Trial Magazine Issue 90 December 2021-January 2022 by Trials Media

SCOTT TRIAL

JACK’S PRIZE TRRS TIPS ON TOUR GASGAS UNITED IN DIRT WORKSHOP

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MOTORCYCLE • CYCLE • SIDECAR • CLASSIC • COMPETITION • FEATURES

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Trial Magazine • Welcome

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

WELCOME 30

ON TOUR

CATCH UP

MY WORLD

FOCUSSED

WORKSHOP

TRADITIONAL

QUICK SPIN

FLASHBACK

SPORT

YOUTH

GASGAS United in Dirt Matteo Grattarola (Beta) Jack Dance (GASGAS)

THE TEAM Co-Managing Directors John Hulme & Charles Benhamou

Gael Chatagno (EM)

Executive Director Philippe Benhamou

TRRS Tips

Editor John Hulme

Scott Trial

(NUJ No: 949620)

2019 Gas Gas TXTE

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

FEATURES

2008 Scott Trial — Fujigas ACU Trial GB

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SIDECARS

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LADIES

104

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Proof reading Jane Hulme and Davina Brooks Commercial Manager John Hulme england@trialmag.com Design and Production Dean Cook The Magazine Production Company www.magazineproduction.com

Printing: Buxtons Press Distribution: Warners Group Publications © 2021 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 • December 2021-January 2022

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Cover: Jack Price (Vertigo) 2021 Scott Trial Winner Photo Credit: John Hulme

Talk trials • Toni Bou

TONI BOU

FUJIGAS – THANK YOU!

Growing up around motorcycles, you soon start to understand the noise of the machines and, in some cases, the riders. When I started out into the adult world of the FIM World Trials Championship, one rider always caught my eyes and my ears; that rider was Japan’s Takahisa Fujinami. From the two-stroke years on the Cota 315 and then on the four-stoke Cota 4RT, it was always all-action and plenty of RPM; yes, we are talking full gas or, as he became better known, ‘Fujigas’. Words: Toni Bou with John Hulme • Pictures: Trials Media and Fili

I arrived at the Repsol Honda team in 2007 when both Dougie Lampkin and Takahisa Fujinami had devoted so much time developing the four-stroke Repsol Honda. Despite their rivalry, they worked very much as a team, sharing information with me on how to get the best from the four-stroke machine. As Dougie left the team at the end of 2007, I became even closer to ‘Fuji’ over the following years. He was still very much a winner and a world championship contender, but once the competition was over, he also became a good friend. Win or lose, he was always the same. Travelling together was so easy and such good fun as, I am sure you can imagine, almost anything could happen with him around! Long hours of machine development became good fun as we would spend so much time perfecting the machines. We would always push one another, which helped us raise our game in the constant quest for the coveted world title. After 26 seasons, ‘Fuji’ bows out of the sport as a top-level rider. He can raise his head

very high as the results speak for themselves. He started 355 events, became the 2004 FIM World Trials Champion, the last for a two-stroke machine, 168 podiums and 34 wins. He also finished in the world championship top-five over 20 consecutive seasons and has been the world championship runner-up on seven occasions. He remains the youngest rider to win a world championship event in 1997 at the age of 17 and holds the record for the most elderly rider, attained earlier in 2021 with a win in Italy aged 41. Arriving as a boy from Japan before growing into a man and becoming a world champion, ‘Fujigas’ we all salute you at Team Repsol Honda. See you in 2022, stay safe and well – Toni ‘Dynamite’ Bou.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

The pinnacle of competition. Championship dominating and constantly evolving, the Cota 4RT 301RR Race Replica is the choice of the ultimate trial champion. We’ve taken the best and made it that little bit better by creating a Race Replica that includes a distinguished World Championship decoration. Visit honda.co.uk to find out more. Moved by Dreams.

News • The world of trials

2022 FIM TRIAL WORLD OSET CHRISTMAS UPDATE CHAMPIONSHIP

The Japanese round will get the championship underway with two pointsscoring days on 20–22 May and will be followed by Andorra on 11-12 June 11–12. A week later, on 18-19 June, the championship will head to Lourdes for the French round before they travel north a fortnight later to Belgium at Comblain au Pont on 2-3 July. Another double-header is planned on 8–10 July for the round at Neunkirchen, close to the border with France. The series then signs off, following a summer break, with a further two scoring days at Ponte di Legno in Italian on 16–18 September. The premier TrialGP class will be in action alongside Trial2 at all six rounds. TrialGP Women riders will compete in Japan, Belgium, Germany and Italy, and Trial2 Women riders will fight it out for the title in Belgium, Germany and Italy. The Trial125 championship for up-and-coming riders will be contested in Andorra, France, Germany and Italy. A new addition to the calendar for 2022 is the FIM Trial Vintage Trophy. It will be staged at Monza in Italy on 23–24 September over the same weekend as the Trial des Nations, which is scheduled for September 24–25. All dates, events, and spectators’ attendance are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and approval of the corresponding governments and authorities.

No one will be surprised at the news that global supply chains are disjointed. OSET is suffering the same as many manufacturing companies. The OSET dealer and importer networks are rightly frustrated, as are many end customers. The problem has been compounded further by increased demand. OSET founder Ian Smith said, “It feels like we’ve had nothing to sell, but the truth is, we have still been getting bikes in and selling them. Unfortunately, they’re all very late to arrive, which doubles the issue. As soon as they come in, they’re out the door. Demand has gone up massively, and supply is at 60% of normal levels from previous years. It means that many customers are not able to get bikes. It is a terrible shame on all levels. He continued, “We truly feel for our customers and anyone left in the lurch by these circumstances. However, we know we are not alone, and this situation is common amongst most of us in this industry we love. We are very much looking forward to the situation stabilising in 2022, and we especially look forward to announcing some of the exciting new ventures we will be getting into”. Stay tuned for an in-depth interview with Ian in an upcoming issue of Trial Magazine. The story of OSET through COVID and the plans for coming out the other side stronger.

SCOTTISH SIX-DAY TRIAL 2022 Following the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 Scottish Six Days Trials, we can confirm that the 2022 event is on and will be held from the 2nd to 7th May 2022, again centred around its ‘home’ at Fort William. As we went to press, applications for entries had opened, and if a ballot for entries is necessary, this will be held mid-December. Work and preparations have already started and, although some work was completed for the 2020 event, there will be a lot of work required to make sure that the six daily routes over hundreds of miles are in a fit state to be in the event! See you all in May.

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December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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News • The world of trials

TRRS RR 2022 WHAT’S NEW: The position of the steering-head angle has been modified, as well as the heat treatment process, reducing stresses and improving dimensions. These changes increase agility and provide better handling to the rider. A new rubber for the protection of the crankcase has substantially increased its resistance against possible impacts. In the intake part for the air-filter box they have designed a new drain flap that improves drainage when both water and mud are abundant on the ground. In addition, the improvement in the air-filter spring improves its positioning. The front forks have new settings and gold tube stanchions with black lower legs that combine with the machined and anodized triple clamps in the same colour. In the damping system at the rear a more reinforced ball joint is added, which increases the duration and reduces free play. The electrical installation mounts have a new protector for the regulator connector, which improves protection against the projection of water and mud. This system feeds the cooling, which is managed by the reliable electronic temperature sensor together with an efficient 134 Ø mm fan. The exhaust system uses a new forged support at the front which keeps the titanium exhaust curve fixed with more ‘Racing’ characteristics. The black anodized rims with white hubs combine with the modern design of the RR as a whole. Engine: On all the engines the magnetic flywheel changes its configuration, increasing the torque at low revs and achieving a constant power delivery. 250, 280 and 300: The aluminium injection crankcases have received an update which increases manufacturing precision and reduces stresses. 125: This has been equipped with a new crankshaft, piston, cylinder head and cylinder head. Electric Start Models: As already announced, with the GOLD model the cable routing from the battery to the starter motor has been updated. A redesign of the starter motor has also been incorporated, improving assembly fitting with the exhaust. A new choke lever Keihin adapter has been added to facilitate accessibility when equipped with an electric starter.

TRRS ON-E KIDS 20” & 16” 2022

TRRS has updated its junior motorcycle with an unbeatable traction capacity, thanks to its progressive damping system and trial tyres. The aluminium monocoque frame and the packaging of its components provides both lightness and manageability, allowing for easy and intuitive learning when riding with turning and hopping. The possibilities of adjusting the power delivery, response and speed parameters allows the motorcycle to be adapted to the needs of the rider according to his level, beginner or expert, as well as to the conditions of the terrain.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

HAT'S OFF

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WHAT’S ON YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST?

S3 EM SPROCKETS

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December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

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On Tour • GASGAS

GAS GAS

UNITED IN DIRT It is always good to be invited to any motorcycle manufacturer's presentation. At Trial Magazine, we focus 100% on trials, but as two-wheeled enthusiasts, we follow all forms of off-road discipline. Staying in Europe, the original Gas Gas brand was acquired by the Austrian company KTM AG, which owns KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles, and WP Suspension. The company rebranded GASGAS and now have introduced a new model range. Since the mid-80s, the Spanish manufacturer Gas Gas has enjoyed success mostly in trials and enduro with great names such as Jordi Tarres in trials and Paul Edmondson in enduro, both FIM world championship winners. However, despite success in both competition and sales for Gas Gas, it has had, shall we say, a turbulent history. Since 2020, its new permanent home is now in Austria. With a tried and tested trials range, the GASGGAS success has continued right at the cutting edge of the sport as Great Britain's hot new prospect Jack Dance demolished the opposition in the 2021 FIM Trial125 World Championship. He was not on his own, though; the 'Queen' of off-road riding, Spain's Laia Sanz, returned to the sport to take the Women's FIM TrialGP World Championship crown. 'United in Dirt' was the focus of the UK presentation of the 2022 GASGAS off-road range at Butts Quarry in Ashover, Derbyshire, in October.

Trial Magazine – Team fun.

Words: Team Trial Magazine: John Hulme, Michael Brown, Heath Brindley and Francisco Ramnial Pictures: GASGAS and Team Trial Magazine, Too fast Media, Heath Brindley and Francisco Ramnial

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

GASGAS • On Tour

United in Dirt – GASGAS.

n late October, the weather remained very friendly to the assembled the invited press and media from all areas of off-road riding, including Enduro, Motocross, Trials and a new area for GasGas, the two-wheeled world of E-Bikes. It was overcast and quite a cool day at Butts Quarry, near Ashover. Apart from the odd early-morning light shower, the old quarry workings were an ideal arena for GASGAS to demonstrate its investment and commitment to the famous name for the future and beyond.

PRESENTATION

for a light breakfast before the head of marketing Simon Roots, supported by his team from GASGAS, opened the door on the 'United in Dirt' day at 9.00am. Simon took us through a brief history of the manufacturer had been before explaining, with its wide range of models, where GASGAS would be heading in the future and beyond. It was quite interesting for Trial Magazine to hear not just about the manufacturer's future in trials but to also get an insight into where the motorcycle manufacturer would be heading with its enduro and motocross machines and, of course, the excellent new range of E-Bikes. As we have already expressed, GASGAS has enjoyed success in the slow-speed world of trials and the enduro and motocross worlds on a global scale.

It was a dark start from the home of Trial Magazine at New Mills in the High Peak for the one-hour drive to the outskirts of Chesterfield. The sat-nav pulled me in the right direction, heading towards the presentation as the dawn broke and the world woke up. It would be a brisk, early meet-up at 8.45am

Get on the GAS!

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

On the limit, Browny puts the trials machines to the test.

On Tour • GASGAS

Michael Brown checks out the limbo; everyone enjoyed their trials experience.

Simon then explained the schedule for the day, where one rider from each of the invited media and press outlets would be put into three groups to enjoy time on the range of products. Trial Magazine invited our well-known and vastly experienced motorcycle trials test rider, Michael Brown, also supported with photography and social media work, Heath Brindley and Francisco Ramnial.

LET'S RIDE

We certainly had plenty of support from the trials world with the GASGAS 2021 FIM Trial125 World Champion and factory-supported rider Jack Dance in attendance. To encourage the assembled enduro and motocross riders to have an insight into the skills required to ride the trials motorcycles, GASGAS had invited the experienced offroad instructor Stuart Day to encourage everyone to enjoy their time on the TXT Model range of the machines with some free tuition thrown in as well. Stuart owns and runs trials-riding experience days, and it was encouraging to see everyone enjoying their time on the trials machines. As a past ACU youth and adult British Trials Champion, Scott Trial winner and FIM top ten world championship rider, Michael Brown needs no introduction. He rode for the original Gas Gas brand for many years before retiring from mainstream competition. More recently, he has concentrated on his growing off-road motorcycle business. He also competes in the occasional enduro and is a very competent all-round off-road rider.

On the Camera – Heath Brindley.

IMPRESSIONS

Trials: "The brand has been around for many years, and it's so encouraging to see here today that it no doubt has a strong and positive future under its new owners. I enjoyed my time on all the off-road models, and here are my impressions. No doubt, the new GASGAS name will continue with its 26

On the GASGAS – Francisco Ramnial.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

www.gasgas.com

Photos: Sebas Romeo, Mitterbauer H.

GET ON THE

GAS!

Level up with the 2022 GASGAS Trial range! As always, each model comes complete with best-in-class technology and components, and for 2022 we’ve made them all Euro 5 compliant. With our global dealer network expanding at a rapid rate, it’s never been easier to get your hands on a TXT GP or TXT RACING trial bike. #GetOnTheGas

@gasgas.official

Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations! The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.

On Tour • GASGAS

Trade – Rob Sheldon from Motorex with John Hulme.

Let’s talk GASGAS.

sporting success, as demonstrated by Great Britain's Jack Dance and Spain's Laia Sanz. "With a two-stroke range consisting of the 125cc, 250cc, 280cc and 300cc engine capacities, they really do cater for a wide range of riders of all abilities. All the machines are effortless to ride and, for me, the highlight is the superb hydraulic diaphragm clutch which puts the power down to the rear wheel in a very strong, positive and controlled manner. "Very rider-friendly in all areas, it was interesting to watch the riders under Stuart Day's guidance who quickly adapted to the slow-speed world encouraged by the ease of control of the GASGAS models. They come with a strong sporting heritage and a very good reputation for ease of riding and rider-friendly engines. "If you are new to motorcycle trials, start with either a 125cc or 250cc engine. Forget

Racing – Jack Dance and ‘MB’

E-Bike – ‘MB’ gets the low down.

Food – Nicely fresh-cooked Paella went down well.

the engine size of your road or other off-road machine and start to learn about the sport. As you progress, you will find that the slow-speed sport is not all about power. On the other hand, if you want to move to the dizzy heights of the more challenging hazards, GASGAS can also cater to this with its choice of either the 280cc or 300cc models. Those who witnessed Jack Dance riding up the steep rocky outcrop in the quarry today will know exactly what I am talking about!" Enduro and Motocross: "With so many trials riders, they have always had a secret need for speed — and I am no different. I will not go into the many two- and four-stroke models in the GASGAS range, but I had some serious fun on both the motocross and enduro machines on the loop around this quarry. Again, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer's common denominator on any off-road machine is the ease of riding and comfort, which is second to none. If I was racing these machines regularly, I am never sure whether I would go for a two- or four-stroke. I always get the impression that the two-stroke is more agile, but I simply love the smooth power from a four-stroke. I am a racer at heart, and it was music to my ears when young Jack Dance on the two-stroke told me he could always get out of the start gate quicker on a two-stroke than a four. I was on the fourstroke, and I 'smoked' him every time. Maybe next time, Jack!" E-Bikes: "Michael Brown pedalling? You must be having a laugh! Seriously, these are

incredible products, and if you have not ridden an E-Bike, you need to. I am not into all the 'Watts' and electrical components and what makes it all work, but I do know that this is a really enjoyable way of keeping fit and enjoying a silent world of off-road riding. "During the Covid-19 situation, they have become incredibly popular, and it looks like one could be coming to my stable with my other off-road toys very shortly. Unfortunately, the availability of the GASGAS model range is very still limited, but I believe that this will become much easier in 2022."

UNITED IN DIRT

It was an enjoyable day out that the team from GASGAS invited Trial Magazine to. With a good introduction and a well-orchestrated day, listening to the other people's opinions on GASGAS in the off-road world was interesting. The day was perfectly interrupted by a much welcome and nicely fresh-cooked Paella, which went down very well. Fortunately, as after-lunch entertainment, only the nominated riders from each press and media outlet were invited into the 'E-Bike' shoot-out. Everyone who attended received an excellent insight into the future of GASGAS; they are a strong and ambitious brand, and we expect to see so much more from them in the not-too-distant future. A huge thank you from 'Team' Trial Magazine goes to Simon Roots and everyone who made our visit to the GASGAS 'United in Dirt' such an enjoyable one. Thank you.

E-Bike – Training, Heath with ‘MB’.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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FIND US ON

Catch Up• Matteo Grattarola

BACK ON TRACK MATTEO GRATTAROLA

Since we started Trial Magazine here in the UK back in late 2006, I have noticed so many riders whose sole aim is to make it to the premier league of our two-wheeled sport, TrialGP. A few have been in TrialGP since we started, notably Toni Bou and Adam Raga. However, I noted another name back in 2006 who is still competing today, Italy's Matteo Grattarola. After progressing through the then-titled FIM Youth and Junior classes in the world championship, Matteo progressed into TrialGP (as we now know it) until 2010, where he finished in an encouraging 10th position. With a best finish of seventh overall in 2013, he did not contest the 2015 championship. After the sabbatical year, he came back in 2016 and 2017. The sport was changing, and so did Matteo, as he moved down to the new FIM Trial2 Class in 2018, winning the title on both four- and two-stroke machines with Honda/Montesa and Beta from 2018 to 2020. At the close of the 2020 season, he announced that he would be returning to the premier league, TrialGP, with full support from Beta. With what he described as unfinished business, had he made the correct decision? We are about to find out. Words: John Hulme with Matteo Grattarola • Pictures: Trials Media and Fili 30

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Matteo Grattarola • Catch Up

Fully committed in the heat of Andorra 2021.

Well done on your 2021 world championship result! Matteo Grattarola: "Thank you. It has been a very competitive year, and I am delighted with the outcome. I started the year with a very open mind, focusing on enjoying riding in trials. As we now know, I was very competitive from the very first round, which was on home ground in Italy. I felt very happy with the support from Beta, and the machine was just what I needed. I really enjoyed the challenge of the more difficult sections found in TrialGP, which brought out the best in my riding. In the first round in Italy, Toni Bou and Adam Raga had their usual battle at the front, but I came home third and made it to my first ever podium in the top class, beating some of the much younger riders." Did it encourage you? Matteo: "100% yes. It made me realise that I could be competitive in TrialGP after three winning years in Trial2. On the second day in Italy, I slipped down to fifth, but I was still mixing it with the best riders in the world. The boost to my confidence

Enjoying the challenge of TrialGP in 2021 on the Beta.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Junior Cup action in Ireland in 2008 with support from Sherco and the Italian Federation.

and the belief in my riding made me realise that I had most definitely made the correct decision to move up to the TrialGP class with Beta. "When we went to round two in France, I knew that some people believed that my results in Italy were due to my home advantage – an Italian rider on an Italian machine in Italy – so when I finished second in France, it silenced them! Toni easily won the event, but I won the vital tiebreak decider with Adam as we both lost 46 marks to finish second, and I was fourth overall in the championship." You felt good. Matteo: The self-belief was an incredible feeling! I had been on the podium for the first time in my TrialGP career, not once but twice. I wanted to train harder and practise more; my motivation was very high. I was very much enjoying the moment. "My Beta was fine-tuned to accommodate my riding style. It's a good solid well-developed machine at the top of its game and suits my riding style to perfection.

Team Italy at the 2021 TDN with Lorenzo Gandola (Beta) and Gianluca Tournour (GASGAS).

Catch Up• Matteo Grattarola

Matteo spent three years in the Junior Cup class from 2007 to 2009, it was as competitive as it is now! Alexz Wigg takes the top spot of the podium.

"The goal at the beginning of the season was to see how we got on and maybe aim for the top seven. Then, it was the top five. Now, I found myself in fourth after two rounds and three points-scoring days. I started to think about the top three. Could this be achieved?" Did this motivate you more? Matteo: "In Andorra, the weather was scorching, but even during the training, I felt good, and the Beta was in full attack mode and working perfectly. Motivation has never been a problem for me, and I knew what was possible. As I expected, Toni and Adam once again had their battle for the win, but I was on the podium again, too; I was so happy. Not just for myself but also for Beta and the whole team. They had so much belief in my ability, and I was now getting the results. "On day two in Andorra, my first lap score was good, but I had four stops which pushed me down to fifth on the day. Nevertheless, the two days of riding had been good, and I really enjoyed the variety of sections, including the rocky rivers, which made a change in the championship."

On the Sherco in Great Britain in 2009.

again, I finished in fifth position. I had finished my first full season in TrialGP since 2017 in fourth position overall. Nevertheless, it was a great result, not just for me but for the whole Beta team. At one point, third position in the championship was looking good but in reality, to finish fourth against the best riders in the world was a very honest result."

Third in the championship? Matteo: "We had competed in five of the nine points-scoring days in the 2021 FIM Trial World Championship, and I was holding third position overall; this was incredible. In my own mind, I knew that both Toni and Adam would take some beating in the championship, but I thought, with some strong riding, I could maybe, just maybe, finish the season on the podium in the championship. "I expected the younger riders such as Jaime Busto, Gabriel Marcelli and Miquel Gelabert be much stronger in the results, and you could never count out 'Fujigas'. "In France at Cahors, I finished sixth as Busto came third, and both Gelabert and 'Fujigas' pushed me down and out of the top five for the first time this season. I was annoyed because I had missed fourth place by just three marks." Busto then came good. Matteo: "As I expected, Jaime Busto found the riding form we all know he is capable of. Two fifth-place finishes in Spain dropped me down and out of the top three as Busto finished in front of me on both occasions. "In Portugal, I gave it my very best at the final round, but 32

2010 with the big boys in the FIM Trial World Championship. A total of 24 riders scored world championship points.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

THE CHOICE OF CHAMPIONS

TONI BOU 14 x FIM X-Trial World Champion (Indoor) 15 x FIM Trial World Champion (Outdoor)

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

Catch Up• Matteo Grattarola

In 2011 the decision was made to move to Gas Gas with support from the Italian importer Claudio Favro and the factory in Spain.

Take us back to the start of the championship career. Matteo: "I started out, as many riders do in Italy, on a Beta 50 competing in youth trials before progressing to riding Sherco machines in the various youth classes. As my riding improved, my first big win was the 2004 Junior title in Italy. I then moved into the Italian national championship classes before moving into the world championship again in 2004 in the Youth 125cc class, where I finished third. I repeated this result for two years before they moved into the Junior class, which is now Trial2, in 2007. This class was a real eye-opener; the standard of riding was so high. So many young riders started out on the same career path as me. 2007 was the first FIM Trial World Championship title for Toni Bou, and we all wanted to be that rider!"

After becoming more consistent in 2013, seventh in the world was the result.

Tenth in the world championship in 2012.

What were the early years like in the Junior Cup? Matteo: "I received some welcome support from Sherco and the Italian Federation. I spent three years in this class from 2007 to 2009. It was very competitive back then, as it is now. In 2007, Michael Brown won with fellow British rider Alexz Wigg second, and I was fourth. "In 2008, French rider Loris Gubian took the title with Wigg second, Alfredo Gomez third, and I was once again fourth. Alexz Wigg finally won in 2009 with Gomez second, as I finished off my final year in third position. I knew the time was right, and Sherco would support my move into TrialGP in 2010. It was a huge step, but I believe it was the correct one to make. "As is the situation now, some riders stay comfortable in Trial2, but there comes a time when you owe it to yourself to move into TrialGP."

2014 on the island of Corsica on the Gas Gas.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Matteo Grattarola • Catch Up

France – After the year out of the world championship Matteo returned in 2016

2017 was the last year on the Gas Gas.

In with the big boys! Matteo: "What a shock; I found the sections very difficult, and the level of riding was so high. Back in 2010, a total of 24 riders scored world championship points. Of the eight rounds, I did not go to Japan, as it was so expensive, and I was still finding my way in the class. In all the other rounds, I scored my best result at home in Italy, where I finished eighth. "In 2011, I decided to move to Gas Gas with support from the Italian importer Claudio Favro and the factory in Spain. I had won my first Italian national title in 2009 but lost out in 2010. However, the trials market in Italy was very buoyant, and the move to Gas Gas was important to help drive the sales. I won the title in 2011 and have successfully defended it up until 2021. In the world championship, I continued in tenth position up to 2012." Top ten finisher. Matteo: "After becoming more consistent in 2013, I moved up to seventh in the world before I dropped back to tenth again in 2014. The FIM World Trials Championship was going through some rule changes, which I was not sure about, and so in 2015, I

FIM Trial2 World Champion 2018.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

opted out of the series and stayed at home to contest the Italian championship on the Gas Gas. I returned in 2016 to finish ninth and then back to tenth in 2017. In truth, Gas Gas was going through a very difficult financial period. If I am 100% honest, I was not really enjoying riding anymore; I needed new motivation and a new challenge. In 2017, a new FIM Trial2 World Championship class was introduced to replace the Junior Cup. Great Britain's Iwan Roberts won it. I liked the look of the new championship; maybe it was time to take a reality check in the fact that I knew I could never win the TrialGP title." FIM Trial2 World Champion! Matteo: "I had received a really attractive offer from the Italian Honda importer to ride the four-stoke Cota 4RT in the Trial2 class, so I decided to move down from TrialGP. "I loved riding the four-stroke, and I spoke with Toni Bou

2018 would be the year of the four-stroke Honda for Matteo.

Catch Up• Matteo Grattarola

Back to the two-stroke with Beta in 2020.

Matteo: “I am very proud to say that I delivered the results in TrialGP that were far better than we first expected”.

about how to change from the two-stroke I was so used to. He was very helpful and a part of my successful transition to the machine. Talk about competitive! I was now surrounded by younger riders who all wanted to win; the question 'had I made a wise decision?' crossed my mind. "What a fight for victory, with Great Britain's Toby Martyn, who was also on the four-stroke machine; it went all the way to wire. I won on a tie break as we both had the same number of points. I successfully defended the title in 2018, once again on the four-stroke Honda. "In 2019, I finished second on the Honda to Gabriel Marcelli, before winning the title back in 2020, but this time on the two-stroke Beta. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, I had enjoyed my season in Trial2; I was riding well and was once again really enjoying the sport." TrialGP podium Matteo: "I asked myself, 'could I make a successful return to TrialGP?' I looked in the mirror; why not? At 33 years old, I was as physically fit as I had ever been in my life. I now had so much experience in the world

2020 FIM Trial2 World Champion for the second time.

Under pressure in France in TrialGP in 2021.

championship events. I had enjoyed winning in Trial2 and felt in the correct state of mind to have another period in TrialGP. I spoke with Beta about a return to the sport's top-level, and they said why not? The two-stroke Beta has been evolving over the years and now performs better than ever before. We agreed on terms for 2021, and I am very proud to say that I delivered the results far better than we first expected. What was really nice was how all the TrialGP riders respected what I was trying to achieve. It is about personal goals in life, and this year I feel very fulfilled. With success in 2021, I will again take my ambitions into 2022, and yes, once again, in TrialGP!"

THANK YOU

Matteo: "I really appreciate this opportunity to talk about my trials career with Trial Magazine's, John Hulme. Before I close the door on 2021, I want to personally thank everyone on my trials adventure. So many people have given so much support that it would be difficult to name you all, but you know who you are. Maybe there are still some boxes to tick on this adventure, but right now, I want to say a huge thank you to you all."

2021: Happy at ‘Team Beta’ – Thank you…

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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My World • Jack Dance

2021 FIM TRIAL125 WORLD CHAMPION

JACK DANCE It is very much a case of ‘welcome to my world’ as we look into the 2021 FIM Trial125 World Championship-winning year of Jack Dance. A punchby-punch account on his way to giving the new GASGAS brand its first FIM Trial World Championship. With close on 30 riders entered in this very competitive 125cc class, it was not just the hazards that were difficult to deal with but also the fact that around five riders were all capable of winning on the day, with four of them from the UK. Words: Trials Media with Jack Dance • Pictures: Trials Media and Christian Valeri 38

Round One, Italy: The GASGAS team made me very welcome in my first event as a rider for them.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Jack Dance • My World

Round One, Italy: Day Two: Father Adrian guides Jack through the woods

After the highs and lows of the 2020 season, Jack Dance came so close to winning, but a cancelled lap in Isola and a DNF in Spain on day one had wiped that opportunity away. However, he arrived with a very positive mindset for 2021. Armed with a full factory contract from GASGAS for the world championship and a new well-prepared machine looked after at the world rounds by the team, Jack knew it was now or never. As in the past, ‘Team Dance’ consisting of dad Adrian, Mum Nicky and younger brother Max travelled to all the rounds as a family to enjoy the experience as much as possible.

ROUND 1: TOLMEZZO, ITALY 12-13 JUNE 2021

Day One: “I was looking forward to the opening round. The GASGAS team made me very welcome in my first event as a rider for them. The majority of the sections were on the dry, bright rocks in the dried-up river bed. A single mark in the second section settled me down, but I was annoyed with myself with the stop in section six. I was riding okay, but when I stopped in the final section of the first lap, I was so frustrated with myself even though I was in the lead. “On the second lap, I fived the second section, and suddenly I felt a little under pressure. I got my act together and rode quite reserved for the rest of the lap to take the win. Harry Hemingway was strong, and he proved this with an eight-mark loss putting him in second position, but the big surprise was Harry Turner as he had the best second-lap score of just seven marks lost. I was happy with the first win considering I knew I had not ridden at my best.”

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

RESULTS: 1: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 22; 2: Hemingway 24; 3: Fabian 25; 4: Turner 31; 5: Schiele 35; 6: Dignan 36; 7: Bereiter 37; 8: Mercade 45; 9: Dinares 49; 10: Heidel 51; 11: Vall 54; 12: Zynzowski 54; 13: Brunisso 55; 14: Agnolin 57; 15: Rossi 63. POINTS: 1: DANCE 20; 2: Hemingway 17; 3: Fabian 15; 4: Turner 13; 5: Schiele 11. Day Two: “As the hot weather continued, I wanted to carry the momentum of the first day’s win. I started quite well and had just one five on section eight, whereas the majority of the other riders had problems. It was a shock that Spain’s Adria Mercade took the lead on the first lap, even though only by a single mark. I made a mental note to myself to just concentrate and think about my riding and be consistent. The GASGAS was performing well, and I thought my second-lap score would give me the win.

Round One, Italy: 20 points in the bag on day one.

“What I, nor any of the other riders, did not take into account was Harry Turner. Fair dues, his second-lap score of eight marks lost gave him a deserved win. I knew I had taken an unfortunate five, dropping me off the top spot, but I left Italy wondering if he could really be a title threat as Harry Hemingway had slipped to fifth on the day. I led the championship by four points from Turner. In my mind, I knew just how important the next two rounds in Andorra would be.” RESULTS 1: Harry Turner (Scorpa-GBR) 21; 2: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 25; 3: Mercade 29; 4: Dignan 29; 5: Hemingway 31; 6: Bereiter 32; 7: Fabian 38; 8: Vall 39; 9: Rossi 44; 10: Schiele 44; 11: Heidel 44; 12: Dinares 48; 13: Brunisso 50; 14: Fabio Schollar (Beta-AUT) 53; 15: Nick Weber (Beta-DEU) 54. POINTS: 1: DANCE 37; 2: Turner 33; 3: Hemingway 28; 3: Fabian 24; 5: Dignan 23.

Round One, Italy: Day Two: Would Harry Turner be a title threat?

My World • Jack Dance

ROUND 2: SANT JULIA, ANDORRA 21ST–22ND AUGUST 2021

Day One: “Arriving in Andorra with a new Minder for the next two rounds was going to be a bit different, but we had prepared well. I felt confident in how we were going to work together. The terrain here is gruelling. There are three section types: one being on a steep mountainside with sharp slate rocks; the second in a wooded area, again very steep but dusty; and the third was slippery streams. I felt strong during the trial. Hugh, my Minder, all day kept me on track with my riding. I got frustrated with a row of fives, knowing this was going to be hard to pull back, but I kept my focus and pushed hard till the end. Section 12 was my favourite section, with a spectacular rock. I was pleased to get two cleans on this section and finished on a high. I was pleasantly surprised when arriving back and being told I was in second place considering the fives and, equally, how important it was to get back on time as a tie-break can change everything.” RESULTS 1: Harry Hemingway (Beta-GBR) 18; 2: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 31; 3: Turner 31; 4: Fabian 40; 5: Vall 45; 6: Dignan 54; 7: Dinares 62; 8: Bereiter 66; 9: Schiele 67; 10: Heidel 70. POINTS: 1: DANCE 54; 2: Hemingway 48; 3: Turner 48; 3: Fabian 37; 5: Dignan 33.

Round Two, Andorra: Harry Hemingway had a superb ride.

Round Two, Andorra: Concentrating in the river.

Day Two: “I was not going to settle for second today and was ready for a good day’s riding. I was also conscious of the time element if the marks went to a tie break. I set off strong despite a minor setback with a machine issue on lap one. During my break, calm was restored with my team, and I progressed through the day and rode like I know-how. I knew it was going to be a close-scoring trial after the first lap, so I had to make sure that my riding was consistent. As on lap one, the focus on lap two was keeping my score as low as I could with some consistent riding; Hugh was encouraging me all the way round. I knew the time was tight when I saw Harry Hemingway race straight to the last section, not looking at it, and went straight in. Hugh shouted for me to line up, but a few riders were in front of me by this time, so the pressure was on. I took a safety dab at the top of the big rock step, hoping it would have been enough to secure the win, but I was still unsure. Winning was the goal, and we had achieved it; I was happy!” RESULTS 1: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 13; 2: Hemingway 19; 3: Turner 19; 4: Dignan 19; 5: Fabian 23; 6: Dinares 24; 7: Schiele 29; 8: Bereiter 30; 9: Vall 30; 10: Heidel 51. POINTS: 1: DANCE 74; 2: Hemingway 65; 3: Turner 63; 3: Fabian 48; 5: Dignan 46.

Round Two, Andorra: Day Two: Staying calm

Round Two, Andorra: Day Two: A strong ride was needed.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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My World • Jack Dance

Round Three, France: Fully focussed.

ROUND 3: CAHORS, FRANCE 29TH AUGUST 2021

“Going into the last round, I had a good nine-point championship lead but still wanted to get on the top step of the podium. At the section inspection in Cahors, my father, Adrian (who was also my Minder for the final round), and I focused on the technical aspect of the sections. Although they appeared to be on the easier side, I was not prepared to let my guard slip as I still had to ride the trial. Nothing was ever easy, especially at a final round. On the morning of the trial, we kept to our usual routine. The team had prepared the GASGAS to the usual high standard, and I was riding on point, although I felt slightly nervous, if I am honest. I had a job to do, but the team and my family kept it real with positive support. I quickly got into my stride, feeling very confident and I remained locked in focus with my dad while Albert Cabestany was watching on,

Round Three, France: Mum was very happy.

giving crucial advice when needed. I took my first and only mark on section six on lap one, which was needed to steady me. On lap two, the action, along with the weather, was getting hotter. I knew I was riding well; a one was needed on section four, as was the two-mark loss on section six. Situated next to the paddock were sections 11 and 12, which were quite technical. I knew the crowd were watching me. I gave my mum a quick thumbs-up; I was on form, and she knew it. A one was needed on the final section, but it felt amazing knowing I was now a World Champion; I had done it! I want to thank the whole GASGAS team, especially Albert Cabestany, for believing in me and the mechanics in my team for providing an awesome machine, my family for always supporting me, John R Shirt for helping me in the UK and to all my sponsors and supporters, I am truly grateful, always. Thank you!”

RESULTS: 1: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 5; 2: Vall 15; 3: Bereiter 17; 4: Schiele 17; 5: Hemingway 18; 6: Heidel 24; 7: Turner 25; 8: Zynzowski 28; 9: Fabian 29; 10: Dinares 30.

2021 FIM TRIAL125 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: JACK DANCE (GASGAS-GBR) 94; 2: Harry Hemingway (Beta-GBR) 76; 3: Harry Turner (Scorpa-GBR) 72; 4: David Fabian (BetaCZE) 55; 5: Ben Dignan (Vertigo-ESP) 51; 6: Rodney Bereiter (Beta-DEU) 50; 7: Gaudi Vall (Sherco-AND) 48; 8 Jonas Schiele (Beta-DEU) 46; 9: Pau Dinares (TRRS-ESP) 36; 10: Jonathan Heidel (TRRS-DEU) 33; 11: Adria Mercade (Sherco-ESP) 23; 12: Milosz Zynzowski (GASGASPoland) 22; 13: Enzo Rossi (Scorpa-FRA) 13; 14: Giacomo Brunisso (Beta-ITA) 11; 15: Pawel Ryncarz (GASGAS-POL) 7.

Winner: 2021 FIM Trial125 World Champion.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Focussed • Gael Chatagno

GAEL CHATAGNO

AN ELECTRIC FUTURE We were invited to launch the 2022 EM [Electric Motion] presentation in France earlier in the year. Having known the owner of EM, Philippe Aresten, for many years, it was a pleasure to accept the invitation. Along with the official UK importer for the French manufacturer Matthew Alpe, we had a super day. A few months before, Matthew had invited Gael Chatagno to the UK to help him promote the EM machines. Matthew asked me how well I knew Gael; he was quite shocked when I said very well. Gael was another fortunate rider involved in the FIM Trial World Championship as Trial Magazine here in the UK evolved. As my business partner, Phillipe Benhamou was French, I soon got to know Gael in the earlier part of his trials career, and we have kept in contact ever since. Was Gael just as focussed now with the move to EM as he was a few years ago? We were about to find out. Any path to an FIM Trial World Championship title is never easy, and for Gael Chatagno, it was no different, although the interview would be more straightforward as he speaks excellent English. Words: John Hulme with Gael Chatagno Pictures: Trials Media Zoie Carter-Ingham 44

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Gael Chatagno • Focussed

100% focussed on the job in hand, winning! Staying on line in the river for the world title in Andorra.

How does it feel to be an FIM Trial World Champion? Gael: “One word ‘Fantastic’ but it has not been an easy path, believe me. As with many younger riders, I set off from an early age interested in motorcycle trials. To finally arrive as an FIM Trial World Champion in 2021 is a moment in my life I will never forget. The enthusiasm and passion from the team at EM has made the whole season one to be very proud of for everyone involved — a French rider on a French motorcycle in France winning a world title; it still sounds good!” You came so close in 2020! Gael: “I was more than happy with the result as, until the beginning of the 2020 season, I had never thought about the TrialE world title. The main objective of having fun on a motorcycle was to start enjoying riding in motorcycle trials, and the EM has these elements with their electric model. The enthusiasm from the Electric Motion family helped me to become more confident. I knew that it was all about taking the title fight to Albert Cabestany. I started to regain my confidence — the more I rode the EM, the more the feeling of enjoyment started to return; I was back in life where I wanted to be.” Why Electric Motion? Gael: “In 2019, I had lost my direction in motorcycle trials. I needed a new injection of enthusiasm, and I found it with Electric Motion. In the press, I saw that EM had a new model with the Epure Race – a French motorcycle manufacturer with an eye on the future; I thought, ‘why not?’. So I called the main man and owner of EM, Philippe Arresten. He invited me to test the new generation of Epure models, and his enthusiasm was so intense that we made an agreement. They were far more advanced than I had imagined, and his projection of the future of electric trials models simply blew my mind; I wanted to be a part of it!” Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

On top of the world in 2014 winning the FIM 125cc World Championship.

2014: Waiting for the results in France.

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Gael Chatagno • Focussed

On the podium in France 2016 with my first FIM Junior championship win

Then you won in Isola. Gael: “I had seen the opposition in action and the development of electric trials models from the other manufacturers, but at EM, it was a new challenge. I decided to embrace this opportunity. I had ambitions, and they had the opportunities. In truth, the two wins in Isola 2020 really raised the bar for EM as we proved we had a winning machine. These two victories also gave me a newfound confidence in my riding. We did not win the FIM World title in 2020 as Albert Cabestany won the two remaining rounds, but we had made a clear statement about the new Epure machines; we were very competitive.” 2021 Winners Gael: “With a small entry of riders, we knew it would be a very close championship where I could not make any mistakes. I was really passionate about my riding, which, I think, was reflected in the full house of points by winning each of the four rounds. With early ambitions in the FIM Trial World Championships, I proved myself with a world title under my belt. We approached every round with the same focus to achieve the ultimate goal. It was very pleasing to myself, and I was in a much better place in life and, most importantly, enjoying my riding and working on the EM project with the whole team.”

Finding the level in the FIM Junior championship in 2016 in France on the Sherco.

Were you losing your interest in trials before EM? Gael: “I love motorcycle trials; it has been a part of my life from a very young age. I had arrived in 2014 as the FIM Trial125 World Champion after competing in the various youth classes in France before moving to the world championship. I won on the Sherco in 2014 before moving into the Junior class, which would eventually become Trial2. Unfortunately, the move into the Junior class was hampered by injuries that always took time to recover from, which meant I could not spend time riding. In addition, studying at university took up much of my time, but I knew I needed a future after trials.” You won in the Junior class in 2016 and 2017. Gael: “Yes, I won in France on the Sherco, which was a fantastic day on my way to fifth overall. I was happy with such strong opposition. I moved to Gas Gas in 2017 and to the new FIM Trial2 class. I won again in Japan on day one and in Andorra before injury stopped my season. After missing the final four rounds, I dropped to ninth in the championship. After the injuries wrecked the 2018 season, I came back in the final two rounds, but my confidence was very low. I started to look at my life and, in 2019, I began the next chapter of my trials life at EM.”

Making the move from Sherco to Gas Gas in 2017, winning on day one in Japan.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Champagne time in Japan on day one in 2017.

Focussed • Gael Chatagno

The move to the EM and the 2020 FIM TrialE World Championship was a breath of fresh air.

Injuries kept me away from the world championship in 2018 but I returned in Great Britain and Italy.

Was the transition to electric trials machines easy? Gael: “With the new Electric Motion Epure model, the transition was far easier than I expected. The progress had been incredible. The design engineers at EM had managed to move the key elements of the two- and fourstroke engines, such as the hydraulic clutch and power curves, across to the new model. The power curve is sharper than a fuel-aspirated engine and takes some adjusting to, but once you understand the technique of how it all works, it is very, very good. Of course, you have to keep in mind that there is no gearbox, but it’s amazing how quickly you adapt your riding to suit the power delivery. Electric-wise we still have to work to find a solution to make them more powerful, but it’s something we are slowly finding a way of progressing with.” The models are evolving all the time. Gael: “Correct. We are working in many areas to convert the rider to the electric future. It is where we believe the sport will arrive sooner rather than later. Bringing more riders into the sport is a natural progression for the electric

Working with Matthew Alpe, the EM UK importer, on promoting the electric machines.

machines as they can be used in so many different areas and are more environmentally friendly. At EM, we hope that the FIM will allow electric motorcycles into the Trial2 class as the machines continue to improve. We are sure that the other manufacturers will soon start to acknowledge that we will follow the automotive producers in the same direction in the next three to five years. Maybe we will see electric machines in TrialGP in the future; who knows? Will you come to the UK again in 2022? Gael: “Yes, this is the plan. Our UK importer, Matthew Alpe, is doing a superb job of promoting our ideology of the EM machines. I had a super time earlier this year. Demonstrating the potential of the EM to the watching crowd encourages them to have a ride. Many are surprised just how good the model range at EM is once they have had a ride on one. We are also planning to be at the Scottish Six Days Trial. It will be the first time an electricpowered motorcycle will be competing in this iconic event, so it is all systems go in my world. Speak soon!”

Matthew Alpe has done a fantastic job for EM, which we all appreciate; maybe we will adopt him in France…

`jv

Dreams do come true. 2021 FIM TrialE World Champion, a French rider on a French machine, in France!

The smile says it all about my future as a part of the Electric Motion family – Thank you.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU TRIAL 125 BRITISH CHAMPION

Credit: Trials Media

Workshop • Tuning

TRRS TIPS TUNING

It’s hard to believe that it was in the early ’80s when a very young Steve Saunders stepped into the limelight into the adult world of motorcycle trials on the Bultaco after a very rewarding youth career. But, as they say, the rest is history – which has been well documented in Trial Magazine. After retiring from competing on two wheels in mainstream trials, he can now be found enjoying life on three wheels with his daughter Izzy in the ACU British Sidecar Championship or on an E-Bike with his son James. However, with the occasional ride on two wheels, a very competitive Steve still enjoys the outings on the TRRS machines, for which he is the official UK importer. Along with his wife Sahara, they are TRS Motorcycles UK, importing motorcycles and spare parts for the yellow machines from Spain. Since an invitation from an old friend, Jordi Tarres, to visit Spain in September 2015 to sample the pre-production machines, he has helped to build the brand into both FIM Trial World Championship and ACU British Championship winners. So trial Magazine took to the motorway south to the TRRS UK headquarters to find out more about the Spanish machines and to pick up some TRRS’ Tips’. Article: John Hulme with Steve Saunders • Pictures: Trials Media 50

Toby Martyn has delivered both the FIM Trial2 World Championship and the ACU Trial GB titles in 2021 for TRRS.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Tuning • Workshop

Showing the 2021 FIM stickers from the 2021 championship winning machine.

John Lee Motorcycles Workshop, the sticker says it all.

A tried and tested Keihin 28 Ø Carburettor uses the standard slide and jets.

n late 2013, TRS, as it was initially known, announced the creation of the project to create a vision and idea of a new trials motorcycle from Spain. A challenging two years of development followed. Because so many motorcycle manufacturers were evolving old designs, they wanted to bring new ideas to the table. Jordi Tarres encouraged his good friend, Adam Raga, to move to the machine in 2015; the developmental work was soon rewarded with success.

WINNERS

Steve would use his good friend and supported rider, Ross Danby, to help further develop the machines in the UK. Ross proved the machine’s reliability at the 2016 Scottish Six Days Trial with a top-15 finish as Steve started to receive the first production machines. In its first year, Adam Raga took a win in the Japanese world round on his way to runner-up in the 2016 FIM World Trials Championship. Listening to valued customer feedback, any minor issues with the latest machines were reported back to the factory in Spain. Customer confidence was soon strong, and the yellow machines started to appear more and more at Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

At the rear Toby Martyn uses an adjustable Reiger rear shock.

all levels of riding. The first adult ACU title for TRRS UK came in the Sidecar class when Jon Tuck and Matt Sparkes won the ACU British title in 2017. On the solo front, success continued in 2018. Ross Danby took the Master class before moving to Trial 2 with success in 2019, 2020 and 2021. Chris Stay took the Expert class in 2019, while in 2020, the Trial GB class was won by Iwan Roberts. In 2021, Toby Martyn not only won the FIM Trial2 World Championship, but he won the ACU Trial GB British Championship too. With the TRRS machines now established as proven winners, it was time to find out more about what kept putting the Spanish-manufactured motorcycles onto the podium at the top of the sport.

THE MAIN MAN

It’s time for the main man, Steve Saunders, to start revealing the secrets of the success: “When I first tested the pre-production machine, I knew they would be a good machine straight away – Jordi Tarres is no fool. So when Adam Raga came on board in 2015, he knew he had the two key components to succeed: a good base machine and a top rider in Adam Raga. “With a good stable aluminium chassis and

swinging arm from the very start, the focus moved to the development of the singlecylinder, water-cooled, two-stroke engine. Jordi started with the 60mm stroke choice for the engine, which would bring out the best attributes for trials with its excellent bottomend power and torque. He was 100% correct, and this is still retained in the current model range, making all the models easy to ride. “A hydraulic-operated diaphragm clutch system was a must, and we both agreed that five trials-ratio gears were sufficient; four for general trials use with a high top gear for road-use, such as at the Scottish Six Days Trial. “We have, over the very short period of the machine’s life, continued to evolve the model range to now include the electric-start models. Generally, the TRRS has proved very reliable over the years, and if they are serviced and maintained correctly, the owner will have minimal problems. As with so many modernday production trials machines, they are more than adequate for most riders in all areas of performance and handling. Here though, we will focus on the machines that both Toby Martyn and Ross Danby have taken to success in 2021.” 51

Tuning • Workshop

In the UK Ross Danby has played a huge part in the success of the brand.

PRODUCTION 300CC

“Both machines are based around the standard production 2021 RR 300cc model. Standard frames, front suspension: Tech 39 Ø Aluminium, front and rear wheels, and so many of the other components are all the same that come on the customer supplied machines. Both machines use the tried and tested Keihin 28 Ø Carburettor supplied with the standard slide and jets, and the CDI and electronics are the same as you will find on your own machine. Below I will just run through with you the changes to firstly the Toby Martyn machine and then Ross Danby’s.”

TOBY MARTYN 300CC TRRS

“This machine is prepared here in the UK, but Toby receives further support with preparation by the factory team at the FIM World Championship events. The changes start in the John Lee Motorcycles workshop, where Jack Lee modifies the cylinder barrel to provide Toby with a quicker response off the bottom of the power range. A high-compression cylinder head from the Gold model produced in 2019/2020/2021 is also fitted, once again for a stronger performance output. “A standard-length front pipe is used, as is the standard silencer. A standard slide and jets are used in the Keihin 28 Ø Carburettor, which can easily be adjusted for the high-altitude world championship events, such as in Andorra. “In the all-important hydraulicly operated diaphragm clutch system, a stronger clutch spring is fitted for a quicker and more aggressive response. Toby uses the standard 10 x 40 gearing combination for all events. Stock front suspension is used but fine-tuned with different oil weights and tuning to suit the terrain that Toby is riding. At the rear, an adjustable Reiger rear shock is used. Due to the extreme conditions that the rear shock is subjected to in the tough world championship events, Toby uses an Ohlins rubber bump-stop, which is longer and softer for when he hits things really hard. Keeping everything in control is the Renthal Fatbar 673 bend. Despite the long riding hours the machine clocks up, we have had no problems with Toby’s machine all year.” Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Toby Martyn puts the rear shock to the test.

It is always worth removing the front pipe and fitting new exhaust ‘O’ rings in the silencer.

Workshop • Tuning

An Andy Dawson supplied Ohlins shock absorber is fitted to Ross Danby’s TRRS.

Jaime Galloway has had a good year on his standard TRRS 125cc.

STEVE SAUNDERS

“I am very proud of what we have achieved, both in terms of establishing the brand in the UK and also the competition success in a relatively short period of time. Customer feedback is always listened to at the factory in Spain, which we find comes back to us in the production run of new models. “With new models appearing, including the electric-start range and the superb electric powered youth machines, TRRS as a motorcycle manufacturer is certainly listening to the buying customer. Before I close, I would like to thank everyone who has made the brand such a success, not just here in the UK but also on a global scale”.

Removing the sump shield is easy and allows easier inspection of the engine.

ROSS DANBY 300CC TRRS

“Ross has been with me from day one with the TRRS project. Such is his understanding of the machines that it’s just general maintenance that is needed to keep it in tip-top condition. Both he and his father, Mike, worked with me to develop the machine here in the UK and, due to work commitments, Mike helps Ross to keep the TRRS in top condition. As with Toby’s machine, Ross uses the Jack Lee modified cylinder barrel for a quicker response of the bottom and retains the standard front pipe. “Standard overall gearing of 10 x 40 is retained and, generally, he will stay with the standard jets and settings on the Keihin 28 Ø Carburettor. As with Toby, Ross retains the stock Tech-branded aluminium 39 Ø front suspension but will obviously change the oil weights for winter and summer weather. At the rear, there is an Andy Dawson supplied Ohlins shock absorber; Ross has used Ohlins supplied from Andy for many years. Both parties are very familiar with what is needed in the way of performance from the suspension. Renthal Fatbar 673 bend handlebars are again used.” 54

Steve loves his sidecar outings on the TRRS.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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2021 FIM TRIAL2 WORLD CHAMPION

2021 ACU TRIAL GB BRITISH CHAMPION Photo: Fili and Trials Media

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Traditional • The Scott

JACK’S PRIZE

WINNER

The prizefighter: the one who gets knocked down, the one who gets up, the one who wants to win. On Saturday 16th October, that man was 24-year-old Jack Price; it was his day, he was a winner. A change of direction into the world of enduro racing had deprived motorcycle trials fans of the opportunity to see him in action in the slower-speed sport of trials. At the end of the Covid-19 disrupted sports calendar in 2020, his heart had moved away from the world of motorcycle trials; he needed a new zest for life. He found it on an enduro machine. His good friend, Billy Bolt, had made the transition many years earlier, which takes us right back to Jack Price’s first Scott Trial in 2014. Article: John Hulme • Pictures: John Hulme and Nigel Pearson

Concentrating at Reels Head on the way out.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

The Scott • Traditional

fter a hugely successful youth trials career, he and so many other riders were looking forward to his first Scott Time and Observation Trial. As it happened, it was Billy Bolt who took the Best First Time Rider award, finishing 12th with Jack in 18th in 2014. With sponsor John R Shirt, alias ‘Shirty’, pushing him all the way for the Gas Gas win, the Scott Trial became a focal point for them both in October each year. In 2015, Jack moved up to eighth and then fifth in 2016. He was wholly motivated to win in 2017; both he and the Gas Gas were fully prepared. Looking good all day on both time and observation, he pushed maybe a little too hard, and the machine cried ‘enough’ with one hand on the finish, and he suffered a DNF. On a very wet day in 2018, Dougie Lampkin (Vertigo) MBE took the win by ten marks from ‘JP’. No words could describe Jack’s disappointment in 2019 when he was excluded for missing a section. After all the effort, Jack had accepted it was his error as his good friend, James Dabill (Beta), took the win. With no Scott Trial in 2020, would Jack ever return to the event after moving to the enduro world? You bet he would. Jack Price 2021 Scott Trial Winner: “Words cannot describe how happy I am. I had a quick look in the mirror and told myself on Sunday morning that I had won. I love the enduro world, but the Scott Trial was unfinished business after the disappointment of 2019. I had support from Dougie Lampkin for the event with the loan of a Vertigo, my sponsors and supporters from the enduro world. I arrived in the area on Friday and had a quick look around, and it was quite obvious that the rivers and moors would be very dry. “I had a ‘race’ plan which I intended to stick to if I could. Early on, I was more than happy with my pace as I made my way to the bunch of riders at the head of the field. Having seen the past results, I knew that when it was dry, my observation score would be the key factor in winning. I would also be counting the section numbers closely. By the time I got to ‘By-pass’, I

Jack Price a very popular winner.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Splashing through Orgate early in the morning.

had the leading riders in sight. “Tom Minta was going well, and so I stayed behind him for a while to watch him through the more difficult sections on Grouse Moor. With just Jonathan Richardson in front of me, we both ran out of fuel at Hurst. I pushed the Vertigo for about ten minutes into the fuel check with ‘JR’ as a few riders passed us. Then, with a fresh tank of fuel, I rode a calculated trial back to the finish to be the fourth rider back. “The Vertigo had been awesome. I must thank Nick Owen at Vertigo UK for the machine preparation; it was first class. I had no problems and no punctures, and I later found out that many other riders had run out of fuel, not just me and ‘JR’. Along with ‘Boss Man’ Dougie Lampkin and Richard Sadler, Vertigo also won the manufacturers’ team award. “The feeling when the last few riders’ names are read out at the evening awards presentation is unreal, and when they announced that Billy

Green had come second, I knew I had the win – what a feeling! “For everyone in my motorcycling career who has supported me, I want to say a huge thank you, and also to Richmond Motor Club for an incredible event.”

Well done: With Clerk of the Course, Nathan Stones.

Vertigo won the Manufactures Team award.

Traditional • The Scott

THE SCOTT 2021

A WELCOME RETURN What a pleasure it was to return the 2021 Scott Trial in Reeth, North Yorkshire, firing on all cylinders for everyone to enjoy! It was further endorsed by the huge influx of spectators and followers of this iconic motorcycle trial and its long sporting heritage dating back to the turn of the 20th century. Words: John Hulme • Pictures: John Hulme, Nigel Pearson and Neil Sturgeon

Billy Green (BMS Scorpa): Battling with Jack Price all day, in only his second Scott Trial he finished a very creditable second.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

The Scott • Traditional

Richard Sadler (Vertigo UK): It’s a question of when, not if he will win this famous event.

ith the Covid-19 restrictions now more relaxed, the many hotels, B&B’s, restaurants and cafés in the area enjoyed the extra tourist business this event brings to the region, helping to support the local economy. After the devastation the floods caused since the previous event in 2019, the organising Richmond Motor Club had been out early on the course early on to meet the many farmers, local people and landowners. The Clerk of the Course Nathan Stones and his fellow club members and helpers had started preparing for the trial earlier in the year, and it was reflected in the once-again well-organised event. The interest in this unique time and observation trial was at an all-time high, but with the entry limit of 200 riders, it filled very quickly. By the time the day of the event came around on Saturday 16th October, 188 riders assembled in the start field at Marske just outside Richmond at 9.00am in an attempt to take on the 76 sections and 88 miles that made

up the 2021 course. As you will have just read in the opening two pages, it was a case of unfinished business for Jack Price after the 2019 exclusion. However, he arrived in 2021 armed with the latest Vertigo trials model on a mission, prepared and ready to lay claim to his first win after a very challenging day’s riding.

IN FOR THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE

The 2019 winner James Dabill had returned with his Italian Beta to defend the title, having retired from mainstream trials in 2020. However, keeping his hand in the two-wheeled off-road world of enduro riding, he would no doubt be wanting to add another Scott win to his long list of successes in a very rewarding trials career. With the FIM Trial World Championship finished, no benchmark could be set as to who would be on form. With a break in the ACU British Championship, could it be Jack Peace who could make the breakthrough? 2020 FIM

James Dabill (Beta-UK): This was a strong effort for the now sometime trials rider and previous winner on four occasions.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Traditional • The Scott

Standard Time: Guy Kendrew (JSM GASGAS) 5:17:56. Another rider who, many agree, has a Scott Trial win in him.

Tom Minta (BMS Scorpa): A career-best finish left him very happy with the result.

Trial2 World Champion Toby Martyn, and his elder brother Dan, would miss the starting order with an elbow injury. Billy Green had moved from the four-stroke Montesa on which he had taken the Best First Time Rider award in 2019 to the two-stroke Scorpa. Maybe it was the time of the local rider and experienced Scott competitor, Richard Sadler, or maybe Guy Kendrew? Of course, you could never write off the six-time winner, Dougie Lampkin, or other previous winners including, Jonathan Richardson (Sherco) in 2011, Michael Brown (Gas Gas) in 2012 and Ian Austermuhle (Beta) in 2015. The weather in the area had been kind in the weeks running up to the event and was dry but cool at the start field. A superb 58 first-time riders had entered, with 33 under the age of 21 for the ultimate challenge on a trials motorcycle. As rider number one, George Clarke from Leamington, was flagged off the start line in front of the ACU steward Gordon Lawley; he was about to enter into what is still the greatest one-day test of man and machine in the world, the Scott Trial.

88 MILES AND 76 SECTIONS

Yes, a daunting task that would need to be finished in your allotted time. With surrounding dry areas, there was not much water in the many rivers. It meant that the running time of the riders would be generally quicker. This year, the course would again take in the regular sections. With names such as Goats, Reels Head 1 and

Dougie Lampkin (Vertigo UK): One never to give up, despite a big crash early on he kept fighting all day in what may be his last Scott Trial.

Ross Danby (TRRS-UK): You can always rely on Ross for a good strong solid performance, year after year.

Surrender, riders would then head out onto the demanding Grouse Moor crossing, By-Pass, Grand Canyon, Tank Trap, Whaw Bridge before heading home riding Bridge End, Reels Head 2, Underbank’s, Cold Knuckles, Rotten Wood and, hopefully, the last ones at Clapgate. Six strategically-placed fuel stops would keep the machines running, just, but due to the Covid-19 restrictions, no drinks would be given out by the club members. Early indications were that it would be a low-scoring event with the leading riders pressing on at a fairly fast pace. At By-Pass, the support crews greeted riders, who had a quick breather and a chance for any machine maintenance as they arrived off the Grouse Moor. Early reports had the sections quite difficult, but the open moorland going was in quite a good mood, with the dry conditions in the area favouring the riders.

FIRST MAN

At 11:54:28, the early rider number three, Cillian Doyle from Ireland, arrived first on the Scorpa for a spirited attempt up the huge rocks in the very dry river bed at By-Pass 1 observed by Mike Rapley and his team. The section rode very well, with the rocks well bedded in and offering huge amounts of wheel grip even for the step at the end. The next rider on the four-stroke Montesa was Andrew Lishman at 12:04:48, followed by young Tyler Rendall on his Vertigo in his first Scott Trial. Cameron Brice (Beta) was next at 12:15:20 as one of the fancied winners. Billy Green levelled the section on the Scorpa just a few seconds behind. A few more riders passed through before the French rider, Benoit Dagnicourt, cleaned the section, looking very calm and fresh on the Vertigo. It was now getting quite hectic with a small queue at the start of the section as the riders had a quick visual inspection. James Fry (Sherco), Tom Minta (Scorpa) and then Jack Price arrived closely together, all passing through feet up. Riding at 100% as always, Jonathan Richardson was next on the Montesa, followed by Ben Hemingway (Beta) and the eventual fastest rider Guy Kendrew (GASGAS).

Jack Peace (Sherco): Still young enough to challenge for a win in the future, 2021 was not one of his best days.

Ian Austermuhle (Beta-UK): The 2015 winner will be happy with his result this year; he now spends more time on a mountain bike.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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The Scott • Traditional

James Fry (Sherco): Time away from riding will have frustrated James but he still put in an excellent ride.

Once again, riding with no gloves, was the exBritish Enduro champion Juan Knight (Scorpa) from the Isle of Man. Dougie Lampkin (Vertigo) had suffered a high-speed crash early on before the first petrol check, which was slowing him down with pain in his neck. Jack Peace hung on to his tail.

HANGING-ON

It was now time to dig deep and hang on as the event started to guide the riders into the second half of the trial. The front runners were now pushing fast to keep up the pace, knowing that the time element would come into play in the final results, whilst also being aware of the need to keep the scores low on observation. The limits of the riders’ endurance now came into play in the final part of the trial, as the assembled crowd stood on the exposed and formidable Reels Head overlooking Reeth down below for two sections. A four-stroke noise in the distance could only be one rider; it was soon revealed as Jonathan Richardson on the Montesa as he came into view. He arrived at 13:59:05 and absolutely levelled the section in a show of controlled aggression. It was no mean feat, as anyone watching would testify to the severity of the steep exposed rocks. The next rider to arrive was Billy Green, looking strong and fresh on the Scorpa at

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Sam Haslam (John Lee Motorcycles Montesa): His first four-stroke ride in the Scott was rewarded with a 12th place.

Michael Brown (MB Racing Sherco): A previous winner in 2012, he rounded off the top 15 this year.

14:00:09 in close company with Jack Price; covered in mud, it was quite evident that he had been charging forward in his quest for the much sought-after victory! Guy Kendrew (GASGAS) was next at 14:02:44, and in contrast to Price, he looked very clean and neat. Then James Fry arrived in close attendance with Tom Minta (Scorpa), with them both looking very confident.

PANIC STATIONS

It was then a case of panic stations as Jonathan Richardson ran out of fuel as he came off the moors, followed by Jack Price, who had earlier passed Green. Both riders had been motoring and, consequently, used more fuel. A ten-minute push to the fuel check with the dead machines must have seemed like an eternity but, welcomed by the members of the Richmond Motor Club who man the fuel stop; they were soon filled up and on their way. On the orange Scorpa, Billy Green passed them both before filling up with petrol and racing off. He was the first man back at the finish at 15:08:58, followed by a now dirtierlooking Guy Kendrew at 15:11:28 and, literally hot on his tail, Jonathan Richardson. Shortly after Jack Price arrived, he looked very happy, knowing he had a very low observation score and sure he had passed through all the sections. Riders now started to arrive thick and fast,

Jonathan Richardson (Montesa): The second fourstroke rider home was, as always, in full attack mode.

each with their tales of a ‘Scott’ day. The tradition of the Scott has the riders telling each other of their day’s sport on the Yorkshire Moors in the finish area. By the look of his facial expression Dougie Lampkin looked in even more pain from his early crash; he knew 2021 would not be a winning year, but he could hold his head high with six wins to his name, going back as far as 1994; his first one when he was best on both time and observation. Two strong Scott Trial riders, previous winner Ian Austermuhle and the ever-consistent Ross Danby (TRRS) arrived very close together.

Traditional • The Scott

Best Lady Rider: Emma Bristow (Sherco). Another sterling effort was rewarded with 20th position and another Scott Silver Spoon.

Best First Time Rider: Benoit Dagnicourt (Vertigo-FRA). A welldeserved award for a first-time rider a long way from home.

After his recent back surgery, Dan Thorpe (GASGAS) was more than happy to finish in the company of Ben Hemingway. Emma Bristow arrived intact and, as always, was smiling as husband James congratulated her; she was the only female finisher on time of the three entered.

left — Jack Price. To a huge round of applause and cheering, he was the winner of the 2021 Scott Trial. In his closing speech, he thanked everyone for the support to achieve one of his lifetime ambitions. It was now time for a beer!

TIME FOR A BEER

John Hulme: “I would like to thank everyone for such a tremendous effort to make this year’s event happen after the cancellation in 2020. It was like a homecoming; such was the positive feeling from all the local landowners and everyone involved in this prestigious event. “With so many newcomers riding the event and the influx of younger riders, the Scott Trial can only grow over the next few years. I would like to personally thank everyone from Richmond Motor Club for putting in such a huge effort in these difficult times and the riders for putting on such a good fight for supremacy as we continue on the road map out of Covid-19. See you all in 2022!”

Under the guidance of the invited ‘Trials Guru’ John Moffat, the evening awards presentation was opened up with the annual charity auction. Some exciting bidding, especially for the guaranteed entry for the 2022 Scottish Six Days Trial, pushed the monies up to a staggering £4,897 on the night. After a few glasses of liquid refreshment, it was now time to announce the award winners. As with any Scott Trial, finishers were read out in reverse order. Coming down to the final five, it was getting really tense. When Devon’s Billy Green was announced in second place, only one name was

Last Official Finisher on Time: Owen Gawthorpe (Vertigo) 7:46:33 (77th). Nearly eight hours in the saddle; well done that man!

TRIAL MAGAZINE

The Endeavour Trophy: James Richardson (Beta). He will be back in 2022.

Best Over 40 Rider: Graham Tales (Montesa) (87th). A tremendous effort for the rider who still holds the record for the most Scott Silver Spoons, with 19 in total.

THE SCOTT TIME AND OBSERVATION TRIAL 2021 RICHMOND MOTOR CLUB

GOLD SPOONS: 1: Jack Price (Vertigo) 6 Time + 17 Observation = 23; 2: Billy Green (Scorpa) 6 + 25 = 31; 3: Richard Sadler (Vertigo) 14 + 21 = 35; 4: James Dabill (Beta) 12 + 24 = 36; 5: Guy Kendrew (GASGAS) 0 + 41 = 41; 6: Tom Minta (Scorpa) 19 + 23 = 42; 7: Ross Danby (TRRS) 16 + 27 = 43. SILVER SPOONS: 8: Dougie Lampkin (Vertigo) 20 + 27 = 47; 9: Jack Peace (Sherco) 19 + 30 = 49; 10: Ian Austermuhle (Beta) 17 + 38 = 55; 11: James Fry (Sherco) 13 + 43 = 56; 12: Sam Haslam (Montesa) 22 + 41 = 63; 13: Jonathan Richardson (Montesa) 1 + 62 = 63; 14: Andy Chilton (Scorpa) 26 + 44 = 70; 15: Michael Brown (Sherco) 27 + 46 = 73; 16: Sam Connor (Beta) 54 + 36 = 90; 17: Rob Waite (Beta) 33 + 60 = 93; 18: Dan Thorpe (GASGAS) 32 + 67 = 99; 19: Dec Bullock (Beta) 38 + 67 = 105; 20: Emma Bristow (Sherco) 33 + 73 = 106; 21: John Sunter (Montesa) 22 + 86 = 108; 22: Tom Middleton (Vertigo) 37 + 72 = 109; 23: Ben Hemingway (Beta) 31 + 81 = 112; 24: Chris Pearson (Sherco) 52 + 63 = 115; 25: Benoit Dagnicourt (Vertigo-FRA) 63 + 61 = 124; 26: Tom Affleck (Sherco) 34 + 94 = 128. STANDARD TIME: Guy Kendrew (GASGAS) 5.17.56 BEST MANUFACTURER’S TEAM: Vertigo: Jack Price, Richard Sadler, Dougie Lampkin LAST OFFICIAL FINISHER ON TIME: Owen Gawthorpe (Vertigo) 7.46.33 (77th) BEST ON OBSERVATION: Jack Price (Vertigo) 17 BEST UNDER 21 RIDER: Billy Green (Scorpa) BEST LADY RIDER: Emma Bristow (Sherco) BEST FIRST TIME RIDER: Benoit Dagnicourt (Vertigo-FRA) BEST OVER 40 RIDER: Graham Tales (Montesa) (87th) BEST 125CC RIDER: No Finishers THE ENDEAVOUR TROPHY: James Richardson (Beta) TOP 26 MACHINES: Beta: 6; Sherco: 6; Vertigo: 5; Montesa/Honda: 3; Scorpa: 3; GASGAS: 2; TRS: 1.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

`jv

"Congratulations Toby Martyn - 2021 FIM Trial2 World Champion"

Quick Spin • Gas Gas E

GAS GAS E

WATT'S THE STORY?

The electrically-powered motorcycle is a relatively new concept in the trials world. Initially, they were aimed at young riders who could use a low-maintenance, zero-emissions and almost totally silent machine to practice in their garden before moving up to the petrol-powered engine. All this changed in 2017 when the FIM introduced a new world championship cup class. The first Trial-E Cup began with just a single round, increased to two for the 2018 season. The third season of the competition again consisted of two rounds, held alongside round three of the FIM Trial World Championship in Zelhem in the Netherlands and round four in Comblain-au-Pont in Belgium. Article: Matt Heppleston Pictures: Eric Lejeune and Trials Media

n 2017, the brand new world cup for electric motorcycles was created. The first champion was Marc Colomer, who had also won the FIM World Trials Championship in 1995 on the two-stroke Montesa Cota 315R. He had developed the first Gas Gas electric trials machine in 2013, which Trial Magazine tested in the March issue. It featured a singlespeed air-cooled electric motor with power controlled by a clutch system. 72

Matt learns about electric motorcycles; he was very happy!

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Gas Gas E • Quick Spin

Albert Cabestany instantly gelled with the Gas Gas TXE.

In 2018, five different manufacturers aimed for the title, with Loris Gubian mounted on the TXE beating Japan’s Kenichi Kuroyama, riding the Yamaha TY-E prototype, on a tie-breaker to win the crown. Coming together with the Gas Gas Factory Racing Team for the 2019 FIM Trial-E World Cup, Albert Cabestany instantly gelled with the TXE, winning both rounds of the series to clinch the title in style again from Kuroyama, followed by Gianluca Tournour (Gas Gas-ITA), Joan Cordon (Mecatechno-ESP) and Danny Crosset (Gas Gas-BEL).

DEVELOPMENT

As the other manufacturers started to participate in the championship, Gas Gas seriously upped the development game, and so the new TXE 2019 was launched with a state-ofthe-art battery and controller. It incorporated the same swingarm as the models of the TXT Racing 2019 series. Maximum performance was the aim for a unique motorcycle in trials. The water-cooled high-performance motor was mated to a hydraulic-actuated diaphragm clutch and six-speed gearbox with a conventional lever-operated gear change mechanism. It was another step in the evolution Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

of a model that had a new aesthetic line, even more ‘electrifying’ than its predecessor. Agile, lightweight and easy-to-ride, weighing only a claimed 68 kilograms and based on the superb chromium-molybdenum tubular chassis used by the TXT, from which it also inherited a large part of its tried and tested components in terms of suspension, brakes and tyres. Trials lovers, at last, had sight of an innovative electric motorcycle that opened the doors to a new era in the trials world. It was also a partnership made in heaven, where Torrot’s concepts of freedom and electric mobility converged with Gas Gas passion for trials competition. However, this dream never became a production reality due to financial troubles. It was to be a case of what might have been. Eleven prototypes were delivered to factory-supported riders for the 2019 season. We were lucky enough to test this machine used by the Belgian Gas Gas importer at the time, Dany Crosset, at the impressive Bilstain

A battery change takes less than five minutes so is pretty comparable to a splash-and-dash with petrol. Left: The machine came, of course, with a spare battery pack.

Gas Gas E • Quick Spin

A water-cooled high-performance motor was mated to a hydraulic-actuated diaphragm clutch and six-speed gearbox.

trials site in Belgium. He sold the bike to the super-enthusiastic Eric Lejeune, the younger brother of the legendary three-time FIM World Champion Eddy, who is now the EM importer for Benelux. At first glance, the machine looks pretty normal, with a big battery pack connected to a conventional fuel aspirated engine’s bottom end. Obviously, the engineering is much more complicated with the high-powered electric motor replacing the same space as the normal crankshaft and ignition system. It really is small compared to other brands. This compaction comes at a price as it means the water-cooling system is fitted approximately where the airbox would generally be. The rest of the machine looks like a pure TXT model and is fitted with state-of-the-art suspension and brakes. The only obvious thing missing is an exhaust system; truly a very special piece of kit.

It is fitted with 39mm Ø Tech forks on the front.

throttle. The electric motor has a flat, linear power curve; the amount of low-downforce is incredible. Everything else is reassuringly normal; the clutch works like a clutch should and distributes power to the rear wheel in a perfectly controlled manner, sharp, as you would expect, but perfect in its action. The gearbox is totally normal and, to me, this is a massive difference with the TXE; you select a gear exactly as you would normally do. Second and third are the obvious choice in sections.

Super slim, that’s the Gas Gas TXTE.

This leaves the top three gears as battery-saving overdrive, especially when combined with the 50% low-power mode by the flick of a switch.

CONFIDENCE

Once I had gained a little more confidence, I started to try some smaller sections; the machine’s handling is impeccable, and the suspension is perfect. It is fitted with 39mm Ø Tech forks on the front and a Reiger two-way rear suspension unit at the rear. They are

STARTING IS EASY

Turn on the power supply by the right-hand side of the headstock, switch on the engine on the left-hand handlebar switch, select the mapping – one of two choices, labelled 100% or 50% – pull the clutch lever in, select a gear and away you go, nothing could be easier! The first few meters are a little disconcerting as there is a low-volume ‘whine’ from the machine whilst the Gas Gas shoots forward as it has so much low-down torque. Okay, so this will take some time to recalibrate your brain as you don’t have the same aural feedback loop as a single-cylinder engine. Subconsciously we understand what the engine is doing by listening to the exhaust note; however, the only accompanying sensation has been replaced with a frantic whine. One thing is certain, there is plenty of get-up-and-go when you twist the Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

There were 11 prototypes delivered to factory-supported riders for the 2019 season.

Quick Spin • Gas Gas E

Who has been up this rock step? It’s at the Bilstain trials site in Belgium, owned by the Crosset family, who we must thank for the test.

A low-volume ‘whine’ comes from the machine, while the Gas Gas shoots forward.

absolutely spot on. Brakes are super sharp and perfectly normal; you would be hard-pressed to find a better-balanced machine, the weight feels low down and, again, just like a petrol machine. One thing I did notice, because of the massive low-down torque, I was spinning the rear wheel more than normal on the admittedly slippery rocks. This is probably due to the battery placement in the chassis. The Gas Gas is a little nose-heavy. On the big climbs and steps of the World Cup sections, a top-class rider would need to keep the front wheel down. I wonder if they have ever considered moving the cooling system from under the seat to higher up in the headstock and moving the battery to just in front of the rear

suspension unit in the interest of centralising the mass? The solution is simple, though. If you look at top-class riders, they are very supple in the knees and tend to ride more on the rear wheel than normal mortals. Once I adjusted myself on the machine, the grip from the Michelin tyres was irreproachable. Just a few centimetres are all the difference needed to make it grip and go.

EXPERIENCE

I later talked with Dany Crosset about his experience on the ‘E’ machine. He told me that the factory had made a significant upgrade to the power control logistics just before the world cup round, which transformed the machine. When first delivered, the electric motor ceased to turn at zero throttle, which meant that the centrifugal force creating a gyroscope effect had gone, making stationary-hopping very difficult. The factory upgrade, developed by Albert, was to have the motor always active such that it was always pushing against the clutch, and the gyroscope effect was restored. As a result, it now feels like a totally normal trials motorcycle. He felt the performance was better for 90% of the riders rather than the top 10% who need every last electron of power on big-time sections. In the world rounds, he changed the battery after two laps as the power reduction was starting to become noticeable. The battery change takes less than five minutes, so it is pretty comparable to a splash-and-dash with petrol. The machine, of course, came with a spare battery pack.

ELECTRIC FUTURE Dany Crosset in FIM TrialE World Championship action in Belgium, 2019.

So, there you have it, one of the most innovative machines I have ever ridden. But is it really the future? For me, it is a resounding ‘yes’ with the political drive towards a green economy. In a

low-emission world, a petrol-powered trials motorcycle will be further marginalised to the point where the sport dies. A green alternative must be the way forward. This machine shows what is possible, and with more time to adapt to the sound and power delivery, I would be much more confident; as it is now, it far exceeds my capabilities. You only have to watch videos of Albert Cabestany to see what electric motorcycles are capable of! We like to thank the Crosset family for allowing us to test the machine. FOR SALE: So, do you want to own a state-ofthe-art superbike? The actual prototype that we tested is for sale. Eric Lejeune owns it, and he has reluctantly decided to sell. He can be contacted via Facebook or email: eric.lejeune@distriflac.be.

GAS GAS TXT E 2019 SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION: Engine type: Electric; Engine details: Water-cooled Brushless motor; Battery: Torrot TE-WGO, 50.4V DC, 33Ah, 1663Wh; Power: 20.1 HP (14.7 kW); Gearbox: 6-speed; Clutch: Hydraulic GasGas 1/3 diaphragm system. CHASSIS, SUSPENSION, BRAKES AND WHEELS: Frame type: Tubular chromemolybdenum; Front suspension: TECH with aluminium stanchion Ø 39mm; Front wheel travel: 180mm (7.1"); Rear suspension: Reiger hydraulic mono shock absorber (two-way); Rear wheel travel: 164mm (6.5"); Front brake: Floating wave disk, four-piston calliper 185mm; Rear brake: Wave disc, two-piston calliper, 150mm. PHYSICAL MEASUREMENTS: Dry weight: 69.0kg (152.1 lbs); Power/weight ratio: 0.2916 HP/ kg; Seat Height 660mm (26"); Overall height: 1,130mm (44.5 inches); Overall length: 2,010mm (79.1"); Overall width: 825mm (32.5") WHEELBASE: 1,320mm (52").

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Flashback • The Scott Trial 2008

THE SCOTT TRIAL 2008

FULL GAS FUJIGAS I am asked so many times about my favourite moments in the adventure that has been my life for the past 15 years of Trial Magazine. The Scott Trial has always been one of my favourite events, which I first rode in 1979. My last appearance was in 2005 when the dream of publishing started to come to life. I loved the event, which pushed you and your machine to the limits of your endurance, a real-life challenge. In 2007, whilst having lunch at the CB Public House near Reeth, a familiar face appeared at the bar; it was my friend Takahisa Fujinami. My first question was, what are you doing here?

Words: John Hulme with Takahisa Fujinami • Pictures: John Hulme and Mike Rapley 78

2007: The instigators Dougie Lampkin, Caroline Sandiford and the target, Takahisa Fujinami.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

The Scott Trial 2008 • Flashback

Racing into the first fuel check.

s a long-time friend and rival of Yorkshireman Dougie Lampkin, Fuji had heard many tales about the world-famous Scott Time and Observation Trial. He asked me about the event and how many times I had ridden in it, and I answered with an enthusiastic, ‘far too many!’. He said that some of the Scott stories Dougie had told

Concentration entering ‘By-Pass’.

him seemed way beyond belief, and he wanted to find out more. I was quite intrigued when it suddenly dawned on me that maybe he wanted to compete in it. I asked him the question, which was met by the words, “I will watch first and then make a decision”, with the usual Fuji happy face having a hint of a ‘yes’ in it. At the event, and in the company of the then Montesa UK importer Caroline Sandiford and Dougie Lampkin, I am sure they would have had some say in gently persuading him to have a go. He had loved watching the 2007 Scott Trial and went to some sections to witness the action first hand; he even went to the evening awards presentation to take in the atmosphere of this iconic event. I think he was by then hooked on returning in 2008.

YOU MUST BE MAD!

2007: ‘Fuji’ at the awards presentation: he was hooked on the Scott Trial.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

At the indoor and then outdoor world championship events in 2008, Fuji would start to ask me questions about the Scott Trial, such as ‘was it really so hard?’. I jokingly told him he must be mad even to consider riding in it! His good friend at Montesa, Amos Bilbao from Spain, had competed in the event, and he also encouraged Fuji to enter. Amos had explained that for a foreign rider to compete in the event and make the finish is a fantastic achievement; he also knew that Fuji would be giving 100% if he entered. No doubt, with some constant ribbing from Amos, Dougie Lampkin and James Dabill, it helped to fire up Fuji to send in an entry.

Race mode is written all over the face!

Flashback • The Scott Trial 2008 Alexz Wigg and Jarvis came in just behind them. ‘Fujigas’ came hurtling into the petrol stop, nearly skidding off the machine as the old adrenalin kicked in; he fuelled up and disappeared! Where was Dougie Lampkin? The news soon came in that just after the Orgate splash Section, the Beta had suffered electrical problems which had put Lampkin out of the event.

SPEED MERCHANTS

As the trial gathered momentum, the speed merchants going for the fastest time and overall win soon found themselves at the front of the entry. A good measure of who is going quickly is when the riders appear off the famous ‘Grouse Moor’ into the petrol check. At precisely 12:21, Dabill came into sight on the four-stroke Montesa as the second man, followed by Jarvis at 12:22; Fujinami followed at 12:26. Such was the nature of the terrain, all the riders were splattered from head to head foot in wet mud. Just up from the petrol check are the three sections aptly named By-Pass. Ask any Scott Trial regular and they will tell you these sections are hard work; not the most difficult, but when you are tired, mistakes are made. Not for the top riders, though, including Fuji who negotiated the rocks and steps in the deep water, fighting the machine all the way. The fact that he cleaned the sections is a testament to his amazing ability.

ALMOST HOME

Reels Head is an open, exposed rocky outcrop, ridden on the outward lap of the trial as well as being the route home. A four-stroke noise could be heard as Dabill arrived first, looking very confident and taking a few seconds to pause for breath. He took a quick look up the section before executing the perfect clean. Jarvis, on the other hand, arrived looking very tired. His attempt at the section was quite ragged as he crashed into the top step, but he made a huge effort to rescue the situation, and the observer correctly recorded a three. Little did he know at the time how important this would be. Fuji looked very tired but put in a world-class ride for a clean, hanging on to the Montesa all the way up the section to a strong round of applause.

Showing his world-class skills on ‘By-Pass’.

As the world championship season concluded, he mentioned to me he had entered the Scott after securing the use of one of his four-stroke Repsol-Honda machines from the team manager Miquel Ciera. The ever-jovial Japanese rider joked that the condition of bringing the treasured HRC supplied machine to the Scott with Miquel’s blessing was that it was returned in one piece! As anyone will tell you, the four-stroke machines are, shall we say, pretty expensive pieces of kit.

CMY

RACE DAY

That’s exactly how Fuji approached the Scott Trial race day. Not all the pressure would be on the Japanese star, though. Graham Jarvis was approaching the end of a successful trials career that had yielded seven Scott Trial victories. Likewise, the trials legend Sammy Miller had seven wins to his name, a record that had stood the test of time despite his last win in 1970 on the Bultaco. Chasing that elusive win number eight, Jarvis swapped to the lighter two-stroke Sherco instead of his usual four-stroke mount for this year’s event. Could he rewrite the history books? A cold, overcast morning met the 200 riders at the start of the 2008 Scott Trial at Marske. Early reports from the course marking team said that the moors were very wet compared to the previous year, with more rain due during the day. On paper, this year’s event promised to be a cracker, with Graham Jarvis, Dougie Lampkin and James Dabill expecting to be fighting for the win. But, could Japan’s world number three rider Takahisa Fujinami take the win? The starter’s flag dropped at 9.00am. It was game on. As the riders arrived at petrol check number one, Dabill arrived on the Montesa first, looking fit and fresh just before teammate 80

Nearly home at ‘Reels Head’.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Flashback • The Scott Trial 2008

Happy to make the finish!

Caroline Sandiford shares the moment with her Japanese friend.

At the finish, Dabill arrived first, looking calm and collected to set standard time as the first man back, reporting a trouble-free day. Jarvis was looking shattered, convinced that the eighth win would not be his. What can you say about the Japanese newcomer Fuji? Riding into the finish area with a flat back tyre, he stepped off his machine at the finish to be greeted by UK Montesa importer Caroline Sandiford, explaining he was ‘dead’. It was a sterling effort and one he should be very proud of.

WELL DONE

At the Scott Trial, the auction was held before announcing the results. It is always well attended. One lucky person won the one-piece suit from Takahisa Fujinami, who personally presented it. As we all know, at the awards presentation, the results are read out in reverse. Fuji waited as the list reached the top five — his smile just got bigger. As it happened, he had finished fourth overall, a truly outstanding effort; he was delighted. The man of the moment though was Graham Jarvis, who had taken a recordbreaking eighth Scott Trial victory. Fuji was more than happy to shake his hand; he now knew what the Scott was all about. Two hundred riders had started, with 60 finishers in the allocated time allowance.

Harry Lampkin, holding the machine, reckoned ‘Fuji’ wanted to do another lap!

THE SCOTT

TIME AND OBSERVATION TRIAL 2008

It’s auction time.

SPOON WINNERS: 1: Graham Jarvis (Sherco) 45; 2: James Dabill (Montesa) 47; 3: Ian Austermuhle (Beta) 78; 4: Takahisa Fujinami (Montesa-JPN) 84; 5: Wayne Braybrook (Gas Gas) 92; 6: Michael Brown (Beta) 103; 7: Ben Hemingway (Beta) 108; 8: Sam Haslam (Gas Gas) 114; 9: Dan Thorpe (Gas Gas) 125; 10: James Lampkin (Beta) 136; 11: Ross Danby (Gas Gas) 142; 12: Alexz Wigg (Montesa) 149; 13: Liam Walker (Gas Gas) 149; 14: Sam Ludgate (Beta) 159; 15: Craig Robinson (Gas Gas) 160; 16: Martin Crosswaite (Montesa) 169; 17: Lee Sampson (Sherco) 172; 18: Chris Pearson (Sherco) 172; 19: John Sunter (Montesa) 179; 20: Richard Gaskell (Scorpa) 182; 21: Stephen Dixon (Scorpa) 182; 22: Harold Crawford (Montesa) 183; 23: Philip Alderson (Gas Gas) 187; 24: James Fry (Sherco) 190; 25: Jonny Walker (Gas Gas) 192; 26: Nathan Wrigglesworth (Scorpa) 192.

Graham Jarvis taking a record-breaking eighth Scott Trial victory.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Trial2 Toby Martyn and Jack Peace

Trial125 Jack Dance Harry Hemingway Harry Turner

Womens TrialGP Emma Bristow

Womens Trial2 Kaytlyn Adshead

ACU TRIAL BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP

ACU: WELL DONE AND THANK YOU

Despite the challenging road map out of the Covid-19 pandemic, the ACU Trials and Enduro Committee should hold their heads very high in giving our sport a superb nine-round 2021 British Trials Championship. Headed by Brian Higgins and his team, nine very good, well-organised trials have delivered four new class ACU British Trials Champions: Trial GB, Toby Martyn (TRRS-UK); Trial 2, Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa); Trial 2, Tom Affleck (Sherco); and Trial 125, Harry Hemingway (Beta-UK). What is also encouraging to see is that the ACU is forging a way forward for the future. They cannot be far wrong. They have produced two new FIM Trial World Champions in 2021, with Toby Martyn in Trial2 and Jack Dance in Trial125. Emma Bristow (Sherco) just missed out on the world title but can hold her head high, having taken the second step on the podium, and don’t forget Kaytlyn Adshead taking third place in the Trial 2 women’s world championship. In the UK, we have a strong breed of younger riders showing through in the men’s and women’s world championships, which bodes so well for the future. 2022 should be a much better year for our sport as we all learn to live with Covid-19, and how good will it be to see the products of the ACU series climbing once again onto the top spots of the podiums on the world stage — all products of the ACU British Championship? Well done from everyone at Trial Magazine. Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

Toby Martyn (TRRS UK)

TRIAL GB

TOBY’S TITLE

While winning seven of the nine rounds contested, Toby Martyn (TRRS UK) rounded off a superb 2021. He added to his FIM Trial2 World Champion status his first ACU Trial GB British Championship title. Jack Peace had kept him on his toes but, in truth, Martyn always had an answer to keep him in second position in the championship. Jack had worked hard all year and came so close to more victories on a few occasions; however, Martyn always had the upper hand when the results were read out. Billy Green (BMS Scorpa) has become more confident and no doubt, with the extra experience gained, will be coming back stronger and better next year. Article: Trials Media 86

Jack Peace (Sherco)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

ROUND 9: DUDWOOD FARM, MATLOCK 24TH OCTOBER

Jack Peace had won round seven in Wales, the first of a two-day doubleheader, keeping any chances of a late title challenge alive. Still, Toby Martyn (TRRS UK) spoiled any chance of the younger of the two Peace brothers progressing any further on day two when he won. Arriving at Dudwood Farm for the final round at this super, compact venue in Derbyshire, Martyn again proved why he is Great Britain’s best rider with a result very worthy of his status as the 2021 ACU Trial GB British Champion. A wide selection of challenging terrain and hazards had Martyn showing his best form on the opening lap as Peace stopped in section five to give him some hard work to do on the second lap if he was to challenge for the win. As Martyn stopped in section four, Peace had the initiative for the moment, but the eventual winner still held a slight advantage for the final lap of a few marks in hand. As the heavens opened, Martyn again showed his true spirit, eventually finishing with a clear advantage and becoming a worthy 2021 ACU British Champion. Despite the reduced entry, it was a close contest in 2021, made even smaller when a serious elbow injury that required an operation put Dan Peace out of the championship in its early stages.

Billy Green (BMS Scorpa)

Iwan Roberts (TRRS UK)

Trial GB Podium

RESULTS: 1: Toby Martyn (TRRS UK) 14; 2: Jack Peace (Sherco) 22; 3: Billy Green (BMS Scorpa) 37; 4: Iwan Roberts (TRRS UK) 60.

2021 ACU TRIAL GB BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP

Dan Peace (Sherco)

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

POSITIONS: 1: Toby Martyn (TRRS UK) 180; 2: Jack Peace (MRS FACTORY Sherco) 155; 3: Billy Green (BMS Scorpa) 130; 4: Iwan Roberts (TRRS UK) 87; 5: Dan Peace (MRS FACTORY Sherco) 62. MACHINES: Sherco 2; TRRS 2; Scorpa 1.

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

TRIAL 2

RED HOT CHILLI Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa)

It has been a pleasure to see the two good friends and rivals Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa) and Ross Danby (TRRS UK) fight for the 2021 ACU Trial 2 British Championship, whilst the young talent of Jack Dance (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) had been kept in the shadows until the final round. After round six, Chilton held the lead over Danby, but Ross came straight back at him with two round wins in Wales. It was a case of the winner takes all in the final shootout in Derbyshire where Chilton’s riding looked strong and confident, while Ross never looked comfortable all day. A ‘Red Hot’ Chilton emerged as the champion, congratulated by Danby in a show of true sportsmanship; this fight will probably continue in 2022! Article: Trials Media

ROUND 9: DUDWOOD FARM, MATLOCK, 24TH OCTOBER

It was always going to be a tough one to call. Both Andy Chilton and Ross Danby knew they would have to be at their very best to win this much sought-after championship. ‘Chilli’ held the upper hand after the opening lap as Ross had a good lap score spoiled by two stops. With Chilton on 11 and Danby on 17, Ross knew he needed a really good second lap to pull the title back towards him. As Jack Dance came into contention to win, Ross had two five-mark penalties towards the close of the lap, and he knew that the championship was lost, barring a disaster for Chilton. As Jack Dance demolished the opposition with a final lap score of just a single mark on section seven, both Andy and Ross were still challenging one another. Ross proved his point with a lap score of four, one better than Andy, who was delighted with his championship win. As Dance won with Chilton second, young Oliver Smith and the older experienced Alexz Wigg had their own fight for the final podium position, with Oliver getting the verdict on the tie-breaker decision.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Ross Danby (TRRS UK)

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

Jack Dance (John Shirt Mc’s GASGAS)

Tom Minta (BMS Scorpa)

CMY

Trial 2 Podium

RESULTS: 1: Jack Dance (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) 20; 2: Andy Chilton (BMS Scorpa) 28; 3: Oliver Smith (SW Trials TRRS UK) 32; 4: Alexz Wigg (John Lee Mcs Vertigo) 32; 5: Ross Danby (TRRS UK) 35; 6: Sam Connor (Beta-UK) 49; 7: Chris Stay (BVM TRRS UK) 54; 8: Sam Yeomans (Vertigo UK) 57; 9: Ben Dignan (Vertigo UK) 59; 10: Tom Minta (BMS Scorpa) 60; 11: George Morton (BMS Scorpa) 70; 12: Hugo Jervis (Beta-UK) 71; 13: Duncan MacColl (Beta-UK) 75; 14: James Fry (Sherco) 79; 15: Charlie Smith (Vertigo) 107.

2021 ACU TRIAL GB BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP

Oliver Smith (SW Trials TRRS UK)

POSITIONS: 1: Andy Chilton 156; 2: Ross Danby 148; 3: Jack Dance 127; 4: Tom Minta 92; 5: Oliver Smith 85; 6: Alexz Wigg 67; 7: Sam Haslam 58; 8: Sam Connor 58; 9: James Fry 57; 10: Dec Bullock 54; 11: Chris Stay 54; 12: Duncan MacColl 46; 13: Hugo Jervis 37; 14: Richard Sadler 33; 15: Sam Yeomans 33. MACHINES: Beta 4; TRRS 3; Vertigo 3; Scorpa 2; GASGAS 1; Montesa 1; Sherco 1.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

TRIAL EXPERT

TOPMAN TOM This year’s championship was won on consistent scoring by Tom Affleck on the Sherco. He may have won only two of the nine rounds, but he kept ramping up the points in the other seven. It’s with huge credit to female rider Emma Bristow (Sherco), who rocked the male-dominated sport with such a strong performance in this class. The first for a female rider, the winner of two rounds, no doubt she will be back in 2022 as a potential championship winner. Returning from serious back surgery in the last four rounds of the championship, Dan Thorpe (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) won the last three rounds, with Brad Bullock (Beta-UK) the other round winner back in June. With the two round wins, four runner-up positions and one third and a fifth, new father Tom Affleck has certainly had his best-ever year in his trials riding career. Article: Trials Media 92

Tom Affleck (Sherco)

Emma Bristow (Sherco)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Brad Bullock (Beta-UK)

ROUND 9: DUDWOOD FARM, MATLOCK 24TH OCTOBER George Gosden (BVM Beta-UK)

A man on a mission to prove he is still very much at the top of his game after his back surgery, Dan Thorpe was on form at the last round, although he nearly got the win taken away by a solid performance from Emma Bristow. On the opening lap, the alreadycrowned champion Tom Affleck took the lead on just seven marks lost, hotly followed by Thorpe and Bristow on eight each. Also in close pursuit were the Beta riders Brad Bullock and George Gosden on nine. On the second lap, Brad Bullock parted with just five to move into the fight for the victory as Thorpe and Gosden dropped seven. However, Bristow damaged her chances for the win with a hefty 11-mark loss, including two five-mark penalties. The last lap would be all about who held their nerve, and it was the experience of Dan Thorpe that gave him the win with an eight-mark loss, although the best final lap score was Affleck. It was quite fitting as he was the 2021 champion.

Lloyd Price (John Shirt Mc’s GASGAS)

Trial Expert Podium

RESULTS: 1: Dan Thorpe (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) 23; 2: Emma Bristow (Sherco) 24; 3: Brad Bullock (Beta-UK) 24; 4: George Gosden (BVM Beta-UK) 25; 5: Tom Affleck (Sherco) 28; 6: Jonny Starmer (Beta-UK) 36; 7: Lloyd Price (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) 37; 8: Chris Alford (BVM Scorpa) 39; 9: Samuel Beecroft-Penny (TRRS) 43; 10: Gwynedd Jones (Beta) 46; 11: Tom Shepherd (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) 54; 12: Joseph Collins (John Lee Mcs Beta) 58; 13: Ben Sprigg (Beta-UK) 61; 14: Thomas Swindlehurst (Sherco) 65; 15: Cameron Brice (Beta) 69.

2021 ACU TRIAL GB BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP

Dan Thorpe (John Shirt Mc’s GASGAS)

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

POSITIONS: 1: Tom Affleck 147; 2: Emma Bristow 120; 3: George Gosden 108; 4: Brad Bullock 102; 5: Lloyd Price 79; 6: Dan Thorpe 72; 7: Chris Alford 72; 8: Tyler Rendall 68; 9: Joel Edwards 62; 10: Dan Hemingway 37; 11: Danny Gamble 32; 12: Joseph Collins 31; 13: Gwynedd Jones 29; 14: Jonny Starmer 29; 15: Samuel Beecroft-Penny 28. MACHINES: Beta 7; GASGAS 2; Scorpa 2; Sherco 2; TRRS 1; Vertigo 1.

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

Harry Turner (BMS Scorpa)

George Hemingway (Beta-UK)

Harry Hemingway (Beta-UK)

TRIAL 125

HUNGRY HEMMO

Seven wins and two second places tell a tale as Harry Hemingway (Beta-UK) made this championship his own. Do not underestimate the achievement, though, as Harry Turner (BMS Scorpa) has been on him like a rash and pushed him all the way, taking two wins in the process. This year, in particular, this class has had talent falling out of its sides with the likes of George Hemingway (Beta-UK), the well-travelled Jamie Galloway (TRRS UK) from Scotland and Harry Bowyer (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) all progressing well. The next few years will be exciting as we watch these 125 riders move into the adult classes in their constant quest for success; ‘Hungry’ Harry Hemingway has already made his intentions very clear, taking the 2021 title in style. Article: Trials Media 94

Trial 125 Podium

ROUND 9: DUDWOOD FARM, MATLOCK 24TH OCTOBER

RESULTS: Results: 1: Harry Hemingway (Beta-UK) 7; 2: Harry Turner (BMS Scorpa) 16; 3: George Hemingway (Beta-UK) 34; 4: Jamie Galloway (TRRS UK) 37; 5: Harry Bowyer (John Shirt Mcs GASGAS) 42; 6: Alfie Lampkin (Vertigo UK) 61; 7: Joe Snelling (Beta-UK) 85; 8: Owen Chestnut (BMS Scorpa) 91; 9: Charlie Cripps (Beta-UK) 114; 10: Jasper Fox (Beta) 126.

2021 ACU TRIAL GB BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Harry Hemingway 182; 2: Harry Turner 160; 3: George Hemingway 138; 4: Jamie Galloway 113; 5: Harry Bowyer 101; 6: Alfie Lampkin 88; 7: Owen Chestnut 79; 8: Joe Snelling 74; 9: Charlie Cripps 58; 10: Jay Piper 45; 11: Jasper Fox 6. MACHINES: Beta 6; Scorpa 2; GASGAS 1; TRRS 1; Vertigo 1.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

YOUTH

STARS OF THE FUTURE Joe Snelling (Beta)

It was a shortened, condensed championship of just three rounds to find the winners of the 2021 ACU British Solo Youth A, B, C and D Trials Championships, a series again suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic. To everyone involved who made these events and championships happen in such challenging times, we take our hats off to you all. Looking forward to 2022, let’s hope that the ongoing roadmap out of Covid-19 can restore these very important youth championship classes to attract more organisers to put rounds on and expand the series and secure our stars of the future. With the healthiest class found with the youngest riders on the electric machines, it will be interesting to watch these riders progress through the youth class process over the coming years. Words: Steven Crane • Pictures: Andy Withers and John Wilkinson

A CLASS

This premier youth class suffers in numbers as the ACU also includes the Trial125 class at the adult Trial GB British Championship. As Robert Moyer took the opening win on day one at Berkhamstead, Joe Snelling came charging back on day two to make it all to play for at the final round at Matlock in Derbyshire. As it happened, the much-travelled Jamie Galloway made the long trip down to the event to take a very convincing win. In the championship chase, Joe Snelling took the vital runner-up position to secure the 2021 title.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Joe Snelling (Beta) 54; 2: Robert Moyer (Beta) 52; 3: Jamie Galloway (TRRS) 20; 4: Charlie Cripps (Beta) 13; 5: Harry Mugridge (GASGAS) 11.

Robert Moyer (Beta)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Daniel Da Breo (GASGAS)

Jasper Fox (Beta)

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

B CLASS

When Daniel Da Breo took the win on day one in the woods at the opening round, it was pretty clear he wanted the title. However, after a disappointing day one, Cory Peters pulled off a superb ride to take the win on day two. Daniel Da Breo still held the advantage in the championship, though with a strong runner-up position.There would be a close fight for victory for the final round at Matlock, with the win eventually going to Euan Sim. Still, once again, it was a delighted Daniel Da Breo who took the title, finishing third on the day behind Sim and Jasper Fox.

POSITIONS: 1: Daniel Da Breo (GASGAS) 52; 2: Jasper Fox (Beta) 45; 3: Finlay Rule (TRRS) 43; 4: Euan Sim (Beta) 41; 5: Corey Peters (Beta) 39.

Max Golla (Beta)

C CLASS: STANDARD WHEEL

Finishing second on the opening day of the two-day, Berkhamstead certainly fired the younger of the two Dance brothers, Max, into life. In this Betadominated class, Max Golla took the opening-day win. However, Dance knew he needed to win on day two to keep the dream of the title fight alive, and that’s exactly what he did. With Elliot Smith finishing second on day two and Max Golla pushed down to fourth, Dance held the advantage going into the final round. As it happened, Max Dance absolutely levelled the final round with a superb winning advantage on his way to a well-deserved championship title.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP Max Dance (Beta)

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

POSITIONS: 1: Max Dance (Beta) 57; 2: Max Golla (Beta) 44; 3: Archie Bremner (Beta) 41; 4: Stanley Cubbon (Beta) 37; 5: Connor Watson (Beta) 33.

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

C CLASS: MEDIUM WHEEL

In this poorly supported class with only four championship points scorers, the eventual championship winner Edward Mowat took the electric OSET to win at the opening two-day event. Then, at the final round, he missed out on the full house of wins on the tie-break decider to William Sparks but still took the 2021 title with a clear ten-point advantage.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Edward Mowat (OSET)

POSITIONS: 1: Edward Mowat (OSET) 57; 2: Fin Penny (OSET) 47; 3: William Sparks (Beta) 37; 4: Jacob Murchison 13.

Fin Penney (OSET)

D CLASS: MEDIUM WHEEL It was another battle between two Beta riders, Koby Smith and Carter Cubbon, which would dominate this championship. Of the six championship classes in the ACU Youth British Trials Championship, only Koby Smith took a full house of three round wins in front of his constant rival Carter Cubbon, who took the three runner-up positions. It was good to see Jack Rich mixing his electric OSET with the two-stroke riders on his way to third overall.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Koby Smith (Beta)

POSITIONS: 1: Koby Smith (Beta) 60; 2: Carter Cubbon (Beta) 51; 3: Jack Rich (OSET) 40; 4: Fletcher Ely (Beta) 36; 5: Oliver Kennington (Beta) 33.

Carter Cubbon (Beta)

D CLASS: SMALL WHEEL

In the best-supported class, with 21 championship points-scoring riders and a mix of electric machines dominating the class, it was always going to be difficult to beat the eventual championship winner, Samuel Lefevre, after he won the opening two rounds on the OSET. Oliver Wilson on the TRRS had taken the runner-up positions at the opening two rounds, and he will be disappointed with his fourth-place finish on the rocks at Matlock. The final round win came from an on-form Benjamin James on the TRRS, who held a ten-mark winning advantage over Lefevre as Cameron Batty did enough to secure third in the final championship positions.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Samuel Lefavre (OSET)

Oliver Wilson (TRRS)

POSITIONS: 1: Samuel Lefevre (OSET) 57; 2: Oliver Wilson (TRRS) 47; 3: Cameron Batty (OSET) 41; 4: Benjamin James (TRRS) 38; 5: George Waring (TRRS)34.

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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The current model range includes Honda, Montesa and Ossa. More models are lined up for the future. Sold as display models for the collector, they make the perfect gift for the motorcycle trials enthusiast. Get yourself along to the website: www.yoomee.co.uk and start collecting these exciting models or call: 01663 749163 for more information. Each model is priced at £69.99 including FREE P&P.

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ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Joshua Golding & Samuel Tuck (TRRS)

CLASS A: EXPERT

Jon Tuck & Matt Sparkes (TRRS)

SIDECAR

THE TUCKS ARE ON TOP As Covid-19 kept away the ‘Manx’ contingent, the 2021 ACU British Sidecar Championship sponsored by Wessex Plant Hire was run over eight rounds, with the best six scores determining the winners. It was a case of ‘The Tucks on Top’ as the family had three members in the final championship positions. Steve Saunders was a very happy TRRS importer, with three of the classes won by the yellow machines. Words: Steven Crane • Pictures: Helen Lees and Heath Brindley

Nigel & Gracie-Mae Scott (Beta)

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

It was not as clear cut as it may look, as Jon Tuck and Matt Sparkes guided the TRRS to the expert title. Missing from round three at Congleton, Nigel Jon Tuck & Matt Mae Sparkes (TRRS)took the top spot on their way to runners-up in the and Gracie Scott championship, and Jack Corlett and Jamie Howe took the top spot at the final round on day two of the West of England Trial.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Jon Tuck/Matt Sparkes (TRRS) 120; 2: Nigel and Gracie Mae Scott (Beta) 101; 3: Elliot and Richard Tickner (TRRS) 88; 4: Jack Corlett/Jamie Howe (GASGAS) 71

CLASS B: INTERMEDIATE

Five wins and a runner-up spot gave Josh Golding and Sam Tuck the 2021 title. Only contesting four rounds of the championship, Kevin Nolan and Karl Jervis won two rounds. John Corlett and Toby Lace only contested the Devon doubleheader and won the final round on day two.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS 1: Josh Golding/Sam Tuck (TRRS) 117; 2: Paul Fishlock/Peter Petersfield (Beta) 93; 3: Neil and Mark Franks (TRRS) 78; 4: Jake Pope/Harriet Shore (Sherco) 73; 5: Robert Head/Aaron Jacobs 70.

Paul Fishlock & Debbie Merrell (Beta)

101

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

Steve and Izzy Saunders (TRRS)

Luke Golding & David Tuck (TRRS)

CLASS C: CLUBMAN

Steve and Izzy Saunders wanted to take the championship challenge to Luke Golding and Dave Tuck. But, try as they might, the eventual championship winners had the upper hand, and Steve was happy to admit they were beaten fair and square. Nevertheless, Saunders will undoubtedly continue to chase the ACU Sidecar title in his quest to be the first man to win on both two and three wheels.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Luke Golding/Dave Tuck (TRRS) 120; 2: Steve and Izzy Saunders (TRRS) 111; 3: Chris and Anna Newsham (GASGAS) 72; 4: Mick Treagus/Steve Gould (GASGAS) 61; 5: Ryan Eamer/Claire Tooth 38.

CLASS D: NEWCOMERS

Introduced as a feeder championship, this class will need an influx of interest if it is to continue as a true British Championship. Take nothing away from the eventual title winners Mark and Edee Lodge; after missing the opening two rounds, they committed to the rest of the series.

2021 FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Mark and Edee Lodge (Vertigo) 120; 2: Joe and Nathan Newman 20; 3: Jason Macnee/Yvette Rawlinson 20.

102

Mark Lodge & Edee Lodge (Vertigo)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

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103

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

STRONG LADIES

Emma Bristow (Sherco)

You have to give credit where it’s due, and so it’s a huge round of applause to the four clubs Hookwood Trials, Chelmsford & DAC, Guisborough & DMCC Ltd and M&M Events and Promotions for putting together a superb 2021 ACU Belle Trailers Ladies & Girls British Championship as we continue to follow the difficult road map out of the Covid-19 pandemic. With seven classes available in this championship, it continues to encourage riders of all ages and abilities to follow in the footsteps of the lady who has taken the world by storm, Great Britain’s Emma Bristow. Strong entries at all five rounds have given us a total of 36 championship points-scorers across the seven classes. It bodes well for the future of our female riders as we see them start to mature into genuine world championship-winning contenders in the FIM Women’s and Trial2 World Championship. Words: Trials Media • Pictures: Trials Media with www.getapic.co.uk ACU Belle Trailers Ladies & Girls Trials Championship 2021: only the best four scores from the five-round championship count. 104

Kaytlyn Adshead (TRRS)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

LADIES

With such a high level of ability and commitment as a professional trials rider, no one was ever going to beat Emma Bristow. Leading by example, it was good to see her encouraging her fellow lady riders, who were more than happy to receive the support. Making her mark in 2021, Kaytlyn Adshead (TRRS), based on the Isle of Man, made a strong statement with her runner-up position, pushed all the way by another talented lady Alicia Robinson (Beta). Using her vast amount of experience, it was good to see Donna Fox (Sherco) mixing it with the younger riders and, once again, encouraging them on the more challenging hazards. Making a gradual return to the championship was Nikita Smith (GASGAS), who contested three of the rounds. Sixth position for Alice Minta (Scorpa) does not tell the full story of this determined rider as she has had her season spoilt by injury. Chloe Baker (TRRS) rounded off the points scorers, having contested only the opening two rounds.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Emma Bristow (Sherco) 80; 2: Kaytlyn Adshead (TRRS) 60; 3: Alicia Robinson (Beta) 56; 4: Donna Fox (Sherco) 56; 5: Nikita Smith (GASGAS) 37; 6: Alice Minta (Scorpa) 34; 7: Chloe Baker (TRRS) 18.

Sophie Bailey (TRRS)

Jazz Hammond (TRRS)

LADIES 50/50

In the Ladies 50/50, Daisy Parsons looked on course for the title but was forced to miss the final two rounds as she followed the Covid-19 isolation procedure, having tested positive a few days before the double-header in Derbyshire. This opened the door for the opening round winner Sophie Bailey (TRRS) to focus on winning the title; she would end up being involved in the battle for the championship crown with Jazz Hammond (TRRS). However, as Bailey won the final round to secure the championship in front of Hammond, a disappointed Daisy Parsons was pushed down to third overall to finish in front of Sarah Bell (Beta).

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Sophie Bailey (TRRS) 72; 2: Jazz Hammond (TRRS) 66; 3: Daisy Parsons (Beta) 55; 4: Sarah Bell (Beta) 52.

Megan Savage (GASGAS)

LADIES INTERMEDIATE (ROUTE 2)

Taking all the five wins, Megan Savage (GASGAS) was always on target for the title as Millie Duval (GASGAS) made it a one-two for the red machines. A strong riding Duval made the runner-up position hers with a consistent four second-place championship points-scoring rides to finish in front of Niki Louis (Vertigo), who took the final step on the podium.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Megan Savage (GASGAS) 80; Millie Duval (GASGAS) 68; 3: Niki Louis (Vertigo) 60; 4: Beth Dunning (Beta) 17.

Trial Magazine • December 2021-January 2022

Millie Duval (GASGAS)

105

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship

Lucy Ayrton (TRRS)

Summer Peters (Beta)

GIRLS A INTERMEDIATE (ROUTE 2)

Two very evenly matched TRRS riders, Lucy Ayrton and Emily Copp, took this title battle all the way to the wire and the final round; neither was giving anything away. However, the win was a third of the season at Dudwood farm at the last round in Derbyshire, which gave a delighted Lucy Ayrton the title.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Lucy Ayrton (TRRS) 77; 2: Emily Copp (TRRS) 74; 3: Isobel Coopey (Scorpa) 45.

Emily Copp (TRRS)

106

GIRLS B (ROUTE 2)

A total of eight points-scoring riders made this class the most popular in 2021. With only one defeat from the five rounds, Summer Peters (Beta) had a maximum points haul to be crowned champion. Only choosing to contest just one round at Guisborough, Matilda Arbon (Beta) took the other win at round three. The runner-up battle was much closer, though. Ruby McCubbin and Briana King (GASGAS) finished within two points of one another. Taking the second step on the podium, Ruby McCubbin’s runner-up position at round four at Burycliff proved the deciding factor, giving her the edge over Briana King.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Summer Peters (Beta) 80; 2: Ruby McCubbin (Beta) 64; 3: Briana King (GASGAS) 62; 4: Kayleigh Rich (Beta) 50; 5: Sophia White (GASGAS) 39; 6: Matilda Arbon (Beta) 20; 7: Gemma Kerruish (Beta) 11; 8: Sophie Humphrey (Gas Gas)10.

Ruby McCubbin (Beta)

December 2021-January 2022 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Holly Dixon (Beta)

GIRLS C (ROUTE 3)

With Holy Dixon (Beta) and Sophie Ferguson (Beta) contesting all five rounds, Dixon would take the championship win as she opened up an advantage over Ferguson with her second-place finishes. Finishing third and keeping the electric machines in the mix with the petrol aspirated ones, Chloe Butler finished third on the OSET.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Holly Dixon (Beta) 80; 2: Sophie Ferguson (Beta) 68; 3: Chloe Butler (OSET) 60.

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Daisy Craig (Beta)

GIRLS D (ROUTE 4)

As Daisy Craig (Beta) stamped her authority in this class, outpointing all her fellow seven points-scorers with a maximum 80 points to take the title, the fight for second position went to the final two rounds in Derbyshire run by M&M Events and Promotions. Both OSET riders Alice Chestnut-Cubbon and Clodagh Higgins fought hard for the points, but when the best four from the five rounds points were added up, Alice took the runner-up spot on the podium by just two points. Just off the pace, but a consistent points scorer in all the five rounds was Jodie Cummins (Beta), who came home fourth.

2021 CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS: 1: Daisy Craig (Beta) 80; 2: Alice Chestnut-Cubbon (OSET) 64; 3: Clodagh Higgins (OSET) 62; 4: Jodie Cummins (Beta) 56; 5: Lilly Wright (OSET) 41; 6: Isla Kennington (OSET) 32; 7: Celeste Phipps (OSET) 10.

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

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

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WISHING EVERYONE ACROSS THE A VERY

Y R R AS E M ISTM R H C HAPPY R A NEW YE AND A

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IT’S TIME TO SAY GOODBYE 2021

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ACU Trial GB British Championship Brimham Rocks Rd 5

HARRY HEMINGWAY -