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MOTORCYCLE • CYCLE • SIDECAR • CLASSIC • COMPETITION • FEATURES

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2023 SSDT WINNER

DOUGIE LAMPKIN

INTERNATIONAL

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June-July 2023

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IN SAFE HANDS • 673 FATBAR ® • DOUGIE LAMPKIN • 14 x SCOTTISH SIX DAYS TRIAL WINNER •

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Trial Magazine • Welcome

CONTACT Online: www.trialmaguk.com Email: england@trialmag.com Address: 48 Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 3EX United Kingdom THE TEAM Co-Managing Directors John Hulme & Charles Benhamou Executive Director Philippe Benhamou Editor John Hulme (NUJ No: 949620)

Editorial Staff Cyrille Barthe, 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, Andy Gregory, Toon Van De Vliet, Brian Holder and Leah Robinson. Proof reading Jane Hulme and Davina Brooks Commercial Manager John Hulme england@trialmag.com Subscriptions Cath Rogers cath@trialmaguk.com 01663 744766 Design and Production Dean Cook The Magazine Production Company www.magazineproduction.com Printing: Buxtons Press Distribution: Warners Group Publications © 2023 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 is published by: CJ Publishing Limited, registered in England Number: 5947718. Trial Magazine: ISSN: 1753-0040. Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

WELCOME FEATURES

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Scottish Six Days Trial FIM X-Trial

FIM Trial World Championship

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ACU British Championship Pre-65 Scottish EM

Road and Trials

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Cover: 2023 SSDT Winner Dougie Lampkin (Vertigo-GBR) • Photo Credit: Erik ‘EK’ Kitchen

News • The world of trials

MINDER MADNESS

The crazy new rule of withdrawing Minders from 50 per cent of sections at the opening round of the 2023 FIM Trial World Championship in Spain resulted in Great Britain’s top performer Toby Martyn being severely injured on day two — his season is now virtually over. This new regulation was removed for round two in Portugal, to be reviewed at a later date by the FIM. However, to see the elite riders perform at Trial GP level will always require Minders until the situation over the severity of the sections is changed. It is controversial, but if applied correctly, the ‘No-Stop’ rule would work in all areas. We must ensure Minders keep riders safe and able to perform to the absolute limit of their abilities in all classes. In this photo from Portugal, Toni Bou puts a foot down, knowing that if the situation escalates, his Minder can rescue the situation. On another note, the absence of spectators at the opening round in Spain was very noticeable. The introduction of the Parc Fermé worked well, but it is disappointing to see the current state of our premier trials class in the FIM World Championship in so much trouble.

TRRS ONE GOLD 2023

This TRRS Gold Limited Edition is the brand’s most exclusive and high-performance model to date. A limited edition of 150 will be made available, assembled with the best components. In addition, it will be equipped with a long list of details for the most demanding users looking for a unique, exclusive, high-performance model. Carbon fibre is key on the new TRRS Gold in multiple components such as the air filter box, the front mudguard bridge and the silencer protector. In addition, a new TRRS-designed swingarm in black gives it more dimensional precision and operation, providing greater sensitivity on the rear, together with the Reiger 3-way shock absorber as used in competition by Adam Raga himself. Improvements on the water pump include a new cover, shaft, and a double-lip seal system provides greater reliability. In addition, this model is fitted with the new aluminium Tech front fork with the revolutionary Kashima treatment, which increases the fork’s stiffness while increasing the sliding capacity, thus improving its dynamic behaviour. High-performance components from TRRS include the red-anodised cylinder head insert found only on the 300cc model, the high-voltage coil, the extra-fast throttle control with bearing insert for maximum smoothness, and the titanium exhaust front pipe. All of these contribute to improved engine response throughout the engine’s performance range. Other exclusive components, assembled with special detail, include the machined and laser engraved aluminium foot pegs, monoblock front brake, Racing rear brake disc, machined and red-anodised wheel hubs customised with GOLD Edition logo and, last but not least, Renthal handlebars.

TRI-ANGLE KIA

The association between Tri-Angle Kia and both Trial and Classic Trial Magazine continues into 2023. David Dench and John Hulme have renewed a relationship that goes back to the beginning of Trial Magazine in 2006 when the publication came to life in the UK. John Hulme: “Working with a company that is as passionate about our sport as we are is reinforced by the quality of the product they sell, Kia cars. “The Sorrento model is an ideal vehicle that fulfils our needs both on the road and at trials events with its all-terrain capabilities. We started with the very early Sorrento models right through the current one in 2023, which is a delight to drive. Tri-Angle Kia can be found at Chesterfield in Derbyshire, where the team of dedicated staff is a delight to deal with.”

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June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

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2023 scottish six days trial

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News • The world of trials

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The EM Revolution, the Rise of Electric Trials is a gripping documentary that takes you on an exhilarating journey with Matthew Alpe (GBR) and Gael Chatagno (FRA), the first-ever riders to compete in the Scottish Six Days Trial on electric trials motorcycles, in 2022. Experience the thrill of their ground-breaking feat as they navigate challenging terrain, conquer steep slopes and deep river crossings and push the limits of what’s possible on these cutting-edge machines. Get ready to witness history in the making and discover the future of the sport of motorcycle trials riding. It is a must-see film for adrenaline junkies, motorsports enthusiasts and anyone who loves a good underdog story. Watch now by scanning the QR code or hitting the play button if viewing this issue digitally.

The entry statistics of the 2023 Scottish Six Days Trial make some interesting reading, telling the story of what the buying public is spending their money on for the ultimate test of man and machine. Undoubtedly, the superb battle between the 125cc riders could generate extra sales for first-time riders as they realise you do not always need the most power. These figures have been populated from the insert from the official programme, and so may not be 100% accurate due to non-starters and late entries. Beta 78; Vertigo 52; Montesa-Honda 48; GASGAS 34; TRRS 32; Sherco 20; Scorpa 19; Fantic 3; Yamaha 2.

JAIME SUBIRA FANTIC You may have noticed the three Fantic machines that started the 2023 Scottish Six Days Trial. This was the Subira family from Spain. Many older readers will remember the name Jaime Subira from when he was associated with Fantic at the height of its fame. His work involved the development of the 200, 240 and 300 models in the ’80s. At 69-years-of-age he decided to return to compete in the event with his two sons Rudi and Ricard. Unfortunately, on twin-shock machines, the event proved too much, and none of the three finished, but it was so good to see ‘Suby’ meeting up with so many old friends. Dave Cooper Trial Mag 0817.pdf

14/08/2017

Trial and Trail Trialmag 1117.pdf

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13/11/2017

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June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

News • The world of trials

2023 VERTIGO NITRO RS AND RSR

Honed from Vertigo’s experience and successes in the most demanding competitions come the brand-new Vertigo Nitro RS and RSR. These new state-of-the-art models have been designed in conjunction with the entire Vertigo technical team. The Nitro RS and RSR have been developed in competition by Vertigo elite riders whose feedback and riding experience have helped to finetune every last detail, leading to their great successes in the 2022 season. Vertigo Nitro RS: The main improvements to the RS are non-engine-related innovations. Given its proven reliability, it hasn’t undergone any significant modifications. The Nitro’s electronic

injection-fuelled engine has proven to be one of the most powerful in each of its various displacements. The main feature of the new models is the rear suspension. The two-way Reiger shock absorber – three-way on the RSR – delivers superior performance thanks to its new Vertigo-designed linkage system, which was one of the key components in last season’s successes. Having proven its effectiveness, it has been incorporated into the production series, equipping the new RS and RSR from their inception. The chassis also features machined aluminium brake callipers, foot-pegs, and a 6mm sump guard. The rims are

anodised in red, and the hubs are machined in silver. The aesthetics of these Vertigo Nitro RS and RSR models are simply stunning. The snakeskin not only gives a racing look but also protects the swingarm, fork and subframe from damage. RSR Exclusive: Fittingly, the new Nitro RS also comes in a more ‘Racing’ version – the Nitro RSR – with certain elements that improve upon the RS performance even further. This includes new Tech Factory-made forks in exclusive Kashima Gold, a titanium exhaust front pipe and carbon fibre engine guards, as well as the new linkage system exclusive to the series.

2024 EM EPURE COMP This new EM motorcycle model is more powerful than ever and has the EMConnect system fitted for the first time. It’s a model with the highest components, which means you can take control of your EM like never before on a trials motorcycle; EMConnect will revolutionise the way you ride. In a few seconds, you can change an extensive range of settings to personalise the setup to suit your individual requirements. This is a limited-edition model, so don’t wait too long, or you may miss it! 2024 Epure COMP – What’s New: New Internal Transmission; More Engine Performance; New Main Screen + Handlebar Pad; New Main Command Switch; New Design Kit; New Front Mudguard and Support; New Disc RCM Guard – what are you waiting TrialMag 0116.pdf 1 for? 15/01/2016 19:17

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June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

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Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations! The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost.

117 YEARS OLD

Traditional • Scottish Six Days Trials

SSDT 2023

SCOTLAND – A SUPER WEEK! It is a pilgrimage made by so many in the first week of May, and 2023 was no different as riders and spectators alike made the trip to Fort William for the Scottish Six Days Trial. Motorcycle enthusiasts had already had the treat of watching the Pre-65 event on the Friday and Saturday before the focus moved away from Kinlochleven to the West End car park on the shores of Loch Linnhe. The Pre-65 had enjoyed two days of fine weather, but as Sunday morning opened up, a small band of wet weather descended on Fort William. However, this was the only damp day of the SSDT as the weather turned out to be ideal, and everyone enjoyed a super six days of trials riding in the highlands. Words: Trials Media Pictures: Nigel Pearson and Trials Media 22

Riders line up for scrutineering.

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Scottish Six Days Trials • Traditional

Gordon Lawley with Tom Minta’s machine.

Team Michelin Stuart Dozey Andy James and Tony Charlton.

It was a bustling West End car park as scrutineering opened at 10am with a procession of riders signing on at the nearby leisure centre before returning to present their motorcycles to the machine examiners before being parked up in the secure Parc Fermé.

FRIENDS OLD AND NEW

Despite the occasional rain showers, it was, as always, a good time for friends old and new to catch up, which embraces the spirit of this event. New machines were present in the paddock, from both Scorpa and Sherco, featuring electronic fuel injection systems. As we are all well aware, this event is still very much a proving ground under the eyes of the public for any new model, and there was much talk about the benefits of fuel injection as opposed to the more conventional mechanical carburettor, fuel-aspirated machines. Vertigo had five supported riders on their new RS model machines: Dougie and Alfie Lampkin, Alexz Wigg, Sam Yeomans and Richard Timperley, who was starting his 20th Scottish. Newcomers in the event included some of the hottest talent in the UK, all riding 125cc powered machines, including Harry Hemingway (Beta), Jack Dance (GASGAS), Jamie Galloway (TRRS) and Alfie Lampkin (Vertigo). The event would be a special occasion for Harry and Alfie as they would both be competing with their proud fathers.

Despite ongoing global tyre-supply issues, Michelin had a three-man crew in attendance: Andy James, Stuart Dozey and Tony Charlton to make sure everyone was happy, and by the amount of new rubber on riders’ machines, it appeared that they had done a sterling job in managing this difficult situation. One notable non-starter was Montesa–Honda UK supported rider Toby Martyn who was forced out through injury; he was still at the event for the first time.

RADIO STATION

The charity-supported Nevis Radio station was assembled on-site to bring the event’s coverage to a worldwide audience. As you will read later in this SSDT feature, the official Scorpa UK importer Nigel Birkett would start his 50th Scottish Six Days Trial; it was nice to see so many well-wishers shaking his hand and wishing him well for the week ahead. With Tom Minta missing, riding at an Enduro in Wales, the super-enthusiastic ACU Committee member Gordon Lawley put his machine into the Parc Fermé on his behalf; Minta would arrive late on Sunday evening. One downside in the car park was the notable absence of trials dealers selling goods, leaving some riders with last-minute panic over clothing and parts for the week. At 3pm, the sound of the Lochaber Schools

Everyone enjoys the riders parade - Team Italy.

Pipe Band came to life to accompany the riders’ parade along the main street of Fort William. This super-fired, highly emotional event with the sound of pipers typifies the true spirit of the welcome from the Scottish town to so many people from far and wide around the world. As the sun shone on the parade and riders returned their machines to the secure compound of the Parc Fermé, it was all systems go for the 2023 Scottish Six Days Trial.

Trial Magazine editor John Hulme on the far right 07.30am and the first man away Michael with his machine for the week the Montesa 4Ride. Anderson (Montesa) starts the 2023 SSDT.

Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

International Sport • FIM Trial World Championship

BUSTO BLASTER TRIAL GP

Jaime Busto (GASGAS-ESP)

With two rounds in Spain and Portugal down, four points-scoring days, resulting in two winners and, for the first time in a very long while, there was a new leader at the head of the FIM Trial GP World Championship table. Jaime Busto (GASGAS-ESP) leads the way but is on equal points with the ‘GOAT’ Toni Bou; having won on day two in Portugal, he stands proud at the top. A master of the four-stroke Repsol Honda, and 16-time FIM Trial World Champion, Bou has found a new challenger to his untarnished consecutive world championships, which date back to 2007. Article: Trials Media • Pictures: Trials Media and Fili 44

Jaime Busto (GASGAS-ESP) with Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP)

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

FIM Trial World Championship • International Sport

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP)

Gabriel Marcelli (Repsol Honda-ESP)

Adam Raga (TRRS-ESP)

It is common knowledge at the very top of the sport, in the FIM Trial GP World Championship class, that the direction needs to change to secure its future. During the closed season, the FIM Trials committee met and introduced some significant changes to the rules, which would be implemented in all classes. Introduced in Spain, a Parc Fermé holding area was created, where no work could be carried out on any of the riders’ motorcycles from the end of the practice session on Friday afternoon until Saturday morning before the start of the competition. When the riders finish day one, the motorcycles return to the secure Parc Fermé until the following morning for day two. Another change for 2023 is that assistance from the Minder will only be provided in half of the 12 sections that make up the competition. Unfortunately, day two was a disaster after a superb result on day one from Great Britain’s Toby Martyn

Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

Aniol Gelabert (Beta-ESP)

(Montesa Honda UK-GBR). On the ‘no minder’ section five, he fell back from the machine and landed on a very sharp piece of rock; the result was two fractured vertebrae in his back and a long, slow recovery period and a dark shadow over the day’s action. As a result, the new ‘No Minder’ rule was reversed with immediate effect for Portugal the following week. It will be reviewed at a later date.

fight to retain his FIM World Championship as he looked for his 17th consecutive title with a narrow victory. He and Busto raised their riding level, but Bou gained the advantage with only two stops compared to Busto’s three. The fight for the final podium position was between Adam Raga and Gabriel Marcelli on both days.

ROUND 1: SPAIN

At a new venue in Arteixo, in northwestern Spain, FIM Trial World Championship opened with two points-scoring days. With warm, dry conditions on both days, it was Jaime Busto who was the man on form on day one, with a stop in section ten on the first lap the difference that kept Bou off the top step of the podium even though he had the best second-lap score. On day two, Tony Bou showed he was up for the

2023 FIM TRIALGP DAY 1 RESULTS: 1: Jaime Busto (GASGAS-ESP) 7; 2: Bou 13; 3: Marcelli 21; 4: Raga 23; 5: Gelabert 40; 6: Martyn 45; 7: Grattarola 51; 8: Casales 59; 9: Petrella 67; 10: Fajardo 68; 11: Bincaz 101. DAY 2 RESULTS: 1: Toni Bou (Repsol Honda-ESP) 14; 2: Busto 17; 3: Raga 32; 4: Marcelli 34; 5: Casales 55; 6: Bincaz 58; 7: Fajardo 59; 8: Gelabert 59; 9: Petrella 64; 10: Grattarola 69. DNF: Toby Martyn (Montesa Honda UK-GBR).

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Evolution • Yamaha/Scorpa Haruo Kimura in action at the 2003 SSDT.

REVS FOR LIFE YAMAHA / SCORPA

Since starting my journey as the editor of Trial Magazine in 2006, I’ve never faced any difficulties creating features, articles, or developing ideas for the sport I have always been passionate about. It can be a chance remark from someone or, more frequently, when I have been browsing through my vast archive of trials photographs where the ideas come from for the articles. For example, while creating the article in the previous magazine on the 2003 Scottish Six Days Trial, I came across a picture of an old friend from my trials world, Haruo Kimura from Japan. If my memory serves me correctly, we first met in the mid-80s during the mono-shock Yamaha years at John R Shirt’s trials emporium at Stable Lane in Buxton, Derbyshire. I had heard the name Kimura before in conversation with Yamaha trials legend Mick Andrews in the ’70s; however, his name faded within my memory over the years. In 1992 he was at the Scottish Six Days Trial on the prototype water-cooled TYZ 250 Yamaha, but we didn’t meet. In 2015, we met again during my trip to Japan for the FIM World Championship round at Motegi. Despite our language barriers, we had a brief conversation about motorcycle trials and life in general which brings me to this feature. Article: John Hulme • Pictures: Eric Kitchen, Trials Media, Scorpa, Trial Magazine, France Dijz and Fabrice’ Wild Cat’ Bolusset 62

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Yamaha/Scorpa • Evolution

hile looking through press cuttings and pictures, I came across information on the presentation of the Yamaha engine Scorpa four-stroke in 2005 in France, which gave me the idea for this feature. The article was published in Trial Magazine France, launched in 2002. Subsequently, with my association with them, I launched Trial Magazine UK in 2006.

WHO SAID FOUR-STROKE?

It was the FIM who, in the early part of the ‘noughties’, stated that it would be compulsory for the motorcycle manufacturers to move to four-stroke engines in the not-too-distant future to address the global problem of the damage that exhaust emissions were doing to the planet. However, the major manufacturers had well-developed and proven two-stroke models, and they knew the move to produce a new four-stroke engine would incur expensive development costs. So beta, Gas Gas and Sherco started the costly process of this four-stroke route to develop a new engine designed for the trials machine. The benchmark was set by Honda, who provided the Montesa Cota machine with a motocross-derived four-stroke engine based on the CRF250R model. It was battery-less, fuelinjected and water-cooled, but it varied from the motocross engine in that although both had single overhead cams operating four valves per cylinder, the trial-based Cota 4RT employed rocker arms to open all the valves. The motocross’ Unicam’ system uses rockers to operate the exhaust valves and direct shimunder-bucket actuation for the intakes. Further tuning to the Cota 4RT engine was achieved for trials competition using a smaller bore and a longer stroke with reshaped casings to keep the engine small and compact. This use of the motocross engine was the route that Scorpa would take with the supply of a fourstroke Yamaha power unit taken from the YZ/ WR250F model. But how did Yamaha become involved with Scorpa? Here we take a little journey back in time to find out.

The 2006 brochure for the new Scorpa SY250F four-stroke trials motorcycle.

RENCH CONNECTION

It was in 1992 that the founders of the Scorpa trials project, Marc Tessier and Joel Domergue, talked of a new trials motorcycle from France powered by an Austrian-built Rotax engine. The machine debuted on the world scene at France’s famous Paris-Bercy Indoor Arena Trial in early 1993, with the French Trials Champion Bruno Camozzi as the rider. It was also announced that Great Britain’s Graham Jarvis would ride the new machine with support from the UK importers Malcolm Rathmell Sport. Jarvis would be very instrumental in establishing the brand, taking three consecutive Scott Trial wins from 1996–1998; he would also win the 1998 Scottish Six Days Trial. In 1999, Marc Tessier left to start his own trials project with the rejuvenated Bultaco Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

Japan’s TDN Team for the 2006 Trial Des Nations: (From left) Takahisa Fujinami, Tomoyuki and Fumitaka Nozaki on the Yamaha.

Quick Spin • Mecatecno

It has been a few years since EM entered the fullsize electric trials motorcycle market, and for many, it’s been strange that no other manufacturer was prepared to become involved. We do have a few names in the field now, some just starting with prototypes or designs, but finally, another production machine is available to ride. Mecatecno is a name that some will remember from the mid-to-late ’80s — in fact, the model name Dragonfly will also be familiar as a machine that stood out from the crowd. Its radical design and colours made it different, and although Mecatecno is now under new ownership, they have again produced a machine that won’t be confused with any other. Like the ’80s model, the new Dragonfly looks very different. The new official importer into the UK is the well-respected Steve Saunders. Article: Trials Media with Steve Saunders and Iwan Roberts Pictures: Heath Brindley and Mecatecno 76

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Mecatecno • Quick Spin

A direct-mount rear shock absorber is fitted

Up at the front, where the new M4 forks are found.

irst impressions always impact the eye, and you have to look twice at the Mecatecno. Where the fuel tank would typically be found on a petrol machine, there is now nothing. This is because design engineers at the Spanish motorcycle manufacturer wanted to keep the centre of gravity (CoG) low. So they have angled the battery down from approximately the centre of the traditional fuel tank area to where you would generally find the suspension linkage. Therefore, apart from the lattice framework, there isn’t any reason to have extra bodywork there.

BATTERY PLACEMENT

This battery placement not only keeps the CoG very close to the front drive sprocket shaft but a direct-mount rear shock absorber is also fitted to the swinging arm. Equipped is an excellent Ohlins TTX190 with rebound, high and low compression damping adjustments, and pre-load. The minimalistic design of the subframe makes the swing arm look incredibly long, but it’s only slightly more than a conventional machine. Up at the front, the new M4 forks are the conventional spring and oil type. The wheels, brakes, handlebars and some other components have been supplied by some well-recognised companies in the trials market. The electric motor is an entirely in-house design, rather than taking the easy route and using something that is already out there. Mecatecno spent several years developing it their own way. It features a diaphragm clutch, but the machine doesn’t have gears; in their place is changeable mapping. Three different maps come as standard, but it is possible to create more. So, for example, this pre-production test model, currently in the UK, has a fourth map designed for junior riders, which is basically half-power.

The CoG is very close to the front drive sprocket.

Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

Mecatecno: it’s radical!

Well-recognised components can be found.

Sport • ACU Trial British Championship Jack Peace (Sherco)

JACK’S TOP SPOT TRIAL GB

Toby Martyn (Montesa Honda UK)

With only the best seven rounds counting from the eight on offer, this fight for the 2023 ACU Trial GB championship will be the one to watch. Contracted to ride in the FIM X-Trial World Championship, Toby Martyn has missed round two and now needs all the points he can gather if he is to retain his 2022 crown in the remaining five. Make no mistake, in 2023, the younger of the two Peace brothers, Jack, is on a mission. He won round one, followed by a dominant display in Wales at round two as Dan Hemingway made the family proud with his first trip to the Trial GB podium. A trip to the Lake District for round three would see the class boosted to seven riders, as Harry Turner had moved up to Trial GB for round two and the older of the Peace brothers, Dan, made an appearance, having moved to the enduro world for 2023. On ability and experience, Jack Peace and Toby Martyn are head and shoulders above the rest. These two had a tremendous fight for supremacy at a challenging event at Po House Farm, Millom. Article: Trials Media

Billy Green (Scorpa) Billy Green (Scorpa)

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

ACU Trial British Championship • Sport

Harry Hemingway (Beta)

Jack Dance (GASGAS)

There were never many marks between Jack and Toby all day, and the winning scores tell their own story. A machine problem interfered with Jack’s performance on the second lap, but it was soon sorted, with it all to play for on the final lap. Such was the fight that the last-lap scores were the lowest, with Jack on 15 and Toby on 16. With three extra championship points for three best lap scores awarded to Jack Peace, he stands loud and proud at the top of the championship table, as Martyn started the fight back with the win at round three. Behind the top two, the new kid on the block, Harry Hemingway, has already shown his strong pedigree, having out-pointed the more experienced Billy Green at rounds two and three. This battle for the final podium position will only get more intense as the series unfolds. Either Hemingway or Green could be the spoilers in the fight for the title, as could Jack Dance in the fight for third in the championship; expect some fireworks – we do!

TRIAL GB CHAMPIONSHIP

ELECTRIC CLASS

ROUND TWO: LLETTY RAFEL FARM, ABERDULAIS, 26 MARCH 2023 RESULTS: 1: Jack Peace (Sherco) 47; 2: Harry Hemingway (Beta) 65; 3: Billy Green (Scorpa) 80; 4: Jack Dance (GASGAS) 89; 5: Harry Turner (Scorpa) 117.

ROUND THREE: PO HOUSE, MILLOM, 9 APRIL 2023 RESULTS: 1: Toby Martyn (Montesa Honda UK) 61; 2: Jack Peace (Sherco) 65; 3: Billy Green (Scorpa) 84; 4: Harry Hemingway (Beta) 85; 5: Jack Dance (GASGAS) 93; 6: Harry Turner (Scorpa) 108; 7: Dan Peace (Sherco) 109.

TRIAL GB CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP THE BEST SEVEN FROM EIGHT TO COUNT POSITIONS (3 OF 8 ROUNDS): 1: Jack Peace (Sherco) 57 + 3* = 60; 2: Billy Green (Scorpa) 45; 3: Harry Hemingway (Beta) 43; 4: Toby Martyn (Montesa Honda UK) 37; 5: Jack Dance (GASGAS) 35; 6: Harry Turner (Scorpa) 21; 7: Dan Peace (Sherco) 9. *Extra championship points for the best laps on observation.

A NEW ERA

It is a good move by the ACU to introduce this class, as we all know it will add more interest to the championship. A total of five rounds will be available for the riders of electric-powered machines to make up the 2023 championship. Chris Pearson easily out-pointed Will Brockbank in round one; this class rides the same route as the Experts, and it is interesting to note that Pearson’s score would have been good enough for third. Expect more riders to support this class as the year opens out. Article: Trials Media

TRIAL ELECTRIC CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND ONE: PO HOUSE, MILLOM, 9 APRIL 2023 RESULTS: 1: Chris Pearson (EM) 101; 2: Will Brockbank (EM) 140.

TRIAL GB CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP Chris Pearson (EM)

Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

POSITIONS: 1: Chris Pearson (EM) 20 + 1* = 21; 2: Will Brockbank (EM) 15. *Extra championship points for the best laps on observation.

Classic • Pre-65 Scottish

PRE-65 SCOTTISH

ADVANTAGE THORPE

For any trials organiser, sorting out tie-break decisions can be a nightmare – especially when the riders have both ridden the entire trial clean. That was the case for the 2023 Scottish Pre65 Two-Day Trial organised by the Edinburgh and District MC at Kinlochleven, an event that precedes the SSDT. Two former winners, Dan Thorpe, a previous victor in 2019 and Gary Macdonald, who won in 2017, 2018 and 2022, both went clean this year, with the organising club deciding that in this case, the winner would be the rider who was the older, so for the second time it was advantage Dan Thorpe who was announced as the winner. Report: Mike Rapley Pictures: Trials Media 94

Gary MacDonald (Triumph)

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Pre-65 Scottish • Classic

Dan Clark (Ariel)

FRIDAY: DAY ONE

Four riders went clean through the opening day of the trial based around the Highland town of Kinlochleven. After 30 sections, Irish ace Stephen Murphy, South Yorkshire stars Darren Wasley and Dan Thorpe, and hometown favourite Gary Macdonald had zero marks to their names when the provisional results of the day’s action were published. Four riders had only lost single dabs: Dan Clarke, Chris Greenwood, James Harland and Russ Rooksby. Then, of course, there were loads of riders on single-figure scores; indeed, the last rider on nine marks was, in fact, in 43rd position. A simple section at Ciaran Burn opened the action and was barely troublesome. Then came four subs at Loch Eilde Burn, with the third the tricky one and

Best Foreign Rider: Mark Harris (Ariel-IRL)

Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

Best Over 350: Ben Butterworth (Ariel)

whilst there were many dozens of cleans up the white granite rock slab, there were also many ones, twos, threes and even a few fives so early in the day. A long ride out into the hills, taking in Lower Mamore and a further 11 sections in five different groups, brought riders back to the famous Pipeline – without which, any trial in Kinlochleven wouldn’t be the same. Southern Ireland youngster Scott Callaghan on a delightful rigid BSA Bantam was simply amazing very early on with a great clean which generated an appreciative round of applause from the packed hillside and, though many later cleans followed, Callaghan’s was as sweet as they come. Later on, Dan Clarke pioneered a new line at the left of the step as he enjoyed a clean ride,

immediately followed by brothers Jack and Ben Butterworth and from that point, it was the best way for those who were determined to record a clean. Back down to the bottom of the Pipeline gave the riders a chance to refuel the machines and bodies before tackling eight further sections to the southern side of Loch Leven, which included Cnoc a Linnhe, which always has a tough sub as the last one. Even Camas Na Muic, finishing off the six-hour ride, had a sting in the tail. Sixteen riders failed to finish the day for various reasons, notably ACU Trials Committee Vice Chairman Anthony Rew from Devon, who had a broken rear wheel, and Westmorland clubman Phil Parkinson, with an inoperative clutch just three sections from the finish.

Best Scottish Rider: Calum Murphy (BSA)

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June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

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Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

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Sidecar • Electric

Neil and Michael Franks in close company on the EM

SWITCHED ON EM SIDECAR

Former British Sidecar-cross team Neil and Michael Franks caused a stir in March at the first round of the 2023 ACU TRRS British Sidecar Trials Championship at Dunsfold in Surrey by entering a superbly engineered Electric Motion Epure Race trials outfit, the first electric outfit to take part in the series in its long history. The pair were top newcomers to the sport in 2019 on a Beta outfit before moving through to the Expert class in 2022 on a TRRS with all their outfits fabricated by Paul Harvey of Prosportif, who himself was new to the sport. Article: Andy Withers 100

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Electric • Sidecar

It all looks very workmanlike

eil and Michael both have young children who ride OSETs, which was where the idea to go electric with a sidecar outfit initially came from. A test ride on an EM at an Inch Perfect training day confirmed the plan. Neil: “We were blown away by the level of traction the electric motorcycle delivered and realised it was a good basis for a sidecar project.” Paul Harvey has worked on many motorsport projects and was looking to work on something new, so they purchased an Epure Race model and took it to him. Paul said, “The first thing we did was put a set of pillion footrests on and tested it ‘two up’ for performance and battery life feedback.” They found that even with two adults on the two-wheeled motorcycle, the traction and torque from the EM was still very impressive.

FABRICATION

The project has been a year in the making, starting in February 2022; as Paul said, they wanted to commit fully to the project. Stiffness was a priority in the fabrication from the start, so there are no brackets, and the sidecar is attached directly to the EM frame. Weight was the other priority, which has been addressed with all parts fabricated in-house, with a slight redesign due to the change to the regulations of the nose cone on the sidecar for 2023. Battery access had to be a significant Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

Their outfit was fabricated by Paul Harvey of Prosportif

consideration in the design, and it is situated on the left-hand side, making it easier to reach. Once the outfit was fabricated, it was demonstrated to Matthew Alpe at Inch Perfect, who was very excited about this new project. After speaking with EM in France, they had a mapping upgrade made available to them. Neil says there are still many areas to be developed, including working with the mapping to get the best out of it for sidecar use and the gearing; they had a sprocket made initially, but now EM have a new one on the way.

The heart of the EM

COMPETITION

After a few practice sessions, riding in the first round of the British Championship was the big test, and the brothers reported that the EM performed perfectly, but they were disappointed by their result. In only their fourth year of sidecar trials, Neil explained that as ex-moto-crossers, they still tend to rush and go at things too quickly, which lost them too many marks at Dunsfold. The most significant difference between the normally aspirated fuel engine and the electric one is the power delivery, as throttle control 101

Dealer Visit • Road and Trials

ROAD AND TRIALS

BUILT IN BARNSLEY A long-established business always gives a sense of security when making a purchase in all walks of life. In this case, in the two-wheeled world of motorcycles, we are focussing on what Tony and Kerry Kaye have achieved with Road and Trials, of which they are, quite rightly, very proud. When Tony’s late father John and his mother Pam retired in 2005, they sold the business to Tony and Kerry, who in 2007 made the bold move from the high street shop at Royston, just outside Barnsley, to new, larger premises. Since then, it has grown into what we are about to see on our ‘Dealer Visit’ to Road and Trials, on the other side of Barnsley, at Barugh Green. So where did this love affair of motorcycles begin all those years ago? Over a nice cup of Yorkshire tea Tony and Kerry gave us an insight into how it all began: with his late father, John. Article: Trial Magazine

Where it all began, the old shop in 1992.

104

A NEW LIFE

This motorcycle dealership’s whole business model has come a long way to arrive at Road and Trials as we know it today. In the post-war years, the motorcycle was very much the family mode of transport, as the purchase of a motor vehicle was out of the reach of so many. The motorcycle industry was going through a very affluent period, and in 1957, Mercer Motorcycles, found in the high street premises at Royston just outside Barnsley, was the place to be. The business traded for 14 years until the two Bs purchased the shop — Bob Stephenson and Bill Wright. With the two Bs, Mercer’s became B+B Motorcycles in 1971, and Bob and Bill continued successfully trading for over a decade, during which time they came into contact with a certain John Kaye. He had taken a keen interest in motorcycles from an early age, having raced in a few road

1994 Scottish Six Days Trial, Tony ready for the off.

June-July 2023 • Trial Magazine

Road and Trials • Dealer Visit

Your choice – machines and a price to suit everyone.

race meetings, and he liked nothing better than spending time in the workshop working on motorcycles. He had been working in the Barnsley mines for several years to provide for his family and secretly harboured a passion to one day do his own thing and have his own motorcycle shop. Working in the mining industry was hard graft, and when it went to the wall in the ’80s, John, like so many others, was made redundant and forced to look elsewhere to earn a living and – most importantly – provide for his growing family.

B+B ROAD AND TRIALS

John, along with his son Tony, purchased B+B Motorcycles in 1987 as he turned his passion for motorcycles into full-time employment, and the family business was born. The energy from the hard graft in the coal mines was now focused on making the business successful. It was ‘all hands on deck’ as John’s wife Pam took the counter job and looked after the shop’s phone enquiries and the general day-to-day running. A young Tony enjoyed working alongside his father in the busy workshop, following in his footsteps with a passion for two wheels. As the roadside of the business expanded and became busier, Tony had become quite a handy trials rider, providing a new direction for the business. This would lead to a change of trading Trial Magazine • June-July 2023

2008 and Tony enjoys a Sherco test day.

name as they now also sold and serviced trial machines, so it would now be titled B+B Road and Trials.

OFF-ROAD

Success came on the legendary mono-shock Yamaha TY, and Tony became better known in the trials world for his riding abilities and superb workshop and after-sales service at the shop. As times changed in the trials world, Tony took on the Gas Gas dealership, and the success

The front number boards tell their own story of Tony’s trials success.

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