Trial Magazine Issue 67 February-March 2018

M OTORC YC L E • CYCLE • SI DE-CAR • CLAS S IC • CO MPE TITIO N • FEAT U R E S

SECTION

www.trialmaguk.com

67

CATCH UP

JAMES DABILL NEW MODELS

SCORPA • TRS FOCUSED

TOBY FIM X-TRIAL MARTYN INTERNATIONAL

POSTERS INSIDE

• DIBSTA • • FUJIGAS •

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

ISSUE 67 • UK: £4.99

The world leader in electric trials bikes for children Competition proven Fun, safe, professional

Euan Sim OSET 20.0 Racing National Championship in the D class, 2017

To find your nearest dealer and see the full range visit www.osetbikes.com or call 01424 211 804

TRIAL MAGAZINE

SECTION

WELCOME

67 FEATURES

NEW MODELS

12

CATCH UP

22

TRADITIONAL

30

FOCUSSED

34

INTERNATIONAL

40

9 TILL 5

48

MEETING

62

CLASSIC COMPETITION

68

SPORT

74

ENDUROCROSS

79

PREVIEW

82

CYCLE

92

PASTMASTERS

96

Scorpa/TRS

James Dabill Sheffield Indoor Toby Martyn FIM X-Trial

Dan Thorpe Gas Gas TXTGP Hugo Defrese 1978

2017 Sidecar Enduroc 2018

What’s Happening Costa Brava Classic

FLASHBACK

1998 World Championship

108

SECTIONS Trial Magazine is published by: CJ PUBLISHING LIMITED 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX. UK Telephone: 01663 749163 Email: england@trialmag.com Co-Managing Directors John Hulme & Charles Benhamou Executive Director Philippe Benhamou Editor John Hulme (NUJ No: 949620) england@trialmag.com

Editorial Staff Cyrille Barthe, Jean Caillou, Phil Disney, Nick Shield, Matthew Heppleston, Heath Brindley, and John Moffat Photographers Colin Bullock, Eric Kitchen, Cyrille Barthe, Josh Turner, Yoomee, Trials Media, Barry Robinson, Don Morley, Mauri/Fontserè Collection and the Giulio Mauri Copyright, Brian Holder and Andy Gregory.

Proof reading Jane Hulme and Davina Brooks

Commercial Manager John Hulme england@trialmag.com Design and Production Dean Cook The Magazine Production Company www.magazineproduction.com

Printing Buxtons Press Distribution Warners Group Publications Plc Mail Order www.trialmaguk.com TRIAL MAGAZINE: ISSN: 1753-0040.

CJ Publishing Limited is a Company Registered in England Number: 5947718. © 2018 CJ Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the Publishers. Great care is taken to ensure accuracy in the preparation of this publication, but neither CJ Publishing Ltd or the editor can be held responsible for its contents. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Publishers.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

TALK TRIALS

TONI BOU NEWS PADDOCK SHOPPING POSTER DEALER LOCATOR SUBSCRIPTION FORM SUPERSTORE

6 8 18 20 57 104 106 113

COVER PHOTO: JAIME BUSTO (GAS GAS-ESP) PICTURE CREDIT: JOHN HULME

5

TALK TRIALS TONI BOU

E

very time I ride in a competition I know that my fellow riders all want to beat me — it’s the nature of the game when you have set the level so high. With many riders changing machines for 2018 it will be interesting to see who can challenge not just myself but my constant rival Adam Raga on a more consistent basis.

Adam had a massive crash at Vendee in the qualifying, but fortunately it was without injury.

My old team-mate at Repsol Honda Jaime Busto took second position, with Adam third.

I then went to Budapest in Hungary to help publicise the last event in the 2018 FIM X-Trial season, to be held in March, and it looks very much that it will be a huge success based on the enthusiasm from the organisers. Whilst there I had a small vacation with my girlfriend, and we definitely enjoyed this vibrant city and its culture with some much needed time away from trials.

My first competitive ride of the New Year was at Sheffield. Despite the fact it was not a world championship round I always enjoy the event and the fantastic atmosphere from the crowd.

My massive jump across section one in the qualifying was maybe a little crazy! It felt as though I was in the air for ages yet it was only a few seconds. Believe me though, the win was not as easy as it may have looked. As you read this the FIM X-Trial Championship continues in succession through to my home event in Barcelona. Be there!

NO REST

With the 2018 FIM X-Trial World Championship starting in December 2017 at Vendee in France the season lasted a little longer than usual. It made my festive break a little shorter than I would have liked, but with the 2018 now well under way we have no rest in the trials season.

WORDS: TONI BOU AND JOHN HULME • PICTURES: MONTESA AND HONDA

Until Next Time – Ride On! – Toni

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

E VOLUTION OF PERFECTION

3 YEARS 0% APR R E P R E S E N TAT I V E

2017 COTA 4RT260

WITH 3YRS 0% APR REPRESENTATIVE 36 Monthly Payments of

£129.00

APR

0.0%

OTR

£5,699.00

Deposit

£1,054.98

Amount of Credit

£4,644.02

Total Amount Payable

£5,699.00

Fixed Interest Rate p.a.

0.00%

Featuring a brand new colour scheme with white, red and blue graphics, it looks sportier than ever before.

The 260cc engine has been enhanced to improve traction while minimised engine braking makes it feel even lighter. Switchable ECU ignition mapping offers dual maps for improved ridability in variable grip conditions.

The Cota 4RT260 is a machine that has evolved over time into a base platform that the amateur Trial enthusiast can get the most out of. honda.co.uk 0845 200 8000 VPL Terms & Conditions: New Montesa Honda RT260 17YM orders from 01 January 2018 to 30 April 2018 and registered by 30 April 2018. Subject to model and colour availability. Representative Example based on 3 years 0% VPL. Offers applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter’s absolute discretion. Indemnities may be required in certain circumstances. Finance is only available to persons aged 18 or over, subject to status. All figures are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change. Honda Franchise Dealers are credit brokers, not lenders. Credit provided by Honda Finance Europe Plc. Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL. Honda Financial Services is a trading name of Honda Finance Europe Plc. a company registered at Companies House No 03289418. Honda Finance Europe plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register number 312541.

NEWS

TRIALS ROUND-UP

FIM World Championship: What’s new for 2018

TrialGP

Trial2

Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP): Right at the cutting edge of the sport is the Jaime Busto move from the Repsol Honda team to Gas Gas. Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP): Maybe the move from Vertigo to the Gas Gas where Jeroni first made his mark can deliver the goods. James Dabill (BetaGBR): Moving back to Beta is very much a move back home as this is where he made his mark in the TWC many years ago. He is still Great Britain’s un-disputed number one.

Albert Cabestany (Beta-ESP): The ‘Shock’ move from Sherco was very much unexpected as he has been the main stay of the Sherco team for the majority of his successful career. Could a re-motived ‘Cabers’ challenge for the wins again, we will see. Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP): One of the most under-rated riders in TrialGP Jorge knows on his day he challenge the top five. Arnau Farre (Vertigo-ESP): After a tough year in TrialGP on the Gas Gas Arnau will be looking to move into the top ten in 2018. Iwan Roberts (TRRS-GBR): The 2017 Trial2 World Champion will compete in selected rounds with the backing of TRRS.

With the TrialGP rider paired with the Trial2 rider to compete for the coveted manufacturers’ title the choice of rider pairing becomes much more critical. The majority of the title challengers in Trial2 will remain with the same teams and machinery for 2018.

The main mover is Toby Martyn (Montesa-GBR); winning the final round of 2017 gave Toby the extra level of confidence required to challenge for a title. Moving up into the class will be the Trial 125 winner Lorenzo Gandola (Scorpa-ITA).

FIM dates 2018 INDOOR: X-TRIAL

13th January, Montpellier France; 19th Januar,y Toulouse France; 26th January, Strasbourg France; 4th February, Barcelona Spain; 8th March, Sevilla Spain; 17th March, Paris France; 29th March, Budapest Hungary; 6th April, X-Trial Des Nations Nice France.

OUTDOOR: TRIALGP

19th/20th May, Camprodon Spain: TrialGP/Trial2/ Trial125; 2nd/3rd June, Motegi Japan: TrialGP/TrialGP Women/ Trial2/Trial2 Women Trial 125; 16th/17th June, Sant Julia Andorra: TrialGP/Trial2/Trial125; 23rd/24th June, Gouveia Portugal: TrialGP/Trial2/Trial125; 14th/15th July, Auron France: TrialGP/TrialGP Women/ Trial2/Trial2 Women/TrialE; 21st/22nd July, Comblan Au Pont Belgium: TrialGP/Trial2/TrialE; 1st/2nd September, Silsden Great Britain: TrialGP/TrialGP Women Trial2/ Trial2 Women; 15th/16th September, Arco Di Trento Italy: TrialGP/Trial2/Trial125; 22nd/23rd September, Trial Des Nations Sokolov Czech Republic.

8

Trial125

2018 will see Trial125 become a full FIM World Championship (promoted from FIM World Cup) alongside Trial2 that was elevated to the same level in 2017 and the longer established blue ribbon TrialGP and TrialGP Women’s classes.

This prestigious recognition comes after the huge success of the five-round series in 2017 that saw a large increase in the number of riders who contested the entire championship.

Speaking on behalf of Sport7 the TrialGP Championship Director Jake Miller said. “We would like to thank the FIM for recognising Trial125 as a true World Championship and as a highly important platform for developing the next generation of champions.”

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

NEWS

TRIALS ROUND-UP

0% Finance on the Montesa Trials range

Beta Evo Factory MY 2018 As we went to press Italian manufacturer Beta released pictures and information of its new 2018 ‘Factory’ replica models. Beta has launched three two-stroke versions on to the market (125, 250 and 300 cc) plus a 4-stroke version (300 cc).

The new Evo Factory range has undergone considerable refinement, ensuring an even higher performance along with Beta’s proven reliability. As Italy’s only trials bike manufacturer, Beta is the undisputed global market leader and has introduced numerous technical upgrades across the entire Factory range. These upgrades join the new features already introduced on the Evo Standard MY 2018 bikes, putting the Evo Factory models at the very pinnacle of the trials market.

Contact Beta UK the official importer for more information: www.beta-uk.com

Yes, you have read it correct, you can apply for 0% finance on any of the Montesa Cota trials models with immediate effect. The deal can be arranged over 2 or 3 years at any of the official Montesa/Honda dealers on the current range.

You still get the superb reliability from the legendry fourstroke Cota 4RT engine as standard and the superior build quality, which has proved itself time and time again at such events as the Scottish Six Days trial. The 2018 models will feature some new aesthetics to further endorse the strong relationship between Montesa and Honda as opposed to any major changes. However, these models will not be made available until later on in the year so why not go along and order your machine in plenty of time for the coming season or maybe the SSDT. Visit www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles or call Montesa/Honda on 0845 200 8000 for more information and to find your nearest dealer.

Telford Classic Show February 17th/18th

2018 Gas Gas TXT RACING

With the news that the Spanish riders Jaime Busto and Jeroni Fajardo have moved to Gas Gas comes an exciting new model for 2018. The RACING model is the benchmark model, the GP model is the ‘Limited Edition’ model which is the very highest specification from the Spanish brand, just to define the difference. The 2018 RACING carries on from the 2017 RACING tradition with only subtle changes.

The sticker design changes and also the single rear ‘shock’ is changed from Reiger to Ohlins, both excellent and market leading suspension suppliers. A handy clutch preload spring with three positions to fine tune the clutch is fitted, along with an updated cylinder and a two-piece cylinder head. The machine has new different gearing, using 10 x 39 chainwheels.

The Gas Gas TXT125/250/300 RACING will be available from February 2018.

Visit www.gasgasuk.com, the official UK importer, for more information.

Telford’s annual classic off-road and road-racing show has a tradition of drawing the biggest names and 2018 is no different as the Classic Dirt Bike Show sponsored

by Hagon Shocks returns to Telford International Centre over the weekend of February 17th-18th.

Clubs and private entrants will pack into the venue once again bringing together the most fascinating collection of historic off-road machines you’ll find under one roof and they’ll be joined by a raft of traders offering everything from parts and spares through to accessories and riding kit and yes our sister publication Classic Trial Magazine will be there. Opening Times: Saturday, 10am-5pm (Early entry autojumble open at 9am); and Sunday, 10am-4pm (Autojumble open at 9am).

BACK ISSUES If you have any back issues of Trial Magazine or Classic Trial Magazine missing from your collection or you want to start collecting them please go to the website: www.trialmaguk.com as supplies are now starting to run low and when their gone that’s it!

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

NEW MODELS 2018

Scorpa SC & SC Trials Factory

SC MODEL: DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2018 125 SC

With a chassis identical to that of the larger capacity machines this 125 is no toy. Rather it is a tool for learning on, progressing, and winning. Its powerful engine, precise chassis and newfor-2018 suspension from Marzocchi make this the perfect motorcycle for experienced riders of all abilities.

NEW FOR 2018: Revised exhaust geometry for more progressive engine response – New primary transmission ratio giving a reduction in rear sprocket size – Remapped twin spark CDI with better performance at low RPM and a smoother power curve – Clutch slave seal and hose profile altered to increase precision and reliability.

250 & 300 SC

For 2018 the Scorpa has been refined to provide even more in terms of performance and rider pleasure. The new twin-spark CDI provides a crisper throttle response and an appreciable increase in handling precision. The 2018 chassis is equipped with upgraded suspension using the lighter aluminium front fork from Marzocchi, and the rear shock absorber is now supplied

by Reiger.

NEW FOR 2018: New AJP master cylinder – Remapped twin spark CDI with better performance at low RPM and smoother power curve – Clutch slave seal and hose profile altered to increase precision and reliability.

CHANGES FOR ALL 2018 SC MODELS

Marzocchi front forks with updated internals for a more progressive action – Improved oil retention in the clutch assembly to improve cooling – Air filter with quick release mechanism – Low volume clutch master cylinder to provide a better feel – Reinforced rear sub-frame – Footrest position optimised to increase grip and stability – Rear sprocket guard for safety – Anthracite grey engine colour – Graphics revised and updated.

12

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

NEW MODELS 2018

It’s always good news when the manufacturers of the trials machines listen to their various importers. The new 125/250/300 SC and 125/250/300 SC Trials Factory 2018 model ranges from Scorpa have certainly benefited from the input of the official UK importer Nigel Birkett. His years of experience are easily applied to the Scorpa models he imports as he actually still competes on them. The production SC range offers a good level of equipment for the allround rider but, for the more ambitious shall we say, the SC Trials Factory models will fulfil the needs of the very best rider; and just take note of the high level of standard equipment. 2017 was a successful year for the Scorpa brand as Italian rider Lorenzo Gandola took the top spot in the FIM Trial 125 Cup World Championship, and French rider Benoit Bincaz has showed the full capabilities already in 2018 of the SC Trials Factory model in the FIM X-Trial championship.

ARTICLE: TRIAL MAGAZINE • PICTURES: SCORPA

SC TRIALS FACTORY MODEL: DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2018 125 SC TRIALS FACTORY

Its engine capacity means it will mainly appeal to young ambitious riders. With its Reiger 2-way shock, Tech Aluminium front fork, interchangeable domed cylinder head and lighter triple clamps, the 125 SC Factory has nothing to be jealous of its bigger 250 and 300 siblings. This is the reassurance younger riders need in having a fun, reliable and rugged machine to play with and one which will confidently support them as they progress.

Exclusive to this model are a 125 specific exhaust and a crankshaft with new balance and more torque at low and high revs.

250 & 300 SC TRIALS FACTORY

This is a premium trials motorcycle for everyone. An upgraded version of the 2018 SC Racing, the Scorpa SC Factory has gained in performance and appreciation, having been fitted with equipment worthy of a TrialGP model. But you don’t have to enter a World Championship to appreciate the qualities of this exceptional machine. The frame has improved effectiveness and precision thanks to the Tech Aluminium front fork, Reiger 2-way shock and lighter triple clamps. The engine is an ideal compromise between power and agility thanks to its interchangeable domed cylinder head combined with a new ignition system, providing improved performance at low revs and a smoother transmission. The Scorpa SC Factory provides the easy pleasure of riding a premium motorcycle.

CHANGES FOR ALL 2018 SC TRIAL FACTORY MODELS

Exhaust with progressive geometry – Ignition coil for better low rev performance and smoother power – Orange anodized interchangeable cylinder head – Short more compact spark plug – Galfer front and rear disc rotors – Integrated kill switch – Lighter skid plate – Primary transmission ratio giving a reduction in rear sprocket size – Lighter black anodized triple clamps – White handlebars and wheel hubs – Orange anodized master cylinder cover – Morad orange anodised wheel rims.

CONTACT

BIRKETT MOTOSPORT UK

T: 01229 716806 E: nigel.birkett@talk21.com W: www.birkettmotosportukltd.co.uk TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

13

NEW MODELS 2018

TRS ‘RR’ Raga Racing and X-Track

You have to admit that the impact that the new Spanish TRS brand has made on the trials scene in its short life has been pretty impressive, to say the least. With Adam Raga still very much at the top of his game it was almost obvious that a new machine would follow, based around his successful winning one. Not one to rest on its laurels the forward thinking company has added a new 125 model to its range as the new all-terrain X-Track for 2018. We thought it was time to have a look at the new yellow machines that are most certainly catching the eye of the buying public.

ARTICLE: TRIAL MAGAZINE • PICTURES: TRS

S

o you want to be the next Adam Raga; okay so to move closer to this goal you will need the RR Raga Racing model, well here we look at the specification of this new premium product from Spain. Available in 250, 280 and 300 model sizes we expect very soon to see the new 125 also with the Raga specification. Below you will see what you are actually getting with this new machine and, by the way, good luck if you want to be the next Adam Raga…

TRS RR RAGA RACING 2018

Engine: Kick-starter system with increased performance and reliability – A gear shift system with increased precision, smoother and more reliable – The secondary shaft with resized bearings, increased strength and reliability – Crankshaft and resized crankshaft bearings – The clutch cover is adapted to the new kick-starter system – Machining of the clutch actuator levers, making for better precision in use – Engine tolerances which give a quieter and livelier performance – A new kick-start pedal fulcrum which is hard anodised.

SUSPENSION: Tech branded ‘Gold’ front forks with new settings and increased sensitivity – New Reiger rear shock absorber setup offering softer, faster and increased sensitivity – A suspension system designed to work together to give the rider a premium suspension package.

14

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

NEW MODELS 2018

IMPROVEMENTS: New Neken branded handlebars – The new radiator is a larger diameter and cooled with a waterproof Spal fan and motor – Brake disc and sprocket protectors offer improved flexibility – New design micro-fusion investment cast rear brake and gear-shift pedals – A new cylinder head and combustion chamber that improves both performance and reliability – The CDI connection is new and has an improved finish – New Keihin carburettor slide spring for improved smoothness during operation – The fuel tank is new and has a larger capacity and improved finish, as well as a new fuel filler cap which is easier to operate and has improved sealing qualities – To complement the Adam Raga endorsement, a new graphic design and stickers finish off the package.

TRS X-TRACK 2018

As a freedom type of motorcycle the X-Track has been seen around the TrialGP paddock during 2017. A very versatile machine, it’s aimed at the fun rider who wants to be able to ride out on the trails and also to be able to play on the trials hazards.

With a larger seat and longer fuel range this is a market which TRS want to expand their model range into.

TRS X-TRACK 2018 SPECIFICATIONS

Motor Single cylinder Two-Stroke Liquid Cooled – 247.7cc Bore and Stroke 72.5mm x 60mm Carburettor Dellorto PHBL Ø 28mm Ignition Hydria CDI Double Spark Clutch 3 Disc Diaphragm TRS Hydraulic System

Gear Box 5 speed.

Frame Double Cradle Forged Aluminium Suspension Front: Aluminium Tech Fork 39 Ø – Stroke 175mm; Rear: Progressive Olle RV16 Two Way Adjustable System – Spring Compression adjustment and Return damping adjustment – Rear Wheel Stroke 168mm Brakes Rotor Ø 185/150mm – 4 (Front) and 2 (Rear) piston callipers.

Seat height 640mm Weight 67kg Dimensions Length, 2,015mm; Width, 830mm; Height, 1,125mm.

Full trials model machine specifications can be found at the superb TRS UK website.

CONTACT

COMPANY NAME

T: 01242 675015 E: sales@trsmotorcyclesuk.com W: www.trsmotorcyclesuk.com TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

15

PADDOCK

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

ALL’S GOOD

EVERYWHERE

BALLERINA

I HAVE A PLAN

LET’S PARTY

SPEAK

LISTEN

THE PRICE TWINS

18

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PADDOCK

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

RACE DAY

WHEELIE KING

OVER WE GO

AND STRETCH

THIS WAY

NIGEL. ENOUGH!

NO TONGUES… TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

…NO TONGUES…

HI GUYS

…NO TONGUES! 19

SHOPPING WHAT’S NEW

Putoline 500 ml Lubricant Range www.putoline.co.uk

Alpinestars Carbon Knee Brace www.jitsie.com www.alpinestars.com

Jitsie Domino HT2 Fibre-Glass Helmets — 7 Colour Ways XS - XXL www.jitsie.com

Acerbis Jet Aria Helmet www.acerbis.it

Apico Titanium Trials Foot-Rests

www.apico.co.uk

Mots Step 4 Rider Jacket

www.trialendurodirect.com

S3 Protec Waterpack Backpack www.s3parts.com www.trialendurodirect.com

Jitsie Tyre Bead Breaker Tool www.jitsie.com

Jitsie Beta Drain Bolt Air Filter Box www.jitsie.com

20

Wulfsport Adult Neoprene Wellies www.wulfsport.com

DVD 2017 Scottish and Pre-65 SSDT www.trialmaguk.co.uk

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

SHOPPING WHAT’S NEW

Mots Step 4 Rider Jacket

www.trialendurodirect.com

Jitsie Domino Kids Gear Kids Sizes XS - XL www.jitsie.com

Oset Infinity Trials Riding Kit

www.osetbikes.com/gb/clothing

Volx Trials Clothing

www.dabproducts.co.uk

Mots Zona Junior Boots

www.trialendurodirect.com

Rock Oil High Temperature Brake Fluid www.rockoil.com

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

Stylmartin Impact ‘Pro’ Boots www.trialendurodirect.com

TRS Wind Pro Jacket Trials

www.trsmotorcyclesuk.com

21

CATCH UP JAMES DABILL

Still a man in demand

Following in the footsteps of your sporting hero is always going to be a difficult task, especially when it’s the trials legend that is Dougie Lampkin.Off the back of a very successful youth trials career with a Junior world title in 2005, Great Britain’s James Dabill moved into the adult ranks. With the title in the bag, he finished the year by contesting the final rounds of the newly titled TrialGP class to finish 17th. He would enter the top ten in 2006 to finish 9th overall in his first full season with the ‘Big Boys’. Wind the clock forward to 2017, and he has remained in the top ten ever since. A TrialGP win still eludes the Yorkshireman but with seven British titles, two Scottish Six Days Trial and three Scott Trial victories he remains very much a man in demand. Since 2010 he has remained the highest placed UK rider in the world championship. In his adult career spanning over a decade he has ridden a wide range of machinery, ranging from Scorpa before moving to Beta in 2005, Montesa, Gas Gas, Beta, Vertigo and Gas Gas but for 2018 it’s back to Beta, where it all began.

PICTURES: TRIALS MEDIA, MARIO CANDELLONE, AGNESE ANDRIONE AND WWW.PHOTOTRIAL.IT

22

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

CATCH UP

JAMES DABILL

2006: Beta 9th TWC. 2007: Montesa 8th TWC – 1st SSDT.

2005: Beta 17th TWC. Is it sort of a move back home to Beta?

JD: It feels a bit like that to be honest, yes. As you are aware Beta

is a brand that I am very familiar with as I spent some years in my career with them, starting back in 2004 when the Top Trial Team first gave me my chance to become a professional rider and follow the dream that my parents and I had sacrificed so much for. The whole Bosi family and Beta were amazing to me from the start.

They took me in as part of the family and helped to make my life on the way up so much easier. Without them, it probably would not have been possible. The Bosi family will always have a special place in my heart as we achieved so many great things together.

Let’s move right back to the Scorpa.

JD: As you can imagine, riding for the Crosswaites there was

never much sympathy, and they could very easily bring you back down to earth very fast! But Neil and Martin were absolutely superb with me, and I learnt so much from them in such a short period of time, and it is a time in my career that I thoroughly enjoyed. When I explained to them both about the opportunity I had with the Top Trial Team they shook my hand, wished me the best of luck and said it was an opportunity that they could not match and I could not miss, and so for that I am very grateful.

Having won the Junior world title was it a big step up to the TrialGP class?

JD: A lot of people do not realise how big the gap is from Junior

to the GP level of riding. We have seen in the past, so many good Junior riders just disappear as soon as they hit the GP class. But it’s the same for everybody and the only way you can do it is to drink a big old can of man-up, put on your big-boy pants and dive straight in! So to say I was happy in my first year to nail a top 10 finish would be an underestimation; I was ecstatic.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

2007: Montesa Winning Team Scott Trial.

23

CATCH UP JAMES DABILL

2008: Montesa 8th TWC

2009: Gas Gas 7th TWC – 1st BTC.

Why the move to the Future Montesa team?

JD: It was one of the hardest decisions of my career to leave the Top Trial Team

family who had given me so much, but my manager at the time Jake Miller and I felt it was the next step in my career, not only in terms of direction but financially as well. This also allowed me to bring Jack Lee on board as my minder, who had just qualified as a Honda technician, and this became a very big piece of my puzzle to making the next step. He was a very fast learner, and we soon became a great team and very good friends which we remain to this day. I owe Jack and his family a hell of a lot of the time they gave to me through Jack coming with me around the world. It was always going to take a bit of time to adapt to the fourstroke, but with plenty of machine riding time, I soon got on top of it.

You re-wrote the history book with your four-stroke win.

JD: Yes! I was really happy with the win, and I had not realised until the finish

that Alan ‘Sid’ Lampkin was the last four-stroke winner in 1966 on his BSA. It’s quite strange that no one else has won on a four-stroke since I did in 2007.

When I won the 100th ‘Scottish’ in 2011 on the Beta, I also became only the second rider to win on a two- and four-stroke, alongside Sammy Miller who won on Ariel and Bultaco.

Why the move to Gas Gas in 2009?

JD: It was a no-brainer for me really. I had pretty much fallen out with the

job in 2008 and needed a new motivation so when I had the chance to ride for ‘Shirty’ with factory Gas Gas support I jumped at the chance. I went and tried a machine with John, and straight away he showed a lot of interest for having me on the team, and it was not long before I was signed up and ready to give them a BTC title which he made very clear was their goal. Little did I know we would also become very good friends as well.

Your first British title came in 2009.

JD: It was a very successful year, especially in the UK as I took my first BTC. I

managed to beat Dougie Lampkin in the first two rounds, which made it that little bit more special as the critics could not say anything, but once again it was with Jack Lee and Shirty kicking my ‘ass’ all the way. I could not have achieved it without their hard work and the 150% effort that Shirty puts into supporting his riders. It was a great first year and one I will never forget.

2011: Beta 8th TWC – 1st BTC – 1st SSDT. 24

2010: Gas Gas 6th TWC – 1st BTC.

2012: Beta 6th TWC – 1st BTC. FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

CATCH UP

JAMES DABILL

2013: Beta 6th TWC

2014: Beta testing with Trial Magazine.

In 2010 your results continued to improve.

JD: I started to feel very comfortable and stable with where I was and what I was doing; I was

very happy. And this showed in my results. I moved up to 6th in the world, and I managed to win every single round of the BTC to take my second championship. It was a very good year.

You moved to Beta in 2011 for the start of four years on the Italian machines.

JD: As I kid I had always dreamed of been a factory rider and I got that chance with Gas Gas

in 2009/10, but in 2011 I was offered a ride with Beta as their number one factory rider, and with that comes a much better contract to which there was no way I could refuse. But I only accepted after I had tried the Italian machine, which I liked a lot, and it would set me up in good stead for the next four years.

More success came with the Beta.

JD: It took me quite a while to settle into the Beta role as being number one. It added quite

a lot of pressure that I was not used to, but I dug deep and did the best I could, with great support from the Beta factory. We achieved a lot together once I had found my feet, with my 2nd SSDT win in the 100th edition of the event, and three more British titles followed.

In 2014 you won the 100th edition of the Scott Trial.

JD: This I still believe is one of the nicest memories I will keep with me forever. What makes

2015: Vertigo 8th TWC – 1st BTC.

it so special is nobody can do it again. To win both the 100th SSDT and the Scott was a very, very cool moment in my career.

How special was it to join Dougie Lampkin at Vertigo in 2015?

JD: To work with Dougie who was one of my idols was an amazing opportunity that once

again I could not miss; also to be able to do something completely different with a brand new machine really appealed to me. I soon managed to build a great relationship with all the guys at Vertigo, and it made my two years with them a very comfortable and enjoyable time. I was delighted to achieve so much with them as a team as most people did not expect it, and even more so when we suffered the difficult passing of Martin Lampkin. The way Dougie rode that year in Scotland was sensational, and this was a moment that hit everyone hard. I was lucky enough to spend time with Martin and the Lampkin family, and I am happy I had that chance because he was a great man and a fantastic influence who touched so many people around the world. He will always remain in my thoughts.

2014: Beta 6th TWC – 1st BTC – 1st Scott

2016: Vertigo 7th TWC – 1st BTC – 1st Scott.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

25

CATCH UP JAMES DABILL

2017 Gas Gas 6th TWC. Your best TWC results came in 2016.

JD: They sure did. The first one was a bit of a shock because the

event did not suit me, so it was a pleasant surprise, and it was the first Vertigo podium as well which made it extra special. Then to do it again in Germany was brilliant for me as it gave me the confidence to think ‘actually I can get used to this’, and then my 2nd place at Tong was just the icing on the cake. An amazing feeling and an amazing day, especially at my home GP. In 2017 you moved to Gas Gas as its number one rider

JD: Yes, a move back to Gas Gas for 2017 and along with that

the number one factory spot again. It was the same situation as most of my career; really another opportunity not to be missed and again a chance to do something different. This time it was a full factory contract with no real ties to the UK and a chance to ride in the Spanish Championship which, I soon came to realise, is it’s where it’s all happening and it was definitely an eye-opener.

The Spanish have got it sussed out, and that’s why their level is so high. It was a great thing for me especially when I got to the world championships. It would not have been anywhere near possible though or as enjoyable this season without the ‘turbo engine’ of my minder Jiri Svoboda. Over the year we have built up a great working relationship and also a fantastic friendship that will last forever, and I am forever grateful for his commitment, hard work and determination to achieve the goals we set. We win, and we lose together. I am very excited already for 2018, when Jiri and I are back together and ready to do battle. We are Team 22.

2018: Beta: It’s a case of coming back home.

So 2018 sees a return to Beta.

JD: Yes it’s back to Beta for 2018/19 and the number one factory spot once again. A very

easy decision for me as the offer that came through really appealed to me, not only for myself regarding riding and support but for what we have planned over the next couple of years as a brand. It’s great to see a brand constantly searching for new directions. I believe at this stage in my career it’s a great place to be in terms of stability and that’s a great thing for myself and my young family, and if you know me, you’ll know my family is my everything and very important to me. This is possibly the single best decision of my career. I had a great year at Gas Gas in 2017, and I would like to thank all the team at the factory in Girona for making my life very easy.

In RD 1 of the new FIM X-Trial competition at Vendee France.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

TRADITIONAL SHEFFIELD INDOOR

Let’s kickstart 2018

We all used to love ‘Kickstart’ in the eighties, which gave us an early view of the man-made obstacles for the top trials riders to demonstrate their two-wheeled motorcycle skills on. In 1996 Martin Lampkin and Neil Crosswaite had the vision to bring it to the indoor arena at Sheffield in the north of England. All these years on it remains very much a part of the world championship scene and is enjoyed by the riders and spectators alike. Due to the FIM X-Trial World Championship running under a different format and rules it is no longer included in the series. This does not detract from the prestige of the event as it still attracts the best riders in the world and always ‘kickstarts’ the new trials season. The event was contested over six hazards and a duel-lane race in front of a crowd of just under 6,000 enthusiastic trials fans. Repsol Honda team rider and the undisputed trial World Champion Toni Bou was at his very best, as once again it was his longtime rival Adam Raga – TRRS who pushed him to the limits of his incredible ability in an all-Spanish four-rider final.

ARTICLE: TRIALS MEDIA

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP): A true World Champion, he put on a truly masterful display at Sheffield. When he jumped across the huge gap in section one the crowd loved it, and that’s why he enjoys his annual New Year trip to the event and the fact is that he, along with Raga, always keeps the crowd on their toes right to the end of the evening.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

TRADITIONAL

SHEFFIELD INDOOR

Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP): Looking very solid and in control of his riding, if there was an award for the ‘Best Rider on the Night’ away from the top two it would have to be the young Spaniard.

Could he be the new man to challenge at the top in 2018?

We will have to wait and see.

Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP): What a rider! Always on the case of Bou, Adam once again pushed Toni all evening. The level of riding between these two just has to be seen to be believed. With Bou on the four-stroke and Adam on the two-stroke it certainly adds another element to their riding abilities. Bou has had all his success on the Cota 4RT, and Raga has always been a two-stroke man from day one.

T

he Sheffield Arena opened its doors to the general public on the evening of Saturday 6th January for the 2018 Martin Lampkin Trial. They were about to witness the world’s best riders attempt the tough sections created by Dougie and Harry Lampkin and the hard-working team who help to make this event such a success year after year. And tough they certainly proved to be, with the big gaps and slippery going on the man-made sections causing even multi World Champion Toni Bou some problems during the night’s competition.

James Dabill (Beta-GBR): Always wanting to put on a good show for his home crowd, ‘Dibsta’ will have been disappointed with his result.

QUALIFYING

With Martin Crosswaite and Wayne Kershaw in charge of the commentary, the eight invited riders would contest the qualifying over six man-made hazards made from a selection of local natural materials including some Sheffield steel and a mixture of rocks, logs and an HGV to ride over. These same hazards would be ridden in the reverse direction in the final, where a duel-lane race would decide the starting positions.

The qualifying is very much a lottery as to what will happen and, as is usual, it threw out a few surprises.

New TRRS Team rider Iwan Roberts would be making his debut under the Sheffield spotlights, joining the best riders in the world on his indoor debut. From the very start the new Gas Gas rider Jaime Busto, who was expected to challenge for the top positions, was in trouble as was Great Britain’s James Dabill and his fellow countryman Jack Price.

As the riders took it in turns to ride each hazard first, it soon became obvious once again that it would be a battle between the big two of trials, Toni Bou and Adam Raga. The difference

Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP): Now trying to establish his career after a couple of tough years, he certainly looked very good on the night in Sheffield.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

of just a single mark, with Bou holding the upper hand over Raga, showed just how close the riding was at this early stage of the night’s proceedings.

Behind these three it was once again very close with only a small handful of marks separating them as the Spanish trio of Jorge Casales, Miquel Gelabert and Jaime Busto managed to push Great Britain’s James Dabill out of the final.

The two big losers were Busto, who missed the finishing gates on one of the hazards, and then Dabill, who suffered a puncture while trying his hardest to master the Sheffield steel hazard.

Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP): The biggest disappointment of the evening.

Whatever he tried went wrong, and it showed in his finishing position.

The ability is in there, and it will shine through at some point, no doubt.

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TRADITIONAL SHEFFIELD INDOOR

Podium: Toni Bou and Adam Raga took centre stage once again, with the young Miquel Gelabert in third. Who can challenge Bou and Raga? We will have to wait one more year to find out.

FINAL

Iwan Roberts (TRRS-GBR): In the company of the best riders in the world and the first time out on the new TRS showed, but he never gave up trying.

As is usual in the indoor trials held at this arena, in the final the six hazards are ridden in the reverse direction with the duel-lane race deciding the starting order. The crowd witnessed a rare mistake by Bou as he crashed out of the duel-lane race chasing down Jeroni Fajardo, fortunately without injury. He was immediately back on his feet and, with no damage to the fourstroke Cota 4RT, he returned to the job of winning.

Looking very good in the final was the young Miquel Gelabert.

Many would argue he was the rider of the night, who eventually edged ahead of Casales. If the qualification hazards did not look difficult enough the reversed ones for the final added, with some of the undercut huge steps which led onto the slippery surfaces, were now looking impossible. As we are aware, impossible doesn’t seem to be a word in Toni Bou’s vocabulary and his throttle control, and brilliance on this type of going just has to be seen to be believed.

As is often the way it was left to his arch-rival Adam Raga to lead the challenge, and he pushed Toni to his very best, but the Repsol Honda man eventually forged a lead that even allowed him the luxury of a relatively easy failure on the Mercedes Mertrux section. This soft five only encouraged Bou to have another ‘off-the-record’ attempt, in doing the whole section on the rear wheel only; it was a feat he didn’t manage, but the crowd certainly got into the spirit. Showing his skills to the appreciative crowd and the full potential of his abilities Bou took a clear victory over Adam Raga and with it retained his ‘King of Sheffield’ trials crown.

SHEFFIELD, GREAT BRITAIN MARTIN LAMPKIN MEMORIAL TRIAL

FINAL: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 8; 2: Adam Raga

(TRRS-ESP) 18; 3: Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP) 26; 4: Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP) 30.

QUALIFICATION: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 9; 2: Adam

Jack Price (Gas Gas-ESP): Jack will be disappointed with this result and knows he should have finished higher up the order.

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Raga (TRRS-ESP) 10; 3: Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP) 19; 4: Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP) 20; 5: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 22; 6: James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 23; 7: Iwan Roberts (TRRS-GBR) and Jack Price (Gas Gas-GBR) 30.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PRO COLLECTION 2018

distributed in the UK by

www.apico.co.uk

FOCUSED TOBY MARTYN

Stepping out ‘Living and breathing trials’ was my first thought when Toby Martyn started to make his mark in the Youth British Championship. He was very keen, to say the least, and most importantly he had a smile on his face, he was happy and getting the results to take the Youth A and B class championships. The ACU system has worked well and produced many riders who have moved into the adult ranks and started to make their mark in the very competitive world of TrialGP. Toby took the route of the 125 European Championships as his TrialGP apprenticeship before moving straight into the Trial2 World Championship in 2016. Taking a win in Italy at the final Trial2 World round in Italy in 2017 planted the seed for 2018. He was invited to join the RG Trials Team and to make the move to the 300RR Montesa four-stroke for a full season. With the ultimate goal to be the Trial2 World Champion; it was time to be stepping out into the big wide world away from his base at Truro in Cornwall, in pursuit of a dream.

PICTURES: TRIALS MEDIA, JITSIE AND RG TEAM

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

FOCUSED

TOBY MARTYN

So you want to be a Trial World Champion?

Toby: Yes that’s the dream. You are correct when you say I live and breathe motorcycle trials.

The dream goes back a long way to the early days of having so much fun with my dad Tim as we moved through the various small trials motorcycles which included a Clipic 50 and Gas Gas 50 as an introduction to youth trials, before many years riding the Beta where success came in the Youth British Championships. I had a 50, 80, and 125 before moving to a 300 for the last couple of rounds in the Junior World Champs in 2016.

How important were the ACU Youth Championships to you?

The youth championships were a vital part of my riding career and a perfect beginning for me as it gave me something to aspire to and a goal to aim for. It was a new beginning from the local trials that I was used to in Cornwall, but these were the trials that also got my enthusiasm going. Once we started to travel more and more, we met many people from all different corners of the country, and the youth championships brought us all together.

My ACU British Championship started in 2008 in D class which I won, I then went on to compete in the C class, B class and A class, winning the B class and the A class. These were the results that started to get me hungry for success on the British scene.

You then moved to the European Youth 125 Championship in 2014.

2017: On the podium on day two on home soil, it got messy!

After hearing from friends at events about the European Championship and the amazing events that they put on as well as the incredible venues they used, me and my dad were curious, so we decided in 2014 to compete in the top class of the Youth European Championship. It was an eye-opener at first because of the level of the riders in the paddock, so I quickly got shot down when I started to try the stuff they were doing, but that’s not stopped happening at all, I will always be well known for crashing in the practice area! After a slow start in 2014 in the European Championship I went on to win it in 2015, this came as a shock at first but this was just a stepping-stone, and it added to the determination I already had.

Why did you opt out of competing in the Trial125 World Championship?

During 2015 when we were planning the 2016 season the Trial125 was for 16 and overs.

This would have meant missing the early rounds due to my birthday being in June, so we decided to get practising on the 300 Beta as soon as the 2015 championships had finished and concentrate on the move up to the adult class in the middle of 2016.

2016 was a year of juggling exams and trials riding?

2016 was an awkward year for me as I had exams to juggle as well as thinking about a machine change from 125 to 300. We were stuck with what to do, so we asked John Lampkin at Beta UK for his honest opinion, and between us, we decided to move to the 300. This did mean competing on the 125 in the first three adult British Trials Championships rounds while training on the 300, which was eventful but I did manage two top 10 results. As well as the move I decided to not concentrate on any championships and just ride a few events and see what results came. School was something I didn’t like much at all because my motorcycle wasn’t involved, but I had to go either way; I still came out in the end with good enough grades that I was happy with. After finishing school I continued my British Championship season on the 300 halfway through, the fourth round started slow, but I went to the next event and got my first podium in the championship class, which made me realise I had a fighting chance of finishing the season off very strong.

In 2017 you moved away from long-term sponsor John Lampkin at Beta UK

2017: Self-belief gave the first win in Trial2 at the last round in Italy.

I cannot thank Beta UK and John enough for the support they gave me throughout my time on the Beta even with a disrupted year in 2016. The opportunity then came to move to Vertigo and to be involved in the Trial2 World Championship for the full 2017 season. They were also looking for a rider to be involved in the Manufacturer’s Championship. TrialGP set new rules for this, and that meant that you had to have a rider in the Trial2 class and the TrialGP class. Being able to ride and represent Dougie and Vertigo in the UK was a huge opportunity. To be involved with someone with so much experience, knowledge and skill was an impossible offer to refuse.

The level of competition in Trial2 is very high.

2017: On the top step of the podium is the focus for 2018 TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

The Trial2 World Championship has been an eye-opener for me because the level of riding is so high; the top ten riders on the day have all got the ability to be on the podium. Japan was the first time I realised how close it is between riders on the day. I had an unfortunate five on the last section on the first day, and this led to me dropping from second down to third but then losing third on the tie-break; that’s just the way trials goes though. I then made sure at my home round to really hit that top pack, and sure enough, I did get second on the day, which was incredible for the team and me because it showed I could do it. It was even better doing it in front of the home crowd and my family; it was a perfect day for the team and me. I then had a drive to aim for that top position, and my qualifying results had been getting better during the year; recording the fastest time in the last three rounds was a big confidence booster. In the final round in Italy, I hit the top mark; the look on my face at the end was disbelief and surprise mixed into one. It was also Vertigo’s first World Championship victory, which the team deserved; I cannot thank them enough for what they did for me in 2017.

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FOCUSED TOBY MARTYN

The first public appearance in Switzerland on the Montesa, racing with my new team-mate Francesc Moret from Spain.

The relationship with Jitsie continues.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

FOCUSED

TOBY MARTYN

2018: It’s time to up the game plan.

For 2018 it’s a move to the RG Trials Team based in Switzerland.

In the 2017 season, I had seen the professionalism of Rudi and how he runs his team, and it impressed my dad and me. Rudi approached me in the latter part of the year in Italy about trying a machine and offering a contract for 2018. So we went and tried the Montesa and I had a very strong opinion on the performance after this test and was more than happy that it would be the machine for me in 2018.

RG has also given me the chance to live in Spain and be around the hive of trials in Barcelona as well as being near the factory; this is where I will be based after Christmas. Rudi has shown so much enthusiasm it’s been incredible, and I believe I will be able to thrive for the best results in the World, European and British Championships.

Is the change from a two-stroke to a fourstroke the correct one?

I am 100% sure I have made the correct choice. If you remember Steve Saunders made the change from the Armstrong to the Honda RTL at a very TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

young age, as did a certain Toni Bou from Beta to Honda and the Cota 4RT! Yes, the two-stroke machinery is very good, but I believe that if you can ride a trials motorcycle the choice of two-stroke or four-stroke is just a matter of changing your technique to suit the different engine characteristics.

The suspension and general components are pretty much the same on all the modern machines.

Which model Montesa will you ride?

I will ride the production 300RR, but it will be prepared by the team to compete at TWC level, as well as a setup that will suit me most. I will have my own suspension settings as well and engine modifications to suit my riding. The machine is at a very high level, with which I believe I will be able to achieve the best results possible.

Who will be your Minder/Mechanic on the team?

In previous years before I was even thinking about riding world championships my dad was always my mechanic and minder, this year a very good friend

of mine Rich Knott minded for me at all the World and European Championships. He has helped me tremendously throughout the 2017 season, and I can’t thank him enough for what he did. For 2018 on the new team my minder will be Sam Decoux. Sam and I will be working together in Spain in preparation towards the 2018 season, as well as the mechanic Dan who will prepare my machines alongside the factory ready for the World Championship events. I will ride alongside Francesc Moret in the Trial2 class. As well as him obviously being my team-mate, I respect Moret a lot as a rider and as a friend.

Will you compete in the British Championship?

Yes, I will be riding the full series in the British Championship under the support of Honda UK. Our national championship is one of the most competitive series in Europe, so it prepares me very well for other championships. It is also great to see all the supporters of our sport around the country who are so appreciative to see us championship riders compete in their area.

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INTERNATIONAL

FIM X-TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Time for change

With the rule book thrown out of the window it was a time for change at the opening round of the 2018 FIM X-Trial World Championship, which opened the door to a new dawn for the future of indoor competitions. The Vendeespace stadium in France and the new promoter 2Play had the five fixed riders Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP); Adam Raga (TRS-ESP); Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP); James Dabill (Beta-GBR) and Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) and the four invited riders Arnau Farre (Vertigo-ESP); Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP); Matteo Grattarola (Montesa-ITA) and Jeroni Fajardo (Gas GasESP) on show in front of a packed stadium of a crowd of 3,200 motorcycle fans. The action was very ‘compact’ and intense but one element still remained the same, the winner Toni Bou! ARTICLE: TRIALS MEDIA

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP)

B

efore the opening event a press release was made to explain what was happening with the changes: ‘The FIM and the company 2Play are pleased to announce that they have signed a Promoter Agreement for the FIM X-Trial World Championship – indoor trial. The Agreement is initially for five years and it will take effect for the 2017–18 season. This partnership is in line with the FIM’s strategic objectives for the development of the quality of its World Championships and the modernisation of its organisation. In addition to the X-Trial des Nations the 2017–18 calendar should feature between 7 and 8 events’.

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Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

INTERNATIONAL

FIM X-TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) The FIM President Vito Ippolito welcomes the Agreement: “For some time now the FIM Board and the Trial Commission have been exploring ways of reinvigorating our indoor Trial World Championship. The new concept put forward by 2Play and their ideas for the sporting side are very appealing. Also, the considerable experience of Bernard Estripeau and Josep Vergel in the world of motorcycling sport, and of Trial in particular, impressed us as a solid indicator of their ability to carry off the growth of this spectacular discipline. The FIM looks forward to working with 2Play for this new chapter in the history of X-Trial.”

Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

The 2Play Event Production Manager Bernard Estripeau added: “This new working relationship with the FIM and 2Play will enable us to launch a new concept for X-Trial. The rules will be a total innovation in our discipline. This new system will enable us to change the concept of the sections and open up the sport to a larger number of riders. We also hope to attract young riders into the discipline. Altogether the new concept should make the sport more spectacular and dynamic.”

Under the new process where the riders qualify and go through to the final this has also changed.

A new format will see three groups of riders go

through the elimination stages to determine the competition’s eventual winner, as the top six then proceed to the next round in two heats and then the semi-final, where only the best of each of the two groups will go through to dispute the final. With the changes to the Championship it is expected it will be both exciting and spectacular, with a demanding selection of hazards while racing against a time limit of six minutes that will put the skills and balance of each of the nine riders to the test in this new competition format over the timed lap. Out of the nine riders six were making their first appearance on new machinery for the 2018 season.

James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 41

INTERNATIONAL

FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA)

Arnau Ferre (Vertigo-ESP)

2018 FIM X-TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 1 • VENDEE • FRANCE ROUND 2 Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP)

Matteo Grattarola (Montesa-ITA)

The new format had the riders out in groups of three, with the six minute time allowance playing a part in the qualifying process. In heat one Matteo Grattarola, having moved to a satellite Montesa team, took first blood in front of Vertigo’s Jorge Casales and Arnau Farre. Making his debut with the Gas Gas team Jaime Busto then edged out his team-mate Jeroni Fajardo in the opening heat in the second group of riders.

Great Britain’s James Dabill looked the most nervous in the third group but he finished one mark in front of Raga, who had a massive crash on the final hazard when his hand came off the handlebars as he dropped down from the high section six. Bou parted with a single mark.

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Round two with its two heats would determine a winner from each one to proceed to the final.

Busto had switched his skills from Montesa fourstroke to Gas Gas two-stroke power, and pushed Raga down to second as Fajardo dropped off the pace. Bou easily headed both James Dabill, who was debuting with his Beta, and home French rider Benoit Binaz. In the Spanish final between Bou and Busto it was the 11 times defending champion who raised his game to another level to throw out a warning to anyone who wants to challenge for his undisputed crown as the king of indoor trials: they will have to come up with something special, as he once again dominated the action.

FINAL: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) 1; 2: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 6.

HEAT 1: 1: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 2; 2: Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 3; 3: Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) 7.

HEAT 2: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 2;

2: James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 13; 3: Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) 16.

ROUND 1 HEAT 1: 1: Matteo Grattarola (Montesa-ITA) 11;

2: Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP) 11; 3: Arnau Farre (Vertigo-ESP) 14.

HEAT 2: 1: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 4; 2: Jeroni

Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) 8; 3: Benoit Bincaz (ScorpaFRA) 16.

HEAT 3: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 1; 2:

James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 8; 3: Adam Raga (TRRSESP) 9.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

G R O U N D H O G D AY TONI BOU • 22 WORLD TITLES • ALL ON RENTHAL

www.renthal.com

PHOTO CREDIT : TRIAL MAGAZINE

INTERNATIONAL

FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Bou masters Montpellier Once again it was the Repsol Honda rider Toni Bou who was the man on form in round two in France. This time the win was not as easy as the hazards took more marks from him in round one but he kept his nerve to further extend his championship lead in the early part of the season. Suffering with fatigue in his arms, the six man-made hazards were more difficult than at the opening round but in front of a crowd of 6,000 trials fans and under a fantastic light show, once again Bou managed to hold off the opposition to take the win in front of his arch rival of many years, Adam Raga – TRRS. ARTICLE: TRIALS MEDIA

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP)

I

t was France again for round two of the eight round series as it moved to the Sud de France Arena in Montpellier in the south of the country. Throughout the last decade Montpellier has been the scene of various X-Trial events.

Following its new format, the five fixed riders were joined by the automatic qualifier from round one, Jeroni Fajardo, who qualified to the second round as the best performing ‘Event Rider’ in the opening event. He was joined at this round by the Japanese veteran Takahisa Fujinami, local rider Benoit Bincaz and the young exciting Spaniard, Miquel Gelabert. This new system aims to increase the variety of different riders participating whilst also enabling a wide selection of riders to gain experience in the X-Trial indoor competitions. In this way, competitiveness and the highest possible level of spectacle are guaranteed, enabling the development of the FIM X-Trial World Championship and its young riders from various nationalities.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP)

BUSTO DISAPPOINTS

The new exciting format threw out some real surprises at round two as the man who was expected to be the new challenger to Bou, Jaime Busto – Gas Gas, never even reached the second phase of the competition. It was once again left to Adam Raga to push Bou all the way as he was joined on the podium by Great Britain’s James Dabill who was riding the new Beta looking radiant with its new colour scheme. Right from the opening heat it was going to be a tough night as Fujinami parted with too many marks to finish at the bottom of the three riders. In the second heat it was very close as a confident looking Fajardo – Gas Gas,

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INTERNATIONAL

FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

James Dabill (Beta-GBR)

looked to be on form to finish in front of Dabill with the home rider Bincaz posting a good enough score to go through to the second round. The big surprise though came in the third group of riders as Busto looked very out of place amongst Bou and Raga and his score dropped him to dead last.

DABILL’S GOOD FORM

In the second heat the riding was very close with only a single mark separating the great rivals Bou and Raga with the advantage going to the TRRS rider. He gained the advantage of going behind his great rival for each attempt at the six hazards. Dabill showed good form to join the other three riders and to gain his pass to the podium in a happy night for the lone British rider. In the final, Raga was the early leader but a stop on the huge wooden cable drums halted his progress as Bou opened up the advantage to take yet another victory and open up a good point’s advantage even at this early stage in the eight round championship.

Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN)

2018 FIM X-TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 2 • MONTPELLIER • FRANCE FINAL RESULTS: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) 8; 2: Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 13.

ROUND 2 HEAT 1: 1: Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 11; 2: Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP) 16; 3: Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) 18.

HEAT 2: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 12; 2: James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 14; 3: Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) 16

ROUND 1 HEAT 1: 1: Alexandre Ferrer (Sherco-FRA) 14; 2: Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP) 14; 3: Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN) 15.

HEAT 2: 1: Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) 6; 2: James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 9; 3: Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) 13.

HEAT 3: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol-Honda-ESP) 1; 2: Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 2; 3: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 16.

CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS (ROUND 2 OF 8) RESULTS: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) 40; 2:

Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) 46

Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP) 27; 3: James Dabill (Beta-GBR) 19; 4: Jaime Busto (Gas Gas-ESP) 16; 5: Jeroni Fajardo (Gas Gas-ESP) 14; 6: Benoit Bincaz (Scorpa-FRA) 14; 7: Miquel Gelabert (Sherco-ESP) 7; 8: Alexandre Ferrer (Sherco-FRA) 3; 9: Jorge Casales (Vertigo-ESP) 3; 10: Matteo Grattarola (Montesa-ITA) 2; 11: Takahisa Fujinami (Repsol Honda-JPN) 2; 12: Arnau Farre (Vertigo-ESP) 1.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

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NINE ‘TO’ FIVE DAN THORPE

Still keen

As a youngster, motorcycle trials almost lost Dan Thorpe to football as this was his first love. The very first winner of an FIM World Championship trial was his father Dave in 1975, and it was expected that he would follow in his footsteps, but a pair of football boots would be on his feet long before the trials variety came along. With an iconic Yamaha TY80 provided to play on it would be 1992 before we witnessed Dan in his first major trials competition at the YMSA 6-Day Trial. He now spends his ‘9–5’ employment at the BUMPY facility near Leeds but remains very keen on competing in trials riding almost every weekend. Armed with the latest Gas Gas 300cc TrialGP model from his long-term sponsor John Shirt Jnr at the Northern Experts it was time to talk about trials...

PICTURES: BARRY ROBINSON, ERIC KITCHEN, JOHN HULME AND JAMES STEWART

You look all new and shiny

Dan: It’s just like a Boxing Day trial for me! With the new Mots Step-4 clothing and a shiny pair of Stylmartins I definitely look like a spoilt brat. I have to be honest; when I received a text from Shirty asking to ring him, I thought I was getting the boot. I was blown away when he said I could borrow the new GP machine.

My only regret is that I waited until after the Scott — I should have used it straight away, and I might have nicked the Experts BTC. 48

How long have you been riding for JST Gas Gas UK?

I used to go with my Dad to John Shirt Snr’s workshop when he was riding the mono-shock Yamaha. I loved to see John Shirt Jnr practising, I hero-worshipped him until Mr Colley came along. In my early adult trials, I rode with some support from Hamilton Yamaha — Peter Stewart — on both the air- and water-cooled mono-shock machines. I had tested other machinery including the Gas Gas, but I remained faithful to Yamaha until the very end of 1998. I had other offers but there was only ever going to be one choice for me, and I received my first Gas Gas in March 1999.

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NINE ‘TO’ FIVE DAN THORPE

2017 Northern Experts: Dan used the full potential of his new Gas Gas 300 TXTGP to take the runner-up position.

1996 Alan Jefferies: Dan on the Peter Stewart Hamilton Yamaha.

Sammy Miller holds on to Dan Thorpe in the eighties at the SSDT.

1999 and Dan moved to the JST Gas Gas UK team.

Do you remember your first event on the Gas Gas?

It was my local national, the Jack Wood. I only got the ‘Gasser’ a couple of days before, and I narrowly missed out on the fairy-tale win. It was the Yorkshire Centre’s Jack Ellis Trial where I had my first Gas Gas victory, and my first National win came at the Victory Trial a few weeks later. I loved riding my TYZ but riding the ‘Gasser’ was like a bicycle in comparison.

Why trials and not football?

Football was always easier to play at school; boots and a ball, simple, with friends and I really enjoyed it. Playing for my local and school team, I got recognised by scouts from Derby County and Nott’s County, and I got invited to their School of Excellence. I trained and played for both of these, but mainly shyness and a lack of confidence on my part meant that I was released aged 14. I was gutted. I carried on playing football with it being my number one choice until I was 17. I rode in trials as often as I could wearing ‘hand me downs’ and a BMX helmet which I remember had cost 50p at a bring-and-buy sale, on my beat up old Yamaha TY250. The 1992 YMSA 6-Day Trial was my first major event, and it was a real eye-opener to see many young riders on brand new machinery and with all the latest kit. I could hold my own in my local trials, but I was shell-shocked at how good lads my age were.

2010 Alan Trophy: On his way to his 100th national trial win.

though; I just thought it wasn’t for me. At 18 I got my first ever brand new motorcycle when Yamaha released the latest TYZ model. I won my first National later that year, and seven more wins followed over the next few years. In January 1999 I took my last National win on the Yamaha at the Vic Brittain. I am eternally grateful to Pete for giving me my first big break in trials.

Where was your first national win?

It was at the West of England Trial in 1996 at Ruby Rocks riding the water-cooled TYZ. I had been raining hard all week, so all the streams were in full flow, but I remember loving the trial and I still relish conditions like that to this day. I didn’t find out that I had won until the start of the trial the following day, at the Dick Farquharson National.

And so it was trials

I passed my driving test on my second attempt — don’t ask – and competed in my first road based national which was the 1995 Manx Two Day. I got my first sponsored ride, a Yamaha TYZ, just before the trial. It was a used ex-team Hamilton Yamaha and was a bit battered, but I thought it was fantastic. This was the start of my full sponsorship with Peter Stewart’s team.

I realised how much I enjoyed riding in these kinds of events, and trials like the White Rose, Travers, Lakes 2-Day and Northern Experts soon took priority over football. It was almost like discovering a new sport. I had such a laugh riding with the Hillsborough crew, all travelling together in one van. One of my big regrets in trials is not riding in the Scott Trial at this time TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

2010 Alan Trophy: The scoreboard says it all – winner!

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NINE ‘TO’ FIVE DAN THORPE

2016 Pre-65 Scottish: Dan’s hero, his father Dave, on the left. They rode together in the event which has been won six times by Dave.

And so you made the move to Gas Gas.

I made sure I tried the best machinery available at the time. I had actually tested the Gas Gas range the year before for TMX. The Gas Gas was very good and we ‘gelled’ straight away. I couldn’t believe how good it was and how much of a mistake it had been, riding the Yamaha for so long. Don’t get me wrong; the Yamaha was very reliable and was good, but it was outdated. I wanted the 270 model, but Shirty insisted I rode the 250 to start with. I have to admit that he was right and I rode the 250 for six months before having a 270. We always joke about how famous Dad is, especially in Europe. It soon became clear that he was telling the truth when I was introduced to Narcis Casas, one part of the Gas Gas partnership, at my first European Championship trial. He recalled how he used to help dad when he was an apprentice at Bultaco and that he thought he was brilliant, I was in shock! Narcis ensured that whenever I rode outside the UK, I had help from Gas Gas. Have you ever considered a change of machinery?

Of course, but only to a Triumph Cub for the Pre65 Scottish! Seriously there’s been a few occasions where I have had offers and gave them some consideration. But the only reason for me to change would be to try a new challenge. Whenever you have a bad run of form, you question if a different machine would give you fresh motivation. In truth, the machinery is better than I will ever be so all I have to do is put more effort in and the results will come eventually. I work harder now at my fitness than I have ever done, I’m just missing out on riding time. Yes, I ride most weekends, but I struggle to find time to practise. I generally believe that I am on the best machine around and the help from Shirty has allowed me to carry on riding for as long as I have.

A milestone in your career was your 100th National win.

When I signed to ride for the JST Gas Gas UK team in 1999 Shirty asked me to keep track of all my results. Well known trials journalists Barry Robinson and Mike Rapley started mentioning that I must be approaching the 100 mark. I checked and noted I was approaching 90, having won around ten each year. From that point onwards, maybe because I was aware of it, I couldn’t buy a win. Then in 2010, I won a few Nationals on the trot, and all of a sudden people were telling me that I was just TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

2016 Pre-65 Scottish: Dan’s riding style is very clean, calm and calculated.

a couple away. I eventually achieved it at the Alan Trophy Trial as I took win number 100. Ironically it was one of my easier wins.

That’s some achievement.

I was delighted, not just for myself but also my family and everyone who has supported me. I have loved being a part of the sport for so long and to have achieved the success I have is something I am proud of. Travelling to most of the nationals I always look in the programmes at past winners, and it was mostly Steve Saunders and Sammy Miller who would have won the most. To have my name associated with these two legends is a huge accolade.

It was such a good feeling to give something back to the Shirt family for all their support over the years.

You have ridden in the Pre-65 Scottish with your father.

I had never been interested in riding in the Pre65. When Dad turned 70, I thought how good it would be to ride round with him. I had completely underestimated how difficult it was to ride this trial on an older machine! Every section was challenging, and I showed my inexperience on the Pre-65 machine by making mistakes that cost me the dream win. It was brilliant riding round with Dad again though. His clean on Pipeline was simply amazing and is one of my happiest moments in trials. His desire to ride and win far exceeds mine. I certainly don’t think I have it in me to win as many Classic British Championships (14) and Pre-65 Scottish’s (6).

Dan is always turned out immaculately at any event.

His section inspection is like a photographic memory.

How is life in 2018?

Busy! We have just returned from our belated honeymoon with my wife Katy – six weeks off trials exploring Australia and New Zealand. Now we need to get back into training and back on two wheels. We both enjoy mountain biking and have enjoyed competing in a few MTB Enduros.

BUMPY keeps me busy as we are quite a small operation, so it is a prerequisite that you are a ‘jack of all trades’. I plan on riding in most of the Nationals again, the SSDT and the BTC. There is also the small matter of my 40th in August, where I will be celebrating at the ‘Ardrock MTB Enduro with around 4,000 other competitors around the Scott course — should be fun!

In one word describe the best experience of competing trials

Winning!

In 2018 Dan married Katy Sunter, from that trials riding family, in deepest Yorkshire.

Picture Credit: James Stewart, Peter Stewart’s son.

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NINE ‘TO’ FIVE DAN THORPE

How good is your 2018 Gas Gas 300 TXTGP? Competing, winning and presenting yourself in a professional manner can be very rewarding, and in Dan’s case it most certainly was. JST Gas Gas UK team owner John Shirt Jnr presented Dan with the very first 2018 Gas Gas 300 TXTGP model he received. We asked Dan for his impressions on the new machine.

PICTURES: ERIK KITCHEN

I

have to be honest, I underestimated this Gas Gas. When I first saw the pictures I was obviously blown away with how good it looks, but my next thought was what do you get for your money that is different from the Racing model, other than the colour change? The main things I was drawn to were the Ohlins shock and the carbon fibre airbox. After speaking to a few people at trials these two factors were the main talking points about the model, with concerns about how the Ohlins would compare to the Reiger and was the airbox necessary or just a gimmick? The Tech front forks, although look the business, are essentially the same as I have been using for the last few years but with an additional compression adjuster fitted.

SHIRTY’S IDEA

One of Shirty’s ideas was for me to try the new machine totally standard.

Normally I have my new machine set up similar to my previous one but Shirty thinks I don’t really get the benefit from any improvements/progression of the new Gas Gas. This is a fair point, which I appreciate as how many riders do the same – order a new machine but ask to have it setup the same as their old one? I tried the new one after agreeing to give it a try and promised not to alter anything. Instantly it had that almost indescribable new machine feel which made me grin from ear to ear. I could tell it was a ‘Grunty’ compared to my Racing model but it certainly wasn’t unrideable. The carbon fibre reeds were definitely noticeable. After a 20 minute test/run-in it was straight into a 54

trial at Eadons Fields. This place has plenty of hills to go at and this is where I noticed the airbox – it certainly wasn’t a gimmick… It is a slightly bigger volume than the standard two-piece one and this gives it more grunt. Where others were flat-out in 3rd gear burning up a hill, my Gas Gas was pulling easily and actually accelerating up the hill so that I was having to shut off – fantastic.

Normally this type of upgrade is only available to factory riders but it really made the 300 TXTGP feel special. Whenever I opened up the throttle I just kept smiling!

A REAR ‘SHOCK’

I have done a bit of testing with Ohlins in the past. Despite appreciating that it was a quality shocker I could never get the setup right. Either good for traditional sections or good for steps but unfortunately not good at both. My initial thought was that the rebound was a little slow but I could tell that it is a completely different shock as it felt stiffer than the older model. I avoided the temptation to change it and gave it a chance. Now the Reiger is a very good shock on the Gas Gas so the standard is high but the Ohlins is definitely equal to it. It has the same planted feel, maybe even more so as it felt a little stiffer, but any steps I pointed it at it simply levelled them. I could even be lazy in the legs and it still got up, which is what I needed it to. I could go as far as to say that it felt better than the Reiger as it didn’t feel like it was hitting the bump-stop like the Reiger sometimes does.

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NINE ‘TO’ FIVE DAN THORPE

SO THE VERDICT

It’s definitely a thumbs-up from me. Every now and again you get a new machine that feels special. This does all that and more. I am really impressed with it and would go as far as saying this is the best bike that I have ridden replacing my 2014 Factory Replica model.

GAS GAS TXT GP 2018

New Components: Tech gold colour front suspension with new springs and adjusters; Ohlins shock absorber with adjusters specially developed for the TXT GP; Clutch spring with variable preload; Boyesen carbon fibre reed valves; Double spark CDI and closed core Hidria coils; Cylinder head variable compression insert system; Renthal handlebars and protectors; High strength red silicone cooling hoses; Numbered ‘Special Edition’ with an identification plate; FIM regulation rear disc brake; Titanium front pipe; Carbon fibre airbox and exhaust protector; Lightened fork clamps TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

CONTACT

GAS GAS UK

T: 01298 766813 E: mail@gasgasuk.com W: www.gasgasuk.com 55

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MEETING

HUGO DUFRESE

Size means nothing

2017 Spain: Looking good for the win, a puncture halted his progress.

Looking back at the myth that is David and Goliath it proved the point that size means nothing. The small person taking on the giant, and we know who won! My good friend Eric Lejuene had mentioned in conversation in early 2017 to look out for a very talented young French rider named Hugo Dufrese. He laughed when he said: “You will have to look out for him”. I responded why? “Hugo is very small in stature but huge on talent, you will see” he replied. At the opening round of the 2017 FIM Trial World Championship at Camprodon in Spain, I made a mental note to look out for him. Sure enough, there was this young kid on a 125cc Gas Gas who, shall we say, looked very impressive. I then saw him later in the day when he stood so proud on the third step of the podium. It was time to find out more about the new ‘Mighty Atom’.

PICTURES: JITSIE • TRIALS MEDIA • MAXIME LEJEUNE

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

MEETING

HUGO DUFRESE

2017 Spain: On the podium after a frustrating day.

You are like a new Michael Brown from England, where we gave him the nickname ‘Mighty Atom’.

HUGO: “My small frame is not a problem as it makes me

concentrate more, and yes the nickname ‘Mighty Atom’ is correct, but I will have to be ‘Mighty Atom 2nd’ after Michael. It’s quite funny when you mention Michael Brown as he has been very encouraging towards me since we first met. We share the same approach to being very focused and determined. On the back of my riding shirt I had a donkey and Michael explained that where he lives in Scarborough, they have donkeys on the beach, so we have many things in common” — Hugo laughs!

What attracted you to motorcycle trials?

“I started with my interest in trials at the age of three, thanks to my father. My grandfather and my father also rode in trials at an amateur level, so the sport has been around me for almost all my life. My father still practises as much as he can in between looking after me”.

2017 France TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

2017 Andorra: With Michael Brown, the original ‘Mighty Atom’.

Trials Media: When did you first start to compete?

“My first motorcycle competition was in Massais at the age of five with a Xispa 25. My local club organised the trial. I cannot remember the result anymore but I can remember that it was so much fun, and from that very day my mind was made up that my future was motorcycle trials; wha t a wonderful memory!”

2017 Andorra: Gas Gas is my motorcycling family.

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MEETING

HUGO DUFRESE

2017 France: “I must be faster in qualifying”.

You mentioned that you have to concentrate so much.

“With my small physical size, I have no choice but to concentrate more on my technique.

This is because the slightest error no matter how little can be quickly transformed into a failure. My mindset is to break down the bigger obstacles to overcome them mentally and this way I can then plan my route through them. I must admit I am not strong enough…

Mother Nature designed me that way”.

When did you start to achieve success?

“In the MT3 category, I won my first French Championship when I was six years old. During this period we travelled a lot to Spain to take part in the Catalonia Youth Championship. At the time Catalonia had a really good calendar with about ten rounds. It was really great, and I enjoyed these times as it was very much family fun”.

Do you have any other sports interest at school?

“At College, we practise many different sports disciplines, but martial arts sports are my favourites. I am generally in very good shape as I train so much both on and off the motorcycle. My school programme is the same as the other young pupils in my age group. It was made quite clear to me at a very young age just how important my education is as once you have achieved your grades you have them forever. My parents are very serious about school and my education. My father made it quite clear: I have to achieve good grades or no trials riding — as simple as that”.

2018: The start of a new chapter with Jitsie.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

2017 Great Britain: 100% concentration!

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MEETING

HUGO DUFRESE

Your first ride in the Trial World Championship was in Spain 2017 at the opening round.

“I really enjoyed the Trial World Championship. It was such a pleasure to be among all my idols, and I was made very welcome. I must also take this opportunity to thank Trial Magazine — John coming to find me and speak with me at the opening round in Spain. The day started well, and after the first lap, I was just one mark behind the leader and eventual champion Lorenzo Gandola. On the second lap I had a puncture, and then the very heavy rain came and raised the severity of the hazards. However, I still came home third; it was a good experience to be part of”.

Do you receive direct support from the Gas Gas factory?

“I have always had a very good relationship with Gas Gas. My parents always remind me of the opportunities they sent my way. The Spanish brand has supported me from a very young age and to have been able to compete in the Trial 125 World Championship with their support is something I will always remain grateful for. They have helped me not just with mechanical support but also with the whole trials experience. The team riders and staff have always been very kind to me. The new association with Jitsie is the start of another new exciting chapter in my life. The last few years I have begun to notice their enthusiasm, which comes through in their products such as the new dynamic clothing designs. They are such a professional company. I feel very privileged and proud to be part of their 2018 team.

You mixed the Trial World Championship with the European series in 2017. Was there a reason for this?

“2017 has been a fairytale year as I won all the national championships I competed in: European Youth Championship, Open Championship of France and Hope 1 and the Team Championship of France. We decided to give priority to the European Championship over the World Championship.

My father decided that we had to get things in perspective. That’s what we did, and for this reason, I didn’t go to Japan because the dates clashed with a part of the European Championship in Latvia. In the end, it was a time for double celebration as I also made good grades in my schoolwork — Result!”

Tell us about your plans for 2018

“In 2018 I will compete in the Trial 125 World Championship and in the Senior Class Championship in France. I aim to do my best and have some fun. I have to thank everyone who has made it possible for the adventure to arrive at this point. I would also like to thank my parents who have forsaken so much to support me; I love them both so much. Bring on 2018 I cannot wait”.

Trial Magazine would like to thank Eric Lejuene for his help in generating this article.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

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CLASSIC COMPETITION 1978

Inter-Centre Team Trial

Forty years ago in the April the prestigious Inter Centre Team Trial made its way to the Lake District in the north of the country. Many older riders who read this article will know that the hazards were located on the old Lakes TwoDay course as opposed to what is ridden today, but still based around Broughton in Furness.

The old course would take in hazards in the Duddon Valley and its surrounding area, Walna Scar and Ulpha, which is situated just over four miles from Broughton. A tough but fair singlelap course laid out by the late Bill Birkett, Nigel’s father, would take in forty-six hazards using the varying terrain found in the area which includes rocks, rivers and steep wooded climbs, making it an ideal trials location. With the Yorkshire Centre team manager Tom Ellis chasing an eighth consecutive win who would have betted against the ‘Yorkies’ continuing with their winning streak. Tom Ellis was a very well-respected Yorkshireman and ex-BSA works rider. He was very proud of the team’s achievements and respected by all who knew him.

WORDS: JOHN HULME • PICTURES: MALCOLM CARLING

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Rob Shepherd (Honda): This was one of the last outings for the three year old long-stroke 306 Honda that had taken ‘Shep’ to the 1977 British Trials Championship. He was informed by Honda in Japan that a new, even longer stroked, four-stroke model which had an engine capacity of 359cc was on its way for the SSDT. It turned up on the Thursday before the ‘Scottish’ weigh-in on the Sunday!

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

CLASSIC COMPETITION 1978

John Reynolds (SWM): Priced at a wallet-breaking £1,048.00, the new SWM trials machines from Italy had arrived in February for both Colin Bell and John Reynolds to ride. With Rotary Valve induction they produced a unique engine noise and ‘JR’ was delighted with its performance. Reynolds had been under the guidance of Cliff and Roger Holden, riding Ossa machinery, but with problems with the Spanish production he also made the decision to import the SWM range of machines.

W

ith the World and British Trials Championships well under way, the main focus of attention was the forthcoming Scottish Six Days Trial in May. The national Traders Trial was the day before the Inter-Centre Team competition and it threw up some surprises for the entry of just over ninety riders, which might have affected another Yorkshire victory.

Alan Lampkin (Bultaco): With Malcolm Rathmell forced out of the event with his damaged eye, a late night phone call had ‘Sid’ dragged out of bed to replace him. His Bultaco was loaded up and he travelled to the event early on the Sunday morning.

Martin Lampkin (Bultaco): After a late night ‘fettling’ from the previous day’s Wye Valley Traders Trial Martin was back on form and looking good. The new machine he had ridden the previous day was parked up for the Inter Centre and he rode the machine that was used in the world championship events. The main difference between the two was the cylinder barrel. His world championship machine had more power than the other one he had been testing for the SSDT, which suited his strong aggressive riding style.

Nigel Birkett (Montesa): After riding the 325 Suzuki for a few seasons with some success, which included the highest place world championship finish ever for the Japanese manufacturer, in Switzerland in 1975, Birkett moved to Montesa in 1978. He was a man on form at the Inter Centre Team Trial, having won the previous day’s Wye Valley Traders Trial. A few weeks later he would win the Lomax on the run up to the SSDT, where he would ride a new prototype 350cc Montesa. This would eventually become the Cota 349.

Norman Shepherd (Bultaco): The younger of the two Pateley Bridge based farmers he was supported in all national trials by the UK Bultaco importers Comerfords where he scored some impressive results.

TEAM CASUALTIES

The first casualty was Martin Lampkin and his Bultaco. This was a brand new machine he had practised on and the one he would ride in the SSDT, his number one machine. The machine, prepared by Reg May, was in excellent shape but he had a new modified air filter box he had been trying that he had fitted in readiness for the six-day event to make sure in the heat of the competition it was okay. Unknown to Martin it had started to let a small amount of mud and water enter, causing the carburettor slide to jam wide open, and he looped the machine down a waterfall hazard breaking many parts in the subsequent crash. After some pretty handy spanner work, he soon had the Bultaco up and running but was not happy with how it was performing. At a two-thirds distance, he retired and rushed back to his Yorkshire base to affect some repairs for the Inter-Centre event the day after.

Held at Pontilas, Herefordshire, the Traders Trial turned into a four-way battle between current British Champion Rob Shepherd (Honda), Malcolm Rathmell (Beamish Suzuki), Rob Edwards (Montesa) and eventual winner Nigel Birkett (Montesa). Riding a heavily modified machine as he tried to adjust to the Beamish Suzuki after many successful seasons on a Montesa, Rathmell was in with a shout for the win until three hazards from home when a wooden branch hit him in his right eye, affecting his vision as the damage around the eye swelled up. He finished the event but had to take a three on the last hazard as he could not see clearly.

An on-form Nigel Birkett won on 48 with Rathmell next on 49, Shepherd on 50 and Edwards with 54 marks lost. Rathmell travelled to the Lake District but pulled out of the event as the eye closed. A late-night phone call to Alan ‘Sid’ Lampkin had him pulled out of bed to compete with the team in place of Rathmell!

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

Allen Collier (Honda): This 200cc Honda that Allen is seen on here has a very interesting history. His friend John Banks, of motocross fame, was building some special Mugen Honda powered machines. When the engines arrived in mid-1977 there were also two trials engines. John Banks Motorcycles were Honda main dealers. The two engines were prepared by Honda Racing Developments and featured a long stroke and heavy flywheels.

Both the ignition and carburettors also came for the same supplier. These engines were built into Sammy Miller Highboy frames, with factory supplied Showa leading axle front forks fitted and Honda TL 125 wheels. Collier won the Eastern Centre Championship on the machine before it blew up in the Colmore Cup Trial!

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CLASSIC COMPETITION 1978

John Luckett (Ossa): Can you imagine, after living and competing in the South Western, the shock at the severity of the sections in the Lake District. John along with his fellow team riders would come home 10th.

Tony Davis (Bultaco): A trials rider, winning 14 nationals, and motocross winner and works rider for BSA, Bultaco, Montesa and Beamish Suzuki, Tony had a long sporting career. His late brother Malcolm was a British Motocross champion before his untimely death in a road traffic accident in the 1980 Presidents National Trial.

Rob Edwards (Montesa): Known very much as an ambassador during his riding days with Montesa, Rob along with Nigel Birkett would be involved with the development of the Cota 349.

TEAM TIME Alan Wright (Beamish Suzuki): The Midlands based retired civil servant was a regular on the national trials scene in the seventies and eighties, on a wide variety of machinery. This machine is one of the early and very rare Beamish Suzukis with a ‘works’ engine fitted.

Each team would have five riders, but the best four riders’ scores would count as the winning total.

The question on most team riders’ lips was ‘Who will finish second?’ Such was the abundance of talent in the Yorkshire Centre. There were a few ‘rumblings’ before the start that the Northern Centre riders Tony Calvert and Richard Sunter were borderline ‘Yorkies’. Whatever anyone said there was only ever going to be one team winner, barring a complete disaster, and that was Yorkshire. Who would have argued that they could have run two teams and still come first and second? As it turned out the event was run in dry, overcast weather, but with some very strict observing the scores all ended up very high. Nigel was the best individual performer winning on 81 marks lost!

Most of the top riders considered it a tough but very good event. Many of the centre riders based south of Birmingham found it was way too hard for their experience, on such rocky hazards, having been more used to mud and banks. As it turned out, the Yorkshire team did take a very clear convincing victory, but when you divide the winning total of the four best scores they still averaged out at 96.5 marks each! In second was the host Northern Centre followed home by East Yorkshire. It had been a tough, fair day’s sport, and in the world of motorcycle trials, you cannot ask for much more than that.

INTER-CENTRE TEAM TRIAL 1978

Richard Sunter (Montesa): Taking a long dab, Reeth based Richard was part of the second-placed Northern team.

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RESULTS: 1: Yorkshire (Alan Lampkin, Martin Lampkin, John Reynolds, Rob Shepherd, Norman Shepherd) 386; 2: Northern (Nigel Birkett, Tony Calvert, Chris Myers, Richard Sunter, Dave Williams) 495; 3: East Yorkshire (Peter Cartwright, Rob Edwards, Brian Husband, Brian Hutchinson, Ray Sharp) 564; 4: Midland (Steve Wilson, Alan Wright, Mick Bowers, Mick Parkes, Derrick Edmondson) 583; 5: Southern (Ray Symes, Dave Clinkard, Geoff Guy, John Metcalfe, Geoff Chandler) 588; 6: North Western (Clive Smith, Stuart Oughton, Ray Smith, Alec Shennan, Malcolm Ellis) 594; 7: South Midland (Dave Fletcher, Geoff Pusey, Dave Paxman, Adrian Haslam, Ray Haslam) 608; 8: South Eastern (Steve Palmer, Alan Ketley, Chris Sutton, Colin Boniface, Gordon Farley) 613; 9: Western (Nick Draper, Jon Bliss, Roger Bevan, Tony Davis, Mark Kemp) 632; 10: South Western (Alan Baker, Antony Hunt, Martin Strang, John Luckett, Brian Higgins) 643; 11: North Eastern (Gary McDonnell, Ray Crinson, Kevin Hole, John Palmer, Steve Robson) 663; 12: Cheshire (David Hooke, Mike Leddy, Ray Darlington, Steve Thomas, Peter Salt) 666.

BEST INDIVIDUAL: Nigel Birkett 81.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

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SPORT

SIDECAR 2017

Nigel Crellin/Chris Molyneux (BMS Scorpa)

We had no choice but to go to print before the conclusion of the 2017 Wessex Plant Hire Sidecar British Championship, so in this article in our first issue of 2018 we have a look at the series. With eleven rounds spread around the country nine would count towards the overall championship to find the winners in the respective classes. The final round, the Ray Thomas Trial run by the Normandy MCC, would witness some very exciting conclusions to the championship titles and final positions as, with the championship allowing the competitors to drop two rounds, it was all to play for as the three-wheeled action was enjoyed by all, in ideal trials riding conditions over the two laps of eighteen challenging hazards.

ARTICLE: KAREN AND JOEL CRABTREE, YOOMEE

Jon Tuck/Matt Sparkes (Wessex SXS TRS)

AND BARRY ROBINSON

WESSEX PLANT HIRE

British Sidecar Championship 2017 74

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

SPORT

SIDECAR 2017

Oliver Lace & Ealish Baxter (Lace Auto Gas Gas)

William Caine/Beth Thomas (Good With Wood Gas Gas)

Robin Head/Adam Jacobs (Beta)

Karl Jarvis/Jana Grossman (Scorpa)

CLASS A

Going all the way to the wire, Jon Tuck/Matt Sparkes held a slender onepoint advantage having won five of the ten rounds over Nigel Crellin/Chris Molyneux who had won four as they approached the final round. These two teams had dominated this class, taking all the wins apart from a surprise victory from Rupert and Chris Kimber in round three back in April. The action between the two challengers for the 2017 title was always going to be close as Jon Tuck and Matt Sparkes had to repair a puncture in the rear wheel of the TRS earlier in the day. Holding the advantage for most of the day these two had a scare when they stopped in the last-but-one section of the day, to finish just a single mark in front of Nigel Crellin and Chris Molyneux who were denied the title.

CLASS B, INTERMEDIATE

It was the male/female pairing of William Caine and Beth Thomas who dominated the Intermediate class with a full house of wins in the nine rounds they contested on the Gas Gas. They were the only pairing in the four classes of the championship to achieve this consistency, which put the championship beyond reach of all the other riders by taking a full 180 points. No one had an answer to this consistency. The runner-up position would go in favour of David Tuck and Joe Newman, who took victory in round ten and pushed Tony Jones and Jamie Howe into the last place on the podium as Simon TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

David Tuck/Joe Newman (Wessex TRS)

Evans and Nick Harding took victory at the final round. As with Class A, a total of eight sidecar crews scored points in the eleven rounds.

CLASS C, CLUBMEN

With a total of 20 sidecar crews scoring points over the course of the season this was always going to be a difficult class to win. Taking six wins from the nine they contested, Manxmen Damien Owen and Gaz Temple took a clear championship win and opted out of the final two rounds. Second place in the series was contested at the final round and Nigel and Gracie-Mae Scott managed to keep Paul Fishlock and Debbie Merrell, who had won two earlier rounds in the summer months, at bay as they took third overall. With so many riders scoring points the championship positions lower down the order were played out in the final round, in this very competitive class.

CLASS D, NEWCOMERS

Despite the fact that it encourages anyone to have a go, the Class D Newcomers was very poorly supported. Matt Bond and Aleyn Taggart won the championship as Chris Newsham and Sam Atherton won the final round.

Trial Magazine would like to thank Karen and Joel Crabtree for their support in generating this article.

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SPORT

SIDECAR 2017

Damien Owen/Gaz Temple (Station Garage Beta)

Paul Fishlock/Debbie Merrell (Honda 4RT)

Nigel & Gracie-Mae Scott (Luscombe Leeds Beta)

Phil Sparkes/Steve Chandler (Wessex SXS TRS)

Phil Sparkes/Izzy Saunders (SXS TRS)

2017 SIDECAR BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIP RAY THOMAS TRIAL, DUNSFOLD, SURREY, NORMANDY MCC

ROUND 11 CLASS A: 1: Jon Tuck/Matt Sparkes (Wessex SXS TRS) 18; 2: Nigel Crellin/Chris Molyneux (BMS Scorpa) 19; 3: Josh & Luke Golding (SXS TRS) 32.

CLASS B, INTERMEDIATE: 1: Simon Evans/Nick Harding (Vertigo) 24; 2: Sean & Paul Cuckow (Sherco) 30; 3: David Tuck/Joe Newman (Wessex TRS) 39.

CLASS C, CLUBMEN: 1: Jack Corlett/Gary Flowers (Gas Gas) 9; 2: Paul Fishlock/Debbie Merrell (Honda 4RT) 18; 3: John Corlett/Harry Gell (Gas Gas) 20.

CLASS D, NEWCOMERS: 1: Chris Newsham/Sam Atherton (Gas Gas) 64.

FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP POSITIONS CLASS A: 1: Jon Tuck/Matt Sparkes (Wessex SXS TRS) 169; 2: Nigel Crellin/Chris Molyneux (BMS Scorpa) 165; 3: Josh & Luke Golding (SXS TRS) 139; 4: Rupert & Chris Kimber (PBS Beta) 128; 5: Oliver Lace & Ealish Baxter (Lace Auto Gas Gas) 72; 6: Chris & Robert Pickard (Beta) 56; 7: Daryl Dale/Hannah Etherington (Prodoor Gas Gas) 54; 8: Peter Dale/Harriet Shore (PDF Gas Gas) 47.

CLASS B, INTERMEDIATE: 1: William Caine/Beth Thomas (Good With Wood Gas Gas) 180; 2: David Tuck/ Joe Newman (Wessex TRS) 152; 3: Tony Jones/Jamie Howe (Beta) 139; 4: Simon Evans/Nick Harding (Vertigo) 111; 5: Robin Head/Adam Jacobs (Beta) 67; 6: Karl Jarvis/Jana Grossman (Scorpa) 44; 7: Sean & Paul Cuckow (Sherco) 17; 8: Chris Dellow/Karen Crabtree (Beta) 9.

CLASS C, CLUBMEN: 1: Damien Owen/Gaz Temple (Station Garage Beta) 161; 2: Nigel & Gracie-Mae Scott

(Luscombe Leeds Beta) 146; 3: Paul Fishlock/Debbie Merrell (Honda 4RT) 131; 4: Jack Corlett/Sam Baxter (Gas Gas) 130; 5: John Corlett/Harry Gell (Gas Gas) 119; 6: Jake Pope/Bob Chapman (Sherco) 96; 7: Phil Sparkes/Steve Chandler (Wessex SXS TRS) 91; 8: Luke Etheridge/Dave Denyer (Beta) 60; 9: Mick Treagus/ Izzy Saunders (SXS TRS) 55; 10: Adam & Harvey Allaway (JAM Beta) 52.

CLASS D, NEWCOMERS: 1: Matt Bond/Aleyn Taggart (Gas Gas) 168; 2: Chris Newsham/Sam Atherton (Gas Matt Bond/Aleyn Taggart (Gas Gas) 76

Gas) 155; 3: Stuart Spicer/Edward Bichaud (Gas Gas) 13.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

ENDUROCROSS ENDUROC

The ‘Fujigas’ Montesa 4Ride.

All – rounder

As popular as ever, having spent the best part of his life on the Trial World Championship scene which was rewarded with the 2004 title, Japan’s original ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll’ trials superstar Takahisa Fujinami still loves a proper blast out on an off-road Motorcycle. His tremendous talent knows no limits, and at the back end of 2017 he found himself riding as a true all-rounder on the Montesa 4Ride in the Spanish Enduroc, mixing it with the other 745 entries.

ARTICLE: PRO MOTOR SPORTS AND FOTO SPORT

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

W

ith the trials season over, long-serving Repsol–Honda–Montesa team rider Takahisa Fujinami was able to enjoy some fun with his friends in a different off-road arena to the one he is more accustomed to. He was still four-stroke mounted on the Montesa 4Ride but the discipline was miles away from his usual environment of the trials hazards.

SPECTACULAR

Proudly boasting an entry of both professional riders and amateur fun competitors totalling 745, the eighth running of the aptly named Enduroc took place over two days on the 25th and 26th November in Les Comes, Spain. As is the tradition in Spain this event officially closes the Enduro season. It’s very much a huge festival of off-road motorcycle sport, and a crowd of over 3,000 joined in the atmosphere of this special live event. As with all the other major trials manufacturers including Beta, Gas Gas, Scorpa and TRS, to name a few, Montesa is looking at developing its legendary Cota four-stroke machine to give it a level of fun and enjoyment for the rider. This is achieved by making it more of a trail/trial type machine whereby owners can have a ride out on the open trails and take in some trials hazards if they wish. Beta has its Alp model and in the past Gas Gas has presented the Pampera model. In more recent times TRS has introduced its ‘XTRACK’ model which was recently ridden to the summit of a mountain!

Yes as you will have guessed it’s adventure that many riders are looking for, including ‘Fujigas’.

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ENDUROCROSS ENDUROC

Jordi Capelles in full race mode.

Trusting his enduro tyres: Guillem Jorba.

Team Montesa 4Ride.

Takahisha Fujinami wins his class.

FRIENDS — AMIGOS

On the Saturday ‘Fujigas’ had already finished second in the timed section while the other two riders entered on the Montesa 4Ride, Jordi Capelles and Guillem Jorba, set the 11th and 12th fastest times respectively. Fujinami was entered in the multitudinous category, ‘Friends and Amigos’ to you and me, for Sunday’s race. This category, which includes all the amateur riders, also competes on the same route as the Elite category.

With the majority of the enduro machines having an electric start they raced away as ‘Fujigas’ had to use the conventional ‘kickstart’ method on his 4Ride. The four-stroke engine soon fired into life, and using his vast experience of off-road riding he started to make progress through the huge amount of fellow riders. To help him in his quest for victory in this class he had replaced the trials tyres on the Montesa for enduro ones to give him a racing edge against his rivals. After a tough race the Japanese ace was able to take victory in his category which contained 331 riders, much to his and the team’s delight. Capelles finished 10th while Jorba was 22nd in a race that started with 331 riders and finished with 255 remaining. In the race itself ‘Fuji’ finished in a time of 57:40.69 which would have given him 8th overall; not bad for a trials rider!

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The winners.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PREVIEW 2018

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PREVIEW 2018

Get on your machine and ride

There is no excuse for not riding your trials motorcycle in 2018 as you will see with this list of dates. If you do not want to ride why no go along and officiate, of just enjoy watching the action as a spectator. With a wide range of events from the very pinnacle of the sport through to the clubman’s and classic championships events it really is a case of get on your motorcycle and ride – enjoy. Please note that these dates and locations could change over the year, so we strongly advise you to check where you can before you travel and attend.

ARTICLE: TRIALS MEDIA

2018 PREVIEW FIM X-TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP JANUARY 13: France Montpellier JANUARY 19: France Toulouse JANUARY 26: France Strasbourg FEBRUARY 4: Spain Barcelona MARCH 8: Spain Sevilla MARCH 17: France Paris MARCH 29: Hungary Budapest

X-TRIAL DES NATIONS APRIL 6: France Nice

FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

MAY 19/20: Spain Camprodon JUNE 1-3: Japan Motegi JUNE 16/17: Andorra Sant Julia JUNE 23/24: Portugal Gouveia JULY 14/15: France Auron JULY 21/22: Belgium Comblain Au Pont SEPTEMBER 1/2: Great Britain Silsden SEPTEMBER 15/16: Italy Pietramurata Di Dro

TRIAL DES NATIONS

SEPTEMBER 22/23: Czech Republic Sokolov

ACU R.T. KEEDWELL SOLO CHAMPIONSHIP INC ACU ELITE YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP MARCH 10: Hookwoods Trials Club APRIL 15: Westmorland MC APRIL 29: Neath MC, St David’s Trial JUNE 10: West of England, Anthony Rew Trial AUGUST 26: Guisborough DMC Hardaker Trial SEPTEMBER 15/16: East Lothian MCC SEPTEMBER 30: Hafren Dirt Bike Club OCTOBER 20/21: East Lothian

ACU S3 PARTS CHAMPIONSHIP

FEBRUARY 25: North Berks Wallace Cup Trial MARCH 4: Westmorland MC, Milnthorpe Cup MARCH 11: Stratford-on-Avon MC, Colmore Cup TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

MARCH 18: Hillsborough, Jack Wood APRIL 1: Mid Wales Centre, Powys Trial APRIL 2: Llangollen DMC, Lomax Trial APRIL 8: Yeadon Guiseley MC, Chris Carter Trial JUNE 24: Wetherby DMC, Wainwright Trial SEPTEMBER 23: Newcastle DMC Travers Trial

ACU WESSEX PLANT SIDECAR CHAMPIONSHIP MARCH 3: West of England MC MARCH 18: Mansfield Maun MC, Doncaster Cup MARCH 31: Peverill MC, Andy Smith Trial APRIL 1: Peverill MC, David Craine Trial APRIL 15: South Birmingham MC, DK Mansell MAY 20: Nene Velley MC AUGUST 5: BSSA Tuck Cross Trial AUGUST 19: Owls MC SEPTEMBER 16: Yeadon Guiseley Mel Harrison Trial SEPTEMBER 29: South Birmingham MC NOVEMBER 25: Normandy MC Ray Thomas Trial

MINTEX YOUTH TRIAL JUNE 17

OTHER MAJOR TRIALS

MAY 7/12: Scottish Six Days JULY 14/15: Manx Two Day JULY 20/22: Reeth Three Day OCTOBER 6/7: Lakes Two Day OCTOBER 13: Scott Trial NOVEMBER 10: Northern Experts NOVEMBER 10/11: Jersey Two Day DECEMBER 2: Southern Experts BRITISH SUPERTRIAL CUP AUGUST 18/19: North Berks MC

KIA NATIONAL TWIN-SHOCK SERIES

FEBRUARY 25: Aqueducts Classics MARCH 25: Castleside TC APRIL 22: Scunthorpe MAY 20: Manchester 17 ACU ACKLAMS BETA LADIES AND GIRLS TRIALS JUNE 17: Spen Valley MCC JULY 22: Nene Valley MCC CHAMPIONSHIP SEPTEMBER 1: Torridge & DMCC MARCH 11: North Berks MC SEPTEMBER 30: Hillsborough MCC APRIL 14: Lincoln DMC OCTOBER 28: Central Wales AC JUNE 3: Scarborough DMC ACU NORMANDALE MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIP JULY 8: Yeadon Guiseley FEBRUARY 4: Castle Colchester MCC JULY 28/29: Peverill MC APRIL 21: West Cornwall MC AUGUST 19: Bexleyheath MC APRIL 22: Torridge & DMCC OCTOBER 28: Chelmsford MC MAY 29: Lyn MC ACU ACKLAMS BETA SOLO YOUTH A/B/C/D JUNE 17: Mansfield Maun MCC CHAMPIONSHIP OCTOBER 6: West of England MC MAY 5: Isle of Man Youth MC (C/D) OCTOBER 7: Otter Vale MCC MAY 6: Isle of Man Youth MC (A/B) OCTOBER 21: South Birmingham MC JUNE 2: Scarborough DMC (C/D) OCTOBER 28: Sheffield and Hallamshire JUNE 10: Sheffield & Hallamshire MC (A/B/C/D) HIGHLAND CLASSIC TWO DAY – ALVIE JUNE 30: East Lothian MCC (C/D) JUNE 9/10: Inverness and District MCC JULY 1: East Lothian MCC (A/B) BLUE BAR TROPHY TRIAL JULY 22: Mansfield Maun MCC (A/B/C/D) MAY 26/27: Richmond Motor Club JULY 29: Tynemouth DMC (C/D) 83

bike trial clothing 2018

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PREVIEW 2018

MAKE A DATE

JERSEY TWO DAY 10-11th November 2018 Despite the fact that poor weather hit the channel island of Jersey in early November 2017, an entry of over 100 riders still enjoyed the two days of action at this annual end of season event. Traditionally held over the Remembrance Weekend the entry observed a minute’s silence to remember the fallen from the two world wars on the second day. With two laps of a good choice of hazards in two separate locations the event carries a very firm fun factor and has been enjoyed for many years. For riders and wives, girlfriends, partners and families it’s a good time to enjoy the happy atmosphere, which the island has in abundance. The island also has a superb variety of cafes, bars and restaurants for everyone to enjoy.

For the riders they get to enjoy the ride around and for everyone else it’s a chance to pick up some preChristmas shopping with the reduced prices that the tax free haven enjoys. The event offers a choice of routes to suit riders of all abilities and ages. All the fun finishes off with the prize giving ceremony at the Hotel Ambassadeur, which also keeps the visitors entertained all weekend and works as an ideal base for everyone.

Adam Le Cheminant (Gas Gas) was a clear winner of the 2017 event.

ARTICLE: JOHN HULME

The 2017 event witnessed an excellent ride from Jersey resident Adam Le Cheminant, who was a clear winner in front old friends and rivals George Edyvean and Nick Life on the Expert route. On the Clubmen route Gareth Andrew was also a clear winner from the Best Over60 Roger Johns, who edged out Sammy Bott on the most cleans tie decider. On the easier Novice route it was also very close but this time for the overall victory, as Tony Lucas and John Holland had to once again be separated by the most cleans tie decider. Another Jersey resident, Wayne Le Marquand, won the twin-shock A route as the ever smiling Gary White won the twin-shock B route.

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George Edyvean (Beta) is a Jersey Two Day regular.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PREVIEW 2018

Roger Johns (Gas Gas) returned to the event after a break for many years to take the second overall and the Best Over 60 in the Clubmen class.

Gareth Andrew (Sherco) won the largest of the classes, the Clubmen.

It’s all about the ‘fun’ factor.

It was smiles all the way from Gary White (Majesty).

John Holland (Yamaha) missed the Novice Class win on the most cleans tie decider.

Wayne Le Marquand (Bultaco) had a break from his successful scrambling season.

2017 JERSEY TWO DAY TRIAL

EXPERT: 1: Adam Le Cheminant (Gas Gas) 63; 2: George Edyvean (Beta) 134; 3: Nick Life (Beta) 135.

CLUBMEN: 1: Gareth Andrew (Sherco) 51; 2: Roger Johns (Gas Gas) 81; 3: Sammy Bott (Gas Gas) 81.

NOVICE: 1: Tony Lucas (Gas Gas) 11; 2: John Holland (Yamaha) 11; 3: Steve Kenny (Beta) 15.

TWIN-SHOCK A ROUTE: 1: Wayne Le Marquand (Bultaco) 103.

The Best Novice was Tony Lucas (Gas Gas) TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

TWIN-SHOCK B ROUTE: 1: Gary White (Majesty) 53.

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PREVIEW 2018

JERSEY TWO DAY

So you want to ride?

Keep your eyes on the club’s website: www.jerseymotorsport.com around August 2018, where you can enter on-line.

ENTRY FORM: Online entries are all that are accepted. To enter you will need to find the link and click on it, which should take you directly to the correct webpage. Should you have any problems with the online form or payment please contact the club. Please note you do not need a Paypal account to use this online form but your entry must be paid in full before it can be accepted.

FERRY BOOKINGS: The club usually agrees a discount with Condor Ferries for overseas competitors. Their reservations number is 0345 609 1024; ask for the Groups department. You must state that you are travelling to Jersey for the Jersey Motor Cycle & Light Car Club’s Two Day Trial. The discount is usually available for travel over the trial’s dates and is for all routes to and from Jersey.

CAR HIRE: Avis Jersey provide a discount code to use when booking online on their website: www.avisjersey.co.uk The code is: JMCLCC.

HOTEL BOOKINGS: As is usual the Hotel Ambassadeur will be giving anyone staying with them for this annual event a discounted room price. Please contact them directly to book on: 01534 724455. You can also visit their website: www.hotelambassadeur.co.uk. Please ensure you state when you are booking that you are taking part in the JMC & LCC Two Day Trial. The Hotel also hosts the prize giving dinner. Should you have any further questions it’s usually best to email to: trialsjsy@gmail. com, and they will reply as soon as they can.

WHERE IS JERSEY

Jersey sits in the Bay of St Malo and is just 19 miles, 30.5km, from the French coast and 85 miles – 137 km – south of the English coast. Jersey is only 5 miles (8km) long and 9 miles (14.5km) wide. The capital of Jersey is Saint Helier, which is one of the twelve parishes of Jersey.

St Helier has a population of about 33,500, roughly 34.2% of the total population of Jersey. The urban area of the parish of St Helier makes up most of the largest town in Jersey although some of the town area is situated in adjacent St Saviour, with suburbs sprawling into St Lawrence and St Clement. The capital offers a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants to take in the culture of this, the largest of the Channel Islands.

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

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CYCLE TRIALS REVIEW 2017

Adam along with Oliver Weightman and the BIU Elite 20” World Champion Vasek Kolar from Czech. Pictured at the BIU worlds in Spain.

BIU Worlds round 1 podium riders: Owen Gawthorpe, Ben Savage, Adam Morewood and Oliver Weightman.

Great Britain – proud Cycle Trials may be very much a low participation sport here in the UK but what it lacks in numbers it certainly makes up for in quality, with home riders taking five World Titles and one European Title in 2017.

ARTICLE: TRIAL MAGAZINE

RULES

There are two slightly different genres of the sport internationally. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the world’s governing body for cycle sport, organising road cycling, track cycling, mountain biking and BMX events amongst other things. They organise trials which are very much a city centre sport held over man-made obstacles with similar rules to the FIM X-Trial indoor series in that if any part of the bike touches the floor, except for the wheels, results in a dab. Then there is the Biketrial International Union (BIU) who organises BikeTrial, which is more like traditional motorcycle trials run over natural sections. This organisation started with young riders emulating their fathers riding motorcycle trials and allows riders to balance on their pedal or bashplate without incurring penalties.

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The UK BIU Team FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

CYCLE TRIALS REVIEW 2017

Charlie Rolls.

Adam Morewood.

UCI TRIALS WORLD YOUTH GAMES

The World Championship season is very much organised during the summer months and this year the first title to be awarded was the UCI Trials World Youth Games which was held over two days in Viborg, Denmark, in the heart of the city centre. The UK sent a team of six riders over the various age categories. Qualifying was held on the Saturday with the top twelve riders in each class qualifying for the finals on Sunday. Charlie Rolls and Adam Morewood comfortably qualified for the finals in the Cadet class, with Charlie going on to dominate the finals and take the title and Adam finishing in fourth position. Sam Shepherd scraped into the Minime final but improved on the second day, finishing in tenth position. In the Benjamin class Josh McParland qualified in ninth place but in a very difficult final dropped one position to tenth. Bailey Dacker failed to qualify in nineteenth place with Finn Johstone finishing 29th in the well supported Poussin class.

Eddie Weightman.

BIU WORLD BIKETRIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Oliver Weightman and Adam Morewood: World Champions TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

The next titles to be awarded were just one week later in August at the BIU World BikeTrial Championships held in Spain. This championship consisted of two separate rounds, with points being accrued for the overall title. For this championship the UK had eleven riders ranging from 8 years old to 30 years old. It was an extremely successful championship for the UK team, who finished third overall in the nations cup and picked up three individual world titles and a second place. In the youngest category Eddie Weightman was attending his first World Championships, picking up sixth position. In the Benjamin class for 10-12 year olds his brother Oliver, also competing at the Worlds for the first time, had an awesome time picking up a win and a second position to take the World title at his first attempt. He was backed up

by Bailey Dacker in eleventh and Harry Turner in fourteenth. The Minime class saw another World title for the UK team with Adam Morewood taking the win on both days to lift his third BIU World Title. Reece Seymour had a good week in fifth place with Sam Shepherd in eighth position. The senior 20” class saw the UK come very close to another title as Owen Gawthorpe finished second in the first round, losing out on most cleans, and with a third place on the second day he secured the silver medal position, with Aaron Duke finishing in seventh position overall. Scott Wilson was competing in the senior 26” class and some great riding saw him take fourth overall. To round things off Ben Savage took comfortable wins on both days in the Elite 26” class to take home another World title for the UK. 93

CYCLE TRIALS REVIEW 2017

Oliver Weightman.

BIU EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP

In a break from tradition the BIU European Championship was held indoors at a sport and lifestyle exhibition in Brno, Czech Republic. Eight UK riders competed over the two-day competition on some great man-made obstacles. In the senior class Scott Wilson had a great day, picking up the silver medal in second position. In the 13-15 year old Minime class Adam Morewood followed up his World Championship win with his third European Championship title, Reece Seymour getting fifth place. In the Benjamin class Oliver Weightman couldn’t quite repeat his Worlds success, finishing a very close second place behind the Slovakian winner with Bailey Dacker seventh and Elliott Cooper in tenth. Eddie Weightman gave his all in

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the Poussin class finishing in fourth place, only losing out on third position on the tie breaker of time taken to complete the event, with Oliver Cooper in eight place.

UCI ELITE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

The final title to be settled was the biggest of the season, being the UCI Elite World Championships for the coveted rainbow jersey. For 2017 this was held in Chengdou in China over one week to a new set of rules where points were accrued for each gate of the section cleaned. Yorkshire’s Jack Carthy produced a stunning performance to take his second UCI World elite 26” title on the trot after languishing in sixth place after the second of the five-section final. Andrei Burton managed a fine

Jack Carthy.

ninth position with Steve Rogers in 22nd place. In the Elite 20” class Andrew Chai finished in 20th place and in the Junior 20” class for riders 18 years old and younger Will Ackerley claimed a fine ninth position after a late recovery from an ankle injury.

2018

Overall the 2017 season has been a great success for the selected UK riders internationally, and with all the riders busy training hard in the off season it looks like 2018 could bring even more titles home to the UK.

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PAST MASTERS

2017 COSTA BRAVA TWO DAY

Who’s who

2017: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) – The Costa Brava Classic Two Day Winner.

2004: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) – Trial World Champion: 2004. Since his first appearance on the world scene in 1996 the ever popular Japanese rider has remained in the top ten of the Trial World Championship over a long and distinguished career, taking many individual world round wins. What makes Fujinami quite unique is the fact that he has remained loyal to the Honda/ Montesa machinery on this incredible adventure. Taking the 2004 championship, which was the last for the brand using two-stroke engines, he last won a world round in France 2016 on the fourstroke Cota 4RT and still remains a force to be reckoned with at the very cutting edge of the sport.

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In 2017 the event was pleased to welcome two of the current top ten riders from TrialGP, world number five and the 2004 World Champion Takahisa Fujinami, and world number ten from Italy Matteo Grattarola. Fujigas, as he is affectionately known, is the original playboy from the trials world having spent over twenty years competing in the championship. His enthusiasm and encouragement for the world of motorcycle trials is a credit to his ongoing commitment to the sport.

He loves the fun factor — and anyone who will have seen him being thrown into the swimming pool after the awards presentation will know exactly what we mean! Matteo Grattarola was encouraged to ride the event on a twin-shock Honda four-stroke as has moved to the Montesa Cota 4RT for the 2018 TrialGP season. In this article we have a look at the past and present with the many riders who have given so much to our sport over the years. We also look at other winners of trials events in more recent times.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PAST MASTERS

2017 COSTA BRAVA TWO DAY

I have been attending trials since my earliest recollections, from 1967 of Mick Andrews at Hawk’s Nest.

Over the next fifty years I would witness some of the most magical events in trials, watching so many of the great riders in action. In more modern times, and with my work now totally focussed on both this publication and our sister one Classic Trial Magazine, my travels take me far and wide around the globe. This was my second year at the Costa Brava Classic Two Day in late November, and it is with great delight that I can witness some of my early trials heroes in action as they are now very much a part of the classic scene. With a full entry of three hundred and sixty riders it was very much a who’s who of the trials world.

ARTICLE: JONNY • PICTURES: YOOMEE ARCHIVE, CYRILLE BARTHE, TOON VAN DE VLIET, NICK NICHOLLS COLLECTION, MORTON’S ARCHIVE, COLIN BULLOCK AND BULTACO

2017: Yrjo Vesterinen (Bultaco-FIN). Inset: 1976: Yrjo Vesterinen (Bultaco-FIN) – Trial World Champion: 1976–1978; Scottish Six Days Trial Winner: 1980; Finnish National Champion: 1970–1980; British Trials Champion: 1982. In a career which has now been extended to the classic world, Yrjo ‘Vesty’ Vesterinen was the first foreign winner of the ‘Scottish’ on Montesa in 1980 before becoming the only ever foreign winner of the British Trials Championship, for Bultaco in 1982. After retiring from top flight trials he started the world famous Apico brand in 1984 with his wife Diane. After selling the business in 2014 he became more involved with classic trials, where he is just as competitive now as he was when he was chasing world championships.

2017: Steve Saunders (Fantic-GBR). Inset: 1983: Steve Saunders (Armstrong-GBR) – Vice Trial World Champion: 1986; Scottish Six Days Trial Winner: 1988–1991; British Trials Champion: 1983–1992. After a very successful youth career on both Fantic and Bultaco machines Steve moved to the new Armstrong trials project in 1983, and his domination of the British trials championship would run for ten years riding Armstrong, Honda, Fantic and Beta along the way. During his world championship years he would win nine individual rounds. His four consecutive Scottish wins were won on both Fantic and Beta machines, two each. Now the official UK importer for TRS, his skills are still a pleasure to watch in classic trials.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

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PAST MASTERS

2017 COSTA BRAVA TWO DAY

2017: Charles Coutard (Bultaco-FRA). Inset: 1979: Charles Coutard (SWM-FRA) – French Trials Champion: 1971–1977 and 1979. As part of the once mighty Bultaco trials team from Spain, Charlie ‘Custard’ as he was known took his first major victory at the 1972 European round in Switzerland. He would remain a challenger in the Trial World Championship over the following years taking three more victories: in 1977 in the USA and Canada, again on Bultaco, before moving to the Italian SWM for his final victory in Italy in 1979. As his world championship years passed by he has remained a popular figure, continuing to ride in the classic events in France on his beloved Bultaco.

2017: John Lampkin (Fantic-GBR). Inset: 1983: John Lampkin (Fantic-GBR) – The son of Arthur, one of the three famous Lampkin brothers, John first hit the world scene with SWM before making the breakthrough into the points on the Armstrong in 1982. Moving to Fantic in 1983 he became a regular Trial World Championship points scorer, taking his one and only win in America the same year.

In 1984 he moved up into the top five riders in the world on the 300 Fantic before moving back to Armstrong in 1985. Back on Fantic in 1986 his trials career was cut short by a serious car accident. He has been the Beta UK importer for thirty years and recently returned to trials and the classic events on his 300 Fantic.

2017: Jaime Subira (FanticESP). Inset: 1981: Jaime Subira (Fantic-ESP) – Very much involved in machine development with both Montesa and Fantic, this picture sees ‘Suby’ in the 1981 Spanish world round on the prototype 240 model.

He scored his first world points in Italy in 1975 on a Montesa and his last in 1983 on the Fantic. He was the very first winner in 1978 of the Solo Moto Indoor in Barcelona, on a Montesa

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FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PAST MASTERS

2017 COSTA BRAVA TWO DAY

2017: Eric Lejuene (Honda-BEL) – The youngest of the three Lejuene brothers, Jean Marie and World Champion from 1982 to 1984 Eddy, Eric scored Trial World Championship points on both Honda and Garelli machines between 1985–1987. He now competes in the classic trials on the home-grown Honda special his father built to put his three boys on the road to success in trials.

2017: Fulvio Adamoli (Montesa-ITA) – Italian Trials Champion: 1978 – A regular Trial World Championship points scorer between 1977 and 1983, and always for Montesa; he rode this beautiful Cota 247 Ulf Karlson Replica at the Costa Brava trial.

2017: Joaquim Abad (Ossa-ESP) – I first came across Abad at the home of Mick Andrews in the late seventies. He was one of the first riders of the yellow 350 Ossa ‘Gripper’ models scoring his first Trial World Championship points in France in 1978. The Ossa he rode at this year’s event was his aluminium framed special. Nick named ‘Aba Daba Du’ by Mick Andrews, he was a very colourful character in his day. It was so good to see him at the Costa Two Day!

2017: Robin Luscombe (Triumph-GBR) – Possibly the most successful British Trials Champion, with sixteen sidecar titles to his name, Robin has also won three FIM European Cup titles on three wheels. Now a successful Suzuki car dealer Robin has caught the ‘Classic trials’ addiction.

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2017: Glen Scholey (Honda-GBR) – A winner of over half a dozen national trials in his time, riding a mixture of Bultaco, Ossa, SWM, Montesa and Honda machines, Glen remains very competitive on the classic machines, this time on a Honda TLR 250cc.

2017: Mick Grant (BSA-GBR) – A former professional motorcycle road racer he raced works-supported machines for Norton, Kawasaki, Honda and Suzuki and was a seven-time Isle of Man TT winner in the seventies. He now takes life at a slower pace as he pushes the boundaries of classic trials machines with his own ideas.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

PAST MASTERS

2017 COSTA BRAVA TWO DAY

2017: Rob Bowyer (Triumph-GBR) – 2014 Pre-65 Scottish winner. It’s always good to watch Rob ride a Triumph Twin with passion. The sound of the exhaust note from this mighty machine brings back strong memories of when Great Britain was a proud motorcycle manufacturer.

COSTA BRAVA CLASSIC TWO DAY 2017 BLUE ROUTE EXPERTS: 1: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda) 0; 2: Dan Clarke (Triumph) 1; 3: Mederic Delannoy (Fantic) 2; 4: Matteo Grattarola (Honda) 4; 5: John Lampkin (Fantic) 4; 6: Steve Saunders (Fantic) 5; 7: Josep Arcarons (Montesa) 13; 8: Serge Puzin (Fantic) 15; 9: Jean-Luc Balanca (Fantic) 19; 10: Augusto Balossi (Garelli) 21.

GREEN ROUTE MASTERS: 1: Luis Diaz (Honda) 1; 2: Francesc Planells (Fantic) 1; 3: Mariano Gomez (Merlin) 2; 4: Federico Perez (Armstrong) 4; 5: Xavier Miquel (Fantic) 6; 6: Rafael Sanroma (Beta) 7; 7: Paolo Grossi (Fantic) 7; 8: Manel Campoy (Beta) 8; 9: Francesc De Sagarra (Fantic) 8; 10: Bruno Jenny (Aprilia) 8.

2017: Dan Clarke (Triumph-GBR) – 2016 Pre-65 Scottish winner. With riding talent in abundance Dan was a member of the winning team in 1997 for Great Britain at the Trials Des Nations alongside Dougie Lampkin, Graham Jarvis and Steve Colley, on the Isle of Man.

EXPERT PRE-65: 1: Michel Ranc (BSA) 7; 2: Ferran Vilarnau (Triumph) 11; 6: Eric Lejuene (Honda) 19; 4: Robin Luscombe (Triumph) 19; 5: Joan Santure (Bultaco) 19; 6: Lennart Frennesjo (BSA) 29; 7: Jean Pregardien (Triumph) 31; 8: Mick Grant (BSA) 44; 9: Ossy Byers (BSA) 75; 10: Jordi Villalba (Moto-Guzzi) 94.

PRE-80: 1: Josep Buixo (Bultaco) 7; 2: Michel Petitdemange (Ossa) 12; 3: Alba Villegas (Bultaco) 16; 4: Regis Poirier (Yamaha) 18; 5: Mark Watmore (Yamaha) 22; 6: Josep Macia (Bultaco) 26; 7: Hamish Eadie (Bultaco) 32; 8: Christian Panabieres (Honda) 38; 9: Albert Zarate (Bultaco) 40; 10: Richard Blandin (Bultaco) 41.

YELLOW ROUTE CLASSICS: 1: Jaume Casino (Ossa) 2017: Matteo Grattarola (Honda-ITA) – Italian Trials Champion: 2009 and 2011–2017. Having made the switch from the factory supported Gas Gas team on two-stroke machines to a four-stroke Montesa in a private team for the 2018 season, the experienced Italian loved his time riding with ‘Fujigas’ at the event.

4; 2: Salvador Fortiana (Fantic) 4; 3: Martin Gilbert (Honda) 6; 4: Pascal Pauly (Yamaha) 6; 5: Isidre Blanch (Bultaco) 7; 6: Daniel Vela (Bultaco) 7; 7: Josep Bargallo (Montesa) 7; 8: Chema Cosculluela (Aprillia) 10; 9: Carles Simon (Montesa) 10; 10: Josep Aguilar (Bultaco) 10.

PRE-75: 1: Gilles Escuyer (Bultaco) 6; 2: Kiku Carbonell (Bultaco) 7; 3: Josep Vidal (Bultaco) 13; 4: Joan Sanllehy (Bultaco) 15; 5: Pere Planas (Ossa) 17; 6: Antoni Tomas (Montesa) 17; 7: Climent Noguera (Montesa) 22; 8: Cedric Brun (Bultaco) 24; 9: Ricard Barrera (Ossa) 26; 10: Joan Verura (Bultaco) 27.

PRE-65: 1: Asier Zurbano (BSA) 2; 2: Jose Martinez (Triumph) 5; 3: Pascal Houdard (James) 9; 4: Marco Kosch (Motocon) 10; 5: Filippo Girani (Francis Barnett) 21; 6: Gerard Chartier (BSA) 22; 7: Laurent Baatz (Matchless) 24; 8: Jean Beliard (Triumph) 26; 9: Jean Danou (Francis Barnett) 30; 10: Andreu Avella (BSA) 32.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

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FLASHBACK PART 1 1998

BRING

IT ON Marc Colomer (Montesa-ESP) : Quiet and studious with a very methodical approach, the 1996 World Champion put Montesa and the famous Cota trials model right back into the heat of the action. Marc is now the Gas Gas trials team manager.

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Dougie Lampkin (Beta-GBR) : The crowd came to see Great Britain’s new Trials World Champion and they were not disappointed.

FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018 • TRIAL MAGAZINE

FLASHBACK PART 1 1998

Having seen and conquered all that was in front of him in 1997, Great Britain’s Dougie Lampkin was riding with supreme confidence at the start of the Trial World Championship in 1998 on the Italian Beta. Travelling to 10 countries to contest 20 pointsscoring days in 1997 he had finally broken the deficit of a British world champion since the last Union Jack winner in 1975, who just happened to be his late father Martin on a Bultaco. Times were changing at the cutting edge of the sport, after the riders protested in Italy in 1997 on day one by going on strike with a protest letter signed by all the leading contenders. This action forced the governing body of the sport, the FIM, into making the decision not to penalise the riders for a non-intentional ‘stop’ and the consequent five-mark penalty that went with it. Lampkin just got on with the job in hand, taking 13 victories from the 20 points-scoring days. His winning total of 354 to second-placed Marc Colomer’s 301 told the story. Colomer had given Montesa the title in 1996, restoring the Spanish brand’s sporting heritage with the Cota models. He had given Lampkin a hard fight and the fact that he only won three rounds does not tell the full picture of some titanic battles for supremacy. Japan’s Kenichi Kuroyama secured two victories but in the final round in Germany a new name won, the not be forgotten Takahisa Fujinami! Could Lampkin carry his winning form into 1998, was the question?

ARTICLE: TRIAL MAGAZINE – WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE HELP OF CHARLY DEMATHIEU AND HIS WEBSITE: WWW.TRIALONLIN.ORG AND MARIO CANDELLONE: WWW.PHOTOTRIAL.IT • PICTURES: GREAT BRITAIN AND ITALY, PETER J BEARDMORE

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he great Spanish rider Jordi Tarres won the last of his seven world titles in 1995 riding the Gas Gas, before bowing out gracefully after finishing a strong 3rd in 1996 and 5th in 1997, when he retired from competing in the world championship. Having dethroned Colomer in 1997 Lampkin went to the opening round in Spain knowing he would be on his case in 1998 like a rash!

ON IT

Dougie Lampkin was ‘On It’ from the opening day at the opening round in Spain in late March. The format for each of the world rounds was 15 sections to be ridden over two laps.

The organisers had put on a good variety of hazards including a fast flowing river, and a man-made log indoor one as the final hazard for each lap. On day one he would take an eight mark victory over Colomer who had Gas Gas riders Amos Bilbao, Marcel Justribio and David Cobos in close attendance all separated by the odd single mark. On day two having secured the morale boosting first win of 1998 under his belt no one had an answer for Lampkin, who took a clear victory from the surprise package of the season Takahisa Fujinami who kept Colomer down in 3rd position.

ROUND TWO: GREAT BRITAIN, HAWKSTONE PARK

The famous and challenging motocross circuit at Hawkstone Park welcomed the world’s best trials riders back in 1995 when it gave Lampkin a lesson in just how difficult the large loose gritstone rocks could be to ride on; the steep wooded climbs and descents took no prisoners neither. In 1995 he finished 14th after a very testing day before putting the demons to sleep in 1996 with a double victory; there was no world round in Great Britain in 1997. He approached the double-header 1998 rounds with a level of riding that no one could event get near to, and the winning margins on both days can be seen in the results.

Starting to become a world force Graham Jarvis backed him up on both days, where he finished on the podium followed closely by Steve Colley. The fact that Lampkin had given Great Britain new recognition on the world stage had encouraged a new breed of English riders to become involved in the separate European Championship as well as the World Championship.

Sam Connor, Mark Harris, Martin Crosswaite, Dan Clarke and Ben Hemingway, to name but a few, looked up to Great Britain’s top three riders. Marc Colomer tried all he knew to hang on to the runaway Lampkin but the inconsistency in his results was not helping his cause. The championship also had so many new fresh young riders from around the globe that were starting to challenge for the top five, meaning any rider not on the top of his game would be pushed down the order.

GREAT BRITAIN,HAWKSTONE PARK DAY ONE: 1: Dougie Lampkin (Beta-GBR) 28; 2: Marc Colomer (Montesa-ESP) 41; 3: Graham Jarvis (Scorpa-GBR) 50; 4: Kenichi Kuroyama (Beta-JPN) 52; 5: David Cobas (Gas GasESP) 54; 6: Steve Colley (Gas Gas-GBR) 56; 7: Bruno Camozzi (Gas Gas-FRA) 67; 8: Diego Bosis (Montesa-ITA) 73; 9: Amos Bilbao (Gas Gas-ESP) 79; 10: Jose Alcaraz (Montesa-ESP) 80; 11: Marcel Justribo (Gas Gas-ESP) 81; 12: Jordi Pascuet (Montesa-ESP) 85; 13: Joachim Hindren (Gas Gas-FIN) 86; 14: Marc Catlla (Gas Gas-ESP) 87; 15: Albert Cabestany (BetaESP) 90; 21: Jan Cardinels (Montesa-BEL) 108; 22: Sam Connor (Montesa-GBR) 113; 23: Mark Harris (Gas Gas-GBR) 114; 24: Martin Crosswaite (Beta-GBR) 119; 27: Dan Clarke (Beta-GBR) 124; 28: Ben Hemingway (Beta-GBR) 126; 29: Tom Nicholas (Gas Gas-GBR) 135; 32: Andrew Perry (Montesa-IRL) 144; 33: Joe Baker (Montesa-GBR) 146; 34: Gareth Andrews (Beta-IRL) 148.

DAY TWO: 1: Lampkin 27; 2: Jarvis 51; 3: Kuroyama 52; 4: Colley

Graham Jarvis (Scorpa-GBR) : Riding the Rotax-engined Scorpa Graham used his sheer determination and natural ability to find his way onto the podium. After a change to the world of Enduro, ‘G-Force’ Jarvis can now be found competing as arguably the best Extreme Enduro rider in the world.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

60; 5: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) 64; 6: Colomer 67; 7: Camozzi 67; 8: Cobas 69; 9: Bilbao 70; 10: Hindren 83; 11: Michael Vukcevic (Gas Gas-BEL) 83; 12: Marc Frexia (Gas Gas-ESP) 84; 13: Cabestany 86; 14: Crosswaite 87; 15: Frederic Crosset (Gas Gas-BEL) 87; 19: Cardinels 89; 21: Harris 102; 23: Connor 104; 24: Hemingway 107; 29: Joe Baker 128; 30: Nicholas 132; 31: Perry 142; 32: Andrews 148.

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FLASHBACK PART 1 1998

David Cobas (Gas Gas-ESP) : One of the new breed of talented young Spanish riders, David had his career cut short after a motorcycle road traffic accident.

Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) : Fujigas can still be found as a leading contender in TrialGP over the 20 years since he came to Europe. He won the 2004 Trial World Championship.

Marc Colomer (Montesa-ESP) : In the heat of the Italian world round the concentration on Marc’s face is so obvious.

ROUND 3: ITALY, BORGO MAGGIORE

Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) : Making the move to Europe from his Japanese homeland in 1996 he was an immediate hit on the world trials scene with his full-throttle approach to the hazards which earned him the nickname ‘Fujigas’.

TRIAL MAGAZINE • FEBRUARY-MARCH 2018

Just one week later the championship would move to Italy, the home of Beta, and Lampkin was determined more than ever to carry his good form to show to the Italian public. He did not disappoint, taking two more victories to put him clearly at the head of the championship.

Marc Colmer was still struggling to find his world championship winning form, much to his frustration. A very competitive rider, Marc would not give up without a fight. The championship was starting to see the talent of Jarvis and Fujinami coming through, along with many more.

ITALY,BORGO MAGGIORE DAY ONE: 1: Dougie Lampkin (Beta-GBR) 6; 2: David Cobas (Gas Gas-ESP) 19; 3: Graham Jarvis (Scorpa-GBR) 26; 4: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) 26; 5: Marc Colomer (Montesa-ESP) 29; 6: Steve Colley (Gas Gas-GBR) 30; 7: Bruno Camozzi (Gas Gas-FRA) 36; 9: Amos Bilbao (Gas Gas-ESP) 36; 9: Marcel Justribo (Gas Gas-ESP) 40; 10: Diego Bosis (Montesa-ITA) 41; 11: Jordi Pascuet (MontesaESP) 45; 12: Stefano Dellio (Gas Gas-ITA) 50; 13: Marc Frexia (Gas Gas-ESP) 62; 14: Marc Catlla (Gas Gas-ESP) 64; 15: Albert Cabestany (Beta-ESP) 66; 17: Jan Cardinels (Montesa-BEL) 70.

DAYTWO: 1: Lampkin 11; 2: Jarvis 16; 3: Fujinami 22; 4:

Colomer 27; 5: Kuroyama 32; 6: Justribo 39; 7: Colley 39; 8: Diego Bosis 42; 9: Bilbao 43; 10: Cobas 45; 11: Camozzi 47; 12: Cabestany 54; 13: Frexia 55; 14: Hindren 55; 15: Jose Alcaraz 55; 17: Cardinels 67.

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FLASHBACK PART 1 1998

Kenichi Kuroyama (Beta-JPN) : Taking over from Takumi Narita as Japan’s leading world trials rider he was a top ten finisher between 1995 and 2005. A massive crash at the Sheffield Indoor in 1998 where he broke both his wrists affected his career.

Kenichi Kuroyama (Beta-JPN) : After he recovered from his broken wrists he established himself back on the world scene and won a total of four world rounds during his career before he moved back to his native Japan. He continues to compete in trials in the Japanese Championship as the four-stroke Yamaha development rider.

LAMPKIN LEADS

After 6 rounds of the 18 planned, Dougie had opened up a secure lead in the series. His nearest rival was Colomer but no one else had looked like beating Lampkin. Colomer had Graham Jarvis on his case as these top three had opened an advantage up over the rest. The top five positions in the world championship were becoming more interesting round by round in the first part of the 1998 season.

Amos Bilbao (Gas Gas-ESP) : Starting out on the world scene way back in 1988 Amos took three world round wins riding a wide variety of machinery. He was very instrumental in the development of the legendary four-stroke Montesa Cota 4RT.

1998 TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

POSITIONS AFTER 6 OF 18 ROUNDS RESULTS: 1: Dougie Lampkin (Beta-GBR) 120; 2:

Steve Colley (Gas Gas-GBR) : A winner of just about everything except for the world championship, the popular Manx rider won two world rounds. Always the showman, he can be found these days giving trials demonstrations in a sport he continues to love.

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Marc Colomer (Montesa-ESP) 83; 3: Graham Jarvis (Scorpa-GBR) 81; 4: David Cobas (Gas Gas-ESP) 66; 5: Takahisa Fujinami (Honda-JPN) 64; 6: Kenichi Kuroyama (Beta-JPN) 60; 7: Steve Colley (Gas Gas-GBR) 59; 8: Amos Bilbao (Gas Gas-ESP) 53; 9: Bruno Camozzi (Gas Gas-FRA) 43; 10: Marcel Justribo (Gas Gas-ESP) 40; 11: Diego Bosis (Montesa-ITA) 33; 12: Joachim Hindren (Gas Gas-FIN) 16; 13: Jordi Pascuet (Montesa-ESP) 13; 14: Albert Cabestany (BetaESP) 12; 15: Marc Frexia (Gas Gas-ESP) 10.

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