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What
is an observed motorcycle long distance trial? The three MCC trials form part of the Association of Classic Trials Club’s annual programme of some fifteen or so Championship events. The ACTC exists to promote the world of classic long distance motorcycle and car trials and through its member clubs organises events in the West Country, Cumbria and the Peak District. ACTC
events provide the opportunity to sample classic reliability trials with good
company in some stunningly beautiful parts of the country. Each trial is usually
routed over between 60 and 100 miles, although the three MCC events are
overnight and the distances are up to 350 miles. There are usually around 12 to
14 sections included in each trial, normally located on non metalled rights of
way. Some sections are no more difficult than you would encounter on your
average trail ride. Others may be more challenging. Some events i.e. MCC Trials,
are as suitable for the larger machines as well as the smaller trail bikes as a
lot of the route may be on A or B roads and the occasional piece of motorway.
The other ACTC events being mainly more suitable to the smaller capacity bikes.
Classes include British made, pre 65 machines and Sidecar outfits. Machine
preparation is based upon reliability rather than sheer speed or horsepower. In classic long distance trials, marks are lost for ‘footing’ or ‘stopping’ during sections. All sections are ‘observed’ by marshals, who look for penalties incurred by riders and complete scorecards for each competitor. In each event a number of sections will include ‘Restarts’. These are boxes or lines where the competitor is required to stop and execute a hill start. Most trials also incorporate a ‘special test’, which is a timed section starting on line A and stopping on line B. Which
motorcycle can I use? ACTC
Trials (With very few exceptions for some pre 65 machines). require that lights
are fitted and working. The motorcycle must have a current MOT certificate and be taxed for road use. Preparing
the motorcycle. What
to take in the way of tools and spares. Tools of suitable quality and of the
type that you know can be used…. A
good quality LED torch and Headtorch are always worth taking, with spare
batteries. spare sparkplugs and bulbs. Puncture repair kit, tyre pump, spare
inner tube and tyre levers if you really are proficient and confident that you
can change a tube by the side of the road. [A spare front tube will fit the rear
tyre in an emergency – but a rear tube will not fit a front tyre.] Other
spares may also be carried, like split links for the chains. However only take
what spares you know you are likely to use and can actually fit, using the tools
you have with you. Clothing Paperwork An ACU trials license is also required. Click here for the ACU web site. If you wish to compete in the ACTC motorcycle championships, then you will need to be a member of the ACTC. The final item of administration is event insurance. If your existing motorcycle insurance does not provide cover for competitive events, most organising clubs can arrange blanket cover per event. The event entry form will include this provision at a small additional premium. Entries Approximately 10 days before the event, you will be sent a programme, final instructions and route card on A4 paper. Or e-mail. Many competitors altering the route card to suit the size of their route card holder. (Normally A5 ) and it is also possible to increase the font size so they are easily readable. Some competitors laminate the cards and wrap them round the handlebar crossbrace. Most use purpose made route card holders which are available from Acrebis or Touratech. The later come with lighting units and electric winders if required. On
the day of the trial Upon
arrival, follow the instructions. Usually you should present your bike for
scrutineering before signing on. Scrutineering may check the safety and the
eligibility of the machine. Checking that handlebar levers have ball ends, tyres
are within the permitted type, lights [if fitted] are working, as is the horn
and that there are no spokes loose or other obvious and potentially dangerous
defects. You will then be given your competitor numbers upon signing on. These
should be taped front and rear to your bike. (Not on your clothing or Helmet).
In such a position that they can be clearly read by observers. Stephen
Bailey. May 2009 |
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