Reading between the lines here it appears that riders in north America expect and appreciate a more challenging, higer scoring Trial (or perhaps we just don't ride as well), than those across the pond.
If I finish a Trial with ten points or less I consider it a poorly set event and don't feel that I got my moneys worth (I know I'm not that good a rider).
The standard I was taught many years ago is one point per section ridden from the winning rider in each class, except the lowest class, Novice, since they are the only class without the option of moving down a class. We typically ride 24-30 sections at an event.
I have had riders that have recently moved up a class tell me after the event "That (insert crazyish obstacle here) in that section was gnarly, but I never would have thought I could ride that if it wasn't put in a section"
OH CRAP!! I just agreed with parts of the post from OTF!!! What is the world coming too?????
Also OTF at this point in my trials riding I fall into the category of "I ride expert class" As in when someone says "oh, you're an Expert rider?!" I reply "Well, I ride the Expert class. That does not necessarily mean I AM an Expert"
Sounds like common theme is make the sections for the middle of the pack and hope the top three move up a class in a year or two.
on edit: I am thinking that if top rider takes less than 15 pts either the event was too easy or that rider should move up a class
In MOTA we have minimum 40 section attempts (usually 8 sections x 5 loops or 10 sections x 4 loops)
As far as severity goes (and this is just a generalization)
Beginner = In the start and find their way to the end, usually a turn or two (class is for learning section markers, etc..)
Novice = couple of turns and a small log or two, all can be ridden without touching the clutch
Intermediate = medium logs, tighter turns, some clutch control needed, turns on hill
Sportsman = most difficult half of Int. and easiest half of Adv. sections
Advanced = Big obstacles with plenty of run up/out and places to put feet, tight turns (hopping not necessary but makes it easier), steep hill climbs, etc..
Expert = Big obstacles hardly any run up/out with less spots to foot, tight and super tight turns, and a couple of sections that are "Screw em they are the top guys and can't get any higher in class" make it hard!
We do try to set the event for the middle of the pack for each class, while trying to maintain somewhat of a standard of difficulty in each class. Middle of pack should be able to get 2 or 3 pts on the section first loop and then progressively improve as the day goes on with cleaning most sections for the last 2 loops or so. We want the good riders to move up a class and keep the lower riders from dropping out/getting hurt. It does not really help the newly moved up riders if the sections are adjusted too much so that basically the Advanced lines are just Intermediate lines that year because a large group of riders moved up a class, they moved up for more of a challenge....... I hope that makes sense.
Of course factoring in weather conditions, available traction, etc... you want to have a challenging and fun yet safe event.
I just moved up to Expert class an event or so ago, Now my goal when riding is to finish the event with less than 200 points (200 is maximum available for those keeping track) Until I get better at riding I will have absolutely no problem with requesting a 5 if a section scares me. If that did bother me I would stay riding in Advanced.
I have been told by Biffsgasgas that his experience in an event in Europe was a great and fun time but the club level sections are set a bit harder than he has ridden in the States, so there is some "cultural differences" there.
broken ribs heal, rotator cuff surgery works but be forewarned it is a LONG recovery. But I believe after you are totally healed you should be able to ride again.
A friend and my father-in-law both have had rotator cuff surgery, looks like about a year to be back to 100%. Do the physical therapy, don't over do it yada yada yada (I sound like my wife nagging me when I am recovering)
You are right, the shafts are supposed to be harder.
This is cut & pasted from the Tech Bulletin;
Water Pump information, Pro 2002~07:
Beginning in 2004, there are three changes to the waterpump.
1 The center shaft has a new heat treatment. The part number remains the same.
2 The impeller is made of a new material.The part number remains the same.
3 The outer bushing (drain cap) is made of a new alloy. It has a much longer life than the original model. The new cap uses a “Torx” bit for removal, and installation. The original one used an Allen wrench. (See photo) The part number remains the same.
The faces change but the names remain the same.......................
try using some wet/dry a million something grit sandpaper on the disc, wetted with some WD-40 or similiar. then clean disc thouroughly with brake cleaner.
Unfortunately "Best" means something different to everyone.
Frandog1985,
Could you provide what aspects matter most to you?
Reliability
handling
power
balance
turning
dealer support
spare parts price
etc....
Every manufacturer has their own little things to keep an eye on. So ultimately you should try to get a ride on every bike you may have an interest in. Also remember engine size will make a bike handle/ride differently.
I am just thinking about all the wasted time over the last few days, you guys already could have delivered many supplies if they would have just handed them to the guys with bikes and helmets. The supply providers would just have to load back packs and point "Go that way".......................
I kick in a fluid motion, I either start the bike on the stand, or standing on the left peg (balance! yay!) or standing on left peg leaning against something.
This gets my body up higher and then I place foot on kickstart, slowly push down until it engages and then smooth, fluid, strong motion kick through. Usually starts by the 2nd kick from cold. 1st kick warm.
It replaces the stock rubber piece that goes from the carb to the airbox. I have one and it makes re-install of part 100% easier and more secure. (I have no affiliation with V-mar, I just like the products)
It comes with an O-ring to seal between the carb and the adapter, also comes with 3 set screws to hold it in place.
I think that Honda spends more on dinner for their dealers at a dealer meeting than the U.S. Trials importers spend on our sport in a year. Honda would probably spend more by accident than U.S. Trials importers do on purpose.
Having Trials bikes in mainstream bike shops would be a huge shot in the arm for our sport. I believe that would also improve the market for the existing Trials importers.
Honda offers promotional financing and regular business hours, among other things (you may have noticed that Trials bikes are getting expensive). Also not everyone is satisfied buying a new bike out of someones garage, or the pole barn behind their house, as is the case with many Trials dealers in the U.S.
I greatly appreciate those that have chosen to be Trials Bike dealers in the US and take the time and effort to order parts, bikes, supplies etc... and many of these dealers bring their stock with them to events in case there is a break down and the riders can still finish.
But.......there are major advantages to having an actual "Brick and Mortar" dealership. Parts on hand, regular business hours. Ability to take your buddy in to look at the bikes, more exposure to the masses when dealership is paired with other style of motorcycles, New to the sport people will think of them as "real" bikes because the business and support looks professional like the Motocross, Roadbike dealerships.
Down side of course would be prices going up to cover operating costs, Our dealers would have to be "full time" dealers and try to make a living from it instead of a side job/hobby.
The good and the bad from my opinion. With increased exposure and participation all of that may "shake out" in the end.
If that did bother me I would stay riding in Advanced.
To Trials Masters - Set Up Event Difficultly - To How Many Points?
in General Trials Talk
Posted
I have had riders that have recently moved up a class tell me after the event "That (insert crazyish obstacle here) in that section was gnarly, but I never would have thought I could ride that if it wasn't put in a section"