Come and Watch
Walk around an event, watch junior and adult riders and ask questions. It is the quickest way to understand what trials actually looks like.
Juniors & Families
Getting Juniors Into Trials
Trials gives young riders a chance to build balance, control, judgement and confidence at their own pace. Parents do not need to already understand the sport — the easiest first step is simply to come along, watch and talk to us.
Start Simple
You Do Not Need to Buy Everything First
If your child is interested in trials, come to an event before committing to a bike or licence. You can see the different sizes of motorcycles, watch how junior sections work and speak with families who already ride.
A suitable bike is one the rider can comfortably control. Electric and petrol trials bikes are both used, and the best choice depends on the rider’s age, size, experience and the type of riding they are ready for.
A Practical Pathway
From Interested to First Trial
Choose the Right Bike & Gear
Fit matters more than chasing the biggest bike. A correctly sized motorcycle, approved helmet, boots, gloves and suitable protective riding gear are the starting point.
Complete Junior Coaching Requirements
Junior competition riders need to satisfy Motorcycling Australia’s current competency and Junior Coaching Program requirements before obtaining the appropriate competition licence.
Membership, Licence & RiderNet
Club membership, rider licensing and Pathfinders competition entries are managed through RiderNet. Contact us first if you are unsure which licence or pathway applies.
Ride the First Event
Start on the appropriate marked route, listen to officials and experienced riders, and focus on completing sections rather than chasing a result on day one.
What Juniors Learn
Control Before Speed
Trials is built around precision. Young riders learn to balance, steer accurately, control throttle and brakes, read terrain and make decisions before entering an obstacle.
- Balance and low-speed motorcycle control.
- Throttle, brake and clutch coordination where applicable.
- Reading terrain and choosing a manageable line.
- Patience, concentration and learning from each attempt.
- Respect for observers, officials, landowners and other riders.
For Parents
Support Them Without Rushing Them
A junior does not need to attack the biggest obstacle to be progressing. The early wins are learning the controls, finishing a section, understanding the markers and becoming comfortable around an event.
Parents and guardians should become familiar with sign-on, licensing, event instructions and the junior coaching requirements. At the event, follow the directions of officials and coaches and ask when something is unclear.
Juniors in Action
Learning With Support Around Them
Junior trials is not about throwing a young rider at the hardest obstacle. It is about building control and confidence with parents, experienced riders, observers and officials close by.
Before Entering Competition
Check the Current MA Junior Requirements
Motorcycling Australia’s current information requires junior competition riders to meet the applicable Junior Coaching Program / Kickstart competency requirements before the appropriate competition licence is issued. The exact age, licence and supporting-document requirements can change, so use the official MA information rather than relying on an old checklist.
If you are new to the process, contact Pathfinders before applying and we can help point you toward the correct current pathway.
Interested?
Come and See Trials First
There is no need to understand everything before you arrive. Come to an event, introduce yourself and have a look around. We can help explain the bikes, junior pathways and what the next step would be for your family.