On September 15, a Minnesota club held a motorcycle trials event was held for the first time in the Twin Ports Area. Trials, an offroad motorcycle competition popular in Europe, but lesser known in the US. Competition here is usually done through local clubs such as the Upper Midwest Trials Association (UMTA), who holds event throughout Minnesota.

Trials riding involves maneuvering motorcycles over various obstacles at low speeds.

Bobby Warner, the president of the UMTA, explained more about the unique event.

“The best way to describe the sport is it’s like golf on a dirt bike. So, it’s the lowest score wins,” said Warner, “You’re trying to complete the section, putting the fewest number of feet down as possible. Just like in golf, you’re trying to get the fewest number of swings as possible.”

The name of the game is balance –riders shift their weight to get up and over obstacles, while also carefully coordinating use of the throttle, clutch and brake to manipulate the bike. The style of riding also influences the design of the motorcycle – a specialized type just for trials riding.

“First and foremost, you might notice the obvious thing is there’s no seat. There’s no seat because we actually stand the whole time while we ride.” Explained Warner. The bikes also typically lack lights or gauges. They feature compact engines mounted low in the frame.  

Everything is designed for the motorcycle to be light and low, making it easier to handle than bigger bikes; keeping  the sport accessible for all kinds of riders – the UMTA has riders ranging from elementary-age to those in their 80s. Riders at events compete in different skill levels, with classes for those at all levels of experience.

Held just outside of Two Harbors, Sunday’s meet was the UMTA’s first event held in the twin ports area, and for some riders, like Giles Radtke, their very first event as well.

“I never ran one. I ran intermediate class here. And everybody’s supportive and you know, it’s a great time,” said Radtke, “I waited 10 years to do a trials event and that’s way too long.”

UMTA holds events all over Minnesota, and while members are competing against each other – you’ll see them walking each course, offering each other tips and tricks.

“The camaraderie with the sport is really good. Everybody’s here to have a good time. Everybody here is just to help each other out. It is a competition, But at the end of the day, we’re all friends here.” Said Warner.

UMTA has two more events scheduled for their 2024 season, both in Southern Minnesota. More information can be found on their website.