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Kevin Pinfold, the evergreen trials rider - And now a bit of nostalgia………..

Check out the old photo’s that were posted on an English trial face book page last week by an old friend in the UK. Not that I do face book – yet. But Peter Boettcher came across them and emailed to me. I must have posted (as in an old fashioned envelope – you young ones can google that) the pics to my friend over there years ago. Yes they are of yours truly when he was a couple of hair cuts younger. First pic is of me on my 78 Bultaco 325 and was taken in 1980 at my cousins farm on Forest Hill Road. Used to spend hours practicing there. That was back when there were more hours in a day and days in a week than there are now. When there was no internet, cell phones, face book, twitter, google, u-tube and all that stuff that takes up 23 hours of the day in these modern times.

The second pic is me again riding a 349 Montesa that I bought new at the end of 1980 from memory. I rode the same model in the Scottish 6 Day Trial in 82, although not the bike in the pic. I have a good memory for events I’ve ridden but I have no idea where this was taken. We used to do quite a few demo’s at shows etc but the fact I’m wearing a number bib tells me it’s an actual event as in an arena trial. And I’m sure 99.9% sure it wasn’t taken in the UK because I don’t think I rode an arena trial there in 82 when I was there. Only in 1980 and I rode an earlier red 349 Mont in those. Plus the spectators look very Kiwi and not pom. No flat caps! Does anyone out there know where the photo was taken?

Sorry to bore you all with old photos of me. Maybe someone else has old photos of themselves or others we could use next time. Unlikely any will be older than mine ha ha, but that doesn’t matter.

Where was this? Kevin wants to know! Evergreen Kevin Pinfold at Forest Hill Road, NZ, 1980 on a 325 1978 Bultaco

Peter Van Dingenen bought the Bult off me and promptly turned it from one of the best in the country into something that didn’t work so well anymore. Chopped the frame and lifted the motor to give it about a metre of ground clearance and all of a sudden it was a pig to ride. Pete’s still got it to my knowledge. I got 4^th in the NZ champs on that bike in 1980. When we only had two grades and lots of riders.

John Lawton bought the Montesa off me and rode it for a few years before selling it to fellow Ixion rider John Thompson, and as far as I know JT’s still got it and has done a bit of a resto job on it. I won the second day at the NZ Champs in Nelson in 81 on this bike but only finished 4^th overall after three days. Result wasn’t helped by the fact I finished 11th and out of the points on day one (champs points only went to 10^th then). I remember sulking real bad all Saturday night and jumping on the 349 on the Sunday morning and telling myself I was going to win today – and I did. Gee why can’t I focus like that every time I ride! Aussie Champ Steve Johnson won from Pauls Symons that year with some up and coming whipper snapper by the name of Andrew Clement 3^rd. Warrick Merriman was 7^th.

hottest day of the year in this neck of the woods so far. Palmy was hottest in the

country today at 31c and it sure felt 31 plus in the gully at Stu Davison’s, up No 3 line

We (I) changed the venue at the last minute due to getting all nervous about riding in

a pine forest in these dry conditions. But when we got to Stu’s it was nothing but

longish dry grass and looked like it would burn quite nicely if a match was struck. At

least there was a creek if the worse happened – and it didn’t. Guees we’d all go stand i

been to Hunterville early last week and started pegging sections. And then had to go

back and get the pegs. No wonder her day turned to custard and she didn’t finish the

Eight riders fronted which wasn’t such a good turnout. We all got stuck in and threw

Seven of the 8 sections involved the stream which was very low compared with most

times we ride this venue which meant we could utilize it better. And it wasn’t too

The sections were tricky but all cleanable, although I only managed eight cleans in

total for the day. My riding wasn’t as sharp as it could have been. I blame the 22 K’s

and 970 meters of climbing I did on my mountain bike the previous day. Warrick’s

riding was looking a little sharper although he had his share of not so good rides too.

We had no Intermediate, Sportsman or Social grade riders but had Merv was our sole

schools kids Vinnie Veltman and Connor Newton stepping up to Clubman and handling it

well. Good on you guys. And Connor has also stepped up from a Gas Gas 50 to a Gas

Gas 125. I wonder if Vinnie’s pestering his parents for a 125 now, as he’s still riding

Warrick had lowest score on the day so will get his name on the Pink & Manning shield

Finally nailed down the farmer up Pohangina and we can have our trial there. It’ll be less of a fire risk but even Stu brought up the subject before I did. At least there’s a creek there and I’ll take a couple of buckets that we can sit by the creek……………..

We will set the sections on Sunday morning from 8.30am – if Hannah can get there with the bags. Poor girl’s got to go to Hunterville and pull out 5 sections first.

Hi all, I sent the below email last night regarding our trial this Sunday. I’m quite concerned about the fire risk and I’m thinking we should try and change venue’s to one less risky.

As MNZ Steward for the event (Merv is COC) it’d be our necks on the chopping block if a fire did happen that was attributed to the event.

Thinking Stewart Davison’s at the end of No 3 Line up the Pohangina Valley. Just haven’t been able to get hold of Stewart yet.

I’ll send out another email Friday night with an update with hopefully good news. But there is the possibility we’ll cancel the trial so be prepared for that.

I believe Hannah’s already been and set out some sections. Sorry Hannah if we do pull pin.

Don’t forget we have our first club trial for the year next Sunday Feb 16 up Hunterville way.

I’ll send more detail early next week. Hannah and I just off to first rnds of the Nort th Island Champs in Taranaki this weekend. Leaving soon and hope to get there in time for a wee practice before dark………….

NAME OF EVENT              2020 North Island Moto Trials Championship – Rounds 1 and 2
DATE OF EVENT                8 and 9 February 2020
CLUB NAME                       Taranaki
VENUES – Day 1 –            Clements’ Property

Sign posted from - Day 1 - Either end of Wiremu Road
                                   Day 2 - Intersection of State Highway 3 and Kent Road

Event Starting Time: Day 1 – 10.00am
                                      Day 2 - 9.30am
Sign On Time: Day 1 – From 8.30am
                          Day 2 – From 8.30am

Riders Briefing: Day 1 – 9.45am
                             Day 2 – 9.15am

What Time is the Event Expected to Conclude: 4.00pm
Prize Giving: 4.30pm onsite at Day 2 venue

On Sunday 10th November MOMCC hosted the annual BSA shield trial (an inter club challenge

between Manawatu Orion and Ixion clubs). We had the shield and were out to keep it. There were a

The day started out hot and humid making us sweat through the first lap of 10 sections. Then the

heavens opened up and drenched us for half an hour or so. This resulted in pulling sections 6 to 10

We continued with 3 more laps of sections 1 to 5. Surprisingly the grass on section 5 still had plenty

of traction for most. Thanks to Kevin and Callum for setting up, the sections were really good.

Some tight point battles took place, with a wide range of scores over all grades catering for

everyone. Smiles all round as the day ended with a BBQ and extra smiles for Ixion as they claimed

This coming Sunday we have the annual BSA Shield Interclub Trial against Ixion. It’s our turn to host it so no excuse for not coming along and being part of the team effort. We won it for the first time in god knows how many years last year, and on their turf too. They are still smarting over that worse than a Pommy rugby team. Some still sneak off to a quiet place for a weep now and again…………

Venue – Bolton property on the Saddle Road near Ashhurst. Easy to find. For those driving from the west find your way to Ashhurst and follow the signs to Woodville/Hawkes Bay. After leaving the city of Ashhurst you’ll travel on the Saddle Road for about 1km where you’ll pass over a bridge that exits on a right hand bend. After the bridge the first gateway on your right is the venue entrance (approx 200 metres from the bridge). We will have a trial sign before the gate to give you a bit of warning. Be aware that this road can be very busy now as it’s the main road through to Woodville and the Hawkes Bay now the gorge is closed. Those coming from the east (Woodville side) have an almost 360 degree turn into the gateway. Be aware the gate may need to remain shut all day due to stock in the paddock. If that’s the case I’ll put a “keep gate shut” sign on it.

All grades catered for including the electrics. We don’t have a “have a go day” permit so if you haven’t got a MNZ competition licence you will need to purchase a “one event licence” on the day - $25.

The weather – looks like some rain Saturday and maybe a bit Sunday. But fingers crossed it’ll be good on the day.

Terrain – mostly grass or dirt under tyre but expect a few tree roots and maybe one or two in the bit of creek.

Sunday 20 October was this months trial , held at the Mangitanoka Quarry. This venue is a beauty ; great scope for sections and spectators don't need to walk far between sections.

Venue – Mangatainoka Quarry, Thompsons Road, Pahiatua. Will be signposted with club trials signage from the intersection of SH2 and Kohanui Road at Mangatainoka. Yep smack bang where the old Tui Brewery is. Follow Kohinui Rd for about 5 mins and you’ll hit Thompsons Rd, turn right and the gate into the venue is about 100 metres on your left. Allow approx 45 mins from Palmy.

Section set up – 8.30 am. We are going to set the sections on the morning so those that can make it early please do so and we’ll rip in and set the sections. It’s a small venue and easy to do this. Although that might depend on whether you stayed up late watching the rugby. And if Ireland beat the AB’s we’ll all be doom and gloom…………

All grades catered for. Sections will be mainly limestone based and there’s no creeks to get wet in.

Trophies – it’s getting towards the end of the year again and our trophies need to come back for the next round of engraving before our end of year prize giving. Bring if you remember – and polished too. And I still haven’t repaired the broken one……….

Vertigo Motors is delighted to present the latest evolution of the Vertical-Works model. This new model will be available in the traditional 125, 250 & 300cc versions, and new for 2020 the exciting 200cc & 280cc versions.

Our team of Vertigo engineers, guided by our brand ambassador & 12 times Trials World Champion Dougie Lampkin, who in turn has worked relentlessly during the 2019 season with our extremely talented team of World Championship riders, consisting of Jaime Bus-to, Jorge Casales & Berta Abellan have ensured that the latest 2020 version of this already extremely advanced 2 stroke, fuel injection machine is even more refined & reliable than ever before.

The 125cc is a model which has already earned its place in the elite stable of Vertigo mo-dels. Thanks to this model, in the hands of Pau Martinez becoming 2019 European 125cc Champion in its debut year.

The new 200cc model, combines the very best elements of both the 250cc & 125cc models. Resulting in a bike capable of taking on virtually any challenge. Whilst always providing the rider with total control of their machine. This new model is ideal for first time riders, or those who do not require the full power of a 250cc or higher capacity bike. Yet who still demand enough power to take on challenging sections & lines.

The 280cc similarly combines the best elements of the 250cc & 300cc models to provide intermediate & advanced riders with a very responsive & powerful bike capable of attacking extremely challenging sections & lines. This 280cc model is only available under request.

Each version of this 2020 model has been subject to the same meticulous technical development. Meaning this new model, takes the already most technically advanced and revolutionary trials bike on the market, to a whole new level & keeps the bike in an entire class of its own.

If you demand the ultimate in quality, ad-vanced technology & performance then this is the bike for you.

The distinctive & attractive new aesthetics of the bike are achieved thanks to the totally new look 2020 graphics with their matte finish, combined with the new olive green chassis colour scheme. Complimented by the many red anodised components such as the stun-ning new billet machined wheel hubs & triple clamps, red anodised cylinder head, engine & chassis fixings and front subframe. While the new for 2020 black finish of the wheel rims, skid plate and side stand add a touch of class to this very attractive new bike.

Reiger adjustable rear shock. Compression & extension. Provides super smooth & controlled suspension travel. As well as improved traction & stability in all conditions.

Tech racing forks, with adjustable rebound, end-stroke & spring pre-load. Provide maximum precision and responsive feedback to the rider.

New lightweight billet alloy wheel hubs-laser etched with the Vertigo logo & fini-shed in anodised red.

New Mapping customised to 2020 configuration. Allows the rider to switch be-tween a more aggressive map for dry & grippy conditions or a super smooth map for wet & slippery conditions.

Vertigo CNC brake & clutch lever adjusters - Allow instant fine tuning of your controls.

New radiator design & new fan: improves air flow & cooling, whilst being more re-sistant to heavy impacts.

New silencer guard spacers: give the rider more precision & control when manoeu-vring the bike.

We are the NZ importer for Vertigo trials bikes and offer a good spare parts back up

Taking orders now for 2020 bikes - 125, 200, 250, 280 & 300cc – $12,895 to $12,995

We also support the following brands with spare parts and technical support.

Gas Gas parts covered include suspension linkage kits, fan modules, clutch packs,

voltage regulators, air filters, kickstart quadrant and idler gears, gear levers, brake

levers, master cyl kits, brake pads, sprockets, throttle cables, tubeless rim tapes,

water pump shafts and seals etc. If we haven’t got it we can probably get it – unless

Plus many universal trials consumable parts – throttles, brake pads, grips, bar end

(I work during the day in a non motorcycle related job so can’t take calls during work hours. If

Thanks to Chris for the use of his property and setting up another great trial. You made the most of “the Resource” and it had us all concentrating hard – see the results at http://www.moto-trials.co.nz/results/15203

Nice that we had a fine event but that wind wears you out. A good range of sections

I think most riders enjoyed it but sorry to hear you were a bit off colour Hannah and a shame you didn’t hand a card in Mike. It’s always interesting to look at your own results. Sometimes it can be surprising and revealing. Often over the 4 laps the first is the worst with an improvement for each subsequent lap – but not always.

Some good riding in the clubman grade and I’m sure the scores will get closer as time goes by.

You young riders were an inspiration to watch – so keen and confident progressing nicely. The old saying “practice makes perfect” still applies J

Venue: Chris Morrison’s property, State Highway 3, Wanganui. Travel through Wanganui and head north on SH3 and Chris is approx 2.5 km north of the 100 k limit after leaving Wanganui. He’s on the left side heading north and the entrance is on a left sweeping blind bend and easily missed so take care. Chris will put a trials sign out on the road some distance from the gateway for plenty of warning plus another at the gate. Chris also has a request for all riders to take note of as follows – Chris’ own words.

“When emailing notice of trials here , please ask ; with the threat of Microplazma bovis , even though small now , please make sure any bikes been in farm contact be well washed”.

Sections for all grades except Expert will be marked. This is a small venue with limited scope for sections but Chris made some good ones last year and it was a good trial. I’m sure it will be again unless it decides to rain in which case it will be a wee bit slippery. It’s a no rock venue but expect banks, climbs and a few tree roots etc.

The final rounds of the NI Champs are being held in TePuke and near TeAwamutu on Sept 28/29. Entries here.

And the NZ Champs are in the Hawkes Bay at Labour weekend Oct 26/27/28. Entry forms here. https://www.hbmcc.org/trials

The annual BSA Shield inter club with Ixion is set down for November 10. This is a week earlier than the original calendar sent out earlier in the year. MOMCC is organising it this year and at this stage it’ll be at our Saddle Road venue, but to be confirmed.

We are the NZ importer for Vertigo trials bikes and offer a good spare parts back up

We also support the following brands with spare parts and technical support.

Gas Gas parts covered include suspension linkage kits, fan modules, clutch packs,

voltage regulators, air filters, kickstart quadrant and idler gears, gear levers, brake

levers, master cyl kits, brake pads, sprockets, throttle cables, tubeless rim tapes,

Plus many universal trials consumable parts – throttles, brake pads, grips, bar end

(I work during the day in a non motorcycle related job so can’t take calls during work hours. If

I started this report late last Monday evening but started falling asleep. Only just woken up

five days later and realised I need to finish it. In fact I’ve started again as I wasn’t happy

About a dozen riders rocked up for the trial last Sunday at the old, but still operational,

limestone quarry at the entrance to the now defunct Manawatu Gorge. I reckon within a year

or so we’d get a good trial in the old gorge as more slips and rocks come down. But the fun

police would soon kill that I’m sure. What’s the problem, we wear helmets don’t we……………

Merv and Warrick had been out on Saturday and set out 8 challenging but not overly hard

sections. They finished just as the big rain came in apparently, which had cleared by Sunday

morning thank goodness. Been pretty lucky with our trials as it’s been a long time since we

rode in the pouring rain. Had plenty of wet Saturdays that stopped in time. Now I’ve said

Being the quarry venue the sections weren’t affected too much by the rain. Even though the

sun was out it was still cool, and who noticed the snow up on Whariti on the way home. Not

sure that was there in the morning or fell during the day. Later I think. And even though

there was a cool breeze down in the car park there was literally no breeze away up at the top

of the quarry where you get commanding views of much of the Waiararpa. Mind you we did

Hannah, Warrick, Mark Sidey and myself were the four riders tackling the hardest sections

in A grade. And Hannah was riding a 250 Beta that Mike Ward loaned her for the day. Very

kind of you Mike. Hannah’s older 125 Beta got a rest for the day – well Mike did ride it

around just to watch the action. Will we see Hannah on this bike permanently in the near

future? My intelligence sources tell me we probably will. Gee she was a threat on a 125 so

All sections bar one were climbs and descents of various difficulties with some being lose

limestone and clay with a bit of dampness from the rain thrown in a few. And there were a

few rock steps thrown in too although nothing too big. We had no Expert riders entered so no

need to bust out the really big rocks. Section one was the only section that didn’t feature

rocks or lose limestone, this being a series of climbs and descents (for the higher grades

anyway) under a group of pine trees. Not too hard and one of only two sections I cleaned all

Twelve riders entered with the largest grade being A with four entered. Three rode

Intermediate, one President, one clubman, two Sportsman – or should that be Sportsperson

since you can’t call Jane Bray a man. I think young William Easton was entered in Social but

didn’t complete the day. Well not in the sections anyway. He was still riding around with dad

Two battles went on in the A Grade with Warrick George and myself matching each other

point for point just dropping the odd silly dab and Hannah Rushworth and Marko Sidebothamo

fighting it out at the other end. Plenty of dabs for them too but at a higher rate than

Warrick and I. Plus they had a few fives too. Hannah won the clean count by one but Mark

won the five count by two. But overall Hannah came out on top of their battle by one point on

Unfortunately I duffed a five on section four on the last lap. I’d had a two and two cleans and

then my one and only five for the day on lap four when I took the wide line (that’d worked on

the first two laps before it’d cut up muddy) to attack the middle climb instead of turning

tighter to get the new left line offering more grip. I realised when I was half way through

the almost full lock left turn at the approach I should have gone tighter but thought na I’ll

be good, this Vertigo Dougie Lampkin Replica will nail this good, but it didn’t. Of course I

blamed the bike. But when I got home and plugged into the clever diagnostics it said it was

So I had to concede that one to Warrick in the end by six points. But with Warrick finishing

on 10 and myself 16 we were still a long way ahead of the other two. Hannah was a bit

disappointed with her result but shouldn’t beat herself up too much as it wasn’t all her fault.

After a bit of analysing we came to the conclusion it was a training issue with the Beta she

was riding. Nothing to do with Mike who her lent her the bike, as he hasn’t had it long, but by

the original owner, a chap named Derek from Christchurch. He’d obviously trained it for

south island conditions. But with an intensive training programme we’re sure it can be retrained

So another trial concluded and I don’t think too many went home too disappointed.

The next MOMCC event is September 15 at Chris Morrison’s property just north of

Wanganui. A bit of a trek for us but Chris is a dedicated club member and travels all the way

down here for most of our trials so he gets a close one for a change. Unfortunately Chris has

missed the last two due to bouts of flu. Hopefully you’re back to 100% health for September

This is really interesting > we have New Zealand's Dylan Ball competing the Trial 125 class along with Connor Hogan from Australia.

But shock horror - there's E-bikes running there too, an indicator for the future?

Hard to believe we are almost at the halfway point to next year and the shortest day is Friday 21^st – or there abouts............

But before then we have the next Manawatu Orion MCC mototrial which is this Sunday June 16 – details as follows.

Venue – Near the end of No 2 Line off the Pohangina Valley East Road. Will be signposted from the usual intersection on the Ashhurst to Pohangina Road. Shouldn’t take more than 20 mins from Ashhurst to the venue unless your nana is driving you. Depending on weather conditions we may have to park by the woolshed just off the road. If the weather is ok we should be able to drive on past the woolshed and follow the farm track down to the usual parking spot, which is less than half a km. Not so good getting back up the track for front wheel drive vehicles towing a trailer even if it’s dry. Either area can be a bit tight for parking - but only if we get a big turnout.

Club memberships are due (although many of you have re-newed already) and I have new club cards and re-newel forms. I have also attached forms to this email. To save time on the day please print off if you can, fill out and bring along with the correct amount of cash (or a cheque) on the day. The form does have a name and address to send the completed form to and you can pay direct to the club bank account if you wish. Just you won’t get your club membership card instantly if you mail off the form. If you do bring the completed form but pay into the club account I’ll need some proof you have paid as I don’t have access to the club account. Although I can check via the club treasurer.

And finally those without MNZ competition licenses can send off their application and get a license that’ll last a whole year. And they haven’t put the fee’s up either - so I’ve been told so that makes a change.

For those getting a licence for the first time or if you have had a licence in the past but haven’t had one for years use this form

I was going to give a wee report on the Kaikoura 3 day trial that Hannah, Connor, Mike, Jo and I went down too over Queens Birthday. But running short on time tonight now. Perhaps Hannah will put a wee report together. Day one we almost succumbed to hypothermia and frost bite. Yes it was that bad eh Hannah?

The next two rounds of the NI Champs are in Taranaki at the end of the month – June 29/30. Entry form on the MNZ website here

World Championship Trial in Italy Results here – open PDF’s at end of report.

New Zealander Dylan Ball was 12^th out of 14. He never does so well here in NZ when it’s slippery.

When you first look at this property you wouldn’t think there was much potential there but Kevin and Callum did a great job of setting the 8 sections.

The hillsides had many “knobs” – everyone is now familiar with what these are. Often the sections were quite open giving riders choices as to what line to take. We started off in the dry but there was a little drizzle later on, reducing traction a little but not too bad. The drizzle was a good reason to hurry along before further rain and perhaps less traction but we were luck not having to find raincoats.

We had 3 sections in the river. It was “interesting” with rolly, slippery rocks and they needed more than the usual amount of attention.

A good range of scores – well done to the section setters. Concentration was needed all the time otherwise a 5 cold easily occur –not unusual to see a 5 among otherwise a cleanish section.

I had a few stupid stalls and suffered with cramp – a problem with some other riders as well. Increased fluids and a few good rests helped. No point in riding a section if cramp prevents you from controlling your bike – it wont end well.

Connor and Vinnie doing some impressive riding. Have fun to all those off to Kaikoura next weekend.

The next Manawatu Orion MCC mototrial is next Sunday April 28 – details as follows.

Venue – End of Awahou South Road off the Pohangina Valley East Road. Will be signposted from the usual intersection on the Ashhurst to Pohangina Road. Shouldn’t take more than 15 mins from Ashhurst to the venue unless your nana is driving you.

Sign on: 9.45 am – if you need a One event Licence try not to be last there!

Riders brief: 10.15 am

Start: 10.30 am

COC and section setter – Merv George

MNZ Steward – Adrian Walcroft

All grades catered for, although if any Expert riders turn up they may find this venue a bit tame.

Entry fees: senior $15, Junior $10. OEL $25 if required.

Weather: unpredictable...........

Club memberships are due and I have new club cards and re-newel forms. I have also attached forms to this email. To save time on the day please print off if you can, fill out and bring along with the correct amount of cash (or a cheque) on the day. The form does have a name and address to send the completed form to and you can pay direct to the club bank account if you wish. Just you won’t get your club membership card instantly if you mail off the form. If you do bring the completed form but pay into the club account I’ll need some proof you have paid as I don’t have access to the club account. Although I can check via the club treasurer.

Other news: Adrian, Callum and myself looked at a new venue further up the Pohangina Valley than any of our other venues recently and it’s pretty average but useable. Not much more than grassy hills although a bit of a stream that should offer up a couple of sections. Have another couple of possible new venues to suss out up the valley too.

Cheers Kevin

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Bush Riders MCC Pahiatua Coming Events 2019

APRIL 2019

Thursday 24th April Day in the Dirt/Fun day

Saturday 27th April NZ Junior MX Champs - Manawatu Orion

Sunday 28th April NZ Junior MX Champs - Manawatu Orion

MAY

Saturday 4th May NZ TT Champs - Huntly & Patetonga

Sunday 5th May NZ TT Champs - Huntly & Patetonga

JUNE

Friday 21st June BUSH RIDERS AGM AND PRIZEGIVING

Saturday 29th June National, North Island and Central Enduro

Callaghan’s Masterton

Sunday 30th June Trail Ride – Callaghan’s, Masterton

-----------------------------

MOMCC Trial

Club Champs Rnd 1 24/3/2019

Hi all

Sunday 24 March was our first club championship round, held at Boltons property, just across the

river from Ashhurst. There was a reasonable turnout of riders enjoying a very fine and hot day. We

enjoyed the company of our visiting riders, the Herbert family from

Taranaki and Phil Costello from Wellington.

Kevin and Callum had made a really great job of setting the eight Sections , which we did four laps

of. Five of those were in amongst native bush that provided perfect shelter from the burning and hot

rays of the Sun. With having no recent rain the bush sections were very dry and could be ridden

with much more confidence over the many tree roots and bare earth. There were a lot of good "up

and back down" the steep slope challenge's as well in those bush sections.

Section 5 had a gnarly log to get over right at the end of the section. This log has been used in the

past but it still proves a real challenge for most of us to clean. We couldn't just blast over it and out

the end pegs either as Kevin (Callum marked this one, ed) had shrewdly placed the end pegs just to

the right a little.

When we were first walking the sections many of us were thinking "flip, how are we going to do all

these tight challenge's". So we had to really think about where we had to go and memorise the lines.

After the first lap it would be fair to say we were all much more confident about riding the sections

and where we could do better.

Section 1 & 2 had a bit of creek, a couple of banks, demolished building concrete slabs and stones

to negotiate. Section 3 was a steep grass hillside that was nicely set out with a very steep start and

some tricky hillside turns. Thankfully, the dry ground gave us plenty of traction. So I say "keep up

the good work " Kevin and Callum.

Dougy Herbert did really well getting that big and heavy enduro bike (KTM Freelander, ed) of his

around . I noticed he was giving the clutch a workout on one of those bush sections!! 49 points

Dougy, good on ya.

Merv’s newish Gas Gas isn't broken in yet and I saw it twice bolting down one on those steep

slopes in the bush and throwing him. I'm sure Merv you'll tame it soon enough with all your years

of experience!

I had an entertaining day riding with Phil Costello, there was never a quiet moment and there was

always something to laugh about. Something I didn't know though about Phil became obvious in

section 6. Phil is a bit of a "greenie". Yes, twice in a row Phil couldn't get past the very same tree

without stopping and giving it a hug!!

Congratulations to Warrick George for winning A grade by a handsome 15 points.

Congratulations to Abe Herbert for such good riding. Abe was behind his opponents

by only 7 points, but his skill is very good. Good on you Abe, keep it up.

This month’s awards go to the following : -

Cleanest Bike - Adrian Walcroft

Best dressed - Mike Ward, new Mots shirt, new Mots pants, new Mots helmet, new boots

Looking super cool Mike!

Best saddle bronc ride - Merv George

Biggest smile - Merv Geoge

Biggest bike - Dougie Herbert , KTM enduro

Give it a go - Dougie Herbert , KTM enduro

Oldest bike – Kevin Pinfold, 2001 GG 321. (I just had to throw that in there – KP)

Congratulations to those award winners, well done. To all you others, I say keep up your practice

because next time YOU could become an Award Winner.

Look forward to seeing all next month. Take care.

Regards Chris Morrison

Results here - http://www.moto-trials.co.nz/results/15197

Gee I’m really glad Chris didn’t mention that Hannah beat me for the second time in

the last four trials we’ve ridden. And bet Daniel Herbert is glad there was no mention

of Hannah beating him too – on his brand new Beta Factory Racing 250. At least I can

play the “I was riding an 18 year old bike, got a bust shoulder, had set the sections in

the searing sun and then done a 32 km MTB ride the day before” card. All that was

worth at least 20 points. So 39 minus 20 = 19 so in theory I won.

Daniel could only play the “I’ve got a sniffly nose” card. Only worth 1 point.

Na fair play Hannah is riding with a lot of confidence this year and boy when she gets

a sniff of a victory over the likes of Daniel and myself she knows how to step up the

pressure.

Don’t worry, my new weapon’s only a few weeks away and then she’ll know what

pressures all about…………

I’ll just make mention too of our two young fella’s on the Gas Gas 50’s, Vinnie Veltman,

who’s been on the scene now for a year or so, and Connor Ward who was riding just

his second trial, and took the win too. It’s great to have the kids out there and a few

more would be good too. Merv’s old 125 GG went to a lad who hopefully will come along

at some stage. And Dougy tells me young Abe is keen to get back down here from the

Naki and show our boys how it’s done.

Our last young rider that kicked off on a 50cc at about 8 years old was Hannah and

look where she is now and she’s just turned 16. Oh and we have Callum Walcroft too,

who’s a 7th former, now and he’s come a long way since he started as a timid shy kid

when he was 10 or 11.

Next club trial is April 28, details to come soon.

Regards

Kevin

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Megaphone

Newsletter of the Pioneer MCC

Summer 2019

Thanks Sandra & Roy

Sandra and Roy Hallie have decided to take a break from the committee this year while they move house and spend some time caravaning. Sandra first joined the committee in 1978 and has been on it since then apart from a few years when she and Roy lived in Taranaki and when Katrina was young. Roy is also a longstanding committee member and a former president.

Thanks both, we appreciate your long and significant contribution to the club.

Club notices

* This year’s AGM is on 7 March at 7.30 pm at the Pioneer Leisure Centre. The supper will a good one because Al is bringing along some of his home baking. * The 2019 Club calendar is now on the Pioneer website.

* It’s time to renew your membership for 2019. This can be done online through the website.

MNZ Trials Commissioner

Paul Jackson is the new trials commissioner. Rat has been involved in trials for over 30 years, and has ridden overseas in Australia and Scotland so he brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the role. Dylan joins the Beta team

In December the Beta Company announced that they have selected Dylan Ball as one of the two young riders that they will be supporting in the World Trial 125 class this year. Dylan and Nick will be competing in the world rounds in Italy, Japan and the Netherlands. They were also planning to go to the UK round but unfortunately this has been cancelled. There is a fundraising page for Dylan (see p.2).

Dylan is congratulated by John Lawton after signing to ride for Beta in 2019. John has provided Dylan with a 250 Factory to ride in NZ. 2

Sad news

The trials community was shocked to hear the news that Siobhan Robson, Carl’s wife passed away in January. Siobhan was also the Ixion Club’s treasurer.

In November Paul Lagan died after a long battle with cancer. Paul was a member of the Pioneer club in the late 1970s and edited the Megaphone for a year in 1978. In the early 1980s he lived in Australia and while there he imported Fantics. He won the veterans title at the Aussie nationals in 1982.

Ira Chambers also passed away in January. Ira attended and observed at many trials in the 1960s to 1980s period. Our condolences to Dave, Lyndsay and Craig.

Have a go days

Jules and Josh have run two "have a go" days recently, with seven children turning up to the one held on 3 Feb. Some of the adults who have accompanied the children have also been having a go. The Beta electric is getting good use, but we have decided not to purchase the smaller wheel Gas Gas.

Help Dylan to ride in Europe The Givealittle fund raising page for Dylan is: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-dylan-with-his-dream-to-become-world-125cc

Trials article

Megaphone is the newsletter of the Pioneer Motorcycle Club Inc. Editor: Peter Hosking, email: pmctrialnews@gmail.com

Club website: http://pioneertrials.co.nz and we’re on Facebook

The Dec/Jan 2019 issue of Dirt Rider Downunder had a very good article on trials by Jessie Meek of Motorsport Media Solutions. Jess wrote this after spectating at the Oceania and talking to Josh about trials. There are some interesting photos of the Oceania/nationals on Jess’ website https://www.jessiemeek.co.nz and she has also been promoting our events on her Facebook page. Thanks Jess!

Jess riding Georgina’s 125 at the Waimak have a go day on 3 Feb.

Jess is now working as a freelance copywriter, and is available to help businesses with email marketing, blogs and content.

Congrats

Josh & Jeni have announced their engagement. 3

Prize giving

This year’s prize giving was held at Bishop Brothers Public House and attended by 27 members and family. Kahu needed a box to carry home his trophies after another very successful year.

2018 cup winners: Laurenson cup (Expert)	Glenn Smith
Intermediate cup	Ross Bristol
Clubman cup	Kahu Jones
Hallie cup (twin shock)	Paul Jackson
Whyte cup (women)	Stef Downes
Blandford cup (under 19)	Kahu Jones
France cup (under 21)	Kahu Jones
Peter Bennett cup (best first year rider)	Simon Hopkins
The Knitters Shield (most fives)	Ashley Duncan
BSA shield (best 125cc)	Kahu Jones
Big Tree challenge cup (sidechair)	Rob & Laura McKay
Bonnington cup	Ross Bristol
Kaikoura 3 day winners
Triumph no. 2 cup (expert)	Jules Huguenin
Wynne York cup (intermediate)	Ross Bristol
S.A.M. trophy (sidechair)	Paul Jackson & Emma McKay
Moir cup (clubman B)	Mark Hockey (Nelson MCC)
Falconer cup (best first year rider)	Emily Willard (Ixion MCC)
Kaikoura family cup	Simon & Kahu Jones

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NEWSLETTER OF THE IXION MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC.

Number 229 – Feb 2019

I know, been a while, right? And so, in the spirit of full and frank disclosure and, by way of explanation, I want to be transparent and engage in some accountability, here’s why it’s taken me so long to get the newsletter out: I had a thing on.

Okay, good talk.

Let’s blast into this, no dilly-dallying….except for this little item probably worth mentioning…probably.

In a former life I used to be a sales manager and, occasionally, they’d fly us around the world (Auckland) to hear some dude waffle on about how to be really good instead of shithouse at selling.

One of things he said is that even after the agreement has been and gone and it was all very successful, even after all the dust has settled you can still extract some more goodwill from the sale by simply going back to the client some time later with a wrap up and a thank you.

Frankly, if falls squarely into the ‘feel-goodery’ realm of things but, apparently, reminds the client of your existence and leaves them feeling well-loved, open to another transaction on another occasion.

Well, suck me dry and call me Dusty, this came through the mail from you know who down south:

2018 FIM Oceania and New Zealand Trial Championship

Hi Phil

Thanks for participating in the recent 2018 FIM Oceania and New Zealand Trial Championship. I would just like to thank you for taking the time, effort and expense to attend and help make this the success that it was. Attached are the final comprehensive results for your information.

Once again, thanks for entering and I hope you had a great weekend.

Looking forward to seeing you again soon.

Regards

Derek Scott

Understandably, I started tearing up, gush everywhere, eventually pulled myself together and concluded that those Pioneering types, damn, they got mad marketing/customer relations skills and know how to run an event before and after.

Just saying….

First up, let’s cover off the news officially, at least in this publication, that is huge, to say the leas, the ongoing exploits of Dylan Ball….

______________________________________

Great timing, of course, with millions of Brits buggering off from the EU, Dylan enters the equation under the banner, ‘Local boy makes good’.

Most will know the details by now that Dylan has cracked Factory team membership as a junior and, can you believe it, it even made the MNZ website:

Congratulations Dylan Ball!

Dylan will be part of the Beta factory team "Betamotor" for 2019, competing in FIM Trial 125 World Cup across Europe and Japan.

This is a huge opportunity for 14 year old Dylan who will be basing himself in Spain in May. Unfortunately he won’t be able to do all the rounds due to school and costs, but he hopes to make the final round in the UK in September. Dylan was awarded "Best Up and Coming Off-Road Rider" at the 2018 NZ Motorcycle Awards. He says "I hope this inspires other young riders from this side of the world, that with hard work you can succeed."

Great stuff Dylan - we look forward to following your progress!

Some further choice details: Dylan will be looking to do 4 of the 5 world junior rounds and has upgraded from his 125 (which, frankly, never seemed to be disadvantageous to him,

largely due to the million of revs he managd to crank out of it) to a 250 so there’ll be no stopping him now.

Nick’s (aka dad) has set up a Givealittle page if you want to help with the understandable and unavoidable costs of making it all happen:

Help Dylan to ride in Europe, The Givealittle fund raising page for Dylan is:

Help Dylan get to Europe

Johnboy Walton looking pretty happy with the development, and why shouldn’t he? Great for the Beta brand and, apart from the last couple of years, Dylan’s progression from someone I think I might even have beaten once or twice - probably when he was still a foetus - to a young man well on the road to being a world beater, has been on a Beta machine.

_______________________________________

MNZ Trials Commissioner news

Paul Jackson is the new trials commissioner.

Rat has been involved in trials for over 30 years, and has ridden overseas in Australia and Scotland so he brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the role.

Also, one time at a SI trials, I saw John Lawton give him a cold beer at the end of the day and he seemed mighty appreciative so, with that on your CV, he was always going to be shoo-in.

Have to say, though, couldn’t see much resemblance to that much-maligned mammal that scurries about under the house so not sure where the nickname came from, seemed like a pretty regular looking biped to me….

_______________________________________

Okay, we’re racing along so let’s take a breather with a little light distraction from, who else, but Marky-Mark Sidevalve who was good enough to send this little ripper in with accompanying text:

‘Yo. Attached, one picture of an ancient shitter polished up by some old curmudgeon’.

You’ve got to admire the brevity of that summary but it’s probably important to point out that any resemblance to any particular person or persons, alive or dead, is completely coincidental…..well, that’s how I read it.

But the banter continued when I asked about that whalloping great spring over the front wheel, just the sort of question to pose to an engineer:

‘They're called girder forks and nothing to do with Britten (John Brtten - Ed) because it's all hinged off the usual steering head that the telescopics are hinged off.

The dampers on this particular icon of Brutish design are by friction. That is to say stiction. Yucky,….’

And I’ve redacted the last part because Ixion’s already reeling from a number of newsletter provoked defamation lawsuits, largely due to the maverick utterances of the editor who appears absolutely oblivious to the wholesale offence he or she causes on a semi-regular basis. Frankly, people, we’re on our knees but, waddya gonna do, you can’t sack these people, they’re not even employed…or employable…..

_______________________________________

Okay, moving right along, let’s applaud those two heroes from our last meeting who, by all accounts, went over and beyond the call of duty to carve out a very challenging Mototrial from the rugged and hostile terrain up at Moonshine i.e., Neil and Sidey.

Huge amount of effort and we are applauding their sacrifice and the great outcome with both hands….both.

Sidey picks up the action for us…..

Setting this one was just going to be a challenge due to all the good bulldozer work done by KapiMana club. But not all the area is a motocross track, so Neil and I turned up the Saturday 26 Jan and just started looking. It was hot so we wanted to get it done quickly.

The stream seemed too flat and there's hardly any big boulders, but if you look a bit further you'll find that the banks can be interesting, if a little overgrown. We only had loppers with us, so waded in and did what we could with them and bare hands. I thought the stream was all played out but

Marky-Mark showing us how to negotiate the water feature….dude was on fire on the day, coming in 2nd behind Caleb, clearly making good use of his marine skillset.

Neil walked a bit further and found the wonderful side creek that became section 10. Never underestimate the power of persistance! Thanks Neil … But of course it needed a heap of clearing too so we did a heap more clearing. So much for getting it done quickly!

That log was a complete and utter bastard with no parents, none…..doesn’t seem to bothering Carl, though, so I’m just going to take it personally.

Shit oh dear, look at the angle! Wait till he rocks up in Europe, Britain will probably want to come back into the EU just to see him, and who could blame them.

Looking a bit further shows that there's been logging of eucalyptus up around the top of the track, giving us the log sections 6 and 7 and a gate into the Akatarawa forest was open, revealing some great sections in the trees. Chainsaw needed though, which we didn't have. Heaps to do with bare hands moving logs around though, so more time was spent …

I went back with said chainy the following Wednesday. A big thick chain and huge padlock had appeared on the gate to the great sections in the trees. I just assumed Neil had shut the gate behind him and that the key would be on the KapiMana keyring, so went and did a heap of work building a killer section. It was hot again. Saturday 2 Feb, early start made a bit late because Sidey's radiator sprang a leak. Quick diversion to Super Cheap in Porirua, ten bucks worth of goo in a can and the van lives to fight another day without having to be worked on or parts bought. Ah, the miracles of science! Anyway, turns out the chain was put on by the council and we didn't have a key. Bummer! Two more sections had to be found in a hurry, which is why sections 1 and 2 were on the bank opposite the carpark, not in the nice shady trees! 3 hours clearing later and we'd only set 2 sections. Hmm, gonna be (another) long day. And of course, it was hot …

Matt going big - it was all I could do to get up that bank, he’s using it as a kicker….brutal.

The indestructible Dick Phillipps, bulletproof.

Y'all have Neil to thank for the weedwhacker work. He did that, and much easier it was for everyone not having to walk and ride sections full of long grass. Cheers mate! Then a KapiMana guy turned up and showed us the key they have for the gate … turns out the Council aren't keen on keeping us out after all.

Me, winning….yeah, nah.

Sunday came, and strangely enough … it was hot! Turnout only 19, bit disappointing. But the sections were fantastic. I asked Neil and he actually said very fantastic, so I guess it's true. Good thing it didn't rain 'cos 4 of them were in the creek and it comes up real fast when there's rain. February is probably the best month to go here. Two sections full of logs, one winding around some trees on a big steep bank, one in the bit of bush just

behind the MX finish line, and of course the labour intensive 1 and 2 full of stumps, tyres and 209 litre drums. Did I mention it was hot?

Well, we managed to take ¾ of a point a section from Dylan so I guess it was reasonable training for his world rounds coming up this year. Mostly just that big stump in section 1 mind you. I thought some of the other stuff might have caught him but mostly he just sailed over like it was nothing. Matty too actually. Strangely I think our best rider is also the one improving the most so who knows how far he can go! 1.4 points per section for the winner of red and blue grades so that was a bit hard, 0.87 for Prezzies so just right for them. Seems the yellow and socials might have suffered a bit though; sorry guys but you just can't please all of 'em all of the time.

‘If I can just clean out the air filter while I’m here…’. Funny thing about some obstacles, easier they look……

As you know it was hot, but the creek is full of deep bits so a number of us knocked off to sit in the creek and splash around. Nice to cool off and not to go home all sweaty. So there you have it: the MX track rain and wind jinx appears to be broken, seems you can set a ripper trial there after all.

Hasn’t Emily come a long way…..sister can ride! Here she is telling a log to f#@& off….her words, not mine.

The next generation….the little one, not the big one.

We saw a lot of this on the day, grown men wandering aimlessly, bereft of all hope, bike hurled to the ground, the onset of the eternal question, ‘Why am I here?’…

The indefatigable KT, never tyring….as it were.

It’s not good for your self-esteem but is still quite a wondrous thing to see: those super-casual Adlams boys. They rock up sporadically, never practise, then clean up……talent to burn. Frankly, I’m seeing a mini-series, working title, ‘The Adlam Family’, the whacky exploits of a couple of boys with too much skill and a fist-shaking dad yelling, ‘You’re doing the dishes tonight!’….lol.

(And on one final note, right at the start of the day, Riccardo Latimo rolled in waving something or other that had tickled his fancy and, once we got to see it, we could see why - whole new level of gutsy……………

……fair to say the little critter has a good point. Thanks for the write-up, Marky, jolly good read - Ed)

_______________________________________________________________________

I worked for some people for eight years, pass them in the street now, don’t bother stopping for a chat and neither do they. Fact is, we weren’t there for the love of it, just the bikkies, so there was no connection.

Mototrials, however, ain’t like that. We’re about as different as can be - do different things, different values, different jobs - but our passion for the two wheels and no feet transcends it all, brings us together, provides a rapport of sorts, a shared thing of value in our lives and we’re both lucky to have it and richer (figuratively) for it.

Anyway, better get on with it, tearing up. Is it any wonder, then, that when someone shows some keenness for the sport and wants to learn, they get a large show of hands and plenty of help.

Which brings us to Emily……. Brendan Wadsworth boldly told her he’d show her the ropes awhile back and damned if he didn’t actually get around to it, never mind that he lives down south somewhere, but probably still in New Zealand, dunno.

So I thought it might be useful if Emily penned a bit of the gold onto paper in the spirit of sharing and she agreed, Here’s what she came up with….

I have been so lucky with the support I've received in the Trials community since I started riding 3 years ago. It's a small community in Motorsport terms (even smaller in the amount of women riders) and I think that helps foster wanting to bring newbies on board. The more of us that share the passion the better! I truly appreciate every little bit of advice and even though I can't always string it all together each time, it's all cached in the memory bank and building on my knowledge and skills that I'm improving on all the time.

So recently, I've been getting in a few more rides between trials. A recent "Church" ride on Sunday in the Maungatuks really tested my skills. Bob, Kevin, Declan, Rich M and Brian were all super encouraging. I managed some pretty tricky stuff (for me) but it was great to see and recognise my progress from a year ago. Things I never could have thought of tackling like Team Track which was very steep in places where you shouldn't/couldn't just stop, to the Western Front that I enjoyed much more this time because I managed the difficult parts so much better. So.. I've really been trying to get rides like this in between club trial events. They build a confidence in using your bike in different situations, you become a different kind of rider, a more confident rider, as opposed to riding club trials only.

The other weekend Brendon from Marlborough Trials Centre in Blenheim said he was heading up to Wellington and had promised some riders at last years Nationals some training time. Bring it on! While having a look at my bike and assessing a few maintenance items and helping fix them, I also got a few great hours of dedicated training and tips from Brendon and Gareth Wadsworth and Steve Wade which was gold.

I had a couple of big takeaways from the day. The first was that the basics are still the key to conquering almost everything else. To be honest, it's the same with Squash which I also play and quite possibly many other sports. In trials it's balance, weighting your body in the right way at the right time, using your body and weight as an extension of the bike to use it like a spring. Not to mention throttle and clutch control - at the right time. That's a lot of stuff to control in each manoeuvre so it's not surprising that it takes time to get right! Very quick and easy to get wrong, like pulling on your front brake too hard and your front wheel sliding instead of guiding you around a corner - I'm still working on that one.

The other takeaway was the lesson Steve gave me in how moving your weight back on an uphill makes the front wheel just slide over things. His demonstration was me, on my bike, pointing uphill, stationary. When I moved my body back, even by only 20-25cm, he could lift my front wheel with just two fingers. When I moved my weight forward, he couldn't lift it.

That really showed me how light the front can get and what an advantage that is to getting yourself over some tricky obstacles on an uphill.

One of the first tests was coasting over a patch of tree roots, on a reasonably flat gradient. The idea was that you got power on before hitting the roots and getting good momentum and a bit more throttle to power you across them and lift the front a bit - rather than trying to use power as you're on them, and potentially have the back wheel slip. I have a habit of leaning forward on obstacles which can un-weight the back and I lose traction when I need it. So I focused on trying to keep my weight back, lightening the front and driving the back wheel before you hit anything slippery. You need enough momentum and height in the front that the bike just coasts over the tricky ground - boom! Ok, so I still didn't quite 'boom' this but I get it - so more practice required.

Next was taking on a tight-ish, uphill off-camber turn (270 degree angle) over tree roots and around an obstacle. I have to admit, I find this a real challenge.

Tackling this still comes down to basics which apparently you can learn on the flat but need to practice and progress slowly to steeper terrain. Practice your figure of eights, starting on the flat but progressing to steeper gradients. Tighten them as you progress, moving your weight/hanging your bum out on the outside corners, bending the knees, splaying the legs and getting your weight in the right place so that you're body is still straight up-right/perpendicular but you're leaning the bike into the corner. You can get a great degree of lean on the bike, thereby helping you get around the corner. If you look at the physics of what you're doing it seems completely logical and I know this as I'm approaching something but it still takes skill and strength in the body to make it happen and get it right. Get practicing! All practice builds your strength and muscle memory :)

Another lesson I really took on board from the team was that when looking at a section, there might look like an easier route by avoiding a tree root or rock, but, keeping in mind that your front tyre can run over things quite smoothly without even thinking about it, especially if you move your weight back, think about taking a slightly rougher line, riding over roots to give you a wider turning circle. At first I was looking at these as obstacles and trying to avoid them. Then when given advice to go over them, I was still giving it too much power and coming into the next obstacle, a tight turn, with too much oompf. The key was remembering how the bike handles these smaller obstacles. Don't over power it, take it slow and steady but with enough momentum to just get you over so that you're still in control and you'll be in a great position to pull through a tight turn afterwards or approach the next obstacle. Breaking down a section into parts and working out what is needed at each of these really helps. Trials is a thinking game and a strategy really helps.

Some other great tips:

- On slippery up-hills, keep the power steady but fairly low so the back wheel doesn't just spin. Move your weight to the back, bend the knees and let the tyre grip.

- If the above doesn't work, try the opposite - give it heaps (hey, it works in some situations)

- power on the flat and coast on the rise. e.g a bank. You want all your power and momentum in the bike before you hit the bank

- practice balancing on your bike - often! Wheel lock both sides.

- practice your figure of 8's - make them tighter as you get better

Things I'm still getting wrong:

- pulling on my front brake too hard on a downhill turn, especially on loose ground, the front wheel digs in and you're going nowhere but sideways

- not moving my weight correctly - some steep sharp corners downhill then shifting weight for turning uphill are bloody hard

- Not enough power/throttle on the flat before I hit a bank/obstacle, I still try driving through it which doesn't always work

- pulling in the clutch as I attack an obstacle because I'm scared of getting it wrong - this is really dumb and I realise I do it. My new tactic is to take my hand off the clutch altogether and that really helps.

Still so much to learn, but loving it! Get in there, get more practice and the time invested will pay off!

Thanks to all my Tutors! :)

(Good stuff, Ems, really comprehensive and bloody good of everyone to help you out with this stuff – Ed)

________________________________________________

I had the best laid plans to attend this event but circumstances conspired against me. Here’s a much appreciated report from Julian Rivers…..

The Classic Motorcycle Trial at the 2019 Masters Games was great fun! In previous years it had been run as a 2 day event with natural sections on the first day and man made sections the following day. This year the organisers from the Mid West Classic Trials group decided to run it as a one day event, with natural terrain sections in the morning and man made sections in the afternoon. For those of us who travelled up from Wellington for the day, it made for an early start and a very long day. A couple of riders came up from Christchurch, but they had the sense to come up early and stay overnight in Whanganui. The venue was at Queens Park, right in the centre of Whanganui.

The Natural terrain sections were spread around the sides of the park, while the man made obstacles were set up on the flat area at the top. This was a great set up for spectators and we had a good number of people watching the old guys (and girl) on old bikes during the day. The weather was cool and overcast, with even a couple of spits of rain in the morning.

We had 21 riders on the day, with 3 Experts, 3 Beginners, and the rest Intermediate. A couple of riders decided to swap between Beginner and Intermediate lines at lunchtime.

With the high numbers in Intermediate, the organisers split the class into 2 age groups (under 55 and 55 and over). Bikes had to be pre 1995 and ranged from a BSA engined Yamaha TY175 to a 1993 Yamaha TYZ (the only water cooled bike). Japanese bikes were generally the order of the day, with a dominance of Honda (7) and Yamaha (6). We also had a Kawasaki KT250 and a Suzuki RL250. The Italians were represented by 4 Fantics, and from the Spanish there was 1 Montesa and 1 Bultaco (although I did see an Ossa MAR waiting on a ute as a backup machine).

The natural sections in the morning were fairly easy, with 4 Intermediate riders finishing on zero points - including BOTH Christchurch visitors. A couple of silly ‘ones’ incurred on easy

slopes (albeit covered in gum nuts) put the writer well down the order. Tie breakers were resolved by adding together the rider and motorcycle ages, with the highest points winning - sometimes it pays to ride an older bike….

The afternoon sections were quite a bit harder and took some points, although the top Expert rider finished on only 5 points. Sections consisted of a pallet-clad car, trailers, tyres, old drums, seesaws, armco railing, zig zag planks, and a wheelie

Results from the Masters Games

(You’ll see some redaction going in one of the columns - FYI, they run a Nicest Guy Award too and everyone came first equal but humility prevented publication of their phones numbers….it’s the endless phone calls of congratulations, the media inquiries, it’s just brutal)

And on the back of that, we segue way nicely into details from Richard re: this year’s Classic Series…

……but, whatever you want to call them the club plans to run them again in 2019.

We have scheduled five for this year – the second Sunday of March, May, July, September and November, subject to change if they conflict with championship events. Venues for this year will be a mix of the traditional Maungies with cameos from Richard McKenzie’s, Top Pub and maybe Otaki Scouts.

All levels of rider are welcome and there will be lines available for ‘most any kind of trials-oriented bike. The hardest lines will be roughly equivalent to a ‘soft’ yellow at normal club events so they will be suitable for experienced clubman riders looking for a challenge, while the rest of our blue and social riders should have a ball on the easier lines.

We will be catering for the growing number of "electric kids" at all events. While they may have some variations due to range and small wheels it will be great for them (and us) to ride together.

Events will be permitted as "have a go days" so MNZ licences, while desirable, will not be mandatory. Bikes need to be in reasonable mechanical condition – power is optional but brakes and lanyard kill switches are highly recommended.

First up this year will be on Sunday 10th March at the Maungies Carpark – sign on from 9, briefing at 10.

(They’ll even have you going over some abandoned car that someone’s converted from the night before and left in a section - make no mistake, these Classic boys are ruthless and resourceful in equal measure – Ed)

NB!!!!

Couple of quick memos from Richard:

? It’s the end of the club year so all trophies need to be back to me by 10 March so I can get them engraved. Cleaned and polished would be great

? March 3 at Alexander’s is the last trial of the club year which means the Anniversary Cup is up for grabs – lowest score any (competitive) grade

_________________________________________

(Wherein we salute the valiant and generous contributions of our hard working politburo, tirelessly doing all that stuff we don’t even want to know about - bloody good of them – Ed)

Ixion Motorcycle Club

Committee Meetin5/2/19

Present: K Tither, M Dench, C & N Sturmfels, C Presto, G Foon.

Apologies: R Latimer, C Robson.

General Business:

? Wellington National: K Tither to contact Dimnicks regards to using property for trials.

? K Tither to talk to Richard Latimer regards score sheets for Nationals.

? Chris Presto put forward having a ten trials card.

? Cheryl Sturmferls & Chris Presto put forward the need to update incorporated society details.

? Meeting closed 850pm

(Can’t run a club without a committee - Somalia’s been trying it for the last few years, doesn’t work, everyone becomes a pirate - so our ongoing thanks to these few, who do so much, for so many – Ed…again)

____________________________________________

And there you have, sweet as a nut.

Right on the very last page you’ll see a Trials Calendar for the year that Kevin Pinfold put together. Super handy and so I think I’m right in saying what he can’t do with a spreadsheet probably ain’t worth doing - good on ya’, Kev.

Meantime, here’s out usual calendar of events.

BTW: Brent, if you’ve made it this far, could you get some of these dates up on Silverbuller? Or perhaps John Rushworth, since you appear to be invested in these URLs that keep lycanthropes at bay, feel free to whack these up………please.

___________________________________________

2019

MARCH

3rd IXION Alexander’s back property

APRIL

7th IXION Applegarths AGM – gated trial - kids welcome

May

11th 12th Ixion North Island National Rounds - venues tbc

1) As ever, head to http://www.silver-bullet.co.nz for the latest comprehensive event dates and locations

2) And your brand new ‘Where We Ride’ page is up and live on https://ixion.org.nz/where-we-ride/ telling you exactly where to go, what to do when you there, how to whistle Dixie, and how to get home again

________________________________________

CLUB CONTACTS

Snail mail: 71 Colson St, Avalon, Lower Hutt 5011 Website: www.ixion.org.nz

President: Kevin Tither 04 904 1760 bernietither@gmail.com

Club Captain: Neil Sturmfels 0276328202 neck@xtra.co.nz

Secretary: Gerry Foon 388 8263 karenlabone@gmail.com

Treasurer: Cheryll Sturnfels 0272296701 neck@xtra.co.nz

Convenor: Chris Presto 04 904 8691 chrispresto60@gmail.com

Committee: Mike Dench 971 8385 denchmtha@gmail.com

Brent Douglas brenty888@gmail.com

Carl Robson csrobson13@gmail.com

Results: Richard Latimer 565 0086 richard.latimer@xtra.co.nz

Website: Brent Douglas brenty888@gmail.com

Newsletter: Phil Costello 027 4475503 philcostello@outlook.com

Cycle Torque is presented for the entertainment of the members and nothing herein is warranted to be factual or the opinion of the club or even of the person whose opinion it was at the time. Cycle Torque is generally published the week before the club’s regular event, the wonderful Ixion Club Trial; which is generally held on the first Sunday of the month, rain hail or shine. Sections are set to cater from everyone from raw beginner to NZ championship "A" grade; something for everyone. Be there at 9am for a 10:00 start at the latest. Finish time is 3pm or when everyone is finished, whichever is sooner. There’s time for quick lunch after the first round if you don’t mess about too much. Cost: $15 per rider, $5 for students. Please bring $5 notes and be aware due to insurance requirements that there is NO RIDING AT ALL BEFORE YOU SIGN UP.

DOGS are strictly forbidden at Trials because we ride due to the kindness of the farmers who own the land. Dogs make farmers unkind. The last 10 riders to sign in each get to bring in the pegs for one section. So turn up early if you want to leave early! See the President about this, the rules are not applied strictly. Brand new people can ride without an MNZ license for two trials; after that it is necessary to join MNZ (Motorcycling NZ), our national body. It's a cool hundred bucks a year, or $130 for a champs licence, which is only necessary for Junior, President and Expert classes at Island or National level. In addition to the Club Trial, Ixion generally holds a two-day North Island Championship Trial each year, which is considered (by all Ixion members) to be the premier event in the World Trials Calendar. There are sometimes Twilight Trials during the summer starting at 3pm, often followed by a BBQ.The friendly Committee Meeting is held on the Tuesday after the Club Trial at the Lighthouse in Pauahatanui at 7:30 pm. Ring Kevin to make sure, before turning up. Club fees are $40 per year and $20 for fulltime students or social members, $60 for families. These very reasonable fees are unchanged since the AGM, so pay up and as always …

Keep calm and keep your feet up!

2019 Events Calendar - kindly supplied by Kev ‘I’m Not Injury Prone’ Pinfold

----------------------------------------

Hi all, Hannah has come through with her report on last Sunday’s Pink & Manning Shield trial held at Hannah’s Hunterville Hideaway. Thanks Hannah, a good one as usual from you.

Oh and by the way Hannah you done such a good job (with mum’s help of course) that we took a vote, in your absence, and you are now setting out all the club trials this year. And that includes doing all reports too not to mention the results that you have been doing so well all along anyway.

So that should keep you off the streets and out of trouble................

Results http://www.moto-trials.co.nz/results/15196

Great to see the new people riding last Sunday too. Don’t think we have had so many newbies at the same time including two kids and women. So welcome Lucy, Mike, Connor, Paul and Carter. Hope to see you all back again.

If you intend to compete on a regular basis I recommend you pursue getting a Motorcycling NZ competition licence. It’s cheaper in the long run than buying a “one event licence” at $25 a time. Bit of a rigamarole to get a licence for the first time but unfortunately there isn’t any way around it. Our club is affiliated to MNZ as are most clubs and that’s what we have to run with. I emailed the below info on getting a licence and joining our club before last weekends trial but I’ve sent it again as I know there are a couple of new email address’ on my list now.

The Application form and details can be found on the MNZ website here. If any queries or problems email/talk to me and I should be able to help. The theory “test” mostly relates to MX or road race which is typical. I’m sure trials doesn’t exist for some within the organisation...........

https://www.mnz.co.nz/docs/default-source/licences/70789-mnz-licence-application-20189-web.pdf?sfvrsn=2

Note: Two one event licences will get you a $30 discount off the licence fee, so remember to keep the OEL’s if you have purchased any.

You will also need to join an affiliated motorcycle club. The Manawatu Orion Club annual fee is $25 for senior, $20 Junior or $35 family. The application form can be downloaded here.

https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/27238a_4f7dad8776ec473890e8158a141103b4.pdf

Or see me at any trial and I have forms and club cards and can sign you up on the spot. Just have the correct amount of cash please.

The club year runs from April 1 to March 31. Being so close to the end of this year (March 31) anyone joining now will get membership through to March 31 2020.

The MNZ licence year ends June 30 but they have just announced that as of July 1 this year a licence will be for a year from when you purchased it. So if you got a licence on August 20 for instance it would be until Aug 19 the following year.

Unfortunately anyone getting a licence now it will only be valid until June 30 this year. The cost of a “Club licence” is $80 or a full licence for Mototrials is $185. You only need a full licence if you intend to ride in a “Championship class” at a national championship event. So my advice to any of you new riders is to only get the $80 club licence. You can upgrade to a full licence later if you intend competing in a champs class at a NI or NZ champs event.

So if you can decipher all that you will actually be better off purchasing one event licences for the next 3 club events (March, April, May) as that will cost you $75 against $80 for a club licence that’ll expire on June 30. Plus when you do apply for a club licence after June 30 you can get a $30 discount if you present two OEL’s – so keep that white copy that you spent $25 on last weekend.

Just too complicated................

Other news.

MNZ in their wisdom have had a wee back pedal on the new sprocket/disc cover up rule and instead of being “effective immediately” (we ignored it anyway) we now have until May 1 to comply. After that we won’t be ignoring it. Hopefully I will have some stick on sprocket covers available soon and I do have some full front disc covers (Ossa ones) that are $25 if anyone wants one. Should fit any bike.

Coming events.

Tomorrow the Ixion club have a trial.

March Club trial // Alexanders back property (maungatooks rd)

Sunday, March 3, 2019
9:30 AM 4:30 PM 09:30 16:30
Google Calendar ICS

March 16/17. Rounds 1&2 of the NI Trials Champs in Waihi and near Pirongia in the Waikato. Entries close soon and if you haven’t seen an entry form and want one contact me and I’ll email it to you.

March 24. MOMCC trial – round 1 of the club champs. Venue to be advised.

And now a commercial break.

Spanish Trial NZ have new stocks of trials helmets and clothing and Vertigo trials bikes. 1 x 250 and 16” 50cc kids bikes (same size as an Oset 16). Plus much more like brake pads etc. Even some Gas Gas parts. Nothing for Beta’s though.

Email me kptrials@xtra.co.nz or call me on 0210319897

And for anything Beta John Lawton’s your man at Kapiti Motorcycles – nztrials@xtra.co.nz or call 0276233011

See you all soon

Kevin Pinfold

===============

Hi all from Kevin Pinfold - worth a read!

This coming Sunday we have our first Manawatu Orion MCC trial for the year. Details as follows. Click on the link below which will take you to Silver Bullet.

http://www.silver-bullet.co.nz/event.php?id=15196

Hopefully that has all the detail you require. Basically find Hunterville on SH1 and turn left at the pub on the corner. We will have a trial sign up somewhere that should help too.

Hannah has already been and set out 8 sections which is an awesome effort. But as usual when we have a trial there is rain forecast for Sunday. If so that could make for slippery conditions. I’m sure the forest fire at Nelson would have been out the next day if only they had organised a trial..............

I know there will be a few new riders there and since I won’t be competing I will endeavour to assist you guys with some guidance/coaching during the day.

If you don’t have a MNZ (Motorcycling NZ) competition licence you can pay an extra $25 over and above your entry fee and purchase a “one event licence”.

Ideally you should apply for and get a MNZ comp licence from MNZ. It’s a bit of a rigamarole to go through if you are a first timer but once you have jumped through all the hoops it’s no drama to renew every year. The MNZ year runs from July 1 to June 31.

The Application form and details can be found on the MNZ website here. If any queries or problems talk to me and I should be able to help. The stupid “test” mostly relates to MX or road race which is typical. I’m sure trials doesn’t exist for some within the organisation...........

https://www.mnz.co.nz/docs/default-source/licences/70789-mnz-licence-application-20189-web.pdf?sfvrsn=2

Note: Two one event licences will get you a $30 discount off the licence fee, so remember to keep the OEL’s if you have purchased any.

You will also need to join an affiliated motorcycle club. The Manawatu Orion Club annual fee is $25 for senior, $20 Junior or $35 family. The application form can be downloaded here.

https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/27238a_4f7dad8776ec473890e8158a141103b4.pdf

Or see me at any trial and I have forms and club cards and can sign you up on the spot. Just have the correct amount of cash please.

The club year runs from April 1 to March 31. Being so close to the end of this year (March 31) anyone joining now will get membership through to March 31 2020.

Note: MNZ have just last week sprung a new rule on trials competition effective immediately. This is a bike safety rule pertaining to rear sprockets and front discs and probably come about since a rider lost a thumb in an accident last October. Most newer bikes should be ok but most older bikes will need to be sorted.

These are the new rules

SAFETY RULE CHANGE - MOTO TRIALS

Please be advised of the following addition to Chapter 23 (Off-Road) of the Manual of Motorcycle Sport, pertaining to Moto Trials. This safety rule addition comes into effect immediately.

23.3 Rear driven sprocket

23.3a A chain guard must be fitted in such a way to prevent trapping between the lower chain run and the final driven sprocket at the rear wheel.

23.3b Either:

i. The external side of the rear sprocket must be completely covered by a solid protective cover. No holes on the sprocket may remain visible. Or;

ii. A solid disc rear sprocket be used.

23.4 Front disc brake guard

23.4a Either:

i. The external side of the front disc brake must be completely covered by a protective cover. No holes on the disc may remain visible. Or;

ii. A solid disc from the hub to the outer diameter be used.

It’s absolutely stupid that this rule has been made effective immediately and a grace period of at least a month minimum not given. Those that need to make their bikes comply will need some time to source the appropriate covers etc. Not something that can happen overnight for most. Not a lot of upstairs for thinking goes on sometimes within some organisations.

It’s not a silly rule and won’t cost much for those with bikes that don’t comply to implement , just silly the way it’s been sprung on us just as most clubs are getting their first trials of the year under way. And I’m sure not too many fingers and thumbs would be lost if we were given a month’s grace considering I know of only one in my 43 years of riding.

So if your bike doesn’t comply don’t let this stop you from coming to the trial on Sunday............

I do have three rear sprocket stick on vinyl covers available and a few full front plastic disc covers. And before Sunday I will look into sourcing more and should be able to advise you come Sunday of the best/least expensive way to get your bike up to scratch if it doesn’t comply.

See all you keen ones Sunday. Regards Kevin Pinfold

---------------------------

Bush Riders Motorcycle Club Coming Events 2019 >>

---------------------------------

Hi all,

Adrian finally put a report together on the trial held on Oct 14 and sent it to me a week ago and quick as a flash I forgot to send it on.

Report attached and Results here http://www.moto-trials.co.nz/results/14451

BSA Shield report.

Yes we finally wrestled the BSA Shield off the Ixion Club yesterday for the first time since 2013. We had a small team go down to Paraparaumu on and we pulled it off.

The trial was on the easy side as a result of the Ixion boys setting the sections on Saturday in the rain when things were very slippery. But it cleared by Sunday morning and with the wind that was blowing things dried out to the extent that no one was fighting for grip.

Hannah and I rode in the A Grade and we beat both our Ixion opposition (John L and Brent D). I suppose I should mention in passing that Hannah was actually first on 4 points and I was second on 6. No big deal, nothing to make a big song and dance about, it was going to happen one day. Yea well moving on...........

Na actually Hannah was dead chuffed and that was the first time she's ever beaten me so congratulations Hannah.(Sulk sulk why didn't it rain all day......). All Hannah's 4 points were lost on the first lap which meant she then went 3 laps clean. I went 2, 2, 1, 1 so couldn't even pull off a clean lap - I cracked under pressure. After the first lap Hannah's riding went up a gear and she just rode so smoothly it didn't look like she was going to make a mistake. Maybe she learnt something from that hammering on the final day at Christchurch two weeks ago..........

Ok enough accolades for the kid or she'll need to go up a helmet size.

In the B (Intermediate) grade Chris Morrison dropped 9 points for first and Adrian Walcroft 10 for second with the Ixion riders Neil Sturmfells and Jamie Mead a wee bit behind on 16 and 18.

Our new rider Nick Longstaff, riding just his third trial, was our only Clubman rider and dropped a measly 2 points for an easy win. Can't remember who he rode against - maybe Dave Kennedy.

So that was A Grade, Inters and Clubman sewn up.

Merv George was our sole representative in the President Grade and having his first ride on his new (well newer model) Gas Gas 125. Up against the experienced Chris Presto he had a good ride but unfortunately not quite good enough as Chris pipped him.

And finally we had our young junior Vinnie Veltman on his Gas Gas 50 competing against Ixion's young Russell McKenzie. Petrol v electric. Unfortunately electric power won today but Vinnie had some good rides and it was good to include the youngsters.

Although we didn't win all grades we won enough to take the shield so thanks guys and girl, job well done.

Results http://www.moto-trials.co.nz/results/15040

We had one other new (as in joined up yesterday) club member there. Mike Ward from Bulls had a very enjoyable day on his 125 Gas Gas. He bought the bike for his 11 year old son Connor but Connor's finding the full size 125 just a wee bit big at present so Mikes on the lookout for a smaller bike like a GG or Beta 80. So if anyone knows of anything let me know.

And while we're on buy sell or exchange Merv has his 05ish yellow GG 125 for sale. Ph Merv on 06 323 2509.

Cheers
Kevin P

----------------------------

Hi team

It’s the annual BSA Shield Challenge against the Ixion MCC team this Sunday down Paraparaumu way.

The venue is on Valley Road at the back of Pram. Easy to find following my simple instructions – famous last words........

Head south on SH 1 down the new Kapiti Expressway and exit at the Paraparaumu off ramp. Left at the traffic lights and follow your nose along Kapiti Road through a couple of sets of lights, across the old SH1 intersection, across the railway lines and right into Hinemoa Street. Then left into Ruapehu Drive and all the way up Ruapehu which leads onto Valley Road which quickly takes you out of town and along past the golf course. Cruise along Valley Road until you see the trial sign turning you into a long drive on your right. You have arrived.

https://www.google.co.nz/maps/place/Paraparaumu/@-40.9164572,175.0061471,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x6d40a15004e363f7:0x500ef6143a2f570!8m2!3d-40.9142336!4d175.0083802

It usually takes me about 1hr 20 from Ashhurst.

Kick off will be 10.30 so aim to be there at 9.45 and you should have plenty of time.

Not a bad venue although if this rain keeps up all week it’ll be slippery.

Cheers Kevin Pinfold

---------------------------

2018 Oceania and NZ Trials Champs in Christchurch over Labour weekend - a really good read & well worth praise Kevin. Great to have a man so keen to help others & show them how to when he's competing with them!

Thought you might all like to know how the dynamic Manawatu Orion duo of Hannah Rushworth and Kevin Pinfold went at the 2018 Oceania and NZ Trials Champs in Christchurch over Labour weekend. Well pretty good if I say so myself. Hannah’s goal was to take the NZ Women title and hold her end up as the NZ women rider in the Oceania team and mine was to finish in the top three of the Intermediate Grade. Not an official NZ Champs grade but a support grade, but highly competitive all the same. This grade sported the largest field and with half a dozen riders who could win. A mixture of young and old talent.

It didn’t get off to the best of starts – well for me anyway. I came down with a stinker of a cold straight after our club trial the previous Sunday and felt dog all week, and then Thursday afternoon I ended up with a bad eye infection. Ugliest looking eye you’ve ever seen. Got some anti biotic drops from the chemist on the way home from work and threw them in my right eye every 4 hours. Finally got to bed about midnight after packing bikes and Vertigo spares and Mots clothing and you name it in the van, and needed to be on the road at 6 am to catch the ferry. Bad sleep as coughing up green gunge all night and was getting very worried about the state of my health. Staying home seemed like a good option, but how would Hannah get there............

Listened to the 5 am news only to hear that the road was closed south of Pukerua Bay due to a truck falling on its lid and biffing some toxic substance everywhere. All traffic diverted over the Paikakareiki hill road which is a narrow twisty road which. I thought na, that’s going to be a disaster so let’s pull finger and head off via the Waiararapa which is usually about half an hour longer to the ferry. Hannah had stayed the night so we got our a’s into g and were out of here like a dog shot up the backside just before 6am. Trip to the ferry was a bit slower than hoped for due to trucks and the slow Rimutaka’s, and traffic on the Hutt motorway. Anyway got the ferry with 30 mins to spare. At least we didn’t get to que – drove straight on.

My eye was a wee bit better but still not brilliant and I wasn’t coughing too much gunge but I thought I might seek some medical assistance in Blenheim. Was worried about getting a lung infection and needing anti b’s to sort it. Doctor didn’t think I needed anti b’s so all good. Gave me some anti b ointment for my eye and said under no circumstances should I use contact lenses while I have an eye infection – which I knew anyway. I wear contacts when I ride. That’s going to be fun then isn’t it as I’ve never ridden with glasses. Only need + 1.5’s but without I can’t see clearly enough to ride confidently – old age..............

Anyway we eventually arrived at Roy and Sandra Hallie’s in Rangiora about 7 pm a bit travel weary. Too tired to make the trip into Ch Ch for sign in – we’ll do that in the morning at the trial.

At least I got the best night’s sleep I’d had all week. Think Hannah slept ok. She was in the house and I was in the caravan which was a good thing as I could cough my lungs out all night and not keep everyone awake.

Only problem camping at Rangiora was the distance to each day’s event. Day one was about one hour away at Diamond Harbour. 10.30 am kick off for the trial with about 65 riders. Hannah and I rode Intermediate which had the largest number of riders – about 18. And Hannah as I’ve already mentioned was the women member of the NZ Oceania team and up against Sarah Chivers from Aussie. Sarah is 18 and Hannah 15. One other women was competing, Gabby Gundry from Tauranga and also in Inters. So not only did Hannah want to beat the Aussie girl she also wanted to beat the more experienced 24 year old Gabby. I think Hannah was a bit nervous as we had no idea how good Sarah was. She had competed for Australia at the womens TDN and when Hannah rode in Aussie last year she didn’t go up against Sarah who rode in “Open Women” while Hannah rode Junior Women.

We had 12 sections, three laps and mostly in and around a small slippery stream up a gully in bush so rocks, tree roots etc. Also two in dry rocks on a hillside. I had a bad first lap and couldn’t cope with wearing my Warehouse “special” glasses. Also felt a bit drained and felt my glass was half empty. And it was a hot day. Confidence was not there. I lost 19 points on that lap which had me in 9th= - not good. Hannah had a wobbly first lap for 26, two in front of Sarah but 9 behind Gabby.

So I made the call to ditch the glasses and whack some contacts in and take the risk. Also slurped down a heap of glucose dosed water and got back into it. My energy and confidence suddenly appeared and I ripped off a lap of 9 which gave me the best lap by 2. Hannah upped her game for a lap of 18 which had her 2^nd of the three women, behind Gabby, going into the last lap but a country mile ahead of the ocker who’d had a shocker.

So out for the last lap and I was feeling a million bucks and ripped around for 5 points with only one other in single figures on 8. Hannah had her best lap with 16 lost whereas Gabby had a shocker of a lap of 38. So the results had me a clear winner on 33 with the young 14 year old Aussie Junior team member Tom Woodhouse second on 40. Hannah was in 12th and really happy to be ahead of the other girls.

Unfortunately Team Aus was ahead as both our Expert (Jules Huguenin) and Junior (Daniel Herbert) were beat by their rivals, Kevin Zarczynski and Tom Woodhouse. At least Hannah held her end up.

Day two was even further away at Little River. Another hot day and a brilliant venue with a creek of slippery rocks that just stay slippery all day – I call them soap rocks. Also a few tree roots and dirt climbs. I had a slow start as when I was preparing to ride the first section I had team Sherco in my ear looking for a flywheel key. Yes team Vertigo had one so that wasted 10 minutes looking for that. Cleaned the first two sections and then messed up the third when I headed up the clubman line but soon realised my error but it cost me two dabs to get through a pile of ugly rocks back to my line – dick head. Then on the way to the fifth section the bike started steering funny and hello a flat front tyre. Haven’t had one of those for maybe 15 years, but I did hit in fairly hard on a rock on the section I’d just ridden. So back to the van and flash a tube. I just kept calm about it as I knew we had plenty of time.

Only thing was I got behind the pack so didn’t get to see any other Intermediates that first lap to see how the sections were riding. I got going again and the next group of sections were quite gnarly ones on slippery rocks. But maybe riding on my own helped as I absolutely blitzed them. Cleaned everything in my path but did drop a couple of dabs on easier sections to finish the lap on 4. Absolutely destroyed the opposition with the next best being Matt Woodhouse (Tom’s dad) from Australia on 14. I’m sure that score must have demoralised the other riders. Still don’t know how I did it, just one of those laps you pull out of the bag once in a blue moon.

Hannah had a ripper lap too and lost 21 which had her 8^th =. That included a good crash on section 6 – her only 5 of the day. That had her 14 and 15 points ahead of the other girls. Team MOMCC acing it.............

My second and third laps weren’t so good and I wasn’t too worried as I was pretty confident no one would topple me. In fact on the second lap I was best = with the young Aussie on 13 but only had the 6^th best lap on the last. But I’d done all I need to take a comfortable win on 32 from the 14 year old Aussie on 41. Our young fella’s must have been gutted as not only was the oldest in the class winning but the youngest was sitting in second – and an Australian to boot. Good kid though.

Hannah had an even better second lap being 6^th best. A very good ride indeed and one she should be proud of. Those sections weren’t easy and need to be ridden with pinpoint accuracy if you didn’t want to end up paddling out the end on three or worse still sitting on your backside in the water. She flagged a bit on the last lap as she got tired but still trounced the other girls and a good number of the boys too. She lost 60 points for 10^th place. Sarah dropped 105 and Gabby 110.

Team NZ got two rider over the line today with Jules winning Expert and of course Hannah doing the business. And in a separate side competition on the day, the North V South trophy was on the line. I was our nominated Inter rider and we just snuck in to take the trophy.

So into the final day with Australia and NZ tied up for the Oceania. The venue was another cracker out towards Little River with another “soap rock” creek plus a few dry rocks on a hill. And a few bigger rocks to get over today too. And the hottest day too I think – mid 20’s. I was still feeling confident although a wee bit jaded as I’d been coughing all night and hadn’t slept well. Hannah was a bit tired but still up for it although I think she was putting pressure on herself by thinking just one last day and I really want to take all three over the other girls.

Mind you I had in the back of my mind that it was still mine to lose too, as young Aussie Tom was only 6 Championship points behind me and a bad ride could easily see me 6 or so places behind him and heading out the door in second. 45 years of riding does mean you are old but well experienced too............

I thought perhaps I should help our 16 year old junior Daniel get over the line at least once against his Aussie opposition. I’ve helped Daniel the past couple of years off and on, and it’s only early this year he beat me for the first time and went on to finish 2^nd in the NI series one place ahead of me. But he’d seemed content to do his own thing all weekend so far. In fact I guessed he’d probably come ask if he could ride with me Monday and sure enough before riders brief he sidled up to me and said in his quiet teenager grunt speak “Kevin can I ride with you today”. So I said in my grumpy old man speak “yes as long as you don’t beat me and get between me and Tom”.

I was looking forward to helping him get one up on the his Aussie opposition. Daniel’s a good kid and a blimmin good rider and I like riding with him, but he can get his bottom lip on the ground if he has a few bad rides. And at the end of the day he helps me as much as I help him as we seem to work well in the sections together. Often he just needs a bit of guidance on the first lap and often then just goes his own way for the rest of the trial.

But not today. He stuck to me like glue and I really enjoyed the competition that went on between us. Inters had to start on section four and when we got there it was like yea we’re in for a hard day if they’re all like this. Quite long with a few good size rocks at different angles and to finish off a drop back into the stream and a very tricky U turn over slippery rocks before exiting out on the grass. Of course Daniel always likes me to go first but I was happy to today as my goal was to help him beat Tom. After the first lap he was happy to go first sometimes. Anyway we both kicked off with a 3 as did all the other Inters on this section I think. No, in fact Hannah 5’d it as did Gabby. Aussie girl had a 3.

The rest of the sections bar a couple were a bit easier than section 4. Funny thing happened to Daniel on section 7 when riding it. A clump of dead Mingy bush got caught by his rear wheel and got wrapped around the wheel and sprocket. Just as he got the front wheel out of the section for clean it jammed so tight it killed the Beta 125 engine dead. If he hadn’t got way off line it wouldn’t have happened. Took a while to un-jam that carry on. Then on the very slippery rocky section 9 the unthinkable happened when Daniel’s foot slipped when taking a dab and he instantly sat on his bum with the bike on top of him. Ha ha Kev got a 2 and was happy with that. The sort of section that anything less than 3 is a bonus. There was only one clean by an Inter on this section all day and it wasn’t either of us – Kevin Gundry actually. We both got a 1 & 2 each on the other laps.

So I came in on 6 points and Danny boy on 10. Jason Day was also on 6 with the next best being Tom on 13. Bit close Daniel, pull finger lad. So he did and put in a lap of one but I kept close on 4 to maintain a one point lead. The Aussie kid done a 9 and Jason 8. A close day. But Hannah’s wheels fell off poor girl. She dropped 37 and was sitting last 5 points behind Aussie – not good Hannah. Mind you I wasn’t aware of what she was up too at this stage. I was too focused on what Daniel and I were doing.

I kept the pressure up on the last lap and went around for 6 but Daniel threw away a few soft dabs on the easier sections for a round of 7 which had me home on a total of 16 and Dan boy 18. He was annoyed with himself for losing the few silly ones but happy as he knew Tom couldn’t beat him as he was already on 22 after two laps – mission accomplished Aussie wise. But then Jason came in on 3 and burst Daniels bubble – got him by one point but I was ok as Jace was still one behind me – yea done it, three wins, sorry young fella’s, come back next year. Think they might go A grade next year. Been there done that got the scars.................

Hannah had a much improved second lap to drop 20 but fell away on the last for 29. Hannah was 4 points ahead of Sarah going into the final lap and came in first on the final lap. Hannah’s total was 86 so we waited for Sarah to come in hoping she’d be on a lap of 26 or more but no she blitzed around for 18, so her total was 79. And to rub salt in the wound Gabby dropped 80 for the day. Poor Hannah, dead last in Intermediate and last of the girls. I think she felt she’d let the Oceania team down. I felt I’d let her down by not helping her that last day, but then she’d blitzed that hard second day with no help – from me anyway. Yes it was tiring but it was for everyone, and I’m sure if she’d tagged along with Daniel and I we’d have got her over the line. We’ll never know. But on the upside she is 2018 NZ Women’s Champion so not all was lost. And she was the only member of the Oceania NZ team to get two wins over her rival, the others only got one each. So she can be proud of that.

Hannah did come away with a few bruises that last day. I was standing only a few feet away when she rode the hard section 4 for the last time. She’d got through the hard large rocks for a dab and when dropping back into the creek for the final bit she went down like a sack of spuds with her bike on top of her. In the process she tried to smash a rock with her left elbow. Rock 1, Hannah nil......... But she still came up with a smile – eventually, and a broken clutch lever. And she had another little tip off on section 5 and hurt the top her right foot. Well she thinks that’s where it happened as the foot was ok until she woke up Tuesday morning hurting and limping. I said you’ll be ok, they’ll likely put your foot in plaster and the six weeks will go pretty fast.

Which leads to the sad fact that Australia won the Oceania as Jules also came in behind Kevin Z that last day. Let’s hope the AB’s don’t get beat by Australia too this weekend.

So a very successful 3 days for the MOMCC duo - winners all round. I won in Wellington last year with a second and two wins but somehow this win seemed better. Probably because the young Taranaki boys Jason and Daniel had improved this year and had beaten me in the NI’s whereas last year I went in as NI winner. Plus I felt I haven’t been riding quite so well this year what with hernia’s and a lack of practice and all that. And with the stinking cold on top I just didn’t expect to be bringing home the shield again. But we’ll take it and who knows what next year will bring.

And not only that but Team Vertigo had two riders take home a first place. Myself of course in Intermediate but also Ray Skinner from Auckland riding President grade – winner all three days. And Vertigo riders Carl Robson picked up 3^rd place in A Grade as did Francis Sydenham in Clubman. Not bad considering we only had 5 riders there on the green machines.

Results here http://pioneertrials.co.nz/

The Pioneer club done an awesome job and in my opinion it was one of the best NZ 3 day champs I’ve ever ridden. Sections were spot on, challenging but not too hard and not too long. Great job the Pioneer team. The Ixion boys done a brilliant job last year but I’d rate the Pioneer event a few points higher. The difference being the brilliant venues they have down there around Christchurch.

So that’s another NZ champs out of the way and the news on the street is next year will be in the Hawkes Bay, so hopefully we’ll get a bigger team from Manawatu Orion there. I’m sure the HB boys can put on a good event too as they have some ripper venues. Their NI rounds this year were good so they can do it.

And thanks Hannah for being an awesome travelling companion and helping fly the MOMCC banner. And sorry if my coughing drove you mad............

And if anyone’s looking for a shite cold I’ve still got it and its going free – in fact I’ll pay you to take it.

And don’t forget we have the BSA Shield Trial in just over a week on Nov 4 down Paraparaumu way. Details to follow.

Cheers

Kevin Pinfold

----------------------

TrialGP of Belgium – Entry List – Round 4 – Comblain au Pont (BEL), 29-30 June N°		FMN		RIDER		NATIONALITY		MOTORCYCLE		CLASS
1	1		RFME		BOU	Toni	ESP		Montesa		TrialGP
2	2		RFME		FAJARDO	Jeroni	ESP		Gas Gas		TrialGP
3	6		RFME		FUJINAMI	Takahisa	JPN		Montesa		TrialGP
4	9		RFME		GELABERT ROURA	Miquel	ESP		Sherco		TrialGP
5	13		RFME		NOGUERA	Oriol	ESP		Jotagas		TrialGP
6	19		RFME		FARRE GARCIA	Arnau	ESP		Jotagas		TrialGP
7	22		ACU		DABILL	James	GBR		Beta		TrialGP
8	33		RFME		CASALES	Jorge	ESP		Vertigo		TrialGP
9	34		ACU		PRICE	Jack	GBR		Gas Gas		TrialGP
10	38		ACU		PEACE	Dan	GBR		Sherco		TrialGP
11	66		DMSB		KADLEC	Franz	DEU		TRRS		TrialGP
12	67		RFME		RAGA SANS	Adam	ESP		TRRS		TrialGP
13	69		RFME		BUSTO	Jaime	ESP		Vertigo		TrialGP
14	73		FFM		BINCAZ	Benoit	FRA		Beta		TrialGP
15	201		FMI		GRATTAROLA	Matteo	ITA		Honda		Trial2
16	204		FMI		PETRELLA	Luca	ITA		Beta		Trial2
17	211		RFME		MARCELLI	Gabriel	ESP		Montesa		Trial2
18	212		ACU		MARTYN	Toby	GBR		Beta		Trial2
19	214		ACU		PEACE	Jack	GBR		Sherco		Trial2
20	215		DMSB		FAUDE	Max	DEU		Beta		Trial2
21	216		NMF		PEDERSEN	Hakon	NOR		Gas Gas		Trial2
22	217		ACU		GREEN	Billy	GBR		Montesa		Trial2
23	218		MA		HOGAN	Connor	AUS		Gas Gas		Trial2
24	220		RFME		GELABERT ROURA	Aniol	ESP		Scorpa		Trial2
25	221		FFM		PERRET	Julien	FRA		Gas Gas		Trial2
26	222		FMI		PIARDI	Sergio	ITA		Beta		Trial2
27	223		NMF		HAGA	Sondre	NOR		TRRS		Trial2
28	224		RFME		MORET CLOTA	Francesc	ESP		Montesa		Trial2
29	225		NMF		GUNVALDSEN	Jarand Matias	NOR		TRRS		Trial2
30	226		DMSB		REUMSCHUESSEL	Paul	DEU		TRRS		Trial2
31	227		FMV		AVENDANO	David	VEN		Vertigo		Trial2
32	228		ACU		JERVIS	Hugo	GBR		TRRS		Trial2
33	230		FFM		FERRER	Alexandre	FRA		Sherco		Trial2
34	231		RFME		SUAREZ JAMBRINA	Pablo	ESP		Gas Gas		Trial2

35	232	RFME	RIOBO HERMELO	Martin	ESP	Montesa	Trial2
36	234	RFME	RIBAU LOPEZ	Sergio	ESP	Sherco	Trial2
37	235	RFME	MARCHAL GOMEZ	Rodrigo	ESP	Beta	Trial2
38	239	FMB	MAXIME	Mathy	BEL	TRRS	Trial2
39	245	FMI	GANDOLA	Lorenzo	ITA	Vertigo	Trial2
40	247	FMI	SPREAFICO	Mattia	ITA	Sherco	Trial2
41	250	RFME	TRUEBA TIO	Gerard	ESP	Beta	Trial2
42	254	MCUI	HANLON	Josh	GBR	Beta	Trial2
43	255	FMI	PETRANGELI	Pietro	ITA	Sherco	Trial2
44	258	NMF	BJERLIN	Petter	NOR	Gas Gas	Trial2
45	263	KNMV	KERSTJENS	Randy	NLD	Gas Gas	Trial2
46	264	RFME	MIGUEL	Eric	ESP	TRRS	Trial2
47	265	FFM	COLAIRO	Teo	FRA	Gas Gas	Trial2
48	267	FMB	ROUSSELLE	Julien	BEL	Beta	Trial2
49	272	FMB	MATTHEEUWS	Emile	BEL	Sherco	Trial2
50	304	FFM	ROVERY	Arthur	FRA	Sherco	Trial125
51	315	AMF	MEMPOER	Marco	AUT	Beta	Trial125
52	316	RFME	MEDINYA	Pol	ESP	TRRS	Trial125
53	318	ACU	ELEY	Jake	GBR	Beta	Trial125
54	320	ACU	HARBUD	Brett	GBR	Beta	Trial125
55	323	MNZ	BALL	Dylan	NZL	Beta	Trial125
56	325	FMI	RABINO	Carloalberto	ITA	Beta	Trial125
57	326	ACU	DIGNAN	Ben	GBR	Gas Gas	Trial125
58	329	AMF	EBERHARTER	Philipp	AUT	TRRS	Trial125
59	330	FFM	TOULY	Kieran	FRA	Scorpa	Trial125
60	332	RFME	MARTINEZ	Pau	ESP	Vertigo	Trial125
61	339	RFME	CANALES MARTOS	Alex	ESP	Gas Gas	Trial125
62	506	FFM	GUBIAN	Loris	FRA	Gas Gas	Trial-E
63	508	RFME	CORDÓN ROPERO	Joan	ESP	Mecatecno	Trial-E
64	509	FMI	TOURNOUR	Gianluca	ITA	Gas Gas	Trial-E
65	515	MFJ	KUROYAMA	Kenichi	JPN	Yamaha	Trial-E
66	516	FMI	CONCINA	Gianpaolo	ITA	Electric Motion	Trial-E
67	517	FMB	CROSSET	Dany	BEL	Gas Gas	Trial-E
68	537	RFME	CABESTANY	Albert	ESP	Gas Gas	Trial-E

Caution: There is a railway line running through the venue – be careful!

TrialGP goes Dutch!

2020 Trials Calendar

Island	Event	Month	Days	Location	Club responsible
NI	Rounds 1&2	February	8, 9	Taranaki	Taranaki
	JRL Trial 20th Anniversary	February	22, 23	Wellington	Ixion
NI	Rounds 3&4	March	21, 22	Auckland	Hamilton club event in-conjunction with the Auckland group
SI	Rounds 1&2	April	18, 19	Alexandra	Pioneer event in-conjunction with the Southern group
NI	Rounds 5&6	May	2, 3	Waikato	Hamilton/Tauranga clubs combined event
	Kaikoura 3 Day	May/June	30,31, 1	Kaikoura	Pioneer
NI	Rounds 7&8	July	4, 5	Hawkes Bay	Hawkes Bay
SI	Rounds 3&4	August	15, 16	Kaikoura	Pioneer
NI	Rounds 9&10	September	19, 20	Wellington	Ixion
SI	Rounds 5, 6, 7	October	24,25,26	Christchurch	Pioneer
NZ Champs	NZ Champs	October	24,25,26	Christchurch	Pioneer