fredster

Dear All May I introduce myself, I am 45 years of age and have NEVER owned a trials bike, ok, I've said it, now that's out of the way! I did however, once enter a trial on a year old (at the time!!) Montesa Cota 349. This was owned by a friend who used to pick up a previous year's sponsored bikes from Robinson's in Rochdale. It was a cross discipline (not dressing!!)AMCA event, and open to anyone who could blag a bike. I didn't do well at all and fell off everywhere, but then again I was Moto X rider (limited skill!!) and tried to ride it somewhat similar!! Anyway, that was way back then, and although I thoroughly enjoyed it at the time, I've never followed it up, or had a reason too, until now. I now have access to quite an area of farm land to muck around on, most of it hilly, wooded and some rocky with a section of river(big stream) running through it, so it would be a shame to miss this opportunity. What I would like, is a nicely engineered, reliable bike that I can ride around on for a couple of hours, put away and get out whenever I want. Factors to consider are, I'm six foot and fifteen stone, don't at this point (never say never) want to compete, like nice tackle (usually lasts longer, easier to sell) and would consider a new bike. I've always kept road bikes since the MX days and I've also got a KTM300 Enduro, so I do know one end of a bike from the other, but NOT trials bikes, so your views and ideas will be greatly appreciated. On another note, before the Internet, this kind of request would have involved, reading everything trials related, joining a club, buying your new mate's "highly recommended, you'll be alright" cast off, and spending the next 12 months trying to shift it on. I'm still in favour of clubs, and had some of my best times as a member, but for quick, to the point advice you can't beat this. Well done for putting the site together. Regards and Cheers!