What is Bike Trials?

A Unique Sport That Builds Balance, Confidence, and Resilience

Bike trials is one of the most exciting and skillful disciplines in cycling — but it's also one of the most underrepresented.

At its core, bike trials is all about control: riders navigate over obstacles without putting a foot on the ground, using balance, precision, and strength to clear technical challenges.
It’s not about speed — it’s about finesse, creativity, and progression.

No Racing. No Timers. Just You vs the Challenge.

In bike trials, riders tackle man-made and natural obstacles like logs, rocks, pallets, or even purpose-built terrain — hopping, balancing, and maneuvering their bikes with pinpoint accuracy.
Each attempt is a chance to improve, solve problems, and discover what’s possible when you focus your body and mind.

Unlike other cycling sports, the terrain is the test — and your goal is to complete the course without putting a foot down or losing balance. This is called a “clean.”

What Makes Bike Trials Special?

Low risk, high reward: Because trials is done at slow speeds, it’s safer than most action sports — but still thrilling and physically challenging.
All about progression: Every obstacle can be adjusted to match the rider’s ability. Riders can see themselves improving session by session.
Incredible skill development: It’s one of the best ways to develop balance, bike control, strength, coordination, and confidence.
Accessible to everyone: You don’t need elite fitness to start — just a willingness to try.
Creative and unique: There’s no “one way” to ride a line. Riders find their own rhythm, style, and solutions

The Community and Culture

Trials riders are known for being welcoming, supportive, and tight-knit. Whether it’s helping someone learn a new skill, sharing a new line at the park, or cheering each other on during competitions — community is everything.

At Shamblewood, we’re building more than just a park. We’re creating a space where kids and adults alike can learn, connect, and grow — on and off the bike.

From Local Rides to National Events

If you or your child enjoys trials, there are amazing opportunities to take it further.

We host and support regular club-level competitions through South Coast Bike Trial, a regional series open to all ages and skill levels.
These events are a fantastic way to build experience, gain confidence, and join the wider UK trials community.

From your first balance beam to standing on a podium, the progression is real — and the support is there every step of the way.

For more information about competition dates, rules and more visit Southcoastbiketrial.com

A Real Opportunity for Young Riders

Bike trials is currently an underfunded and underrepresented sport in the UK. In fact, Team GB often leaves rider spots unfilled at international competitions due to lack of participants and development pathways.

At Shamblewood, we aim to change that.

By creating a local coaching facility and supporting grassroots competition through South Coast Bike Trial, we’re giving young riders the tools they need to grow — and maybe even represent their country one day.

Try It at Shamblewood

We offer:

Free trial sessions for youth organisations and scout groups
Free trial sessions for first timers
Beginner coaching in a safe, fun environment
Progression opportunities through club events and mentoring
A fully-equipped trials zone open to riders of all levels

Whether you're new to bikes or looking for a new challenge, bike trials is something special — and Shamblewood is the perfect place to start.