Trial
Balance and precision, not speed
What are trial bikes?
A trial bike is an ultra-light (around 70 kg) motorcycle designed for climbing over rocks, logs and obstacles at walking pace, ridden standing up and with almost no seat.
They have almost no seat: the rider stands all the time. Trial is the best school for balance and throttle control.
- Best for
- Riders who want to master technique and balance.
- Riding position
- Standing only
- Typical engines
- 125–300 cc, mostly two-stroke singles — Engines
Pros
- Teaches perfect bike control
- Very light and cheap to run
- Low speed = lower injury risk
Cons
- No seat, not for travelling
- Usually not road-legal
- Hard technique to learn
Example models
Montesa Cota 4RTGasGas TXT RacingBeta Evo
Frequently asked questions
Why do trial bikes have no seat?
Riders stand all the time to move their body weight freely, so a seat would only get in the way.
Are trial bikes street-legal?
Most are not, although a few models are sold with road equipment in some countries.
Is trials riding good for learning?
It is one of the best ways to learn balance, clutch and throttle control, which helps on any motorcycle.
