Getting Started
If you think you would like to try trials, here is some more information.
A Brief History 
Trials riding has been going on in some shape or form since the advent of motorcycling. Originally it was just a way of testing the endurance of man and machine over long distance courses. In these early days it was actively supported by most of the manufacturers as a means to demonstrate the reliability of their machines. As the bikes became more reliable the courses became more difficult. Slowly but surely moving off road. So that now, trials that include road work are quite rare.
The First Step
The first step is to find a club to join that offers regular trials at the level you are seeking. Sadly, not all clubs cater for the really raw beginner, but Gwent Classic's does!
The Right Gear
It is wise to wear a helmet and knee-high boots, and it is recommended that you have your arms and legs covered. It is worth considering the purchase of a pair of trials trousers (with well-placed padding and strengthening) and a pair of gloves. The right gear is also essential to minimise the risk of injury. It is worth buying these items from a reputable trials shop or second-hand from a club member. Having acquired these items you are ready to consider the purchase of your motorcycle.
The Machine
Trials motorcycles are purpose built to be light and go anywhere. In order to achieve this the gearing is low and therefore big engine size is not beautiful. The choice of bike will depend mainly on the size of your wallet. You can pay as little as £300 for an early twin-shock or as much as £4,000 for a new mono-shock, but all will carry you around. Whichever you choose, it will be fun.
Pre-Trial Tips
When you enter a trial there are a few items you should be sure to take with you. The first is a can of fuel (mixed with the right level of oil for your bike. If it’s a two-stroke). Also a spare plug and a plug spanner, a piece of string 2 feet long, a tyre pump, a low pressure gauge and a roll of tape. Also take a flask of your favourite beverage and a pack of sandwiches. It is also wise to take a change of clothing (in case it rains). Be sure that you have some cash, your helmet, boots, long sleeved sweater and gloves. These are really the minimum requirements for an enjoyable trials day.
Your First Trial
The next step is to enter a suitable trial; this will normally be advertised on this web-site, in the club newsletter or "T&MX News".
On arrival at the venue, park sensibly and before doing anything else go and sign on. This will involve producing your club membership card and paying an entry fee for the trial (which is currently £7 for club members) The fee includes, insurance for the riders and liability cover for officials and the public. When you sign on, you will receive a punch card (which you can secure around your neck using the piece of string!).
Check It Out
Now you've done that you can go back to your bike to check it over. Petrol - enough but not too much, you don't want to carry more weight than necessary. Tyre pressures are usually a maximum of 7lb front and 5lb rear. However this is often less depending on your weight and the conditions, and may need to be as low as 5lb at the front and 3lb at the back. The next thing is to check that your clutch and brake levers are moveable on the bars. When you fall off, if the levers are not too tight, then instead of breaking, they will - with luck, slide round or down the bars. This tip can save you a fortune. There is one big no no. Don't start riding round the car park and surrounds, practising before the beginning of the trial. It is likely to incur the wrath of club officials and could cause you to be excluded from the event.
Land use now is at a premium and it is vital that every competitor respects the land that is being used by not riding about unnecessarily outside the marked routes. Any misconduct in this regard can and has lost clubs the use of land.
The Start
Most Gwent Classic trials use a ‘wheel’ start. Riders are grouped together, usually by type, pre-65, twin shock etc. Each small group 0f 5-10 riders will have a leader and one or two hole punches, these are used to punch the cards. Riders in the group ‘observe’ each other, so there is no need for the poor ‘observers’ to stand around all day on the sections. Each group will start at a different set of sections and if it is planned correctly queuing is avoided.
Your First Section
On arrival at the first section, park your bike and look out for the "Section Begin' cards. You are allowed to ‘walk’ the sections. Having decided which way to tackle the section, when it is clear one of the riders will signal you to start. Remember scoring starts when your front axle goes through the "begins" gate and finishes when it goes through the "end" gate. From then on its fun, fun, fun and remember that you can only get better.