BUMPY Ltd (Registered Charity No. 702335) enjoyed a successful debut at the 4-Day International Dirt Bike Show at Stoneleigh Park. With a rejuvenated format for the show resulting in an increase to 22,000 visitors, the team at BUMPY were inundated with people wanting to try their hand at Trials riding. The Trials Training Taster Sessions were oversubscribed on each of the four days with many unlucky people being turned away.

BUMPY’s ACU Coaches; Dan Thorpe, Katy Sunter and Julian Ford gave expert tuition in trials riding to 98 willing participants, teaching them about body position, clutch and throttle control, through a variety of challenging exercises. These ranged from ‘figures of 8’ around two cones, to retro style ‘Kick-start’ sections depending on the ability of the individuals. With the main aims of the sessions met, each grinning individual left hungry for more with a new appreciation of how skilful trials riding actually is. The most common comment being; “that’s a lot harder than it looks!!!”

John Shirt of Gas Gas Motos UK supplied two of the latest 2012 Gas Gas TXT Pro 125cc machinery for each individual to ride. Most of the participants were surprised at the responsiveness of the little motor and how light the bike felt in comparison to the bikes that they normally rode. Bill Brown of Wulfsport International all but hand-delivered the latest 2012 range of Wulfsport kit for BUMPY staff and each of the participants to use. This British made riding gear really does look the business with the comfort factor to match, and with the added bonus of having the BUMPY logo printed on it to add to the professional look. Rob Sheldon of Putoline Oils ensured that the bikes were well lubricated and always looked sparkling. Additional support from Trial Magazine, Carole Nash, and the Yorkshire Centre ACU, of which BUMPY are an affiliated club, was more than welcome. BUMPY offers their heartfelt thanks to each of these people that helped in the running of this successful venture.

Not one to sit on their laurels, the BUMPY staff have a short break before they return to the 9-Day Motorcycle Live 2011 Show at Birmingham NEC from 19th – 27th November where they will be again providing free Trials Lessons in the ACU Trials Zone in Hall 2. So if you were one of the unlucky people who missed out at the Dirt Bike Show and you are over 16, then bring your DVLA Driving or ACU license or CBT Certificate to the NEC and book yourself in. Prior motorbike experience (with a clutch) is essential. Remember to book early to avoid disappointment. Participation is subject to availability and can only be booked at the event. Remembering that BUMPY are a registered charity; if you still want to get involved with financial/product sponsorship, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 01924 470432.