Motorcycle Trials
in Scotland
A guide to motorcycle trials in Scotland — what the sport involves, how sections and scoring work, what to expect at an event and how to take your first steps.
Balance, Control & Precision
Trials is not about outright speed. Riders tackle short technical sections and aim to complete them while collecting as few penalty marks as possible.
UPCOMING TRIALS EVENTS
Motorcycle trials events currently listed on the BRAAP Scotland calendar.
Inside Scottish Off-Road Riding
This Braap Scotland film looks at the wider Scottish off-road scene and the different people and disciplines within it, including motorcycle trials.
A dedicated trials feature will be added here as Braap Scotland builds more long-form trials coverage.
Why they ride
Two riders, two different relationships with motorcycle trials.
“I can’t live without it.
“I got my first bike when I was three and a half. Started with my dad. It’s been going on since then.
What is trials riding?
Trials riding is an off-road sport where riders attempt a series of short, marked sections over natural or man-made obstacles. The aim is to complete each section while keeping your feet on the pegs and avoiding mistakes. Events usually offer different routes or levels so riders can take on sections suited to their experience.
Marked Sections
The course is split into short sections containing turns, climbs, rocks, roots, banks or other obstacles. Riders normally attempt each section several times.
Penalty Marks
Marks are added for putting a foot down, stopping, going outside the marked route or failing a section. The rider with the lowest total wins.
Different Routes
Many events use different coloured routes or classes, allowing beginners, youth riders and experienced competitors to ride the same event at suitable levels.
What Happens at a Trials Event?
A typical trial is made up of a number of observed sections linked by a route around the venue. Riders tackle each section in their chosen class or route and usually complete several laps.
Observers record penalty marks through the sections and the scores are added together. Exact formats, classes and rules can vary between organisers, so check the event information before entering.
New to events?
Watching a local trial first is an easy way to understand sections, observers, routes and the pace of an event before you enter one yourself.
Sign On & Choose Your Route
Check the event instructions, sign on and make sure you know which route or class you are riding.
Sections, Observers & Laps
Ride the marked course, attempt each observed section and complete the required number of laps for the event.
A Strong Foundation for Any Off-Road Sport
Trials riding develops balance, precise clutch and throttle control, line choice and confidence at low speed. Those skills can provide a valuable grounding for enduro and other forms of off-road motorcycle sport.
From trials to enduro
Gavin Johnston now rides enduro and explains how his background in trials helped build the control and technique he uses on an enduro bike.
Your First Steps Into Trials Riding
You do not need to buy everything immediately. Start by finding a local club, attending an event as a spectator and asking about beginner trials practice, coaching or the chance to try a suitable bike.
Find a Local Club
Clubs are the best source of local event dates, practice opportunities, route information and advice for new riders.
Try Before You Buy
Trials bikes vary in size and feel. A coached session or club introduction can help you choose a bike that suits your height, ability and goals.
Get the Right Kit
Once you know trials riding suits you, ask a club or experienced rider for advice on a suitable helmet, trials boots, gloves and protective clothing.
Find Trials Clubs & Places to Ride
Looking for a club, organised riding, training or somewhere legal to practise? Use the dedicated BRAAP Scotland Trials guide to find clubs and riding options, or browse the wider off-road directory for training and services.
Trials Clubs & Places to RideBrowse Off-Road Directory
Motorcycle Trials in Scotland FAQ
Do I need motorcycle experience?
No. Complete beginners can start through a trials club, practice day or coached session on suitable ground.
Is trials riding about speed?
No. Balance, line choice and smooth control matter much more than riding quickly.
Do I need a trials bike?
A specialist trials bike is best for regular riding, but try a coached session or club introduction before buying one.
Can children take part?
Many clubs offer youth classes and suitable routes. Check the organiser’s age, bike and event requirements before attending.
Do I need motorcycle experience?
No. Complete beginners can start through a trials club, practice day or coached session on suitable ground.
Is trials riding about speed?
No. Balance, line choice and smooth control matter much more than riding quickly.
Do I need a trials bike?
A specialist trials bike is best for regular riding, but try a coached session or club introduction before buying one.
Can children take part?
Many clubs offer youth classes and suitable routes. Check the organiser’s age, bike and event requirements before attending.
Want to Try Motorcycle Trials?
Find an organised place to ride, speak to a local club and start with a route or coached session suited to your experience.