Techniques for Motorcycle Trials

In motorcycle trials or observed trials competitors ride specially designed, lightweight and seatless motorcycles on an obstacle course. Competitors lose points if they touch the ground or an obstacle with any part of their body. Motorcycle trials riders must therefore master the techniques of balance, turns, wheelies and hops.

  1. Balance

    • Balance enables riders to maintain control of the motorcycle in tight turns and in confronting obstacles. To practice balance, stand upright on the footpegs and turn the handlebars fully to the left or right. Engage the front and rear brakes. Keep the motorcycle in gear while holding the clutch. To remain upright, press down as needed on the left or right side of the handlebars (bar pressure) and on the left or right footpegs (peg weighting).

    Turns

    • Proper turning technique incorporates peg weighting to lean the motorcycle into the turn. Press down on the footpeg in the direction of the turn. Angle the hips into the turn. Shift the body weight opposite the direction of the turn. Point the outside knee and outside elbow away from the turn. Keep the outside arm angled and the inside arm straight. Keep the shoulders in line with the handlebars. Keep the head up and look ahead through the turn.

    Wheelies and Front Wheel Hops

    • Wheelies and front wheel hops enable riders to traverse obstacles or move the motorcycle in the desired direction of travel. To initiate a wheelie or front wheel hop, apply the rear brake. Shift the body weight forward. Keep the head upright and shoulders facing forward. Press down on the handlebars to compress the front suspension. Push back on both footpegs. Pull gently on the handlebars. Open the throttle and release the clutch to lift the front wheel. Successive short wheelies serve as front wheel hops to rotate the motorcycle on its rear wheel and change the direction of travel.

    Rear Wheel Hops

    • Rear wheel hops enable riders to rotate the motorcycle on its front wheel to change the direction of travel. To initiate a rear wheel hop, shift the body weight back to compress the rear suspension. Hold the front brake. Shift the body weight forward and press down on the handlebars to compress the front suspension and raise the rear wheel. Turn the handlebars opposite the desired direction of the rear wheel.