67; 12: Defrese 69; 13: Petrella 70; 14: Miquel 81; 15: Rabino 84.

DAY 2: 1: Grattarola 29; 2: Peace 46; 3: Martyn 48; 4: Ferrer 49; 5: Green 49; 6: Petrella 50; 7: Defrese 57; 8: Farre 61; 9: Haga 62; 10: Gondola 65; 11: Moret 69; 12: Gelabert 70; 13: Miquel 73; 14: Trueba 79; 15: Medinya 86.

The 2020 FIM Trial2 World Championship now takes a short break before the final round in Italy on the 10th and 11th October.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

ÂŽ WATERLESS ENGINE COOLANTS

RIDE HARDER without boilover Advanced Cooling Technology PowerSports reduces system pressure which increases combustion efficiency and prevents boilover while eliminating corrosion and reducing strain on hoses, seals and gaskets. used and recommended by

Visit our website to ďŹ nd your closest stockist or give us a call on 01792 572299

www.evanscoolants.co.uk/trial

FIM Trial World Championship • International

TRIALGP WOMEN

UNBEATABLE

BRISTOW Berta Abellan (Vertigo-ESP)

Absolutely in a class of her own, Great Britain’s Emma Bristow (Sherco-GBR) proved to be unbeatable in this reduced three round FIM Trial World Championship in 2020. Riding as a class act at each of the three rounds in France, Spain and Andorra, no-one came close to matching her consistent riding. This was rewarded with the FIM TrialGP Women’s World Championship title for the seventh consecutive time. She easily outpointed both the eventual championship runner up Berta Abellan (Vertigo-ESP) and Sandra Gomez (TRRS-ESP) at all of the six points scoring days. The nearest threat came from Gomez on day two in Spain. Competing in only two of the three rounds Madeleine Hoover (GASGAS-USA) and Caroline Moreon (Sherco-FRA) rounded off this five rider 2020 series.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

Sandra Gomez (TRRS-ESP)

2020 FIM TRIALGP WOMEN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Emma Bristow (Sherco-GBR) 120; 2: Berta Abellan (VertigoESP) 96; 3: Sandra Gomez (TRRS-ESP) 96; 4: Madeleine Hoover (GASGASUSA) 37; 5: Caroline Moreon (Sherco-FRA) 35.

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Bristow 3; 2: Abellan 10; 3: Gomez 19; 4: Moreon 57; 5: Hoover 63.

DAY 2: 1: Bristow 25; 2: Abellan 47; 3: Gomez 55; 5: Hoover 94; 5: Moreon 109.

SPAIN: POBLADURA DE LES REGUERAS 12TH AND 13TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Bristow 37; 2: Gomez 62; 3: Abellan 64; 4: Hoover 94; 5: Moreon 115.

DAY 2: 1: Bristow 27; 2: Gomez 31; 3: Abellan 49.

ANDORRA: SANT JULIA 19TH AND 20TH SEPTEMBER DAY 1: 1: Bristow 12; 2: Gomez 57; 3: Abellan 59.

DAY 2: 1: Bristow 29; 2: Abellan 41; 3: Gomez 49.

39

International • FIM Trial World Championship

TRIAL2 WOMEN

MONNIER

‘VIVE LA FRANCE’

Three different winners from six rounds tells the story of a very competitive class as Naomi Monnier from France broke away to take the championship with a victory on day two in Andorra by ten points from Great Britain’s Alicia Robinson. Monnier made her intentions clear with a win on day one in France before she was pushed down into second place on day two by Sofia Rabino (Beta-ITA). In Spain it was Robinson who applied the pressure finishing second on day one before the win on day two made the championship more interesting. A tough two days in Andorra gave Monnier the title as Robinson secured second on both days and much to her delight in the championship by a single point from Sofia Rabino.

2020 FIM TRIAL2 WOMEN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

POSITIONS: 1: Naomi Monnier (Beta-FRA) 107; 2: Alicia Robinson (Beta-GBR) 97; 3: Sofia Rabino (Beta-ITA) 96; 4: Lenna Volpe (TRRS-FRA) 86; 5: Martina Gallieni (TRRS-ITA) 70; 6: Marine Aurieres (GASGAS-FRA) 58; 7: Laia Pi Ramirez (ShercoAND) 56; 8: Mariana Afonso (Sherco-PRT) 48; 9: Sofia Porfirio (Sherco-PRT) 27; 10: Alexia Llado (Sherco-AND) 13.

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER DAY 1: 1: Monnier 12; 2: Rabino 14; 3: Volpe 20; 4: Robinson 20; 5: Gallieni 21; 6: Aurieres 34; 7: Ramirez 44; 8: Afonso 69.

DAY 2: 1: Rabino 13; 2: Monnier 15; 3: Volpe 17; 4: Robinson 25; 5: Gallieni 38; 6: Aurieres 68; 7: Ramirez 70; 8: Afonso 105.

SPAIN: POBLADURA DE LES REGUERAS 12TH AND 13TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Rabino 16; 2: Robinson 27; 3: Volpe 33; 4: Monnier 36; 5: Gallieni 39; 6: Aurieres 63; 7: Ramirez 69; 8: Afonso 91; 9: Porfiro 95.

DAY 2: 1: Robinson 9; 2: Monnier 14; 3: Volpe 18; 4: Rabino 21; 5: Gallieni 35; 6: Aurieres 39; 7: Ramirez 47; 8: Afonso 60; 9: Porfiro 103.

ANDORRA: SANT JULIA 19TH AND 20TH SEPTEMBER

Sofia Rabino (Beta-ITA)

40

Alicia Robinson (Beta-GBR)

DAY 1: 1: Monnier 52; 2: Robinson 63; 3: Gallieni 69; 4: Volpe 72; 5: Rabino 73; 6: Ramirez 87; 7: Aurieres 96; 8: Afonso 104; 9: Llado 131; 10: Porfiro 132.

DAY 2: 1: Monnier 39; 2: Robinson 56; 3: Rabino 59; 4: Volpe 64; 5: Gallieni 68; 6: Ramirez 72; 7: Aurieres 82; 8: Afonso 99; 9: Porfiro 123; 10: Lado 131.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

International • FIM Trial World Championship

TRIAL 125

‘V’ FOR VERTIGO

Pau Pau Martinez (Vertigo-ESP)

Yes its ‘V’ for Vertigo and ‘V’ for Victory as Pau Martinez (Vertigo-ESP) stands with a clear advantage at the top of this 2020 Trial125 championship table.

With four straight wins and two second places, he has the comfort of a twenty-three mark lead with the last round in Italy remaining. It has not been easy for the young rider as after dominating rounds one and two he came under close attack in Spain from Leo Guiraud (Beta-FRA) on day two winning on the tie decider.

In Andorra on day one it was once again Guiraud who applied the pressure to win before Scotland’s new Trials star Ben Dignan (Vertigo-ESP) occupied the top spot of the podium for the first time in his world championship career.

Harry Hemingway is learning all the time that every mark counts and took to the podium for the first time in 2020 in Spain on day two. David Fabian (BetaCZE) holds fifth in the championship as Jack Dance (GASGAS-GBR) fights back from a mechanical DNF on day one in Spain. It’s Great Britain who are the strongest nation at the moment as Harry Turner (GASGAS-GBR) looks to move into the top ten in Italy.

Ben Dignan (Vertigo-GBR)

42

Leo Guiraud (Beta-FRA)

Harry Hemingway (Beta-GBR)

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

FIM Trial World Championship • International

David Fabian (Beta-CZE)

Jack Dance (GASGAS-GBR)

Harry Turner (GASGAS-GBR)

Pau Martinez (Vertigo-ESP) Ben Dignan (Vertigo-GBR) Jack Dance (GASGAS-GBR)

2020 TRIAL125 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 3 OF 4 ROUNDS COMPLETED

POSITIONS: 1: Pau Martinez (Vertigo-ESP) 114; 2: Leo Guiraud (Beta-FRA) 91; 3: Ben Dignan (Vertigo-ESP) 70; 4: Harry Hemingway (Beta-GBR) 69; 5: David Fabian (Beta-CZE) 68; 6: Jack Dance (GASGAS-GBR) 60; 7: Enzo Rossi (Scorpa-FRA) 47; 8: Pau Dinares (Vertigo-ESP) 46; 8: Rodney Bereiter (Beta-DEU) 43; 10: Alex Canales (TRRS-ESP) 40; 11: Harry Turner (GASGAS-GBR) 37; 12: Jonas Schiele (Beta-DEU) 33; 13: Audry Agnolin (Beta-FRA) 29; 14: Milosz Zynzowski (Beta-Poland) 19; 15: Philipp Eberharter (TRRS-AUT) 10.

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000, 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Martinez 12; 2: Fabian 20; 3: Guiraud 21; 2: 4: Canales 25; 5: Rossi 29; 6: Dinares 29; 7: Bereiter 30; 8: Dance 34; 9: Hemingway 35; 10: Dignan 37; 11: Agnolin 40; 12: Schiele 42; 13: Turner 44; 14: Eberharter 46; 15: Brunisso 55.

DAY 2: 1: Martinez 25; 2: Canales 46; 3: Guiraud 47; 4: Dance 62; 5: Hemingway 65; 6: Fabian 68; 7: Rossi 75; 8: Dignan 75; 9: Bereiter 82; 10: Schiele 87; 11: Agnolin 97; 12: Turner 97; 13: Eberharter 99; 14: Zynzowski 108; 15: Brunisso 118.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

SPAIN: POBLADURA DE LES REGUERAS, 12TH AND 13TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Martinez 18; 2: Dinares 24; 3: Hemingway 29; 4: Guiraud 32; 5: Dignan 41; 6: Canales 43; 7: Bereiter 44; 8: Turner 53; 9: Fabian 56; 10: Rossi 59; 11: Schiele 62; 12: Zynzowski 63; 13: Agnolin 77; 14: Piquer 92; 15: Troy 109.

DAY 2: 1: Martinez 7; 2: Guiraud 7; 3: Dignan 11; 4: Dance 16; 5: Fabian 23; 6: Hemingway 25; 7: Dinares 27; 8: Schiele 31; 9: Zynzowski 34; 10: Turner 37; 11: Agnolin 40; 12: Rossi 43; 13: Bereiter 46; 14: Piquer 72; 15: Troy 91.

ANDORRA: SANT JULIA ,19TH AND 20TH SEPTEMBER

DAY 1: 1: Guiraud 37; 2: Martinez 47; 3: Fabian 52; 4: Hemingway 54; 5: Dance 55; 6: Dignan 57; 7: Turner 57; 8: Rossi 61; 9: Dinares 62; 10: Agnolin 68; 11: Bereiter 68; 12: Schiele 82; 13: Eberharter 84; 14: Zynzowski 92; 15: Piquer 111.

DAY 2: 1: Dignan 19; 2: Martinez 20; 3: Dance 29; 4: Hemingway 31; 5: Guiraud 32; 6: Bereiter 37; 7: Rossi 42; 8: Fabian 47; 9: Turner 52; 10: Schiele 57; 11: Agnolin 59; 12: Zynzowski 65; 13: Dinares 67; 14: Eberharter 89; 15: Piquer 96.

The 2020 FIM Trial2 World Championship now takes a short break before the final round in Italy on the 10th and 11th October.

43

International • FIM Trial World Championship

TRIAL E

FRENCH JUBILATION Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion-FRA)

Albert Cabestany (GASGAS-ESP)

It’s extremely appropriate that the motorcycle trials manufacturer leading the way with electric technology, Electric Motion whose machines are built in France, won the opening two rounds in France with a French rider at the controls. Yes, a new name at the head of the pack: Gael Chatagno. Making a return to the sport after suffering some difficult injuries in the past seasons, he dominated day one before taking the win on day two on the tie-break decider. It was the reigning FIM TrialE World Champion Albert Cabestany who was expected to lead the way, but he suffered the two defeats at the hands of the French rider. With only two rounds and four points-scoring days we will have to wait until Italy to see if France can celebrate Electric Motion as its first motorcycle manufacturer to win an FIM Trial World Championship.

The 2020 FIM TrialE World Championship will now take a short break before resuming in Italy on the 10th and 11th October for the final round.

44

2020 FIM TRIAL E WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 1 OF 2 ROUNDS COMPLETED

POSITIONS: 1: Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion-FRA) 40; 2: Albert Cabestany (GASGAS-ESP) 34; 3: Julien Perret (Electric Motion-FRA) 30; 4: Martin Pochez (Electric Motion-FRA) 26; 5: Jerome Delair (Electric Motion-FRA) 22.

FRANCE: ISOLA 2000, 5TH AND 6TH SEPTEMBER

DAY ONE: 1: Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion-FRA) 1; 2: Albert Cabestany (GASGAS-ESP) 7; 3: Julien Perret (Electric Motion-FRA) 11; 4: Martin Pochez (Electric Motion-FRA) 34; 5: Jerome Delair (Electric Motion-FRA) 48.

DAY TWO: 1: Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion-FRA) 4; 2: Albert Cabestany (GASGAS-ESP) 4; 3: Julien Perret (Electric Motion-FRA) 28; 4: Martin Pochez (Electric Motion-FRA) 77; 5: Jerome Delair (Electric Motion-FRA) 109.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

CONVERT

TRR-S

TRR S CONVERT

Experience the quality that has

made Airoh helmets a renowned brand around the world. The

TRR S is the ultimate choice for the modern trials rider.

AIROH.COM

AIROHHELMET

Quick Spin • GasGas TXT Racing 300

RACING GASGAS TXT RACING 300

DNA Even when it’s standing alone, the Racing DNA of the 2020 GASGAS TXT 300 model jumps out at you with its race-ready signature red aesthetics. Its minimalistic appearance lets you know that you are looking at a machine that can take you to the very top in the world of motorcycle trials.

Article: Trial Magazine with Mitch Brightmore

W

hen you have a manufacturer with such a proven track record, it’s very much a case of refining and fine-tuning to make a good machine better year on year, which GASGAS have achieved.

You have to look as far back as the 2018 FIM Trial World Championship to understand that GASGAS is the only machine to interrupt Toni Bou in the TrialGP class and his dominance of the sport when they took victories on both days in Japan with the TXT 300 model.

Off the back of rider feedback, GASGAS has provided ease of maintenance and better weight distribution along with new suspension 46

settings to continue to offer a machine capable of winning straight out of the box.

With the two Spanish riders, Albert Cabestany and Jorge Casales, as part of the team, they have the perfect blend of experience and youth to keep pushing the boundaries with development and riding.

We needed a young rider to find out just how good this 300 model is, and so, in the safe hands of Mitch Brightmore, it was put through its paces to arrive at this ‘Quick Spin’ report. You might remember the name of our guest test rider as he was a leading young schoolboy/adult rider until early 2020 when he made the switch to Enduro racing.

WHAT’S NEW

• TXT Racing Aesthetics • Swinging Arm • • Swinging Arm Bearings and Seals • • Rear Linkage • Chain Slipper • • Chain Tensioner • Rear Sprocket Protector • • Sidestand • Rear Brake Master Cylinder • • Rear Brake Lever: Mounting/Bolt/Bearing • • Front Mudguard and Brace • • Adjustable Clutch Spring • • Kevlar Clutch Plates • • Two-Piece Clutch Cover • • Crankshaft Bearings • Crankshaft Seals •

Skimming the surface, and away from its impressive stand-out red, the 2020 model styling encourages you to ask more. Still, in truth, it’s an evolution of a good solid product now secure under the umbrella of the Austrian KTM/Husqvarna group. Still produced in Spain, the development engineers have listened to both Cabestany and Casales with the main focus for this GASGAS model on the ease of riding, maintenance and more controlled stability.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

GasGas TXT Racing 300 • Quick Spin

More controlled stability has been achieved by the relocation of the centre of gravity to give a more neutral sensation to the rider.

FRAME – HANDLING

This more controlled stability has been achieved by the relocation of the centre of gravity to give a more neutral sensation to the rider, which has allowed them to improve the front-end stability. Careful tuning of both the front and rear suspension adds to this improved feel of the machine. The fitting of the new rear linkage for that vital connection from the swinging arm and the reaction capacity of the adjustable Ohlin’s shock absorber allows the machine to ‘drive’ positively under acceleration for improved adhesion in the most extreme of conditions.

Aiding this smooth drive is a new chain ‘slipper’ which can be replaced without removal of the swinging arm assembly. The new chain tensioner is also easier to maintain, with better protection from exposed obstacles. Adding to the ‘Racing’ appeal is a new disc protector and the new rear swinging arm and more effective brake master cylinder, which is anchored directly to the brake calliper and incorporates a new guide for the rear brake hose. The side stand is new and more effective and applied easily by the rider’s boot.

ENGINE – PERFORMANCE

The single-cylinder two-stroke engine is also refined, with the evolution of the diaphragm Kevlar clutch system which incorporates a new spring and variable preload that offers the possibility of adjusting the tension of Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

the clutch to the rider’s preferences. A new, distinctive clutch cover not only looks very ‘Factory’ but also easily allows direct access for any maintenance or adjustments. Inside the crankcases, a profiled crankshaft assembly runs with less friction for quicker, smoother throttle response, once again giving the rider more confidence in the most difficult of riding situations.

For ease of engine servicing, new crankshaft seals are fitted which can be changed without having to ‘split’ the crankcases, making it a quicker process and less labour intensive, which is a major plus-point for the owner.

QUICK SPIN WITH MITCH BRIGHTMORE

“Without a doubt, off-road motorcycling is my life, and my first choice for a trials machine is the GASGAS. The need for speed drove my move from trials to enduro at a young age, but it’s in the slow speed world of trials where I found my feet, for want of a better word, on an off-road motorcycle.

“The dominant 2020 red styling from this Spanish manufacturer jumps out at you and urges you to throw your leg over it and ride it. Having predominantly ridden a GASGAS during my trials years, I knew what to expect, and I was not disappointed. All the controls are easily to hand and easy to use. Maybe it’s just me, but this 300 model appeared to be smaller;

maybe it’s the time on the enduro machines that gave me this impression, but it felt tiny! This was a stock machine, but in just a few minutes and with some small control adjustments I felt at home. Appearances can be deceptive, but machine performance cannot be hidden once you turn the throttle.”

RIDER-FRIENDLY

“It’s good and very, very rider-friendly despite the 294.1cc on hand at the turn of the throttle.

The engine runs and performs very strongly at all throttle openings, and yes, you do have to respect the power output. It’s smooth and controllable in all situations and works very well with the diaphragm clutch. To me, this is the single strongest part of the engine, the clutch. It drives well, does not snatch, and when worked with the smooth, strong power delivery, it certainly encourages you to push yourself and your limits!

“The choice of four trials gears and two for open moorland and trails give you a good range.

After some practice, I found that for the rest of the day, my chosen gear was second. In first gear, I felt a little slow. I used third for when I needed some extra ‘grunt’ on more considerable obstacles. In second gear, I felt very comfortable in most situations. I must say that it did take me a good 15–20 minutes to find my trials roots by not relying on power but throttle control and how to use it.”

47

Quick Spin • GasGas TXT Racing 300

More controlled stability has been achieved by the relocation of the centre of gravity to give a more neutral sensation to the rider.

CONTROL

The engine runs and performs very strongly at all throttle openings and yes, you do have to respect the power output.

This new chain tensioner is also easier to maintain, with better protection from exposed obstacles. The swinging arm is also new.

48

“It’s nice to see little touches included, such as the rear brake pedal assembly which makes it easier to use. The throttle, clutch and brakes all rely on input from the rider to get the machine to perform, so you want them all to work well and be very sensitive.

“The suspension is very active to say the least.

Without a doubt, it feels more stable than my previous experience on the GASGAS and very neutral when you want to find your balance and realign in a hazard. I made no adjustments as I was reviewing a 'quick spin', but when I was competing in trials suspension setup was sometimes overlooked. As in the enduro world, suspension setup is critical to achieving optimum performance, and with Ohlins at the back and Tech at the front, you have a perfect package to work with. I really enjoyed my time on the GASGAS, but at the moment my motorcycle life remains with enduro – if in doubt, flat out!”

A new, distinctive clutch cover not only looks very ‘Factory’ but also easily allows direct access for any maintenance or adjustments.

GASGAS 2020 TXT RACING 300CC RRP: £6,699

MOTOR: Single Cylinder Two-Stroke Liquid Cooled – 294.1cc – Bore and Stroke: 79mm x 60mm; Clutch: Hydraulic Diaphragm System; Gear Box: Six-Speed; Ignition: Twin Spark System.

CYCLE PARTS: Frame: Tubular Steel Chrome Moly; Swinging Arm: Aluminium; Front Suspension: Tech Aluminium Ø 39mm – Travel 167mm; Rear Suspension: Ohlins – Travel 174mm – Two Way Adjustable; Brakes: Disc Ø 185/150mm – BRAKTECH: 4 (Front) and 2 (Rear) Piston Callipers; Wheels: Front 1.6 x 21; Rear: 2.15 x 18; Tyres: Front Michelin Trial X11 2.75 x 21; Rear: Michelin X11 4.00 x 18 TL. DIMENSIONS: Seat height: 630mm; Wheelbase: 1,320mm; Weight: 67.5kg; Fuel capacity: 2.4 Litre.

For more information on all GASGAS products or to find your nearest dealer please go to the website: www.gasgas.com

Yes that is an Ohlin’s rear shock at the back you can see.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

THE E R U T U F IS HERE LITE | SPORT | RACE

From £7499

LITE | SPORT | RACE

From £6899

Book a free test ride on 01200 613185 or sales@electric-motion.co.uk

Invitation • Noassar Park

TWO DAYS OF

CAMPRODON

Jaime Busto (Vertigo-ESP).

In a year when the COVID-19 pandemic has restricted so many aspects of everyday life around the world, it was uplifting to hear of a motorcycle trials competition held in Spain, from a very good friend of Trial Magazine, Carlos Casas. We have been very privileged in the past to have visited the Noassar Park for the FIM Trial World Championships, and seen the more than 1,000 hectares of private trials-riding offering every type of terrain to be found in any trials competition.

Words: Trial Magazine and Joan Valls Pictures: Joan Valls

F

ound in the valley of Camprodon, on the outskirts of the neighbourhood of Font Rubi, it is located in the welcoming and mountainous village of Camprodon in the province of Girona. The event was held over the two days of the 29th and 30th of August and promoted by the experienced Moto Club Olot, with support of an excellent results package from TrialGo. Competitors had the choice of competing over one or both of the two days, with the majority opting for the ‘Two Day’ option.

Leading the way in 2020 and joining Joan Ricart, Amos Bilbao and Alvaro Blazquez as the fourth winner of this event was Jaime Busto.

The event opened on the Friday with the exciting presentation of the new 2021 Vertigo 50

Vertigo 2021.

Signing on takes place late on Friday afternoon.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Noassar Park • Invitation Bertha Abellan (Vertigo-ESP) finished a very competitive 11th on the red route.

Gerard Trueba (Beta-ESP).

model. Between 16.00 and 20.00, riders came to sign on and collect their rider details. With displays of route maps and time allowances for each rider, the event certainly had a very professional edge to it. All the officials were briefed about the event, which would run under the no-stop rules. A time limit for Saturday of five hours, and four-and-a-half-hours on Sunday, plus 30 minutes would be applied to keep the riders moving.

It was very good to see that a few foreign riders had made the trip to enjoy the two days of the Camprodon event. With 200 riders entered, and 20 sections to complete on day one and 18 on day two there would be plenty of action.

With such a large entry, five classes divided by coloured riding numbers were introduced to give riders of all levels of ability a good day’s riding.

ALL SEASONS

Trial Magazine has had an encounter of the severe rain that can affect this area first hand in the past, and on the Saturday, it was no different as torrential rain covered the trials area. In total contrast, on day two, the sunshine came

Pau Martinez (Vertigo-ESP) had a very strong ride to win the red route.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

out for the riders to enjoy a much better day’s competition. With 200 riders, supported by 50 registered fans also out on the course, they enjoyed the spectacular ride out on the route, found in all the areas of the Noassar Park.

BLACK ROUTE

Vertigo’s top rider, Jaime Busto, chose to compete in the event in preparation for his attack on the 2020 FIM Trial World Championship and put on an excellent display of riding. In truth, he was never challenged and, despite the severity of the hazards on this hardest of routes, he took a clear victory over the Montesa Talent School rider Pablo Suarez on the four-stroke by a clear 33 marks. In a distant third position was the Beta Trueba Trial Factory Team rider Gerard Trueba after a very challenging two days.

RESULTS: 1: JAIME BUSTO 21; 2: PABLO SUAREZ 54; 3: GERARD TRueba 84.

RED ROUTE

Once again, it was a Vertigo on top this time in the skilful hands of one of Spain’s latest trials talents Pau Martinez. The hazards were still very testing in severity in this class, and it

Pablo Suarez (Montesa-ESP).

Just missing the win on the red route was Alexz Wigg (Beta-GBR)

51

Invitation • Noassar Park

Enjoying the Spanish life: Michael James (TRRS-GBR) on the blue route.

Adding the yellow route gave everyone including Angle Tarrega (Vertigo-ESP) a good two days of riding.

turned into a close battle between Great Britain’s Alexz Wigg and Saturday’s leader Francesc Recio.

The 2019 European Youth Champion Pau had to use all his young skills on day two to overtake both Recio and Wigg for a well-deserved victory, with the top three positions separated by only a handful of marks. It was also good to see the female Vertigo rider Berta Abellan come home in 11th position amongst some outstanding male riders.

RESULTS: 1: Pau Martinez 22; 2: Alexz Wigg 26; 3: Francesc Recio 27.

BLUE ROUTE

Ladies also enjoyed the fun, as seen here with Rosa Ferraz (Sherco-ESP).

On this ‘middle’ route who would have believed that the top three results would go all the way to the wire! The top three finishers were obviously very evenly matched in their abilities, but in the end, it was the nerve of Santi Serra which held This competition is not just for modern machines as Ignatio Murillo (Honda-ESP) puts in maximum effort.

52

to the end for the closest of victories.

RESULTS: 1: Santi Serra 35; 2: Claudi Obrado 37; 3: Miquel Bemrejo 39.

GREEN ROUTE

Introducing the green, and also the yellow route, made for a much easier time for the trials enthusiasts who just enjoy riding their motorcycle. You can still be very competitive without the worry of attempting hazards beyond your ability. It still turned into a very competitive two days though as Javier Serra held a ten-mark advantage over Marc Catafel, who won the family battle over Jordi.

RESULTS: 1: Javier Serra 41; 2: Marc Catafel 51; 3: Jordi Catafel 54.

YELLOW ROUTE

Once again this was aimed at an easier level of riding from the green route, but it still supplied a good competitive two days of riding. Once you get on the podium, you just want more and the very young and able Angel Llopis has already made this journey in the Spanish Junior B Championship.

He repeated this good form at the two days of Camprodon with a convincing, clear victory over Marino Galilea.

RESULTS: 1: Angel Llopis 21; 2: Marino Galilea 77; 3: Jose Polomino 95.

All the way from Scotland, Ben Dignan (Vertigo) used the event as preparation for the FIM Trial World Championship.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Noassar Park • Invitation

Results Service: TrialGo

Any one who enjoys food will love the Two Days of Camprodon.

2021: TWO DAYS OF CAMPRODON TRIAL, WHY NOT?

Here we have listed some excellent reasons to compete in the 2021 Two Days of Camprodon Trial; or why not come all year round for a family holiday?

VENUE: NOASSAR PARK CENTRE EXPERIENCE

Noassar Park Centre Experience has everything motorcycle trial lovers need to look for when they want to practice their favourite sport. With more than 1000 hectares of a private and fenced trial area in the valley of Camprodon in the heart of the Pyrenees of Girona, inside you will find streams, roots, slopes, rocks and every obstacle you can imagine ready to be ridden.

HOTEL: PUIG FRANCO

To make a truly memorable event, why not stay at the on-site Hotel Puig Franco? It is located less than a hundred metres from Noassar Park. The 18 cosy and rustic rooms are dedicated to some of the greatest riders of all time such as the world champions Toni Bou, Jordi Tarres, Martin and Dougie Lampkin, Laia Sanz and Emma Bristow, to mention a few. In the hotel is the restaurant ‘Mitic’ waiting to offer you a memorable gastronomic experience, and amongst the other main facilities are a spa, swimming pool and relaxing areas.

For the fourth running of the Two Days of Camprodon Trial, all the observers for the various hazards were equipped with devices from TrialGo. Using this easy-to-use platform, the organisers in just two simple steps were able to put the scores on-line and available to everyone in a very short time after the event closed.

So what is TrialGo? Here we explain briefly about the system that has become the benchmark for recording a rider’s scores in Spanish trials. They used to use Excel spreadsheets, but it was a complex and time-consuming system to maintain, and many functions had to be entered by hand with a significant loss of time and the possibility of mistakes.

The main features of TrialGo is its availability in many languages and configurations; easy to navigate and designed for end users without computer skills. A single person and a PC with the program are enough to complete the full results very quickly. You can also work directly with TrialGo for support with the program.

At the start of the competition, the categories are created.

In each trial, you simply enter the scores of each rider. The system records the classifications with all the scores from the hazards automatically and also works out any tie-breaks.

At the end of the trial, as the information is stored in the system, the final classifications are made immediately. It is accredited by the FCM Catalan Motorcycling Federation. You can try the system without a commitment to see how it all works. For more information, email: trialgoteam@gmail.com or visit: www.trialgo.es.

THE FINAL WORD: ALEXZ WIGG

Time to wash off; the facilities at Noassar Park and the Hotel Puig Franco are second to none.

Time to reflect on a superb event.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

“I have ridden all over the world in so many different events, but the Two Days of Camprodon Trial rates very highly amongst the best.

I arrived early on Friday for the presentation of the 2021 Vertigo model launch, which was so good to see before we signed on in the early evening.

“The heavens opened on day one, but the organising Moto Club Olot took it all in their stride, and the excellent TrialGo results service had the results up in no time at the end. This new way of observing is more reliable and definitely the way to go for the future.

“On day two, as the sun shone through, I tried so hard to win, but up against the young talent that is Pau Martinez; I was beaten by a much fitter rider.

“With both days offering a good ride out of around 15km the whole experience of this trial is one I would most certainly endorse, and I recommend it to any trials enthusiast.”

53

1990 FIM WORLD TRIALS CHAMPION

JORDI TARRES (BETA-ESP) Picture Credits: Eric Kitchen

CONGRATULATIONS

GABRIEL MARCELLI (RG TRIALS TEAM MONTESA-ESP)

ON YOUR FIRST TRIALGP PODIUM, SPAIN 2020 Picture Credits: Trials Media

www.bvm-moto.co.uk 01453 297177 Unit 20D | Merretts Mills Ind Est | Woodchester | Stroud | Glos | GL5 5EX

WWW.INCHPERFECTTRIALS.CO.UK

‘2 1

EV O

FULL 2021 RANGE NOW IN STOCK!

THE RE U T U F E R E IS H

EPURE 2021 REVOLUTIONARY TECHNOLOGY Make the jump to Electric from £6899...

Test ride on our 100 acre base!

WWW.INCHPERFECTTRIALS.CO.UK

2021 • Electric

EPURE LITE & RACE ELECTRIC MOTION

Battery and motor technology in the motorcycle trials world is gathering pace at such a rapid rate that it is now, more than ever, becoming a threat to the fuel-powered two-wheeled machines that we have become so accustomed. The French manufacturer, Electric Motion, is dedicated to this future, with a wide variety of different specification of machines in its EPURE range to suit both the pocket and the ability of the adult trials rider.

Article: Michael Brown with Trial Magazine Pictures: Trials Media and Tom Pope: Tepee Creative Ltd 64

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Electric • 2021

Confidence soon came to our test rider Michael Brown on the Electric Motion.

F

inding a rider to push the boundaries of the two new models we had on test became easier when we had a casual conversation with Michael Brown after he rode older Electric Motion models in a Las Vegas stage show earlier this year. He was keen to throw his legs over the latest French offerings in the form of the LITE and RACE models from its EPURE range.

PERFORMANCE

Our attention turned first to the highest specification model the RACE. It is the first fully homologated electric trials motorcycle to be equipped with a full-blown hydraulic diaphragm clutch. It is very similar to the ones found on some of the current two-stroke models available and the significant difference between the RACE and LITE models as the LITE has no clutch. We'll explain further later in this feature.

Essential for high-level performance, the engine flywheel is coupled with a set of different balancing weights which allows several inertia settings. It's an essential system for high-level competitors to help them to attempt the most extreme hazards.

Three engine mapping systems are controlled through a set of LED lights: red for the most power, blue in the middle and green providing the least power output. These settings can be changed by the simple touch of a readily accessible handlebar-mounted switch whilst on the move.

This new model provides a better feeling with more engine inertia which, in turn, improves the machine's control and sensitivity to throttle openings at very low RPM enabling the rider to gain more power and reaction time at mid and high power when needed.

Yes, the brakes are very good.

The EPURE range comes with a compact battery pack. It's light at 10.5kg and easy to remove from its secure location. Depending on the engine setting using the three-light system, it can run for between three-and-a-half to five hours on one charge. Charging is through an easy, accessible connection; plug the connector into the machine from the charger, and it will reach its full charge in just over three hours.

60% charge can be achieved in 40 minutes.

You can quickly check how much charge is in the battery as it is displayed as a percentage alongside the LED light system in the centre of the handlebars.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

One other major difference between the LITE and RACE models is the front TECH branded

forks. It is reflected in the price as the LITE has the steel sliders fitted and the RACE has the aluminium anodised slider fitted – the RACE is the more expensive machine. They both share the same well-proven R 16 V rear shock absorber. The RACE also features the latest wheel and hub technology, which are both lighter and superior in quality than the LITE. The EPURE range uses a lightweight tubular frame, the lightest trials frame on the market, fabricated using 15CDV6 steel which is only 1mm and weighs less than 5kg.

To protect the essential electrical items, an aluminium engine guard acts as a stressed member for more rigidity. An impressive lightweight aluminium swinging-arm finishes off a very attractive looking-chassis and suspension package.

BATTERY

Yes, you are correct; however, the question we are consistently asked is the life of the battery.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

This suspension package needs no introduction as it can be found on the modern two-stroke machines and it worked very well.

65

2021 • Electric

As Michael was on the highest specification machine of the two models we found him the biggest rocks!

ELECTRIC MOTION EPURE RACE

Michael: "After the invitation to move to Las Vegas, in the US, for the stage show, the next question was, how would an electric trials machine compare to the two-stroke ones I have ridden all my life? We used the Electric Motion, although it was the older, heavier version.

Before we flew to America, we tested them in the UK with the help of Christophe Bruand, the French rider who works with Electric Motion.

The idea of the electric trials machine for the stage show came about because they did not want any exhaust emissions floating around indoors, which has to be a good thing. I was immediately impressed with how well they ran, and that they also gave a nice sensation when riding, putting a smile on my face. In the show they were excellent, and it only took a short period of training to become confident on them!

"It was the EPURE RACE I tested first thinking that this would be the one for my style of riding. It certainly looks the business straight out of the box, which both test machines were.

The quality of the components hits you straight

The aesthetic approach from the French has always been very different, but on this occasion the colour match against the black on the frame works well together.

66

Michael Brown with the RACE model.

in the face, with the nice TECH aluminium front forks very eye-catching. The aesthetic approach from the French has always been very different, but on this occasion the colour match against the black on the frame work well together.

"Once you turn the machine on, the very attractive — shall we call it 'cockpit'? — an area in the middle of the handlebars immediately lights up; it was a little like a disco I must admit, but very bright and attractive, and easy to understand. You have the choice of the three power settings – from left to right: green, blue and red.

"Trial Magazine had chosen the Inch Perfect Trials Centre for the test and, I must admit, the selection of hazards was very impressive. As I was on the highest specification machine of the two – you guessed it – they found me the biggest rocks!

"I had learned quite a lot about the power settings while in America, and so I started with the blue setting for the test. The suspension package needs no introduction as it can be found on the modern two-stroke machines

and it worked very well, the front in particular; it was exceptionally good. The hydraulic diaphragm clutch feels different on an electric machine with the biting point, but it still performed well, as they do; they are the best.

Feedback and the feel when riding was very good, and the move to change the motor and battery location in the frame for the EPURE range certainly gives a good, well-balanced feel.

"On the blue setting, the aggressive edge found when you moved to red becomes less evident when feeling for grip, and the throttle response time gives you a more controlled feeling. What is nice is the fact it's so easy to swop the settings while in a hazard. It's hard to explain, but you can load up the motor like on a two-stroke before you unload to attack a rock step, but once you have the desired technique, the results are very impressive.

"Moving around on the machine is faultless and, as expected, all the controls, including the brakes, worked second to none. Selecting the green mode gives a very calm sensation when riding, but the power output is still very adequate for most situations."

The EPURE range comes with a battery pack which is compact and easy to remove. Depending on the engine setting using the three-light system, it can run for between three-and-a-half to five hours on one charge.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Electric • 2021

It’s time to test the LITE model.

ELECTRIC MOTION EPURE LITE

Michael: "When you take a closer look around this LITE model, it catches your eye that it does not have the same high specification as the RACE, such as with the wheels and hubs and the steel slider front forks, although it still carries the superb Michelin tyres.

"When you look at the price difference between the two machines, it's a good option to suit the pocket by purchasing an EPURE LITE if you are not sure about moving from fuel to electric power. With excellent residual values on the Electric Motion machines, it gives you the chance to upgrade to the higher specification if you wanted to pursue riding with electric power. We moved away from the high level of grip found on the prominently man-made hazards onto more natural terrain to put the LITE model through its paces.

"Yes, we found some water and, yes, you can guess once again correctly – they wanted me to ride through it. As I explained before I got wet, the reliability from the electrical components in these conditions is perfect. We then found a really good hazard up a steep wall-like step which, if I am honest, did look quite intimidating. Once up the step, it was a landing on some very damp grass. I was thinking red mode for maximum power, but with no clutch fitted on the LITE model, I was not sure about traction when I landed.

I went for the green mode setting, and I was pleasantly surprised when it launched me easily up the step and, more importantly, when I landed the power was smooth enough even without the clutch to gently pull away when I was expecting to 'Spin Out'.

"Having no clutch lever is a little strange at first, but such is the usable power, you can concentrate on your throttle control. It's all down to the technique of each rider, but the more I rode the LITE model with no clutch, the more confident I became. With no clutch, you concentrate on your coordination between the brakes and throttle, and it makes the whole machine more effective.

"Handling-wise the steel slider TECH front forks work very well, and the rear shock has no hidden surprises and performs very well. The next hazard was totally different to the step and took you up a rocky water-filled gully.

Concentration was key, but using the now tried and tested the throttle and brakes technique, it levelled it with ease."

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

“Having no clutch lever is a little strange at first, but such is the usable power you can concentrate on your throttle control. It’s all down to the technique of each rider but the more I rode the LITE model with no clutch the more confident I became.”

67

2021 • Electric

Reliability from the electrical components in wet conditions is excellent.

Rocks or river banks the Electric Motion machines are in their element.

HOW GOOD?

Michael: "Am I sold on electric power? The answer is 100% yes. I have agreed to contest some selected events on the new generation Electric Motion. They really do have a very good feel and fun factor. Making very little mechanical noise is strange, but the whole balance and power sensation is incredibly good; no pressure on me, but I will still be trying when you see me in action."

It holds the line very well.

Many will argue electric is the future; if you are not sure then try and have a ride on one of the models from Electric Motion and decide for yourself

WHY ELECTRIC?

Trial Magazine: "Yes, the milliondollar question, why electric? No emissions, no noise makes it very user friendly. Maintenance is less as we have no carburettor or air filter, and the reliability is, without question, at a very high level now.

When it comes to riding, it takes a new approach from the rider to understand you have no gearbox and, of course, no selection of ratios to suit your needs. Throttle control becomes paramount and what was interesting was the fact that during the test it took a rider of the standard of Michael Brown to get the very best out of these two test models on some very demanding hazards. Many will argue electric is the future. If you are not sure, then try and have a ride on one of the models from Electric Motion and decide for yourself."

ELECTRIC MOTION EPURE LITE 2021 RRP: £6,899

It is the more entry-level machine and has no clutch.

MOTOR: Nominal Power: 6Kw; Peak Power: 11Kw; Wheel Torque: 600Nm; Cooling: Air; Transmission: 1 Forward Gear; Electrical Settings: 3 Maps; Maximum Speed: 65km/h.

BATTERY: Li-ion; Voltage: 50.4V; Capacity: 1,875Wh; Weight: 10.5kg; Charger: 15A; Charging Time: 100% – 3 Hours 20 Minutes; Range: Depending on the Power Setting: 3.5 – 5 Hours CHASSIS: Tubular Steel 15CDV6; Front Suspension: Tech Steel 39mm Ǿ; Travel: 175mm; Rear Suspension: R 16 V; Travel: 170mm; Brake Rotors: Front: 182mm Ǿ; Rear: 150mm Ǿ; Wheels: Front 2.75” x 21”; Rear: 4.00” x 18”; Tyres: Michelin X11.

DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase: 1,325mm; Seat Height: 670mm; Ground Clearance: 320mm; Weight: 74Kg

ELECTRIC MOTION EPURE RACE 2021 RRP: £8,299

It is the higher specification machine with the Hydraulic Controlled Diaphragm Clutch and higher specification wheels and hubs.

MOTOR: Nominal Power: 6Kw; Peak Power: 11Kw; Wheel Torque: 600Nm; Cooling: Air; Transmission: 1 Forward Gear; Electrical Settings: 3 Maps; Hydraulic Controlled Diaphragm Clutch and Flywheel; Maximum Speed: 65km/h.

BATTERY: Li-ion; Voltage: 50.4V; Capacity: 1,875Wh; Weight: 10.5kg; Charger: 15A; Charging Time: 100% – 3 Hours 20 Minutes; Range: Depending on the Power Setting: 3.5 – 5 Hours CHASSIS: Tubular Steel 15CDV6; Front Suspension: Tech Aluminium 39mm Ǿ; Travel: 175mm; Rear Suspension: R 16 V; Travel: 170mm; Brake Rotors: Front: 182mm Ǿ; Rear: 150mm Ǿ; Wheels: Front 2.75” x 21”; Rear: 4.00” x 18”; Tyres: Michelin X11.

DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase: 1,325mm; Seat Height: 670mm; Ground Clearance: 320mm; Weight: 75Kg CONTACT ELECTRIC MOTION UK Telephone: 01200 613185 Email: sales@electric-motion.co.uk Website: www.electric-motion.co.uk

68

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Proud to Sponsor

Short Circuit & Real Road Racer Bradley Wilson

British Superbike racer Christian Iddon

“I’m over the moon that Thorneycroft Solicitors have given me the opportunity to work so closely with such a dedicated and helpful group of people, who are willing to go the extra mile to help anybody in any circumstance.”

“I’m really pleased to be working alongside such an enthusiastic bunch of people, who understand that motor biking is not just a hobby but a way of life.”

Specialist Motorbike Solicitors Thorneycroft Solicitors is a leading firm of solicitors, with a dedicated team, that specialises in working on behalf of motorcyclists who want to make a motorbike accident claim.

We actively take an interest in and understand our clients’ passion for motorcycles.

The Thorneycroft Solicitors team understand how distressing a motorcycle accident can be for both an injured biker and their loved ones, that is why our team:

•

Put your recovery first during the claim process

•

Travel nationwide to meet and assist our clients

•

Support you through the claim process and beyond

•

Work with medical experts and organisations to offer you and your family support

•

Have developed an unrivalled understanding of the physical, social and financial impacts of a motorcycle accident

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident please don’t hesitate to contact our team today.

Contact us

0800 1979345

Motorcycle Accident Specialist

Profile • Sam Connor

SAM CONNOR

MILESTONE Would you believe that Sam Connor turned 40 in July? It’s only when you start to look back at the results that you realise that he has played an important part in the trials scene for more than 20 years, both at home and abroad.

Words: John Hulme with Sam Connor • Pictures: Trials Media, Erik Kitchen, Colin Bullock, Heath Brindley, Peter J Beardmore and Barry Robinson

70

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Sam Connor • Profile 1997: Riding the Beta, with support from the UK importer John Lampkin.

Proud to be associated with the legendary Yamaha TY80 club!

S

1996: It was a tough introduction to the adult world.

am was quite a late starter in the motorcycle world, even though his father, Jim, was a very well-known and respected motocross rider on a variety of factory-supported machines including the early Montesa Cappra. One of three brothers, Sam is now happily married with two young children and has nothing to prove in the trials world, with the win at the 2005 SSDT his career highlight. The problem is he is still naturally very competitive and enjoys riding a trials motorcycle despite the passing of the years. As you will see in the ACU Trial2 British Championship class, he is still at the top end of the results and can still put in some superb daily results at the ‘Scottish’.

We recently caught up with Sam to take a look inside his many years in the world of motorcycle trials.

Despite the passing of time motorcycle trials still plays an important role in your world.

I am very much a family man, enjoying life in 2020 despite these difficult times with Coronavirus. I still love riding a trials motorcycle, but I am building a new business with a family and two young children to support,

1999: A move to the new Bultaco/Sherco project in 1999 to take on a full season of trials to include the world, European and British championships.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

1998: 11th position in the first SSDT and a superb six days of trials riding.

which has to come first.

In a typical year, I would still compete in the Trial2 class in the ACU British Trials Championship, we head to the Scottish Six Days Trial for the family holiday as well as participating in a handful of the good roadbased nationals. I set up a new independent financial planning company this year named Rosart, after the children, which at the moment takes up the majority of my time.

Your wife Sarah comes from a sporting background When I met her in 2006 she was an international England touch-rugby player and so, much like myself, she is naturally very competitive. We are both very proud to have represented team Great Britain in our respective sporting disciplines. I still feel very privileged to have been a part of the winning team at the 2002 and 2003 Trials Des Nations.

My winning team now is my family. I have a daughter Rosy who is nine years old, and Arthur, who is six. Given the family genes, they love sport and naturally love motorcycles, both now riding a Yamaha TY80 and learning the trade at Hookwood Trials Centre.

1999: In the ACU British Trials Championship on the new Sherco.

71

Profile • Sam Connor

2000: At 19 years old the chance arose to move alongside the world champion Dougie Lampkin into the new Radson Montesa team, which he took with both hands.

2000: A superb ride in the SSDT was rewarded with a third place.

Based close to your parents in Guildford, you have the Hookwood Trials Centre on your doorstep.

My father, Jim, lives for the Hookwood trials venue and, as many will know, it’s at the bottom of his garden – sorry, my mother’s garden!

I have two other brothers, James, who is the eldest and Tim, who is the youngest. I am closer to Tim as we spent many years travelling together to all the overseas trials. They both still ride and have competed in the SSDT and other UK nationals.

We have all benefitted from the work my father and his friends have put into Hookwood. Jim acquired Hookwood in 1983 as he wanted to find some land for the local trials community. It was obviously long before I was old enough to show any interest in the sport, and it exemplifies his passion and commitment towards the grass-root level, something which he still focuses on today. Growing up in suburban London and the Surrey area, there is no natural rock within 100 miles, so he has spent much of the family’s savings on developing the land. His passion turned into an obsession, as he would pick up and put rocks in the van from any trial we visited! We even have rocks cemented into a gulley which came from the World Trial at Tossa de Mar (Spain) in 1994, brought back in a Transit van.

2000: Stuart Robinson was taking the reins of the supporting role at the weekends, seen here in European championship action.

72

You are a member of the riders’ club who started out on a Yamaha TY80.

Yes, and proud to be associated with the legendary Yamaha TY80 club. I played on the TY until I moved to a Fantic 80, in 1991, aged 11. The move from the Yamaha TY80 to the Fantic 80 was quite a huge step at the time.

I started my two children on the superb OSET electric machines to give them a feel for the sport before they progressed to the TY80 themselves.

With good progress made on the Fantic, you started to move up through the youth classes on the Gas Gas. I felt for the first time like a real trials rider on the Gas Gas, first with the 125cc and then moving to the larger 250cc engine in 1995. The youth competition in the 90s was very strong, with most Nationals tough and testing events. I absolutely loved these, along with the great camaraderie which we built up with many of the other families, with whom we remain good friends.

2000: The biggest disappointment was not winning the European championship after leading it in the earlier part of the year.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Sam Connor • Profile On the Beta in 1996 the ACU Youth A Class British Championship was a very competitive season for you.

It was the year when everything started to click into place. Having not made the top step of the podium at the Youth Nationals in previous years, it became a regular feature to win the championship. There was depth in the quality of riders, so consistency was key. The series featured Mark Harries, Michael Philipson, Ian Austermuhle, Paul Bolton and many others.

With your eyes on a career in motorcycle trials, you moved into the FIM World Championship in 1997.

I had started to compete in the adult ACU British Trials Championship, and I decided to test the water at my very first FIM World Round at Warken in Luxembourg. Mum and Dad travelled with me to my first few events, with Dad taking the role as a minder. It was a massive step up as coming straight from A Class Nationals to World trials with no in-between is not an easy feat. But it was the same path that everyone took back then. It was a tough day when I reflect on the results as I finished in 24th position parting with 78 marks lost – talk about an eye-opener! I was a young man, not just in the trials world but also finding my way in life.

The whole World round travelling scene attracted me like you would not believe, and I knew it was where I wanted to be. I competed in the last two rounds in the Czech Republic and Germany competing amongst the best riders on the world stage, living in the van; this would be my new life.

A new era in the FIM World Trials Championship was about to start.

To see a winning Dougie Lampkin standing on the top step of the podium in 1997 made me so proud. I am very patriotic and proud to be from Great Britain, and we had a new world champion. The Jordi Tarres winning years were

2002: Life was back on track with the new Gas Gas ‘Pro’ model, and surrounded in a team with some very competitive riders the reward was a career-best seventh place in Japan at the final world round.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

2001: Sam had moved to Gas Gas and a good solid team with support from the Shirt family, the official UK importers.

over; he had been a role-model world champion, and the sport of motorcycle trials was very strong. A new breed of rider was fast emerging.

Great Britain had three good strong competitive riders leading the way in Dougie Lampkin, Steve Colley and Graham Jarvis.

With Dougie the world champion other riders in this new era included the 1996 world champion Marc Colomer (ESP), Kenichi Kuroyama (JPN), Takahisa Fujinami (JPN), David Cobos (ESP), Marc Frexia (ESP) and Albert Cabestany (ESP), to name a few.

I was riding a Beta with support from the UK importer John Lampkin and other muchappreciated people and companies and felt that with the right support maybe I could become part of this new generation.

2002: The new Gas Gas was just so good and he finished sixth at the SSDT.

How was life on the road in 1998?

Despite the appeal and allure of sport, I have always appreciated the importance of my education and the opportunities that it could bring in later life. In 1998 and 1999, I was undertaking my A levels, so it was a difficult few years, trying to juggle schooling with sport and many trips abroad. Dad was a self-employed heating engineer, and financial sponsorship was slow to come by at the time, so I am indebted to him for pouring so much of the family’s funds into what was still a hobby at the time. However, the decision was made to take in a full year of trials and to include for the first time the Scottish Six Days Trial. As with so many young riders, I wanted to compete in the event, something I am still doing today! I finished 11th in my first

2003: Sam started the world championship season in confident fashion, scoring consistently in the opening nine rounds.

75

Profile • Sam Connor

2004: A move back to Sherco turned into a very good season, once again only to be interrupted with injury.

SSDT and had a superb six days of my first love, trials riding. I never realised at the time just how much of my life would focus on those six days in the first week of May, year after year. Once again, I rode in selected world rounds as I found my feet, and a 16th place just three marks off my first FIM World point in Germany on day two was so encouraging.

Your first FIM point came in 1999.

I moved to the new Bultaco/Sherco project in 1999 to take on a full season of trials to include the World, European and British championships.

I knew that if I worked hard, I could get into the bottom-end of the points if I could focus on that breakthrough into the top 15. That elusive first point happened on a wet day at the Isle of Man for our home round; I was over the moon! In the

2004: The SSDT was a fantastic week for Sherco where, along with the winner Graham Jarvis, he finished second.

European championship, I also made that final step onto the podium among the new talent of a young future world champion Adam Raga (ESP). Trying to squeeze in all these events whilst sitting my exams at school was a challenge, and Stuart Robinson kindly stepped into minding duties to relieve Dad and enable him to stay at work. Stuart was a great help and a real motorcyclist enthusiast. The sport would benefit from more people like him.

2000: New opportunities.

In the world of motorsport, you have to grab every opportunity, and when the chance arose to move alongside the world champion Dougie Lampkin into the new Radson Montesa team, I took it with both hands. At 19 years old, this was the break I had been looking for. Yes, I

would ride the Montesa in a full season of the world championship, and after finishing fourth in 1999 in the European championship, I had my sights set on winning that. I had a super ride in the SSDT with a third place and backed this up with six points-scoring rides in the world championship. The biggest disappointment was not winning the European championship after leading it in the earlier part of the year.

Finally, out of school, this was my first full year although I had no permanent minder with Dad and Stuart taking the reins of supporting role at the weekends. I tried to travel and stay with other riders as much as possible. I very much enjoyed my time with Dougie at his base in the Isle of Man. When the team was disbanded at the end of the year, I was quite disappointed if I am honest.

2005: As a small boy hearing the stories of your great uncle, Malcolm Rathmell and his wins at the Scottish Six Days Trial you then go and take the win; that’s exactly what Sam did.

76

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

NOW OFFICIAL GASGAS DEALER

FULL MONTESA RANGE IN STOCK contact aaron@craigsmotorcycles.com for your valuation

or visit craigsmotorcycles.com

CALL 01924 488117

WESLEY PLACE, DEWSBURY RING ROAD, DEWSBURY, WF13 1HX | CRAIGSMOTORCYCLES.CO.UK | 01924 488 117

Profile • Sam Connor

2005: Scotland was a very wet week, yes one you remember, and he had a terrific battle with his good friend Ben Hemingway, taking the win by a single mark, something Ben occasionally reminds him about.

2001: No, thank you.

‘What a year!’ summed up 2001; on the one hand I had moved to Gas Gas and a good solid team with support from the Shirt family, the official UK importers, but on the other hand the year was a huge disappointment due to the Foot and Mouth epidemic in the UK and my injury. The World and European championships were both interrupted due to injury. I dislocated my left shoulder after a fall down some rocks, when I realised very quickly that at 6’3”, and considerably heavier than the average Spaniard, I didn’t bounce that well! Unfortunately, this injury has gone on to plague me with further dislocations and multiple operations.

2002: Back on track My life was back on track with the new Gas Gas ‘Pro’ model and in a team surrounded in a team by some very competitive riders. My brother, Tim, was able to join me for most of the year and we had a great time travelling the world together. From a non-points-scoring ride in 2001, I was back in the points at six rounds to finish 17th overall.

Showing my true ability at the SSDT, I picked myself up from 25th on the opening day to finish sixth overall. We were developing the new Gas Gas ‘Pro’ machine, and it just got better as the year went on.

Despite missing one round at the BTC, I finished third overall, behind Dougie Lampkin and Graham Jarvis. After a career-best seventh place in Japan at the final world round of the year, my hard work was rewarded with a place in team Great Britain for the Trial Des Nations.

2006: He made the difficult decision to finish the full-time trials career and look at something away from motorcycle trials to secure the future. John Lampkin at Beta UK was happy to offer the support to keep him riding.

78

2005: Sam chats with a young James Dabill about his win.

Riding alongside Dougie Lampkin, Steve Colley and Graham Jarvis we beat the hot favourites Spain. With Stuart and Dad both present in minder capacity, it was phenomenal to have the added support of Martin Lampkin and my uncle Malcolm Rathmell. Being part of the team gave me further insight as to how Dougie, Steve and Graham would approach big events. The trial was in a hot and dry Portugal so hardly conducive for British riders. To take the win and contributing towards this result was the highlight of my riding career to this point.

2003: Frustration.

The new Gas Gas was just so good, and I confidently started the world championship season, scoring consistently in the opening nine rounds.

The frustration was hard to bear, as once again I finished third in the BTC with Graham Jarvis and Steve Colley in front on me and I was not able to make that all-important breakthrough with a win. Once again, I was rewarded with a place in team Great Britain for the Trial Des Nations and with the same team line-up from 2002. However, Steve Colley fell sick overnight, and my good friend Ben Hemingway who was out in Italy to watch the event was drafted in at the last minute on Sunday morning to ride. A testament to Ben and showing the depth in the GB riders at the time, we pulled out an amazing result to win and beat the hot favourites Spain again! I had Sandy Mack, long-time family friend, minding for me this year along with my brother, Tim; it was fantastic to share this moment with him.

2010: Enjoying life on his way to 10th at the SSDT.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Profile • Sam Connor

2012: Showing top form at the ACU British Trials Championship.

2004: A Move to Sherco.

The blue machine was now well developed, and the move to Sherco turned into a very good season only to be interrupted once again with injury. A change of machine always does you good, and that’s how I felt about the move to Sherco. I started once again quite confident in the world championship, scoring consistently, which is always good for any rider. I had Tim and Sandy by my side and was making more of my training sessions, along with some support from Steven Foord.

The year was boosted by a fantastic week in the SSDT where, along with the winner Graham Jarvis, I gave Sherco a second place — that was something to shout about. Once again it was my first day on the Monday which cost me heavily, and so I was off the pace as Graham cruised to the win.

Injury in Italy with a reoccurrence of the shoulder injury interrupted a good WTC year where I finished 14th. It may sound a little weird, but I was very much feeling like a ‘Pro’ rider and still wanted to move up in the trials world.

After finishing the opening BTC round in a disappointing fourth position I raised my game

2014: Sharing the joke at the SSDT with lifelong friend Sandy Mack, who has shared the highs and lows of Sam’s career.

80

2013: Total commitment at the SSDT, in the wet once again, to finish fifth.

to make the breakthrough win at round two, but as the season closed, I remained in third position overall.

2005: My proudest moment in trials.

Just imagine: as a small boy, after hearing the stories of your great uncle, Malcolm Rathmell and his wins at the Scottish Six Days Trial you go and take the win – that’s exactly what I did. The icing on the cake was the fact that in 2005 he was the Sherco importer and I won on a Sherco – yes, we were both very happy! It was a very wet week, definitely one you remember, and I had a terrific battle with my good friend Ben Hemingway, taking the win by a single mark; something Ben occasionally reminds me about.

But yes, you have guessed it, an injury-free year was not to be as old war wounds flared up, and despite some good top 15 results, I finished 13th overall, which was still my bestever finishing position in the WTC. I had been competitive in the BTC and running in second position until I had to miss the last two rounds due to shoulder rehabilitation. It was fitting to finish my final year with Tim and Sandy. The two of them, along with Stuart and my Dad, made everything possible.

2006: A new career After the elation of 2005, I made the difficult decision to finish the full-time trials career and look at something away from motorcycle trials to secure my future. Trials riders aren’t typically paid generous salaries and, despite the help from some fantastic personal sponsors, I always knew that to attain a reasonable lifestyle, I would have to explore other avenues. As such, and back in 2001, I continued my studies behind the scenes taking the exams to become a Chartered Financial Planner. I knew exactly what I wanted the next chapter to look like. I still wanted to ride in trials but without the fulltime commitment of practising, preparation etc. and all that is needed to remain in the world championship.

I spoke with John Lampkin at Beta UK, who was very understanding about my situation, and he was happy to offer me support to keep me riding. I had met my future wife Sarah, and it was nice to spend what I would call normal time at home, instead of chasing off all around the world competing in trials. I had really enjoyed what I would call my travelling time, but having picked up some difficult injuries along the way, I decided it was time to settle down.

2015: Family and friends time at the SSDT.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Sam Connor • Profile

2019: The solitude of the ‘Scottish’, where Sam has had so much enjoyment and success.

Life after trials.

Is there such a thing? Trials runs through the family’s blood, and my experiences and friendships created through our sport, across many different cultures, has helped me enormously.

Having met Sarah in October 2006, being a competitive sports athlete herself, she has always been very understanding of the commitments that we still need to make now as a family to allow me to compete. Sarah comes from a very humble background and spent much of her professional career in the

2017: Fit as a fiddle and in his element in the highlands.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

2020: Proving he can still ride at a high level on his way to the top step of the podium in the Trial2 class at the opening round of the ACU British Championship.

not-for-profit sector, holding a director role for over ten years at the national education charity Teach First. She is now back in teaching, so it is no surprise that the kids need to finish their homework before they can get out on their bikes!

The family is heavily involved with the Hookwood Trials Centre, with Sarah secretary for the annual opening of the BTC series. Like most families with a new business just getting going, we have many pressures, and sport is a great release to this. Trials will always form a big part of our lives, and I will try to continue competing for as long as I can.

Naturally – and selfishly perhaps – we hope Rosy and Arthur maintain their interests in trials, and sport generally! Most importantly, and as we were taught, we hope they work hard at whatever they do and have fun. On that note, I am very grateful to the many sponsors, friends and family over the years who helped enable my dream to become a reality. The successes which we achieved together can’t be taken away, and the memories will live forever.

Tell us about Hookwood It has been a lifelong project. Many people think the family grew up at Hookwood, which is not the case. Acquiring half of the woods in 1983, the family was able to purchase more adjoining land in 1985. At the time it was dense woodland with lots of trees to be cleared to make space for sections.

Dad was very creative in building sections, even cementing over an old bath from my Nan’s house to make it look like a rock! It is still there today. We have imported rocks, logs and other obstacles from many parts of the country, as I have already mentioned. Dad once overloaded the van so much at a Welsh event in Trefil Quarry that it nearly snapped the rear axle as we went to set off!

In the earlier days, Hookwood was very much for the locals, but things started to turn more serious in the early ‘90s when I started riding.

From this point onwards, a huge amount of money was spent on plant hire to help build

and make sections, along with the haulage of rocks. All the money generated from trials and practice days is spent on the land, and we now own machinery so we can mix things up more frequently.

In 2003, my parents decided to sell the family home in Twickenham to move into an old farmhouse that was up for sale, as it bordered the Hookwood Trials Centre. The move was primarily to be closer to the land and to safeguard it from ongoing pressure, as neighbours are always looking to stop motorcycles. It is a common challenge across the country, and Dad has certainly fined-tuned his diplomatic skills to keep everyone happy over the many years!

I very much intend to play a crucial role in maintaining Dad’s legacy as Hookwood brings so much joy to many families.

Whilst we take pride in hosting major trials events, the hub and heart of the Hookwood Trials Club is centred around the sport’s wider audience. It would be the icing on the cake if we can produce more home-grown talent to take on the world trials scene!

Loving life with his wife Sarah.

81

White Rose Trial • Sport

WHITE ROSE TRIAL

‘CHILIES’ TOP SPOT

Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa)

It was the second national trial I ever rode on my Ossa in 1977, which was the day after the Bemrose Trial in my native Derbyshire. It would turn into an event I would return to year after year, such was the superb nature of the trial surrounded by such stunning countryside. Seeing the iconic landmarks such as Cam Head and the impressive Ribblehead Valley Viaduct, which took seven years to construct and opened on 1st May 1876, remained with me as I drove to White Rose Trial in September 2020.

Article: John Hulme and West Leeds Motorcycle Club

Originally named the Dancaster Trial in 1947, after the first President of the club, Harry Dancaster, it remained until it was awarded National status in 1976. The White Rose Trophy, donated by the Royalty Inn, which was the pub in Pudsey where the club met for their business meetings at the time, remains an iconic event to win and has a reputation as a very good, traditional type of event.

Following the government’s Covid-19 guidelines, it attracted a full entry of 150 riders with Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa) adding his name to a long list of winners dating back to 1976.

With a single-lap course of just over 30 miles consisting of mainly open moorland, the riders would enjoy a broad spectrum of hazards included in the 40 sections.

A wet misty day greeted the riders to the start at the back of the mighty ‘Cam Head’ hill which dominates the surrounding area. So many riders were a little ‘rusty’ with time away from riding trials but all agreed what a grand day out the West Leeds Motorcycle Club had put on in these challenging times.

Clerk of the Course Nigel Crowther and his band of helpers, observers and officials put on an event the club should be very proud of in these unchartered waters of Covid 19.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

Richard Sadler (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS)

Dan Thorpe (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS)

83

Sport • White Rose Trial

Danny Gamble (Sherco)

Sam Beecroft-Penney (TRRS)

WHITE ROSE ROUTE

With the ambitious steep rocks of section five stopping the whole entry on this hardest of routes, it was all about those loose marks where the winner would be found. In the end, it was just a single mark that separated Andy Chilton and Richard Sadler. With only a single five-mark penalty each, they pulled out an advantage over third-placed Dan Thorpe, who could not find the consistency to challenge them. He finished well clear of the fourth- and fifth-placed finishers Danny Gamble and Sam Beecroft-Penney, who were also separated by just a single mark.

RESULTS: 1: Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa) 15; 2: Richard Sadler (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS) 16; 3: Dan Thorpe (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS) 26; 4: Danny Gamble (Sherco) 39; 5: Sam Beecroft-Penney (TRRS) 40.

50/50 COURSE

John R Shirt (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS) Gavin Black (Sherco)

84

Competing in this event for the first time in 1989, John Shirt enjoyed a nice gallop around this enjoyable trial with his supported riders to finish as a clear winner, parting with just three single marks on his way to victory. A single stop in section 27 just over halfway around stopped Gavin Black challenging him. Enjoying a ride out on his new Vertigo, Danny Cockshott admitted to being one of the rusty ones with little riding time but still came home third out of the 46 riders on this middle route.

RESULTS: 1: John R Shirt (John Shirt Motorcycles GASGAS) 3; 2: Gavin Black (Sherco) 12; 3: Danny Cockshott (John Lee Motorcycles Vertigo) 18; 4: Patrick Dukes (Beta) 21; 5: Richard Fraser (Sherco) 22.

Danny Cockshott (John Lee Motorcycles Vertigo)

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Sport • White Rose Trial

Patrick Dukes (Beta)

CLUBMAN COURSE

Philip Hammond (Sherco)

Interestingly, the winning margins of a single mark separated both the White Rose course winner and the Clubman course winner. Philip Hammond and Paul Jackson were very evenly matched throughout the day, and neither conceded a stop. With Alan MacDonald finishing just behind the winners, the fight for fourth position would go to the tie-break decider with three riders all on 27 marks. It was the many-times ACU British Sidecar Champion Robin Luscombe who used all his experience and came out on top riding his Pre-65 BSA Bantam, also carrying the number one riding number! As popular as ever, this class had a huge 78 riders competing.

RESULTS: 1: Philip Hammond (Sherco) 18; 2: Paul Jackson (Montesa) 19; 3: Alan MacDonald (Montesa) 21; 4: Robin Luscombe (BSA) 27; 5: John Holdsworth (Beta) 27; 6: Neil Sharp (Vertigo) 27.

As one of the best road-based National trials still running, here we have a look back at its many past winners from when it first moved from a Regional restricted trial to a National in 1976. The event has run every year apart from 2001 when the dreaded Foot and Mouth disease stopped proceedings.

Paul Jackson (Montesa)

86

WHITE ROSE TRIAL WINNERS 1976-2019

RESULTS: 1976: Rob Shepherd (Honda); 1977: Nick Jefferies (Honda); 1978: Rob Shepherd (Honda); 1979: Malcolm Rathmell (Montesa); 1980: Peter Cartwright (Bultaco); 1981: Peter Cartwright (Italjet); 1982: Malcolm Rathmell (Montesa); 1983: Peter Cartwright (Italjet); 1984: Steve Saunders (Armstrong); 1985: John Reynolds (JCM); 1986: Ian Weatherill (Fantic); 1987: John Lampkin (Beta); 1988: Glen Scholey (Honda); 1989: Ian Weatherill (Yamaha); 1990: Philip Alderson (Yamaha); 1991: Philip Alderson (Yamaha); 1992: Robert Crawford (Montesa); 1993: Dougie Lampkin (Beta); 1994: Dougie Lampkin (Beta); 1995: Robert Crawford (Yamaha); 1996: Steve Colley (Gas Gas); 1997: Dougie Lampkin (Beta); 1998: Wayne Braybrook (Montesa); 1999: Dan Thorpe (Yamaha); 2000: John Lampkin (Beta); 2001: No Event Foot and Mouth; 2002: Graham Jarvis (Sherco); 2003: Dan Thorpe (Gas Gas); 2004: Graham Jarvis (Sherco); 2005: Graham Jarvis (Sherco); 2006: Graham Jarvis (Sherco); 2007: Ian Austermuhle (Beta); 2008: Dan Thorpe (Gas Gas); 2009: Sam Haslam (Gas Gas); 2010: Sam Haslam (Gas Gas); 2011: Phil Disney (Beta); 2012: Ian Austermuhle (Beta); 2013: Ian Austermuhle (Beta); 2014: Ian Austermuhle (Beta); 2015: Richard Sadler (Beta); 2016: Guy Kendrew (Beta); 2017: Richard Sadler (Beta); 2018: Tom Minta (Gas Gas); 2019: Dan Peace (Sherco).

In the very early days of mobile phones, I was driving back from the event with John R Shirt when we heard the news that the 1993 winner was Dougie Lampkin (Beta), his first adult National win on the same day Steve Colley (Beta) won his first FIM World Championship round in Finland!

Robin Luscombe (BSA)

Alan MacDonald (Montesa)

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

r o f r e l Dea

Retro • 1990

REPEAT RETRO

Yes, all you had to do was press the repeat button in 1990 as Jordi Tarres kept winning in the FIM World Trials Championships, and Steve Saunders kept winning in the UK. They both shared the same brand of machine as the new Beta Zero was the machine to have. Entries in the trials world were very strong, and we had no fewer than ten manufacturers producing motorcycles. Here we take a whistle-stop tour of the 1990 season through the eyes of Trial Magazine.

Words: Trial Magazine • Pictures: Erik Kitchen, Toon Van De Vliet, Alpha, Aprilia, Beta, Fantic, Gas Gas, Honda, JCM, Mecatechno, Montesa and Yamaha

Donato Miglio (Fantic-ITA): Riding an air-cooled machine against the new ‘breed’ of water-cooled ones, his talent would take him onto the top spot of the podium twice.

88

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

1990 • Retro

Diego Bosis (Aprilia-ITA): Without a doubt one of the biggest talents in the world championship.

Robert Crawford (Beta-IRL): The rising star of the 1990 world championship season.

1990 FIM WORLD TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIP

Riding the Beta Zero, Spain’s Jordi Tarres was a pleasure to watch. Having worked closely with the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, they now had a world-beating machine. Many private teams and riders chose the Beta for their world championship year; such was its popularity. It had been very much designed around the new, dynamic style of Tarres and he looked formidable on it.

Fellow Italian motorcycle manufacturer, Aprilia, had invested heavily in its new water-cooled ‘Climber’ model but, in truth, it was nowhere near the machine Beta had built. Fantic was still using an evolution of their previous air-cooled model. Still, amid growing financial concerns, they only had one potential winner in a muchreduced rider line-up, with Donato Miglio taking only his second world round win and rounding off the year with another. During the season a healthy 30 riders had scored FIM World Trials Championship points.

ON A ROLL

As Jordi Tarres rattled off the first four rounds with wins he was on a roll, but after the return of the series from the USA and Canada his form was interrupted at round five in Belgium by Diego Bosis. Round six would see Tarres back at the top with his win in Germany as another winner appeared in 1990: Donato Miglio. As Tarres won again in Finland, Bosis bounced back with win number two in the Spanish round.

Tarres still held the lead as he sent the Italian fans wild with his win for Beta in Italy, followed by his win in Poland which tied up the championship. As the series finished in Switzerland Miglio took the win, which on the Fantic was the very last for an aircooled machine.

BRITS ABROAD

Great Britain had just two points scorers, with Ireland’s Robert Crawford the highest finishing in seventh position and saving his best ride for the final round in Switzerland where he finished fifth. Closing the door on a very successful FIM World Championship career was Steve Saunders. His best finish was a fifth in Great Britain, but he did not complete a full season, missing the last three rounds. Of the other UK riders, Wayne Braybrook (Beta) and John R Shirt (Gas Gas) had all dipped in and out of the top-25 in various rounds as a new fresh face appeared in Manx rider Steve Colley on the Fantic. Getting the sponsorship for the ‘Home’ riders to compete a full world championship season was still proving a problem. At the end of the year, the opportunity to move a factory-supported ride in 1991 would take Robert Crawford to Spain and Montesa.

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

Steve Saunders (Beta-GBR): Great Britain’s highest placed rider in the world championship since 1985, taking in nine wins and finishing second in 1986. He missed the latter end of the season in his last year to finish in 11th position.

1990 FIM WORLD TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL POSITIONS (12 ROUNDS)

RESULTS: 1: Jordi Tarres (Beta-ESP) 224; 2: Diego Bosis (ApriliaITA) 193; 3: Donato Miglio (Fantic-ITA) 180; 4: Tommi Ahvala (Aprilia-FIN) 167; 5: Philip Berlatier (Beta-FRA) 123; 6: Amos Bilbao (Fantic-ESP) 109; 7: Robert Crawford (Beta-IRL) 92; 8: Bruno Camozzi (Fantic-FRA) 79; 9: Thierry Girard (MontesaFRA) 78; 10: Pascal Couturier (Beta-FRA) 63; 11: Steve Saunders (Beta-GBR) 58; 12: Takumi Narita (Honda-JPN) 32; 13: Peter Jahn (Beta-FIN) 24; 14: Gabino Renales (Montesa-ESP) 24; 15: Marco Reit (Beta-NL) 18.

MACHINES: Beta 7; Aprilia 2; Fantic 3; Montesa 2; Honda 1.

WINS: Jordi Tarres (Beta-ESP) 8; Diego Bosis (Aprilia-ITA) 2; Donato Miglio (Fantic-ITA) 2.

89

Retro • 1990

John R Shirt (Gas Gas-GBR): Helping to develop the new water-cooled machine from Spain and a lack of funds did not help his world championship season. His highest position was 23rd in Ireland and Switzerland.

Wayne Braybrook (Beta-GBR): One of the new young riders in the world series his best result was 17th in Switzerland, just three marks away from an FIM World Championship point.

1990 ACU BRITISH TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIP

In truth, the ACU British Championship was all about two riders, Steve Saunders and Robert Crawford. A very experienced and confident Saunders knew the move to the new Beta Zero was in his favour. In a squad full of young talent, branded the Screenart Beta team with sponsorship from Brian ‘Tap Tap ’ Smith, that included Robert Crawford and Wayne Braybrook it was the wise head of Steve Saunders that played the winning card as he won the opening four rounds. Talk about hungry for success; the young Crawford really hurt when he lost! It showed with his determination to attack the winning run of Saunders in the British Championship that had started way back in 1983 on the two-stroke Armstrong before the well-documented move to the four-stroke Honda. A move to Fantic in 1987 did not interrupt the winning before he arrived at Beta.

SHEER DETERMINATION

As Saunders put Scottish Six Days Trial win number three to bed in the May after a close victory over Crawford, he looked to be running away with his eighth consecutive ACU British Championship title. Crawford’s sheer determination to win shone through and was rewarded at the St David’s Trial in Wales as he out-pointed Saunders for the first time. Two weeks later at the Hillsborough Club’s Jack Wood championship round he repeated his success, finishing just three marks in front of 90

John R Shirt (Gas Gas) and in third position, also Gas Gas mounted, was local rider, Tony Scarlett. Steve Saunders came home in fourth position after losing a tie-break decision with Scarlett — picking up a broken toe in the process! All of a sudden, after six rounds his 17-point championship lead was cut to just a 10-point advantage. Despite the interruption of a huge road traffic accident in Finland in between FIM World Championship rounds, which wrote of his Ford Transit van, Steve Saunders had his sights on title number eight.

TITLE NUMBER EIGHT

He had announced that he would retire from the commitment of a full world championship season, but the hunger to win was still there and was no better seen than at the next British Championship round, the West of England.

One week before he had been forced to retire from the Otter Vale Club’s National President’s Trophy Trial. On one of the many steep, slippery descents he had been thrown over the handlebars and smashed his right knee into the front brake master cylinder, which punched a hole in the skin. He retired from the event due to the injury. With a badly swollen right knee and with movement restricted, he showed his true intentions in retaining his BTC title by winning the West of England round.

It was game-on in the title fight, but then Saunders moved up a gear, taking the win at the Red Rose Trial in Lancashire. At the final round in late October, the Peak Trial held near Castleton in Derbyshire, he showed his true

Very passionate about supporting trials, the Screenart Beta team was helped with sponsorship from Brian ‘Tap Tap’ Smith.

Steve Saunders was still the man to beat in the UK.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

We are main Sherco and Fantic dealers with a wide variety of new and quality used bikes available. We offer great part exchange and finance on suitable bikes. We also offer Bell Helmets, Oakley goggles and casual wear, Alpine Star clothing, SM Pro wheels, Airoh helmets, Rock Oil, Michelin tyres and mousses, and a wide wide range of parts and accessories.

CALL 01543 450150

Retro • 1990

After a huge learning curve Robert Crawford (Beta) put in a super performance at the Scott Trial to take the Best Newcomer award on his way to a sensational victory.

Another rider approaching the end of a very successful trials career was Sheffield’s Tony Scarlett (Gas Gas).

form to take a well-deserved eighth British title with another victory.

Once again, consistency had won the day.

The consolation prize in 1990 for the young Crawford was his superb performance at the Scott Trial, where he won the Best Newcomer award on his way to a sensational victory. Saunders came out one more time in 1990 to win the British Experts held at Hawkstone Park. Thirty-one riders had scored ACU British Trials Championship points, the same as the FIM Trial World Championship.

With the move to the Screenart Beta team Steve Saunders secured his eighth consecutive ACU British Trials Championship crown with victory at the Peak Trial in Derbyshire.

1990 PRODUCTION MACHINES

You had a mighty choice of ten production machines to choose from in 1990 with a choice of air- or water-cooled engines. Not all of the machines were imported into Europe or Great Britain, as far as we know.

ALPHA

Although not imported into the UK, the European manufacturers had witnessed the winning formula of the mono-shock Yamaha, and this

1990 ACU BRITISH TRIALS CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL POSITIONS (9 ROUNDS)

RESULTS: 1: Steve Saunders (Beta) 185; 2: Robert Crawford (Beta) 169; 3: Tony Scarlett (Gas Gas) 135; 4: Wayne Braybrook (Beta) 122; 5: John R Shirt (Gas Gas) 103; 6: John Lampkin (Beta) 89; 7: Rob Sartin (JCM) 80; 8: Philip Alderson (Yamaha) 72; 9: Steve Colley (Fantic) 66; 10: Steven Hole (Beta) 47; 11: Paul Rose (Yamaha) 40; 12: Gerald Richardson (Yamaha/Aprilia) 38; 13: Stefan Merriman (Aprilia-NZL) 28; 14: Mark Holland (Yamaha/Gas Gas) 26; 15: Jeremy Cragg (Fantic) 18.

MACHINES: Beta 5; Yamaha 4; Gas Gas 3; Aprilia 2; Fantic 2; JCM 1.

WINS: Steve Saunders (Beta) 7; Robert Crawford (Beta) 2.

Alpha Trial 252 (FRA).

new French Alpha was very much mirrored around the success of the Japanese machine. The engine was built in-house by the small French company, which was a massive commitment. The only rider ever to win an FIM World Trials Championship round on the mono-shock Yamaha was Frenchman Thierry Girard at his home round in 1988, and he would appear in 1990 on the Alpha.

APRILIA CLIMBER, RRP: £3,250

It was a very close victory for Steve Saunders over Robert Crawford at the 1990 Scottish Six Days Trial.

92

With further developments, this 1990 model was an evolution of the single-cylinder water-cooled engine machine from its introduction in 1989, the first production water-cooled trials motorcycle. With so much power on hand from the Austrian Rotax engine, many riders had found them hard to ride, and they were a physically big machine. The trials world was still very unsure about the complexity of liquid-cooled engines in its slow-speed sport, and sales were still not what was expected of the Italian machines. The Aprilia still had all the fashionable items such as inverted front forks and the water-cooling and, despite the huge investment from the manufacturer, they did not attract the all-important buying customer. Diego Bosis had shown the potential of the machine, October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

1990 • Retro Aprilia Climber (ITA).

Fantic Trial 307 (ITA).

and the combination of an Italian rider on an Italian machine was rewarded with two world round wins in 1990 and runner-up in the FIM World Championship. The machine was available in just one engine capacity, 280cc.

(Model 246) and 125cc (Model) 125cc, along with the schoolboy 50cc and 80cc machines.

GAS GAS 250

Water-Cooled – Limited Import into the UK

BETA ZERO, RRP: £3,500

Without a doubt, this new aluminium framed two-stroke water-cooled machine was the talking point of the 1990 trials year. It featured all-new

Gas Gas 250W (ESP).

GAS GAS 330, RRP: £2,600

Already making in-roads to the trials market with its air-cooled twostroke models the forward-thinking Spanish motorcycle manufacturer Beta Zero (ITA).

innovation, and it simply won everything there was to win in the trials calendar: FIM World Trials Championship – Jordi Tarres; ACU British Trials Championship, Scottish Six Days Trial and British Experts – Steve Saunders; and Robert Crawford at the Scott Trial. It had a high retail price, but for all that money you inherited the very cutting edge of technology in the trials world. Developed in the full view of the public during 1989 the 1990 production model not only looked good, but it also followed this up in its performance. Any problems with water-cooling were now well sorted, and in reality, it was the machine that would change the face of the motorcycle trials machine development for the next 30 years. The machine was available in both 240cc and 260cc engine capacity.

FANTIC TRIAL 307 SERIES 7, RRP: £2,599

After such a successful few years with single rear-shock trials models starting in the mid-80s, the Italian manufacturer’s machines proved less popular in 1990. The Series 7 machines had been developed with the 1989 FIM World Championship team of Thierry Michaud (FRA), Donato Miglio (ITA) and Steve Saunders (GBR). The significant change was the trend-setting inverted front forks, and rear suspension and engine improvements. Miglio won two world rounds during the 1990 season, proving that the machine was still very competitive. In truth Fantic, along with so many other manufacturers, desperately needed a new watercooled machine as air-cooled was considered ‘old hat’ technology. This Series 7 model was available in engine sizes of 250cc (Model 307, 212cc Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

Gas Gas Trial 250 – 327 (ESP).

had planned to launch its new water-cooled model during 1990. It was a very mixed year for Gas Gas though. They had an established product with their 250cc and 330cc models and their reputation for reliability was proving popular with the buying public. The new water-cooled engine had been based around the air-cooled bottom half and had proved to be very good, but the problem was the steel frame. The UK importers, the Shirty family, decided not to import the new white water-cooled model until it had been further developed and returned their focus to the air-cooled models later in the year. The majority of the water-cooled machines were sold in Japan.

93

Retro • 1990

HONDA TLM260R, RRP: £3,349

With the talented Japanese national champion 18-year-old Takumi Narita on the potent HRC supplied TLM 260cc, much interest was shown

attracted the eye. The 330cc rotary disc valve engine is suspended from the steel mainframe tube under the fuel tank, leaving the underside of the crankcases very exposed despite the fitting of a sturdy aluminium sump protector. Named the ‘Sky Walker’ it proved a powerful and useful machine in the right hands. Off the back of their only FIM World Championship success in 1987, by Lluis Gallach in Spain, they had sold well with small cosmetic and engine updates, but in truth, they were coming to the end of their production life in 1990. This was the last time we would see rotary disc engines used in the trials motorcycle.

MONTESA COTA 310, RRP: £2,995

Very proud of its sporting heritage, this Cota 310 was another model approaching the end of its working life. Montesa had gone through some

Honda TLM260R (JPN).

in the two-stroke air-cooled model and his riding performance during 1990. The Honda TLM260R was very conventional in both the frame and suspension areas, and the engine was very reliable, but Honda UK did not officially import it.

JCM SR240, RRP: £3,100

With a three-range model all based around the air-cooled 240cc reed valve engine, JCM had a machine to cater for all areas of the trials market, from the beginner to the top rider. With the UK importer the experienced Bob Gollner bringing in the three models, the Weekend, Europa and SR priced to suit the pocket they soon became very popular amongst the riders. The SR was the top-end model and featured an ingenious rear suspension linkage, which operated around an offset ‘Cam’ type of adjuster, and quite a steep steering head angle to encourage the new style of trick riding. The engine was also located further forward in the frame to put more weight on the front. Both JCM 240SR (FRA). the Weekend and Europa models featured the air-filter intake high up close to the headstock of the steel tubular frame for a much better, cleaner supply of air to the engine.

C

Montesa Cota 310 (ESP).

M

tough financial times as a motorcycle manufacturer but had stayed very much involved with the trials scene. This model had a major upgrade of many components, including the front forks from Marzocchi which were inverted and following the trend of the other remanufacturers.

An aluminium swinging arm and lightweight steel tubular frame with a detachable aluminium rear sub-frame and front and rear disc brakes added to the upgrades. The two-stroke air-cooled engine returned to a more conventional exhaust system with a round front pipe. They only had this one model, and they had moved from its traditional red to the white frame with this turquoise and dayglo yellow; we will let you, the reader, be the judge of that!

YAMAHA 250R, RRP: £2,549 YAMAHA 250S, RRP: £2,099

Tried and tested, the mono-shock Yamaha remained very much the mainstay for the majority of the regular trials riding clubmen. Ultrareliable and with a choice of either the ‘S’ model with all its road-going

MECATECNO SKY WALKER 330, RRP: £2,800

Bright and distinctive, with its orange and blue appearance the Mecatecno carried quite a unique frame design which certainly

Yamaha TY 250R.

Mecatecno Sky Walker (ESP).

94

accessories or the competition ready ‘R’ model, a proven winner. In truth, it was quite outdated with its drum brakes and conventional front forks. It was priced very competitively but was getting desperate for some frame, engine and suspension updates.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Superstore • In the world of Trials

SUPERSTORE ORDER YOURS TODAY! 01

02

05

03

06

FROM ONLY

£9.99 EACH INCL. FREE UK P&P

04

07

08

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

01 NEW TRIAL MAGAZINE BINDER

Collect and keep safe your Trial Magazine Collection in this secure hard-back Binder (Magazines not included) Each Binder holds 12 magazines. £9.99 + FREE UK P&P

02 NEW TRIAL MAGAZINE BAG

05 BASIC TRIALS TECHNIQUES WITH DAN THORPE

If you are going out trials riding or simply want to improve your trials skills this new DVD is a must for all riders of any age. The film has been put together to give you a much better insight in how to ride safer to get the best from both man and machine.

WAS £22.99 NOW £19.99 + FREE UK P&P

A light and easy to use drawstring bag. £9.99 + FREE UK P&P

06 NEW SSDT 2019

Collect and keep safe your Classic Trial Magazine Collection in this secure hard-back Binder (Magazines not included) Each Binder holds 12 magazines. £9.99 + FREE UK P&P

07 PRE-65 SSDT 2019

A light and easy to use drawstring bag. £9.99 + FREE UK P&P

Enjoy over four hours of coverage including: British Championship; Supertrial; SSDT; Twin-Shock; Ladies BTC and so much more on this two-disc DVD. £19.99 + FREE UK P&P

03 NEW CLASSIC TRIAL MAGAZINE BINDER 04 NEW CLASSIC TRIAL MAGAZINE BAG

TO ORDER

Order securly at www.trialmaguk.com/shopfront/ or fill the form below and return to: Trial Magazine, 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX. Tel: 01663 744766 or email england@trialmag.com 01 n NEW Trial Magazine Binder • £9.99 02 n NEW Trial Magazine Bag • £9.99 03 n NEW Classic Trial Magazine Binder • £9.99 04 n NEW Classic Trial Magazine Bag • £9.99 05 n Basic Trials Techniques DVD • £19.99 06 n NEW SSDT 2019 DVD • £19.99 07 n PRE-65 SSDT 2019 DVD • £19.99 08 n NEW THE 2019 UK TRIALS REVIEW • £19.99 Price includes FREE UK P&P. For Europe and Worldwide P&P, please place your order at: www.trialmaguk.com/shopfront/

Enjoy all the action from the 2019 six days, ‘Feet-up’ in the comfort of your own home. £19.99 + FREE UK P&P Enjoy all the classic action from the 2019 Pre-65, ‘Feet-up’ in the comfort of your own home. £19.99 + FREE UK P&P

08 NEW THE 2019 UK TRIALS REVIEW

POSTAGE DETAILS Full Name: Address:

Postcode: Phone number: Email:

PAYMENT DETAILS

You can pay by cheque or debit/credit card.

TOTAL: £ • I’m paying by Cheque n Please make it payable to ‘Trial Magazine’ • I’m paying by Card n (Visa • Eurocard • Mastercard) CARD NUMBER

nnnn-nnnn-nnnn-nnnn Expiry date: n n- n n Security code: n n n

Signature:

n Tick here if you wish to receive promotions of Trial Magazine and its partners

Date:

MORE PRODUCTS AND LATEST DEALS AT TRIALMAGUK.COM 96

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

CMY

K

WELCOME TO

www.camiomoto.co.uk

OďŹƒcial Dealer

New and Used Bikes Finance specialists Part Exchange 24/7 online shopping for all your favourite brands Mail order parts service

Dealer Visit • Camio Moto

CAMIO MOTO

A NEW BEGINNING

Despite the fact that we are sailing through uncharted waters in this Covid 19 situation, the well-known and popular trials rider Richard Timperley has decided on a new beginning in life. Based near Chesterfield in Derbyshire, he is bringing his knowledge of both his passion and his previous employment to a new motorcycle trials dealership trading under his new company name Camio Moto. After a successful career in the financial world and the automotive industry, at the ripe old age of 37, he feels that the time is right to open the doors on his new business. Trial Magazine recently went along to the new Camio Moto headquarters to find out more.

Words: Trial Magazine with Richard Timperley • Pictures: Trials Media and Colin Bullock

G

rowing up on the family farm was a trials haven and, yes, you have guessed it: along with a whole generation of off-road riders starting in the mid-70s he cut his teeth on a Yamaha TY80 – who didn't?

Father Mark is a well-known rider and he and his mum Carol, who was a regular observer for many years, both supported him in the sport. Father and son have competed in many Scottish Six Days Trials, with Richard's first attempt at the event back in 2002 on the Sherco before recording his best result in 2004 finishing in 17th position on the Gas Gas. 98

A TWO-WHEELED LIFE

Quite a late starter when it came to competing trials, it became a little more serious in 1996 when on a yellow 160cc Gas Gas he came fifth overall in the ACU B Class British Championship. Enjoying his trials riding with the family, including brother Mathew also riding in events and sister Carol watching the fun, he progressed to second in 1997 before winning the B class title in 1998. Now feeling more confident it was time to move into the A Class British Championship, and in his first year in 1999 on the Beta, he finished

second before taking the prestigious title in 2000. A move to the new Sherco in 2001 was cut short with the outbreak of the 'Foot and Mouth' disease. Richard had started to work with his Grandad Tony, who was an electrical manufacturer. He enjoyed working alongside a man who would happily pass his business acumen onto Richard, which would later stand him in good stead. It was during this period that the decision was made not to try and follow the path to making a successful career in the trial's world. A difficult decision, but the family decided it was the correct one.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Camio Moto • Dealer Visit

A wide selection of parts and clothing are in stock and on the shelf.

HELLO, HELLO

Originally showing an interest in joining the Police force, Richard moved to Mercedes after spending two years at Chesterfield College studying Public Services and how it all worked.

In 2005, he moved into the banking world, firstly with RBS until 2009 when he transferred to the Santander Banking group until 2012.

In 2013, a new chapter opened when he moved into the automotive industry with Auto Windscreens for a short period before moving to Triangle Kia at Chesterfield in fleet sales and finance, which was where he worked until this new trials venture in 2020.

After entering the 2001 SSDT – which was then cancelled – he has ridden in every Scottish Six Days Trial since on various machines.

He still rates it as the best event of the year.

He has supported the ACU British and S3 Championship series as well as many other UK nationals and still competes regularly.

In 2016 he married Catherin Oakley, who is a GP Doctor. Catherin has two children, but the family has since grown to include two more boys with Richard; hence the new trading name Camio, using the two boys' names, Cameron and Oscar.

The choice is yours.

CAMIO MOTO

Richard Timperley: "After a long time enjoying selling cars, I decided it was now or never to make a change of direction and to follow my instinct. I have always enjoyed competing in trials and always wanted to be involved with the industry. Camio Moto is my vision of what I want to bring to the sport, and with my knowledge of both competing and working in sales, I feel I have enough experience to open the new dealership.

"Having received support from many of the importers over the years, for which I am eternally grateful, it's now time to continue this relationship on a business level and to work with them, to bring you, the customer, a level of service I can be proud of."

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

In the A Class ACU British Championship and in his first year in 1999 on the Beta, he finished second before taking the prestigious title in 2000.

A move to the new Sherco in 2001 was cut short with the outbreak of ‘Foot and Mouth’ disease.

99

Dealer Visit • Camio Moto

COMPLETE YOUR BACK ISSUE COLLECTION TRIAL MAGAZINE – ORDER YOURS TODAY! ISSUES 1, 3, 4, 13, 15, 20, 25, 36 AND 43 SOLD OUT

Camio Moto is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 928109. Call Richard for a finance quote.

Our dealer visit was constantly interrupted by the telephone.

MAIN DEALERS

"The company are now official dealers for Beta, OSET, Scorpa, Sherco, TRRS and Vertigo and I will also be stocking and supplying genuine spare parts for all these brands. We will have a range of finance solutions available for both new and used machines.

"Camio Moto is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 928109.

All finance is subject to status and income, and a written quotation can be provided on request.

We act as a credit broker and not a lender, working with a number of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchases."

Service, Parts, Clothing and Accessories "I will be offering different levels of service and maintenance packages to suit the pocket, supplying all parts and accessories to keep your

After entering the 2001 SSDT which was cancelled, he has ridden in every Scottish Six Days Trial since on various machines and still rates it as the best event of the year.

100

machine in top condition.

"I have a wide range of clothing, boots and other trials-related products in stock and ready to order online from all the major suppliers in the trials world. The majority of the products on the website are in stock and on the shelf, but we are more than happy for you to come and visit Camio Moto and let us share our experience on what products are the best for you. As we all know, the internet is a powerful tool, but there is nothing better than actually seeing what you are buying and trying it on for the best fit!"

WHERE ARE WHEN

"We are based at Dronfield, which is close to both Chesterfield and Sheffield with our official address: Camio Moto, Cherry Tree Farm, Cowley Lane, Holmsfield S18 7SD. Good motorway access is not far away, and we will

have some demonstrator machines for potential purchasers to try.

"I'm open from 10.30am–4.30pm from Monday to Friday with exception to Wednesdays when I open from 1.00pm until 7.00pm to suit the 9–5 workers. We're also open Saturday from 9.30am until 12.30pm but closed Sundays – it's a 'Trials Day'!

Our new Camio Moto website can be found here: www.camiomoto.co.uk. We're on the Social Media feeds on Instagram and Facebook.

Before the phone starts ringing, I would like to thank my mother and father for their support with my new venture and of course my wife, Cat, and the family. Speak soon!"

CONTACT CAMIO MOTO Tel: 01246 792033 Web: www.camiomoto.co.uk

In 2016 he married Catherin Oakley, who is a GP Doctor.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Rewind Trials • Back issues

COMPLETE YOUR BACK ISSUE COLLECTION£5.99 FROM

TRIAL MAGAZINE – ORDER YOURS TODAY! ISSUES 1, 3, 4, 13, 15, 20, 25, 36 AND 43 SOLD OUT

02

12

22

32

79

80

81

82

TO ORDER

Order securly at www.trialmaguk.com/back_issues_uk/ or fill the form below and return to: Trial Magazine, 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX. Tel: 01663 744766 or email england@trialmag.com List issue numbers here

1, 3, 4, 13, 15, 20, 25, 36, 43 SOLD OUT

POSTAGE DETAILS Full Name: Address:

Postcode: Phone number: Email:

For Europe and Worldwide P&P, please place your order at: www.trialmaguk.com/back-issues-overseas/

n Tick here if you wish to receive promotions of Trial Magazine and its partners

INC. P&P*

PAYMENT DETAILS

You can pay by cheque or debit/credit card.

TOTAL: £ • I’m paying by Cheque n Please make it payable to ‘Trial Magazine’ • I’m paying by Card n (Visa • Eurocard • Mastercard) CARD NUMBER

nnnn-nnnn-nnnn-nnnn Expiry date: n n- n n Security code: n n n Signature: Date:

MORE PRODUCTS AND LATEST DEALS AT TRIALMAGUK.COM Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

101

Youth • Isle of Man

ISLE OF MAN TRIALS

BUSINESS AS USUAL

COVID-19 pandemic has caused major impact this season with hundreds of events cancelled up and down the country resulting with limited opportunities to ride and compete. However, one part of the British Isles has managed to make it through this crisis better than most. With a strict lockdown of the Isle of Man’s border since late March, the virus was eliminated from their shores. There have been no new cases detected for well over 100 days, and whilst travel to and from the famous motorcycling haven is restricted, the local calendar is back and bigger than ever with no restrictions in place – it is literally business as usual!

Report: Isle of Man Youth Trials Club Limited • Pictures: Brian Maddrell

T

here are six different clubs offering trials events on the island, with one of the busiest being the well-known Isle of Man Youth Trials Club. Scheduled to host a double-header of rounds in this year’s ACU Youth British Championship back in May (they last hosted in 2018), they re-planned their calendar following lockdown.

In mid-August, they hosted the Youth Two-Day Trial over the weekend of the 15th and 16th of August at the venues pencilled in for the National championship rounds, Scarlett Point and Scarlett Farm, which also formed two rounds of the IOM Youth championship.

In 2020, the club decided to move away from using the A–D age-related categories moving classes focussed on ability. They found riders often felt pushed out of the sport if they weren’t ready to be in the relevant category determined by their date of birth. There can be such a difference in ability within age groupings; this seemed to be the best option to try and boost rider numbers and stop people drifting away, with the club reporting some notable successes already.

Alice Chestnut-Cubbon (OSET)

THE ROOKIE CLASS

Isla Kennington (OSET)

102

Danny Cain (Beta)

Catering for the youngest and most inexperienced riders, this class was well supported on the first day with six riders starting including a couple of complete newcomers. The top three positions were close at the end with Clodagh Higgins losing eight marks, Isla Kennington 10 and Thomas Kirk on 11 marks lost. Positions on Sunday were reversed with Isla getting the top spot from Clodagh in second and newcomer, Harry Kinrade, in third. This left Isla and Clodagh in joint first for the overall Two-Day, with Thomas Kirk and Harry Kinrade joining them on the podium at the end of the trial.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Isle of Man • Youth

Jack Asbridge-Heard (Gas Gas)

Jack Christian (Beta)

Zac Lund (Beta)

CADET CLASS

Oliver Kennington led the way on both days in the very well-supported Cadet class (12 riders) losing a total of one mark for the weekend — a solitary dab on Sunday morning. He was pushed all the way on the first day by the returning Evan Arnold, who matched his clean ride, and the pair were closely followed by the leading girl, Alice Chestnut-Cubbon, who rode very well to lose just two marks.

The second day saw a slightly tougher course set out for these predominantly OSET mounted riders, with Kennington losing his dab early in the trial. Harrison Doyle slotted into second place on Sunday on 16, with Alice ChestnutTrial Magazine • October-November 2020

Cubbon backing up her first day’s performance with a third-place score of 18. This left the overall positions for the weekend with Oliver in first place, Alice taking second and Harrison in third.

INTERMEDIATE ‘EVO’ CLASS

The progression to the Intermediate ‘Evo’ class is designed as a stepping stone for riders as they progress onto petrol machines or join the sport at a slightly older age. It saw Zac Lund as the only finisher on Saturday; the long lap putting Carter Cubbon and his OSET out of contention.

The shorter lap on Sunday allowed Carter to successfully complete the day, losing 35 marks to Lund’s 54. But Travis Bradshaw came back from a first day DNF to pip them both with a great ride of 34 to take the win.

Stanley Cubbon (Beta)

103

Youth • Isle of Man

Bobby Moyer (Beta)

INTERMEDIATE CLASS

It was Cayden Higgins who rode consistently on both days, with losses of three and two to take the top spot for the Two-Day and maximum championship points. He finished clear of Jack Christian and Ruby McCubbin on Saturday, with Liam Barker challenging him closely on Sunday with a loss of four and Jack Christian again finishing in the top three. This left the overall top three for the weekend as Higgins on top, Jack Christian in second and Liam Barker slotting in third place.

YOUTH EXPERTS CLASS

Two days of challenging competition witnessed the three competitors all putting in great performances. On Saturday Jack AsbridgeHeard finished on 20 marks, a little way clear of Summer Peters on 33 and Stanley Cubbon on 38. The youngest rider in the class, Cubbon turned it around on Sunday with a great ride to top spot losing 24 marks. Asbridge-Heard was a handful behind in second, with Peters further back in third. This left Jack with the overall win for the Two-Day, from Summer and Stanley respectively.

Jacob Wilson (Beta)

YOUTH ELITE CLASS

Bobby Moyer put in a great ride on Saturday on a challenging course in this class to finish on 19.

Completing the three laps of 10 sections and overcoming a front puncture along the way, he finished well clear of Kaytlyn Adshead on 49 and Corey Peters on 56. Sunday saw a similar but much closer result with Moyer once again on top, losing 20 marks this time, with Adshead finishing much closer on 24 and Peters on 34.

SUPPORTING ADULT CATEGORIES Recently turned 16, Owen Chestnut rode as an adult Expert on the same course as the Youth Elites and lost 38 on day one and 16 on day two. Ashley Gardner rode both days on the Intermediate route, losing nine and seven marks respectively.

With no chance of off-Island competition for the foreseeable future, the opportunity to ride as much as possible at home is greatly appreciated by all those who regularly travel off the island to compete in various Championships.

Lilly Peters (OSET)

IOM YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP DAY 1, ROUND 4

YOUTH ELITE: 1: Bobby Moyer 19; 2: Kaytlyn Adshead 49; 3: Corey Peters 56.

YOUTH EXPERT: 1: Jack Asbridge-Heard 20; 2: Summer Peters 33; 3: Stanley Cubbon 38.

INTERMEDIATE: 1: Cayden Higgins 3; 2: Jack Christian 16; 3: Ruby McCubbin 20; 4: Jacob Wilson 22; 5: Liam Barker 29; 6: Rhett Iveagh 80.

INTER ‘EVO’:1: Zac Lund 56.

CADETS: 1: Oliver Kennington 0; Evan Arnold 0; 3: Alice Chestnut-Cubbon 2; 4: Sebastian Iveagh 6; 5: Harrison Doyle 8; 6: Ewan McCubbin 14; 7: Benjamin Bradshaw 18; 8: Danny Cain 19; 9: Daryl Cain 42; 10: Ivy Quayle 47; 11: Callan Quayle 50.

ROOKIES: 1: Clodagh Higgins 8; 2: Isla Kennington 10; 3: Thomas Kirk 11; 4: Harry Kinrade 36; 5: James Arnold 74; 6: Lily Peters 79.

ADULT EXPERT: 1: Owen Chestnut 38.

ADULT SPORTSMAN: 1: Ashley Gardner 9.

DAY 2, ROUND 5 YOUTH ELITE: 1: Bobby Moyer 20; 2: Kaytlyn Adshead 24; 3: Corey Peters 34.

YOUTH EXPERT: 1: Stanley Cubbon 24; 2: Jack Asbridge-Heard 27; 3: Summer Peters 49.

INTERMEDIATE: 1: Cayden Higgins 2; 2: Liam Barker 4; 3: Jack Christian 13; 4: Ruby McCubbin 14; 5: Jacob Wilson 16.

INTER ‘EVO’: 1: Travis Bradshaw 34; 2: Carter Cubbon 35; 3: Zac Lund 54.

CADETS: 1: Oliver Kennington 1; 2: Harrison Doyle 16; 3: Alice Chestnut-Cubbon 18 (most cleans); 4: Ewan McCubbin 18; 5: Danny Cain 27; 6: Benjamin Bradshaw 51; 7: Daryl Cain 64.

ROOKIES: 1: Isla Kennington 8; 2: Clodagh Higgins 10; 3: Harry Kinrade 14; 4: Thomas Kirk 17; 5: Lily Peters 66.

ADULT EXPERT: 1: Owen Chestnut 16.

ADULT SPORTSMAN: 1: Ashley Gardner 7.

TWO-DAY OVERALL RESULTS

Owen Chestnut (Scorpa)

104

YOUTH ELITE: 1: Bobby Moyer; 2: Kaytlyn Adshead; 3: Corey Peters.

YOUTH EXPERT: 1: Jack Asbridge-Heard; 2: Stanley Cubbon; 3: Summer Peters. Intermediate – 1: Cayden Higgins; 2: Jack Christian; 3: Liam Barker; 4: Ruby McCubbin; 5: Jacob Wilson.

INTERMEDIATE ‘EVO’: 1: Zac Lund.

CADETS: 1: Oliver Kennington; 2: Alice ChestnutCubbon; 3: Harrison Doyle; 4: Ewan McCubbin; 5: Danny Cain; 6: Benjamin Bradshaw; 7: Daryl Cain.

ROOKIES: 1: Clodagh Higgins & Isla Kennington; 3: Thomas Kirk; 4: Harry Kinrade; 5: Lilly Peters.

ADULT EXPERT: 1: Owen Chestnut.

ADULT SPORTSMAN: 1: Ashley Gardner.

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

AG Bikes TrialMag 0720.pdf

1

12/07/2020

20:14

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Inta Trialsport Trial Mag 0920.pdf

1

14/09/2020

21:44

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

ALL 2021 BIKES AVAILABLE

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

105

Andy Metcalfe Trial Mag 0318.pdf

1

08/03/2018

20:53

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

EAST NEUK

TRIALS MOTORCYCLES Young Blair Walker taking charge of his 2020 Scorpa Twenty Factory 125

2020 MODELS IN STOCK NOW

NEW AND USED MACHINES AVAILABLE

Call now: 01333 311744 www.DuncanWoodTrialSport.com Email duncan.wood@btconnect.com 106 Duncan Wood Trials Sport HP 0220.indd

1

SALES • SET UP • SERVICE 14:28 October-November 2020 16/01/2020 • Trial Magazine

Dave Cooper Trial Mag 0817.pdf

1

14/08/2017

RAS Sport TrialMag 1119.pdf

22:51

C

C

M

M

Y

Y

CM

CM

MY

MY

CY

CY

CMY

CMY

K

K

Active Bikesport Trialmag 0720.pdf

1

12/07/2020

20:10

1

04/11/2019

Trial and Trail Trialmag 1117.pdf

1

23:27

13/11/2017

22:21

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Feetup Trials TrialMag 0920.pdf

1

14/09/2020

AB MC's TrialMag 0920.pdf

21:56

C

C

M

M

Y

Y

CM

CM

MY

MY

CY

CY

CMY

CMY

K

K

1

14/09/2020

20:57

2021 MODELS IN STOCK

Email: alanatfeetup@gmail.com RCM TrialMag 0116.pdf

IF YOU HAVE READ THIS THEN SO HAVE YOUR CUSTOMERS

1

15/01/2016

19:17

The South West’s only Dedicated Trials Dealer for:

Clothing | Boots | Helmets Accessories | Tyres | Oils Chains | Sprockets Selection of second hand bikes ready to ride Large selection of spares Next day delivery

www.trialmaguk.com To advertise contact John on 01663 749163 or email: england@trialmag.com

Trial Magazine • October-November 2020 Trial Mag House Ad EPH 0720.indd 1

107 15/07/2020 14:56

Locator • Find your local dealer

DEALER LOCATOR 01 2T-Offroad

Tel: 01592 772867 Email: trials2t-offroad@Hotmail.com Area: Kirkcaldy, KY1 4DE

02 AB Motorcycles

Tel: 01685 382100 Email: barrie-ab@hotmail.com Web: www.abmotorcycles.co.uk Area: Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2SR

03 Acklams Motorcycles

Tel: 07957 148588 / 07540 591410 Email: sales@acklamsbeta.co.uk Web: www.acklamsmotorcycles.com Area: Harrogate, HG3 2BG

04 Active Bikesport

Tel: 01761 241887 Email: activebikesport@gmail.com Area: Radstock, BA3 4PD

05 AG Bikes

Tel: 01748 886356 Email: gebrownson@f2s.com Area: Reeth, DL11 6NH

06 Andy Metcalfe Motorcycles

Tel: 01287 638030 Email: andymetcalfemotorcycles@gmail.com Web: www.andymetcalfemotorcycles.com Area: Guisborough, TS14 7DH

07 Birkett Motosport

Tel: 01229 716806 Email: nigel.birkett@talk21.com Web: www.birkettmotosportukltd.com Area: Broughton in Furness, LA20 6EZ

08 Bob MacGregor Trials Academy

Web: www.trialsacademy.co.uk Area: Annick, KA3 4EH

09 BVM Moto UK

Tel: 01453 297 177 Email: sales@bvm-moto.co.uk Web: www.bvm-moto.co.uk Area: Stroud, GL5 5EX

10 Camio Moto

Tel: 01246 792033 Email: sales@camiomoto.co.uk Web: www.camiomoto.co.uk Area: Dronfield, S18 7SD

11 Craigs Motorcycles

Tel: 01924 488117 Email: aaron@craigsmotorcycles.com Web: www.craigsmotorcycles.com Area: Dewsbury, WF13 1HX

12 East Neuk Trials Motorcycles

Tel: 01333 311744 Email: duncan.wood@btconnect.com Area: Fife, KY10 2RB

13 Edmondson Racing

Tel: 01543 450150 Email: fasteddyracing@hotmail.com Area: Cannock, WS11 9UH

14 Feetup

Tel: 01723 865577 Email: alanatfeetup@gmail.com Web: www.feetuptrialsport.co.uk Area: Scarborough, YO12 4QB

15 Inch Perfect Trials

Tel: 01200 448130 Email: sales@inchperfecttrials.co.uk Web: www.inchperfecttrials.co.uk Area: Whitewell, BB7 3AU

16 Inta Bikes

Tel: 01622 688727 Email: intabikes@btconnect.com Web: www.intabikes.co.uk Area: Maidstone, ME15 6HE

17 John Lee & Sons Motorcycles

Tel: 01933 312827 Mail: johnlee.mc@btconnect.com Web: www.johnleemotorcycles.co.uk Area: Higham Ferrers, NN10 8BP

19 Mickey Oates Motorcycles

Tel: 0141 332 7374 Email: sales@mickeyoates.com Web: www.mickeyoates.com Area: Glasgow, G4 9XP

20 RAS Sport

Tel: 01484 711720 Email: andrew@rassport.com Web: www.rassport.com Area: Brighouse, HD6 1LH

21 RCM Trialsport

Tel: 01209 820896 Email: rcm-trialsport@hotmail.com Area: Redruth, TR16 5PN

22 South West Trials

Tel: 01395514287 Mail: southwesttrials@gmail.com Web: www.swtrials.co.uk Area: Sidmouth, EX10 9DN

23 St Blazey MX

Tel: 01726 816181 Web: www.stblazeymx.co.uk Mail: sales@stblazeymx.co.uk Area: St Blazey, PL24 2RN

24 TrialEnduroDirect

Tel: 01298 766 813 Email: sales@trialendurodirect.com Web: www.trialendurodirect.com Area: Buxton, SK17 9JL

25 Trail & Trials UK

Tel: 01334 840414 Email: john@tytrials.com Web: www.tytrials.com Area: New Gilston, KY8 5TF

26 Trials UK

Tel: 0113 281 8242 Email: sales@trialsuk.co.uk Web: www.trialsuk.co.uk Area: Horsforth, LS18 5NX

18 Marsh MX

Tel: 01685 385201 Email: Anthony@marshmx.co.uk Web: www.marshmx.co.uk Area: Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8PE

FOR THE LATEST PRODUCTS AND DEALS, HAVE YOU 108

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Find your local dealer • Locator

25 01 12 19 08

06

05

07 15

14 26

03

20 11 24 10

13 17

02 18

09 04

16

22

21

23

VISITED OUR ONLINE SHOP AT TRIALMAGUK.COM? Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

109

SUBSCRIBE

Future issues • Subscribe

NEVER MISS ANOTHER ISSUE!

E E FSR 3 NECK WARMER ALL NEW WORTH £11.99 WITH S* ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION

SIDE 2

SIDE 1

UK: £29.99 • EUROPE: £39.99 • RoW: £49.99

FOR THE LATEST PRODUCTS AND DEALS, HAVE YOU 110

October-November 2020 • Trial Magazine

Subscribe • Future issues MOTORCYCLE • CYCLE • SIDECAR

• CLASSIC • COMPETITION • FEAT URES

www.trialmaguk.com

80

FREE

DOUBLE -SIDED

BOU!

POSTER INSIDE

NO STOPPING

• CLASSIC • COMPETITION • FEAT URES

ELECTRIC

REFLECTION

RE NTHAL 50 YEARS ON

771753 004072

TRRS WORLD PARTY ON-E VERTIGO LADIES ALICIA ROBINSON 771753 004072

8 0

8 0

1753-0040 ISSN

ER P OST INSIDE

APRIL-MAY 2020

FREE

IDED DOUBLE-S

SN 1 7 5 3 - 0 0 4 0 ISSUEI S80 • UK: £5.99

81

9

www.trialmaguk.com

9

MOTORCYCLE • CYCLE • SIDECAR

LADIES

PARTY

Trial Magazine Issue 80.indd 1

ELECTRIC 17/03/2020 10:14

TRIAL GB

STRONG 40 YEAR CELEBRATION

771753 004072

771753 004072

9

TION COTA 301 RR 20LEC 10 SSDT

9

8 1

8 1

1753-0040

JUNE-JULY 2020

ISSN

SN 1 7 5 3 - 0 0 4 0 ISSUEI S81 • UK: £5.99

QUICK SPIN

REF

QUICK SPIN CELEBRATION REF LECTION

Trial Magazine Issue 81.indd 1

TO SUBSCRIBE

For UK, Europe and Worldwide, order securely at www.trialmaguk.com/subscriptions/ or fill the form below and return to: Trial Magazine, 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX. Tel: 01663 744766 or email england@trialmag.com

SIX-ISSUE SUBSCRIPTION (12 Months) PLUS FREE S3 NECK WARMER* n UK = £29.99 n EUROPE = £39.99 n RoW = £49.99

* Subject to limited stock availability. This offer is for new subscribers only, not for resubscriptions or renewals.

POSTAGE DETAILS 18/05/2020 13:19

Full Name: Address:

PAYMENT DETAILS

You can pay by cheque or debit/credit card.

TOTAL: £ • I’m paying by Cheque n Please make it payable to ‘Trial Magazine’

Postcode: Phone number: Email: n Tick here if you wish to receive promotions of Trial Magazine and its partners

• I’m paying by Card n (Visa • Eurocard • Mastercard) CARD NUMBER

nnnn-nnnn-nnnn-nnnn Security code: n n n

Expiry date: n n- n n Signature: Date:

VISITED OUR ONLINE SHOP AT TRIALMAGUK.COM? Trial Magazine • October-November 2020

111

WWW.APICO.CO.UK

HARRY HEMINGWAY - IMAGE CREDIT - TRIALS MEDIA - FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RD1 ISOL A 2000, FRANCE