Trials in the UK has slowly been dying these past few years. It does not seem to be as big compared to what it was 10 years ago
I haven't rode my bike since October then before that it was August. Had loads of riders quit not just local but in surrounding areas which is sad i enjoy the group vibe. I still live for Radfest and any other big trials event. I find 2013 was the best year for trials went on a fair few group rides with big turn outs. The Doncaster one in March 2013 where there was nearly 20 riders that got together all from different areas. Was a bloody good ride that day! Followed by a few Hull rides too. I thought the numbers for Radfest in 2015 was a little bit low compared to the other years i attended but i still enjoyed my weekend there. 2014 TartyDays was a brilliant weekend followed by Radfest. I even forgot to mention about the BikeTrial event in Sheffield city centre organised by some university students that was another good day for Trials with 60 riders from all over in one square.
Social media seems to be playing a massive part on why this forum is quiet i have noticed the activity on here has been very low this past year. Now'a days to organise a ride you can do it through text, whatsapp, Facebook etc etc. Organising group rides on a forum now is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Over the years of riding and been on the scene since 2003 i can say i have seen many riders come and go. When people sell their bike when are done with it i still decide to keep mine knowing i will always be back out on it (I don't dare sell it ). And again as each year goes on more people appear for the summer season then disappear seems to be a rotating cycle. I seem to keep calm and try carry on lol.
Anyway lets see what 2016 seems to bring i also do quite a lot of road riding and mtbing while not riding trials. I can organise a road or mtb ride and there will be 10-20 riders turn up. If only Trials was like that am just hoping the younger generation will bring it back alive so it does not permanently die. I have met many riders over the years through trials some who i have made good friendships that i still talk to.
Would be good to get a group ride organised when the weather picks up at a central location for anyone who still rides up the North.
Andy