TSR 1
Getting Started with Trials
Thinking about trying motorcycle trials? Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
What is Trials Riding? A Trial is a test of riding skill and balance over a variety of observed obstacles with riders incurring penalties for footing or failing to fulfil other conditions
Mum, dad please don’t forget
I am only a child. This is just a sport.
I am here to enjoy myself.
This is not the Grand Prix, although although one day I might race in one. This is my moment let’s enjoy it together.
PS: The official are here to help me. Please respect them too
Join the ACU and a Club
- A Competition Licence (or Registration in the case of Trials) is required by every rider and passenger participating in any competition held under the National Sporting Code of the ACU.
- ACU Membership: Register with the Auto Cycle Union (ACU) for your trials license
- Join a Club; Bradford & District Motor Club Ltd offer events for all levels. Membership costs about £5 (2025) per year and includes support
Events
Start with beginner or club-level trials. Routes are marked and graded for different skill levels. The goal is to navigate sections with minimal points lost.
- Bring essentials: fuel, spare parts, tools, food, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Follow rules: Respect the venue and land. Avoid unnecessary riding outside marked routes.
Entering a Trial
- Sport 80: Log into your profile on the Sport80/ACU website
- Join a Club; Enter details as requested.
- REMEMBER: When you log in you MUST use the e mail address that you used to register
On the Day
- Arrival: Sign in at the secretaries vehicle. If you are a youth you will need your parent / guardian to sign in with you.
- Collect your number display your bike number
- Check your gear and bike.
- Sections: Walk each section, plan your route, and ask for advice if needed. Observers are volunteers. REMEMBER NO observer NO trial
Equipment – The maximum permitted for machines used in the Age Groups set out in TSR 1. (Please read)
- Safety Gear: A motorcycle helmet, knee-length boots, long-sleeved top, and gloves are essential.
- Trials Bike: Lightweight bikes, typically 250cc or less, are ideal. Youth riders have specific size limits set by the ACU.
After the Event.
- Check results online and look forward to the next trial.
- Attend club meetings to connect with other enthusiasts and learn more.
Enjoy the journey—trials riding is all about improving skills and having fun!
TSR 12 Clothing
Clothing must cover legs and body and it is recommended that arms should be covered. Boots of approximately knee length made of leather, rubber or plastic must be worn. The wearing of gloves is recommended.
Motorcycle helmets
Competitors, both riders and Sidecar passengers must wear a correctly fitted helmet at all times during the event whilst riding a motorcycle or quad. Officials must wear a correctly fitted helmet whilst riding a motorcycle at all times during the event, and it is recommended that they wear a helmet whilst riding a quad. Unless the helmet is manufactured with the camera as an intrinsic part, helmet cameras (including the helmet camera brackets) and cameras attached to the body are prohibited. Cameras attached to the machine are permitted.
Jewellery
Competitors are advised not to wear hand, face or body jewellery which could prove hazardous in the event of an accident. The mouth should be kept clear of anything likely to cause a blockage of the airway in the event of an accident, e.g., chewing gum.
All Youth competitors must have clothing covering arms and wear gloves covering hands and fingers.