Admission: Dirt Bike Magazine acknowledges its limited coverage of trials. While occasionally featuring stories, the focus remains on motocross, enduro, dual-sport, and adventure bikes, leaving little room for this specialized sport.
Recognizing this, Tim and the team at Beta have devised initiatives to reignite interest. One such effort is their “Try Trials” program, traveling nationwide with demo bikes and instructors.
They host events like the Beta Press Challenge, which, while previously held three times, garnered increased participation from the broader motorcycle press in 2024.
This heightened interest likely stems from Beta’s recent foray into the Supercross arena with the 450RX, drawing attention to other facets of the company’s business—an essential move for a Supercross team to be viable.
The Beta Press Challenge not only showcased the 2024 Beta trials line but also highlighted the company’s commitment to trials with 13 different models. These range from 80cc to 300cc two-strokes and include a 300cc four-stroke. Notably, the 300SS model offers a milder version of the aggressive 300 two-stroke.
Among the participants were renowned trial figures like Lane Leavitt, a former U.S. Trials Champion, alongside his wife Debbie Evans, and son Daniel Leavitt, bringing significant expertise to the event. This resulted in two Dirt Bike teams competing, showcasing Beta’s extensive trial lineup.
During the challenge, Lane Leavitt shared invaluable tips, emphasizing fundamental techniques essential for success in trial riding:
1. Maintaining balance: Keeping weight centered over the bike’s contact patch minimizes the risk of losing traction, crucial at the lower speeds typical in trial riding.
2. Focus on the intended path: Avoid fixating on the front wheel, instead, look towards the desired route to navigate effectively, as demonstrated through tight figure-eight maneuvers.
3. Moderate throttle control: Applying light pressure on the rear brake helps in controlling the bike’s power delivery, particularly beneficial for smoother transitions in riding.
4. Consistent body positioning: Steering with shoulders rather than extending arms ensures stability and strength, essential for maintaining control over the bike.
5. Strategize foot placements: Understanding the scoring system in trials, riders strategically plan foot placements (‘dabs’) to regain balance without incurring penalties.
Beta provided various bikes for participants to test, with Lane Leavitt noting the advantages of the 80 model in navigating tight sections due to its compact size.
Despite initial expectations, the 200 model emerged as a favorite among riders for its manageable power delivery. Ultimately, the two Dirt Bike teams performed exceptionally well, with Lane Leavitt and a Dirt Bike team tying in points, albeit losing out on the tiebreaker due to their combined age.
Looking ahead, the success of the Beta Press Challenge suggests a promising future for trial coverage and participation, potentially prompting adjustments in future events.