How to Choose Your First Trials Bike: Brands, Sizes, and Maintenance Tips
The sport of trials riding is slowly growing in South Africa. It is a highly specialised sport with particular needs in terms of the type of bike. Here's what you need to know about getting your first trial machine and how to take care of it.
Choosing your trials bike
The right size for a trials bike is determined by the rider's height, experience, and fitness. Since trials bikes are designed for standing, the frame size is less about the seat and more about the motor size (CC) for adults.
What is motorcycle trials riding?
| Rider type | Suggested Engine Size (CC) | Key Considerations |
| Youth/small beginners | 50cc to 125cc | Smaller chassis for children or smaller adults. |
| Adult beginner | 125cc to 200cc | This is the most recommended starting range. A 125cc is ideal for learning crucial clutch control due to its mellow throttle response. A 200cc offers a good balance of power and control. |
| Experienced motorbike rider | 250cc to 300cc | If you are already an experienced off-road motorcyclist, you might start here to avoid upgrading quickly. However, the stronger engine response will make mastering pure trials skills harder initially. Modern bikes often have a switch to a "softer" mapping/throttle setting to help beginners. |
Key sizing & fit factors:
Weight: Trials bikes are extremely light. Don't worry about the bike feeling too heavy; focus on balance and control.
Feel: The best advice is to sit on and, ideally, ride various bikes. The best choice is the one that feels most comfortable and manageable as you learn.
The cheapest way to start trials riding in South Africa
Trials Bike Brands in South Africa
While your riding skill matters more than the brand, certain brands dominate the market. When choosing, prioritise dealer presence and local parts availability.
Popular Motor Trials Brands Available in SA:
GasGas: A major player in the trials world, models like the TXT RACING 125 and TXT RACING 300 are commonly available from local dealers in SA.
Beta: Known for their EVO models, Beta bikes have a strong global presence and are often found, new or pre-owned, through South African distributors and riders.
Sherco, Montesa, Vertigo: These are other international brands you may find in the South African market.
Crucial factors for choosing a brand in SA:
Dealer proximity & support: For a beginner, the most important factor is being close to a dealer who can provide service and support. Ask about the availability of parts and accessories.
Local rider support: Check with local trials clubs in your area (e.g., Trials SA) for recommendations, as they often have the best insights into which brands have strong community and technical support.
Affordability: Factor in not just the bike's price but also the long-term cost of servicing and parts.
Essential maintenance tips for beginners
Trials bikes require specific maintenance due to the nature of the sport. Regular checks are crucial for ensuring safety and optimal performance.
Before every ride:
Check controls: Ensure the throttle, clutch, and brake levers operate freely and return smoothly to their original position. A small amount of slack in the clutch and throttle cables is necessary; check your manual for the exact amount.
Tire pressure: Trials riding uses very low tyre pressure for maximum grip. Check and set your pressure before every ride, as even a slight drop can affect handling.
The "ABC" check:
Air: Check tyre pressure.
Brakes: Squeeze levers to ensure they engage smoothly and firmly. Check brake pads for wear.
Chain: Check chain tension.
Loose parts: Gently bounce the bike on the ground and listen for any rattles. Check and tighten any loose bolts, nuts, and screws, especially the engine mounting bolts and suspension linkages.
Post-Ride and regular maintenance:
Washing & drying: Wash your bike immediately after a dirty ride. Crucially, dry the bike thoroughly (preferably with compressed air) to prevent rust.
Lubrication & greasing: After washing and drying, follow up by greasing key points and lubricating the chain. Use a specialised chain lube.
Air filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions (at least every two rides). A clean filter is critical for engine longevity.
Fuel mixture for 2-stroke bikes: Use high-quality synthetic 2T blending oil. Do not exceed a 1.5% oil-fuel mixture, as excess oil will cause carbon build-up on the engine and exhaust, which is detrimental to trials engines that run at low RPMs.
Engine oil: Change the engine/gearbox oil as recommended by the manufacturer. Note: Some 4-stroke trials bikes (like the Montesa Cota 4RT) have separate oil for the engine and the clutch/gearbox.
Carburettor: It is advisable to clean the carburettor every six rides or so to prevent impurities from affecting performance.
Storage: If storing the bike for an extended period, inflate the tyres to a higher pressure, or use a stand to keep both wheels off the ground to prevent the low-pressure tyres from deforming.
