Interesting take on it. I work as an off-road motorcycle instructing and we run a trials park as well as provide trials lessons, it's always been there, so it's not weird to see this discipline. Trials is a very very good discipline to go into to improve your riding and control, it translates incredibly well to all other types of riding and is waaaayyy cheaper than any other form of motorcycle sports (road track days or motocross) All you need for our trials park is show up, pay about 15 quid and you can ride all day on your own bike. All you need is a bike and gear. It's accessible by all ages and all abilities, we see a bunch of 60+ riders and a bunch of 6 year olds, and anything in between. Risk of injury is a bit higher than other disciplines but significantly lower consequence, if you die doing trials you might as well have been struck by lightning. 1:39 Among a few other brands we use Osets (now acquired by triumph) and they literally last like 3 hours of trials if not more, you'll be knackered waaay sooner yourself, electric is truly a game changer for trials, can't say the same about other disciplines.
Interesting points. I have to imagine that it probably has among the highest rates of minor injuries (sprains, scrapes, etc) but the lowest rate of severe injury or death among any motorcycling discipline. Electric seems like a natural fit, no range issues, great torque and response, and no clutch to add to the rider's workload.
@@quillmaurer6563 That is true though the rate of injuries per hour is also low, don't forget when people go road racing or motocross they only get an hour or 2 of track time, trials is truly an all day thing, if you have the endurance. I personally love the Osets, the R24 has 3 dials to adjust response, power and speed. So you can have a really torquey and responsive bike but with top speed of no more than 5mph, or you can have a bike with moderate torque that ramps into power smoothly but can get up to decent speed to get momentum. Or you can turn everything all the way down to just do some slow figure of 8s.
@@quillmaurer6563 Motorcycle deaths are mostly the result of being run over, running into something or running off of something. Other causes of death are rare enough to be ignored. You're probably going to ride for decades without coming into contact with an unexpected down power line. This type of riding doesn't really carry those risks. That is unless you're that guy in the video climbing a literal mountain with a massive cliff to one side.
This guy could do an hour-long video on paint drying and I would be enthused at every second of it, love his vids and contents, long may they keep coming. I do wish they were longer and more plentiful. Keep up the good work. FortNine!!!
@@leftaroundabout Read it again, I'm implying this guy can make anything exciting he is just great to watch, I wasn't taking anything away from the topic, but I see how you could interpret that. 😉
As insane as the Tony Bou videos are, what i find even more mental is just how capable an africa twin is in the right hands. He does not look like he's throwing around a 200+kg adv bike at all.
@@LordPodlington whenever I start to think that my KTM790 is too much bike for the trail I am on, I think if his riding and then try to press on. Years ago at a motocross school the instructor was asked what is the best mod for a new rider. His answer was "burn more fuel".
Every bike has a limiter, it's the human at the controls. The machine is way more capable than the rider. The biggest limiter is the rider's fears and doubts. A bike can't off-road because the rider doesn't have the skill or ability to do it.
As a Spaniard that learn't how to ride throuugh trials I have to say it is the best way to learn since they are easy and accessible. And very little like dirtbikes or roadbikes. You just need a literal rock all by yourself and that's it. In the Quarantine I used to ride it in my parents modest garden (for Spanish house sizes).
Thanks for the shout-out Ryan! Props to our local legend Billy DeGaris,, a spring chicken and a past and current champion, Sean Bird, current national champion, and Alex Walton, past national champion, who as we speak is in Italy preparing to compete in the world championships with the rest of the Canadian team on Sept 24. If you have young kids that are interested in motorsports, this is a safe and low-cost option! If you live close to BC, Canada, come ride with us!
Has this been sent to the Parks commision/board at Belcaarra?? Extremely well represented of our sport, having a super unintrusive footprint on nature!!!!!
Bought a trials bike 2 years ago after 40+ years of dirt oriented two wheeled sports and motorsports…including bicycle trials. The learning curve was WAY greater than I thought. Very humbling, but an amazing challenge and a surprising workout.
My first bike was a trials bike (way before I was legally allowed to ride on the road). Trials riding is not as easy as this video may imply. Like any skill it requires practice, then more practice. But, it is so rewarding and considerably safer than any other motorcycle sport.
It's like skateboarding, very low effort and investment to get started and you can stay on beginner level for years and just enjoy yourself. But to get good it takes an amazing amount of effort and practise.
I’m 58 and just started trials, and love it, I’m a long way from being any good but its so enjoyable raced other disciplines as a young man and wish I’d tried it sooner.
Personally, I'm glad there are still channels that can make interesting content in short videos unlike others that have long intros, sponsor segments, merchandise adverts, or other filler just to waste time.
@@xist4622 I was watching a six minute tips and techniques video on another motorsports channel. Music video intro with slow mo shots and overexposed shots, shout outs, endorsements by other riders about the instructor, the instructors biography, the importance of the tips to be shown and what a gamechanger they are, some more music video, 15 seconds of riding tips, recap of why these tips are important, outro music video with slow mo shots, a list of places you can spend money, and a not that catchy slogan.
My dad and his family have been into trials since they where kids, he is absolutely in love with the sport and to see him at 60 years old and still outcompeting just about everyone makes me so proud.. not that I'd let him know lol.
Nice video as always! I tried Trial last year and it was hella fun. As a newbie every bump or obstacle you overcome feels like Himalaya, watching the videotapes of it is quite disappointing afterwards. But nevertheless a very cool experience. Can recommend it to nearly everyone.
honestly ryan i just wanna say thank you, i’ve been watching all sorts of videos ranging from motovlogs to the most in-depth reviews for the better part of ten years, and now ten years later, having a job and learning to drive, learning how to be an adult in general i can proudly say that soon enough maybe in the next 6 months to maybe a year, i will be getting my first bike and finally be able to live this childhood dream of mine. thank you for all the tips and mechanical tools you’ve shared over the years and thank you for keeping this dream to some day ride into the sunset on my noble steed alive, much love :).
I've always thought electric makes a lot of sense as a trials bike instant torque, Omnidirectional, light, doesn't need tons of range, doesn't need tons of power.
All right, you folks did it! Another fantastic production!!! This one it just pushed me over the edge!!!! I’m 52yrs, 10.5 yrs post TBI w a connective tissue disorder, divorced, 10 yrs rd/ trail motorcycling riding experience , 27yrs. mt. bike riding/racing experience and living in western Maine on my perimeter cleared, hillside/top property with vertical drop and gnarly Topography. Wouldn’t I Have to be smoking a stupid amount of the green stuff to not trade in my hardly used, Beta 500 RRS in on Beta electric trails bikes???!!!!?!
Beta doesn't make an electric bike yet, but talk to Stu Preston at Jack's Cycles in South Berwick. He can give you the breakdown on what's available new and used in your area. There's also a group just over the border in NH (Granite State Moto Trials) that rides regularly. Good folks to know.
Many many years ago (mid - late 60s) they used to televise Trials on WWS type programs. Back then the bikes weren't as specialized, many had seats! I remember an interview with a rider. Shots were mid chest up and they were talking about the course and other competitors, etc. Then they pulled back on the shot and showed the rider had been just sitting and balancing on his bike the whole time! Trials riders are just 'next level'.
@@kenbrown2808 - Outdoor trials competitions still cover some ground with some "laps" being easily 10 miles long or more - It's absurdly annoying to ride a trials bike anywhere above 15mph or so though...
Vintage Trials is another interesting hobby. I had a 1975 Kawasaki KT250 Trials bike back 10 years ago. A neighbor had a ravine with a stream and made a bunch of trials sections. It was a lot of fun. That electric bike looks interesting.
I always knew trials bikes were a thing. Never saw them until I went to a hard enduro area in Arden, ON. A old boy who looked every bit like Gandolf the wizard leant me his to try out in the parking lot. After just 5 minutes of playing around on it, I was dead tired. Man those things wear you out! The very next week, I bought my own trials bike. I knew they were a great way to learn techniques for hard Enduro without screwing up my regular bike or my body. That was last fall, this summer I already managed to dislocate my shoulder and tear a ligament in ankle on it. All worth it, because now I can do those 12 O'clock wheelies haha. I can also handle a rock garden pretty well now. If only I could get a street legal one...
Don't know if you can get them where you live but Montesa 4 ride is somewhat like a mix between a trials and motocross/enduro bike and fully road legal. I would like one but there's just nowhere to use it where I live
What does a motorcycle need to be street legal? Headlights, turn signals, brake light, front and rear brakes, and a muffler? Maybe a catalytic converter, not sure if small cc bikes are exempted from that.
I was thinking about maybe trying trials in the future but I just had surgery on my ankle for a torn retinaculum so your comment made me think twice. If you don't mind I would really appreciate if you could tell me what happened to your ankle and how?
This was a major hit to the nostalgic senses. I grew up riding trials. Got my start somewhere around 7 years old. It was important to my parents that I learn as much skill as possible before I could go fast and it was the best thing that could’ve happened to me. Another note about trials, the sport is very obscure and therefore it’s heroes much more accessible. I competed in semi-local amateur events and still was able to meet several of the sport’s “celebrities”
I learned so much dinking around the yard on an 86 Honda TLR200 that I've carried in to all other forms of riding. The trials platform is an amazing learning and endurance tool.
One of the most underappreciated motorsports I think. I love the madness of the indoor competition, but for me, the outdoor ones are the coolest. It is less perfect and less obvious how much grip you'll have, if any at all. Hopefully this video will give it little boost, given the size of your platform. I'd love to see you rip around on a Flat Track bike as well, you've got the slide control to go fast.
Great video. Thanks for explaining trial - my hometown Grimstad (Norway) has a pretty big community and they have acquired a big private area to do it on. But unfortunately, they aren't allowed to drive around freely in the forest where hikers go
The Amateur Trials Association and Southwestern Ontario Classic Trials Group (SOCT) put on plenty of events through the riding season in Ontario. I’ve never ridden a motorcycle before buying a trials bike and showing up to a SOCT event and they happily showed me the ropes and how-to’s of riding trials bikes. Most friendly and approachable group of people I’ve found.
Yep, been thinking about trials myself. Went to meet in Connecticut a couple of summers ago-nice folks, pleasant spectating. I haven't made a move on buying a bike-living in the city makes owning multiple bikes a challenge-but I still toy with the idea, especially an electric bike. Love the humor, as always. ✌
Trials bikes sure have changed over the years. i was into trials riding way back in the early '70s, when the motorcycles were barely more then dual sports with lower gears and rear set foot pegs (I had a Montesa 247 Cota, my brother a "Sammy Miller Replica" Bultaco Sherpa-T). We had a huge amount of fun riding what we thought at the time were "impossible" obstacles, that would be laughably easy today.
Thank you! I appreciate you using your platform to discuss trials. Trials in North America is growing quickly, but it can still use more exposure and support 👍
I learned and competed in trials when I was 10 for 3 years on a Yamaha TY80 - brilliant fun, and it gives you so so many skills even just for normal on road riding!!
Thank you for posting this. Trials really deserves to have a renaissance. It used to be a huge working class sport when I was a kid. even had it's own prime time TV show, Kick Start.
I competed in Trials for 14 years it taught me great throttle & clutch control, which I use when driving or riding on the roads when the surface is slippery.
I found trials about 10 years ago and found it inexpensive, fun and a great education. Still have a dirt bike but at almost 70 I can hand with the hard enduro lads with little fear of getting hurt. Great video!
Same boat. Had a trials bike for a few years now and my ability has gone through the roof. I ride it on hard enduro areas with young folks on 300cc enduros. They make the impossible possible for mortals and I occasionally "clean" a gnarly climb, dodging the steaming KTM's having a lie down on the hill. Feels bloody great at my age!
Ryan, I rode trials from around '94 to '99. This hits home. We enjoy the engineering and cinematography that you provide to us, we certainly enjoy what you do, keep it up, eh?
I've been riding trials for 2 years. Every couple of months I go to a local centre, hire the bike and ride for 5 hours or so, under expert supervision. All in the beautiful Peak District, UK. Yeh I'm hooked.
Great video! One thing that always sticks with me from when I was learning was the saying “if you are spinning your back tire you are doing it wrong” 👍👍
I only discovered your channel but I've quickly fallen down the rabbit hole. This is truly some of the most helpful and polished content on the whole platform. So sick
4:53 Riding my mountianbike in forests here in Austria is generally illegal, except certain trails. I imagine if one would bring a trail motorcycle, I would get fined to Hell and back.
Got fined to hell and back for taking my bike on a tractor road for doin "ground damage", like a 4ton tractor and a ranger with his 2.5 ton car can drive there no problem but my mountianbike is the problem. Welcome to Austria
Freund dich mit ein paar Bauern an. Im Sommer mal bei der Heuarbeit helfen oder so und im Gegenzug darfst im Wald brettern. Spezi von mir ist oft bei uns im Wald unterwegs. Im Zweifelsfall sagst halt auch den Jägern bescheid.
Thank you for that post. I have been involved in Observed Trials since 1974 (but an not quite as old as Billy in your video) It is a sport that has evolved tremendously but in many ways is still exaclty the same. Inexpensive, family oriented, friendly and fun. Interestingly enough no matter how bad or good you are, you can always find something you can do or somthing that is just out of your reach. It is also a great cross training sport and skills learned in trials work on road riding, road racing, enduro ans MX. Glad you discovered us!
My wife feels as though this video was made at my request to try to convince her that the trials bike in the garage was not a silly expenditure. Thanks Ryan.
I’ve been interested in trials for a long time, and this video rekindled that, but it still doesn’t seem affordable; the trials bikes cost just as much as a dual sport, and the electric trials bike in this video is in the area of $10,000. Doesn’t seem too accessible for a guy with a family that doesn’t have that kind of money for a fun little hobby. It looks so insanely fun to get into though.
Good used ones can be had for much cheaper. My 2011 GasGas is 95% the same as a 2022. They don’t update that often, so parts are still available for older ones. Most also don’t get ridden that much or that hard, so they are still in great shape.
@@gpaull2 Maybe it’s just my area, I was looking at Facebook marketplace, and the cheapest I could find was a 2004 Montesa 315RX, and it was $3200, seems a bit pricey for a single use toy I can’t ride on the street. I paid less than that for my XR400R, but that was before vehicle prices in general went through the roof.
Agree, I wanted to get into this hobby since I was a teenager. If I owned suitable land to ride on I might consider buying one but the cost of the bike, trailer or pickup and membership in a club to access legal land to ride on just does not make sense. At 64 I would like it for exercise not competition. Dual sport bike is as close as I get to trials while running errands or occasional road trip.
We used to have a kids show in the early 80s called Kickstart. Was pretty great seeing what those kids could do, i think a few of them went on to be pro's at it.
Thew first vid of F9 i saw was about visibility of bikes. There was something along the lines "we pay attention to things that are dangerous or we want to mate with". And now i have this naggigng question: why exactly i find this channel so compelling to watch?
I'll be honest, I never even considered it as a possibility. I probably just let my brain default to expensive then never looked at it. If FortNine wanted to make a follow-up video in the future talking about some of the different bikes in this field and what makes them unique, like that amazing recent tire roundup, that would be lovely.
Learnt to ride on a Yamaha TY175 40 years ago; the skills I picked up have stayed with me and have helped me my entire road riding life. I recommend everyone at least try it - it's incredible fun.
Absolutely fantastic, just can’t get enough of Ryan’s videos. And the content on this one is a bit of an eye opener. Turned 63 over the summer and have kind of put “dirt bikes” in the rear view mirror, I don’t really bounce back up after a fall any more, more of a splat. But I can see where Trials would allow me to get back to the woods, still having a blast with a little less threat of crippling myself🥴 Thanks Ryan for both the info and the great, always entertaining video.
Nice video. Trials doesn't get enough credit. Probably very quaint now, but you can find loads of old episodes of the Kick Start trials competition series that ran on TV for over a decade in the UK through the 80s and 90s.
Rest In Peace grandma
I'm like Pavlov's dog when fortnine rings the bell.
You, me, and millions of motorcyclists across the globe.
Yeah but Canada is a very big US state.
Me too and i haven't been on a bike in years.
Dido
No lie!
Interesting take on it. I work as an off-road motorcycle instructing and we run a trials park as well as provide trials lessons, it's always been there, so it's not weird to see this discipline. Trials is a very very good discipline to go into to improve your riding and control, it translates incredibly well to all other types of riding and is waaaayyy cheaper than any other form of motorcycle sports (road track days or motocross)
All you need for our trials park is show up, pay about 15 quid and you can ride all day on your own bike. All you need is a bike and gear. It's accessible by all ages and all abilities, we see a bunch of 60+ riders and a bunch of 6 year olds, and anything in between.
Risk of injury is a bit higher than other disciplines but significantly lower consequence, if you die doing trials you might as well have been struck by lightning.
1:39 Among a few other brands we use Osets (now acquired by triumph) and they literally last like 3 hours of trials if not more, you'll be knackered waaay sooner yourself, electric is truly a game changer for trials, can't say the same about other disciplines.
Interesting points. I have to imagine that it probably has among the highest rates of minor injuries (sprains, scrapes, etc) but the lowest rate of severe injury or death among any motorcycling discipline. Electric seems like a natural fit, no range issues, great torque and response, and no clutch to add to the rider's workload.
@@quillmaurer6563 That is true though the rate of injuries per hour is also low, don't forget when people go road racing or motocross they only get an hour or 2 of track time, trials is truly an all day thing, if you have the endurance. I personally love the Osets, the R24 has 3 dials to adjust response, power and speed. So you can have a really torquey and responsive bike but with top speed of no more than 5mph, or you can have a bike with moderate torque that ramps into power smoothly but can get up to decent speed to get momentum. Or you can turn everything all the way down to just do some slow figure of 8s.
Where is your school based, dear sir?
@@davidszego6594 Northern England, around Leeds.
@@quillmaurer6563 Motorcycle deaths are mostly the result of being run over, running into something or running off of something. Other causes of death are rare enough to be ignored. You're probably going to ride for decades without coming into contact with an unexpected down power line. This type of riding doesn't really carry those risks. That is unless you're that guy in the video climbing a literal mountain with a massive cliff to one side.
This guy could do an hour-long video on paint drying and I would be enthused at every second of it, love his vids and contents, long may they keep coming. I do wish they were longer and more plentiful. Keep up the good work. FortNine!!!
...I hope you weren't implying that trials is boring?
(IMO, X-trials events are about the most exciting kind of sports.)
@@leftaroundabout Read it again, I'm implying this guy can make anything exciting he is just great to watch, I wasn't taking anything away from the topic, but I see how you could interpret that. 😉
oh, you mean he's the Bob Ross of motorcycling? ;)
i want ryan hours videos
Haha!
I know exactly what you mean!
As for everyone else, stop overthinking.
Have a fantastic weekend, dude's!
🍻 🍻
Toni Bou really needs more respect in the bike world, he's got god tier level of bike control. Those videos of him riding an Africa Twin are insane
As insane as the Tony Bou videos are, what i find even more mental is just how capable an africa twin is in the right hands. He does not look like he's throwing around a 200+kg adv bike at all.
@@LordPodlington Though they are not getting machines down the factory line as plenty as Indians, Japanese still got it
@@LordPodlington whenever I start to think that my KTM790 is too much bike for the trail I am on, I think if his riding and then try to press on. Years ago at a motocross school the instructor was asked what is the best mod for a new rider. His answer was "burn more fuel".
Toni Bou is the GOAT of bike control... Makes Rossi look like a choir boy.
Every bike has a limiter, it's the human at the controls. The machine is way more capable than the rider. The biggest limiter is the rider's fears and doubts. A bike can't off-road because the rider doesn't have the skill or ability to do it.
As a Spaniard that learn't how to ride throuugh trials I have to say it is the best way to learn since they are easy and accessible. And very little like dirtbikes or roadbikes. You just need a literal rock all by yourself and that's it. In the Quarantine I used to ride it in my parents modest garden (for Spanish house sizes).
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Thanks for the shout-out Ryan! Props to our local legend Billy DeGaris,, a spring chicken and a past and current champion, Sean Bird, current national champion, and Alex Walton, past national champion, who as we speak is in Italy preparing to compete in the world championships with the rest of the Canadian team on Sept 24. If you have young kids that are interested in motorsports, this is a safe and low-cost option! If you live close to BC, Canada, come ride with us!
Right on!
Has this been sent to the Parks commision/board at Belcaarra?? Extremely well represented of our sport, having a super unintrusive footprint on nature!!!!!
Bought a trials bike 2 years ago after 40+ years of dirt oriented two wheeled sports and motorsports…including bicycle trials. The learning curve was WAY greater than I thought. Very humbling, but an amazing challenge and a surprising workout.
Yep, trial’s should be mandatory training I think, before you even hit the road
My first bike was a trials bike (way before I was legally allowed to ride on the road). Trials riding is not as easy as this video may imply. Like any skill it requires practice, then more practice. But, it is so rewarding and considerably safer than any other motorcycle sport.
It's like skateboarding, very low effort and investment to get started and you can stay on beginner level for years and just enjoy yourself. But to get good it takes an amazing amount of effort and practise.
I’m 58 and just started trials, and love it, I’m a long way from being any good but its so enjoyable raced other disciplines as a young man and wish I’d tried it sooner.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Amazing quality as always. Just wish these videos were over 30mins long!
Personally, I'm glad there are still channels that can make interesting content in short videos unlike others that have long intros, sponsor segments, merchandise adverts, or other filler just to waste time.
So much better to have people wish there were more than wish there had been less.
You can watch it 6 times... :)
Just about to say the same 👍
@@xist4622 I was watching a six minute tips and techniques video on another motorsports channel. Music video intro with slow mo shots and overexposed shots, shout outs, endorsements by other riders about the instructor, the instructors biography, the importance of the tips to be shown and what a gamechanger they are, some more music video, 15 seconds of riding tips, recap of why these tips are important, outro music video with slow mo shots, a list of places you can spend money, and a not that catchy slogan.
My dad and his family have been into trials since they where kids, he is absolutely in love with the sport and to see him at 60 years old and still outcompeting just about everyone makes me so proud.. not that I'd let him know lol.
You should let him know! It will make him feel good! One never knows how much time we have left to tell our loved ones nice things
Nice video as always! I tried Trial last year and it was hella fun. As a newbie every bump or obstacle you overcome feels like Himalaya, watching the videotapes of it is quite disappointing afterwards. But nevertheless a very cool experience. Can recommend it to nearly everyone.
@Mike Morris That's Hella, they make other kinds of stuff if memory serves.
Ha ha, very true. Low level trials is plenty of fun. But the pics or video wont impress your non-trials friends
watching the videotapes of it is quite disappointing afterwards, I learning bike trial can related
When I still mountain biked regularly letting the bike ride itself was the advice I gave the new riders. An underrated piece of advice
You know it’s gonna be a good weekend when Fortnine kicks it off with a banger.
I'm heading to a funeral. One of my closes friend's mom passed from cancer... Wish I could relate.
@@DroneStrike1776 that’s cool. I have no friends. Wish I could relate.
@@AG2W jeeeeez thats was unnecessarily harsh 🤦♂️
Sorry for you loss. Condolences and best wishes.
honestly ryan i just wanna say thank you, i’ve been watching all sorts of videos ranging from motovlogs to the most in-depth reviews for the better part of ten years, and now ten years later, having a job and learning to drive, learning how to be an adult in general i can proudly say that soon enough maybe in the next 6 months to maybe a year, i will be getting my first bike and finally be able to live this childhood dream of mine. thank you for all the tips and mechanical tools you’ve shared over the years and thank you for keeping this dream to some day ride into the sunset on my noble steed alive, much love :).
Thanks Ryan... Now I want a trials bike 😂
It never leaves you, I started on twin shocks in the 70's, and still ride.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Me too!
I've always thought electric makes a lot of sense as a trials bike instant torque, Omnidirectional, light, doesn't need tons of range, doesn't need tons of power.
That, and speedway. 4 laps around a dirt oval. No need to worry about range, and you can charge between your heats...
Another advantage of it is the quietness - might make it more tolerated out in the woods alongside mountain bikers.
In forests the rule "no combustion engines" would actually make sense.
and it gets nimbys off ur back
@@darkiee69 Or bring 2 batteries and charge during your heats.
All right, you folks did it! Another fantastic production!!!
This one it just pushed me over the edge!!!! I’m 52yrs, 10.5 yrs post TBI w a connective tissue disorder, divorced, 10 yrs rd/ trail motorcycling riding experience , 27yrs. mt. bike riding/racing experience and living in western Maine on my perimeter cleared, hillside/top property with vertical drop and gnarly Topography. Wouldn’t I Have to be smoking a stupid amount of the green stuff to not trade in my hardly used, Beta 500 RRS in on Beta electric trails bikes???!!!!?!
Beta doesn't make an electric bike yet, but talk to Stu Preston at Jack's Cycles in South Berwick. He can give you the breakdown on what's available new and used in your area. There's also a group just over the border in NH (Granite State Moto Trials) that rides regularly. Good folks to know.
For me, this might be one of the best applications for electric motorcycles.
Yeah the instant torque is perfect
And they are.
Many many years ago (mid - late 60s) they used to televise Trials on WWS type programs. Back then the bikes weren't as specialized, many had seats! I remember an interview with a rider. Shots were mid chest up and they were talking about the course and other competitors, etc. Then they pulled back on the shot and showed the rider had been just sitting and balancing on his bike the whole time! Trials riders are just 'next level'.
back then, they had seats because they were ridden from stage to stage over a road or trail, so it gave the rider a chance to sit for a while.
@@kenbrown2808 - Outdoor trials competitions still cover some ground with some "laps" being easily 10 miles long or more - It's absurdly annoying to ride a trials bike anywhere above 15mph or so though...
@DiegoRuiz1991 yes. Not what they are designed for
Vintage Trials is another interesting hobby. I had a 1975 Kawasaki KT250 Trials bike back 10 years ago. A neighbor had a ravine with a stream and made a bunch of trials sections. It was a lot of fun. That electric bike looks interesting.
Restored a 74 Suzuki RL250 myself and it has been my favorite bike since. Those old trials bikes are tanks.
I always knew trials bikes were a thing. Never saw them until I went to a hard enduro area in Arden, ON. A old boy who looked every bit like Gandolf the wizard leant me his to try out in the parking lot. After just 5 minutes of playing around on it, I was dead tired. Man those things wear you out! The very next week, I bought my own trials bike. I knew they
were a great way to learn techniques for hard Enduro without screwing up my regular bike or my body. That was last fall, this summer I already managed to dislocate my shoulder and tear a ligament in ankle on it. All worth it, because now I can do those 12 O'clock wheelies haha. I can also handle a rock garden pretty well now. If only I could get a street legal one...
Don't know if you can get them where you live but Montesa 4 ride is somewhat like a mix between a trials and motocross/enduro bike and fully road legal. I would like one but there's just nowhere to use it where I live
@@easternmenace Good find. I also saw a Quebec dealership selling Sherco XRIDE bikes with turn signals on them.
What does a motorcycle need to be street legal? Headlights, turn signals, brake light, front and rear brakes, and a muffler? Maybe a catalytic converter, not sure if small cc bikes are exempted from that.
I was thinking about maybe trying trials in the future but I just had surgery on my ankle for a torn retinaculum so your comment made me think twice. If you don't mind I would really appreciate if you could tell me what happened to your ankle and how?
@@sepg5084just leaving this here so I get a notif when someone answers u
Ahh yess.. a new video.. just as I was binge watching all the old ones! Delightful!
This was a major hit to the nostalgic senses.
I grew up riding trials. Got my start somewhere around 7 years old. It was important to my parents that I learn as much skill as possible before I could go fast and it was the best thing that could’ve happened to me. Another note about trials, the sport is very obscure and therefore it’s heroes much more accessible. I competed in semi-local amateur events and still was able to meet several of the sport’s “celebrities”
Nice bringing more attention to trials
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Best content on UA-cam. Long time subscriber long time rider love ya man stay safe
Thanks, again, Ryan. cheers from the place near the Squamish Starbucks.
Now this is a topic I never expected Fortnine to cover honestly
I learned so much dinking around the yard on an 86 Honda TLR200 that I've carried in to all other forms of riding. The trials platform is an amazing learning and endurance tool.
One of the most underappreciated motorsports I think. I love the madness of the indoor competition, but for me, the outdoor ones are the coolest. It is less perfect and less obvious how much grip you'll have, if any at all. Hopefully this video will give it little boost, given the size of your platform.
I'd love to see you rip around on a Flat Track bike as well, you've got the slide control to go fast.
Great video. Thanks for explaining trial - my hometown Grimstad (Norway) has a pretty big community and they have acquired a big private area to do it on. But unfortunately, they aren't allowed to drive around freely in the forest where hikers go
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Excellent video. I hope Ontario has something similar! Looks like a lot of fun, and a good Saturday workout 😬
The Amateur Trials Association and Southwestern Ontario Classic Trials Group (SOCT) put on plenty of events through the riding season in Ontario. I’ve never ridden a motorcycle before buying a trials bike and showing up to a SOCT event and they happily showed me the ropes and how-to’s of riding trials bikes. Most friendly and approachable group of people I’ve found.
Just got into classic trials this year, have always been a firm believer that it will make me a better rider in all the other disciplines.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Yep, been thinking about trials myself. Went to meet in Connecticut a couple of summers ago-nice folks, pleasant spectating. I haven't made a move on buying a bike-living in the city makes owning multiple bikes a challenge-but I still toy with the idea, especially an electric bike. Love the humor, as always. ✌
You remember where in Connecticut?
@@stevedoe1630 Sorry Steve, I don't. I wouldn't be surprised if it's on the schedule if you search for American trials schedule, or similar.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Ever since my Uncle showed me a video of a Trails competition I was hooked. Such a fascinating discipline of riding.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Trials bikes sure have changed over the years. i was into trials riding way back in the early '70s, when the motorcycles were barely more then dual sports with lower gears and rear set foot pegs (I had a Montesa 247 Cota, my brother a "Sammy Miller Replica" Bultaco Sherpa-T). We had a huge amount of fun riding what we thought at the time were "impossible" obstacles, that would be laughably easy today.
Thank you! I appreciate you using your platform to discuss trials. Trials in North America is growing quickly, but it can still use more exposure and support 👍
There is not a single video where you fail to make me smile! Apart from the obvious amazing content quality. Best team ever.
Thanks for bringing trials to the spotlight! Just got my first bike this year and I LOVE IT
I always end up wishing your videos were longer, they're really enjoyable
Thanks Ryan and team, another home run!!
I love watching top level trials. Absolutely amazing.
I learned and competed in trials when I was 10 for 3 years on a Yamaha TY80 - brilliant fun, and it gives you so so many skills even just for normal on road riding!!
We knew you would get here eventually! You even kept a finger on the front brake and clutch. Well done!
Thank you for posting this. Trials really deserves to have a renaissance. It used to be a huge working class sport when I was a kid. even had it's own prime time TV show, Kick Start.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
I need an hour long documentary from F9
I competed in Trials for 14 years it taught me great throttle & clutch control, which I use when driving or riding on the roads when the surface is slippery.
I found trials about 10 years ago and found it inexpensive, fun and a great education. Still have a dirt bike but at almost 70 I can hand with the hard enduro lads with little fear of getting hurt. Great video!
Same boat. Had a trials bike for a few years now and my ability has gone through the roof. I ride it on hard enduro areas with young folks on 300cc enduros. They make the impossible possible for mortals and I occasionally "clean" a gnarly climb, dodging the steaming KTM's having a lie down on the hill. Feels bloody great at my age!
I never thought a trials bike, or trials, would be something to try, but now I do want both. Darn you, Ryan.
People don’t know trials is real?
I’ve always admired trials bikes & riders.
Thanks for this closer look at their sport, and their world.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Perfect timing! I just started getting into trials, I'm 3 weeks in, and still can't static balance 🤣 😭
Ryan, I rode trials from around '94 to '99. This hits home. We enjoy the engineering and cinematography that you provide to us, we certainly enjoy what you do, keep it up, eh?
Is like mountain biking... but with an engine.
I love it! :)
Ryan, you are awesome! Thank you for the great content!
Once again Fortnine finds a unique and briliant way to explain things a lot of people didn't even know existed.
babe wake up new fortnine vid
Fortnine vids stay on during seggs
i always look forward to your videos and they're always worth the wait
I legit thought the intro was an ad for like 5 seconds.
I've been riding trials for 2 years. Every couple of months I go to a local centre, hire the bike and ride for 5 hours or so, under expert supervision.
All in the beautiful Peak District, UK. Yeh I'm hooked.
More trials please.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Great video! One thing that always sticks with me from when I was learning was the saying “if you are spinning your back tire you are doing it wrong” 👍👍
That's actually a pretty fun game you were playing at the beginning lol. Trials looks like a good way to hone alot of skills and have some fun!
I only discovered your channel but I've quickly fallen down the rabbit hole. This is truly some of the most helpful and polished content on the whole platform. So sick
Best content on UA-cam!
Bar none!
Love me a new fortnine video
Thank you for your wisdom, motorcycle Elrond.
4:53
Riding my mountianbike in forests here in Austria is generally illegal, except certain trails.
I imagine if one would bring a trail motorcycle, I would get fined to Hell and back.
Get a electric one they won't hear you coming
@@spiritofpostpunk7207 - They don't chase you, "forest police" officers wait for you, they camp out in dirt roads for like 6 hours straight
Got fined to hell and back for taking my bike on a tractor road for doin "ground damage", like a 4ton tractor and a ranger with his 2.5 ton car can drive there no problem but my mountianbike is the problem. Welcome to Austria
Freund dich mit ein paar Bauern an. Im Sommer mal bei der Heuarbeit helfen oder so und im Gegenzug darfst im Wald brettern.
Spezi von mir ist oft bei uns im Wald unterwegs. Im Zweifelsfall sagst halt auch den Jägern bescheid.
@@nedlikftw Austria is really stupid with this kind of stuff
Thank you for that post. I have been involved in Observed Trials since 1974 (but an not quite as old as Billy in your video) It is a sport that has evolved tremendously but in many ways is still exaclty the same. Inexpensive, family oriented, friendly and fun. Interestingly enough no matter how bad or good you are, you can always find something you can do or somthing that is just out of your reach. It is also a great cross training sport and skills learned in trials work on road riding, road racing, enduro ans MX. Glad you discovered us!
My wife feels as though this video was made at my request to try to convince her that the trials bike in the garage was not a silly expenditure. Thanks Ryan.
Has she also ridden it already?
Those subtle digs on the KLR and skateboarders was hilarious.
I’ve been interested in trials for a long time, and this video rekindled that, but it still doesn’t seem affordable; the trials bikes cost just as much as a dual sport, and the electric trials bike in this video is in the area of $10,000. Doesn’t seem too accessible for a guy with a family that doesn’t have that kind of money for a fun little hobby. It looks so insanely fun to get into though.
Good used ones can be had for much cheaper. My 2011 GasGas is 95% the same as a 2022. They don’t update that often, so parts are still available for older ones. Most also don’t get ridden that much or that hard, so they are still in great shape.
@@gpaull2 Maybe it’s just my area, I was looking at Facebook marketplace, and the cheapest I could find was a 2004 Montesa 315RX, and it was $3200, seems a bit pricey for a single use toy I can’t ride on the street. I paid less than that for my XR400R, but that was before vehicle prices in general went through the roof.
Agree, I wanted to get into this hobby since I was a teenager. If I owned suitable land to ride on I might consider buying one but the cost of the bike, trailer or pickup and membership in a club to access legal land to ride on just does not make sense. At 64 I would like it for exercise not competition. Dual sport bike is as close as I get to trials while running errands or occasional road trip.
And of course the release of this video will cause the price of used ones to spike.
As always… a well thought out, amazingly presented view on a part of motorcycling.
Love trials
We used to have a kids show in the early 80s called Kickstart. Was pretty great seeing what those kids could do, i think a few of them went on to be pro's at it.
Love it
Thew first vid of F9 i saw was about visibility of bikes. There was something along the lines "we pay attention to things that are dangerous or we want to mate with". And now i have this naggigng question: why exactly i find this channel so compelling to watch?
That Pol Tarres clip had me whiteknuckling my phone as I watched them whip that bike around.
I would have needed a new pair of pants after that.
This was fantastic material. So glad you produce this material
Have a link to that electric version? Looks perfect.
Agreed, looks pretty amazing.
@AstroCat It's an Electric Motion Epure Race which features a diaphragm clutch.
I'll be honest, I never even considered it as a possibility. I probably just let my brain default to expensive then never looked at it. If FortNine wanted to make a follow-up video in the future talking about some of the different bikes in this field and what makes them unique, like that amazing recent tire roundup, that would be lovely.
Fun fact, trials riders paved the way for mtb’ers out in Britannia Beach🤙🏻
I've never been so early to a Fortnine video, today will be good.
Learnt to ride on a Yamaha TY175 40 years ago; the skills I picked up have stayed with me and have helped me my entire road riding life. I recommend everyone at least try it - it's incredible fun.
Same here and ossa s and bultacos and montessas have ridden the modern gas gas betas etc so light so cool to ride too
Love it! Always loved trials on my pedal bike.
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
Fantastic video. I did trials in the Uk from the age of 12 onwards, and it really does teach you bike control. Riding on the road afterwards was easy!
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
I love how FortNine now just knows they are a PSA channel for motorcyclist around the world and are putting it to good use!
Simply love your content, great stuff as always! Now I need to find a way to play Elasto Mania again 😁
Sammy Miller was my hero. So thank you for giving trials recognition.
Absolutely fantastic, just can’t get enough of Ryan’s videos.
And the content on this one is a bit of an eye opener.
Turned 63 over the summer and have kind of put “dirt bikes” in the rear view mirror, I don’t really bounce back up after a fall any more, more of a splat.
But I can see where Trials would allow me to get back to the woods, still having a blast with a little less threat of crippling myself🥴
Thanks Ryan for both the info and the great, always entertaining video.
Wow. Didn’t know I needed a trial bike until now.
Great video and great content as always. Regards from a Spaniard that grew up watching Trials on the television.
Always wanted this video but never expected it... top job guys!
Nice video. Trials doesn't get enough credit.
Probably very quaint now, but you can find loads of old episodes of the Kick Start trials competition series that ran on TV for over a decade in the UK through the 80s and 90s.
I always loved Trials as a sport. Will definitely get into it!
for those that are really interested check out our channel! For the best reviews and more!
This is the first channel I have ever rung the notification bell for. Amazing content every single time Ryan. Love what you do. Keep up the good work
always a great post. only channel i watch at regular speed.
Another great video from FortNine. Thanks
Y’all never disappoint. Thank you guys. Great take on a motorcycle sport I hadn’t thought about in a long time.