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4. LEARNING SOME TECHNIQUE:
Learning some correct ‘Trials’ style techniques will put the rider in a great
position for all forms of riding that come later. The Trials rider learns how to
control the machine at slow speeds, and use correct skills to execute tight turns
and other techniques. Many riders tend to think that the way to turn is to simply
turn the handlebars. This is natural, but wrong! If tight turns are mastered
correctly, many other skills will follow on naturally.
1. Riding in a straight line, the rider can practice leaning the bike to one
side, then to the other. They will notice that when they do this, the bike
will want to turn.
2. To execute a tight turn, lean the bike to the inside.
3. Weight should be on the ‘outside’ peg, and the outside knee should be
out.
4. The foot on the outside pig can pivot out as well.
5. The inside arm can be almost straight, the outside arm bent, and the
shoulders square on to the angle of the bars.
Turning is the most important technique of all. Once this is mastered, many other
techniques will follow. Turning with this level of skill requires full control over the
machine. It will not be possible without the rider understanding all the intricacies
of balance, body position, and throttle control.
NOTE!
A surprising amount of technique can be completely natural for children. In many
cases, the riders simply work out what works best, and go with it. Simple
instructions like “lean it in” will often initiate everything else being done correctly.
The more exaggerated this technique, the better it will work. The aim is to master
‘full-lock’ turns. If a child can master this, they are likely to become great riders.
Very few adults can do this! Viewing Trials DVD’s (www.TrialsTV.com) may also
help. Children can learn simply by watching.
