The ACU British Trials Championship continues to be the pinnacle of youth trials. Whilst each round hosts a handful of local talented riders, only a select few will travel the length and breadth of Britain to complete every round and face the mental and physical challenge of the entire championship.
The 2018 season proved to be another successful six rounds for OSET Bikes. Just eight years ago, OSET electric bikes were considered a bit of sideshow. Fast forward to 2018 and once again they prove to be the winning machine of choice for the smallest riders at the start of their trials careers.
The OSET machine dominates the small wheeled D-Class with over 90 per cent of the championship riders choosing to compete on the linear-powered, electric OSET.
Ian Smith, founder, said: “OSET bikes enable kids to concentrate on developing a skilful riding technique. They are lighter weight, easier to ride and allow kids to practice in the back garden, without the need for acres of space. This gives time on the bike, which is what’s needed to compete against the best riders in the country.”
Ellis Barton, a 2-Machs Cheshire OSET Cup graduate enjoyed his trip to the motorcycle museum this weekend to collect his British Championship trophy in the small wheels where he was joined by OSET 20.0R rider and representing Scotland Ruari Younie.
Ian added: “It takes commitment, endurance and concentration to compete at the highest level, against competitors from across the UK. 12 sections and 3 intense laps per national, notwithstanding the fact that they’re away from home and riding new and unfamiliar venues.
“We’re delighted for Ellis, Ruari and all the other kids that stepped up to compete on the national stage. It’s no small feat! Competing in this high-pressure environment provides these youngsters with a range of transferrable skills – including preparing for SATs and the pressure and concentration needed to navigate what can be a very difficult week.”
In a class that is traditionally filled with petrol 80cc bikes, OSET’s took first and second overall in the D-Class medium wheel with OSET’s own Elliot Smith bringing home the silverware and Joe Drysdale taking a hard fought second. Over the course of the championship the two lads were neck and neck with Elliot edging out in front.
Ian said: “With my dad hat on, I could not be more proud of Elliot. His riding has matured incredibly in the last 18 months, and it’s been a real joy to watch him develop. Of course the cherry on the cake is being crowned British Champion!
“As a manufacturer, interestingly Joe and Elliot could not live further apart as Joe is up from the Oban area while we live on the south coast. It demonstrates the only secret to winning is there is no secret…it’s all down to practice practice practice.”
The older C-Class medium and standard wheel classes were wholly dominated by OSET alumni, Ian concluded: “One of the great parts of my job is catching up with families and kids who have graduated from OSETs with a love of riding and still continue at the highest level. It’s a privilege to watch their progression in ability and know their national journey started with OSET Bikes and for many, their very first trial was an OSET Cup.”
2019 will take the riders to a six-round series, including Scotland and starting in May.
For more information on OSET bikes as well as upcoming events please visit: www.osetbikes.com
