Getting Started in Motorcycle Trials

Motorcycle trials is one of the most accessible and skill-focused forms of motorcycle sport in the UK. It’s a unique discipline that rewards balance, control, and precision rather than outright speed — making it perfect for riders of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider looking for a new challenge, trials offers a safe, friendly, and affordable way to enjoy off-road riding all year round.

What Is Motorcycle Trials?

In a trials competition, riders navigate a series of marked “sections” — these may include hills, banks, streams, rocks, roots, or man-made obstacles. The goal is simple: ride through each section cleanly without putting your feet on the ground. Riders are scored on their ability to stay in control and maintain balance.

The scoring system works as follows:

  • Clean: 0 marks – no foot touches
  • 1 Mark: one dab (foot down once)
  • 2 Marks: two dabs
  • 3 Marks: three or more dabs
  • 5 Marks: failure (stopping in no-stop events, riding outside markers, or falling)

Trials can be “stop-allowed” or “no-stop” depending on the event rules, but the key aim remains the same: stay balanced, keep moving, and lose as few marks as possible.

Who Can Take Part?

One of the great things about motorcycle trials in the UK is that almost anyone can take part. Riders can start from as young as four years old on small electric bikes, making trials the most accessible entry point for young riders in any motorcycling discipline. Youth classes are carefully designed for safety and skill development, helping children build confidence in a controlled, family-friendly environment.

Adults and older riders are equally well catered for, with specific categories for novices, intermediates, experts, over-40s, twin-shock, and pre-65 classic bikes.

How to Get Started

It’s remarkably easy to begin competing in trials. Across the UK, hundreds of ACU-affiliated motorcycle clubs run local events nearly every weekend. Many also host friendly training days, evening summer series, and beginner-friendly practice sessions.  Leamington Victory MCC hold up to 12 events per year.

All you need to start is:

  • A trials bike (electric or petrol-powered)
  • A properly fitted helmet
  • Sturdy leather boots
  • Gloves and basic riding gear
  • ACU trials competition license

Entry fees are usually modest, and events are held in safe, controlled environments, so it’s easy to get involved regularly without long trips or expensive equipment.  Our entry fee is £25 for adults and £10 for youths.

Classes and Categories

Trials events feature multiple routes through each section to suit different ability levels. When signing on, you’ll be told which colour markers or flags to follow for your class. While exact categories vary between clubs, typical routes include:

  • D - Beginner: newcomers and people just wanting a fun ride round
  • C - Clubman Route: ideal for casual riders
  • B - Intermediate Route: for riders with growing experience
  • A - Expert Route: more technical sections demanding advanced skills

This flexibility means you can always find a class that matches your age, ability, and bike type.

Join Your Local Club

The best way to experience motorcycle trials is through your local club. They’ll help you with membership, licensing, event entry, and training opportunities. Clubs also foster a welcoming, community-based atmosphere where riders share tips, tools, and encouragement.

For those based in the Midlands, Leamington Victory MCC is an excellent place to start your trials journey. The club organises practice sessions and grassroots competitions throughout the year, providing a perfect introduction to off-road riding. Whether you want to learn the basics or develop advanced control, our events offer fun, friendly competition for all levels.