I think the main problem with trials is more to do with the image then how it is organised and run. We ride stupid bikes and a lot of top rides wear ridiculous clothing.
I think that is probably a big reason why danny mac is so popular. He doesn't look like a tit. I reckon if he was riding an echo control for axample in his first BIG video, it would'n't have had the same impact.
I get more comments/questions about my riding when I ride an inspired. When I am riding a seatless bike, mostly what I get is "where is your seat?".
Trials just isn't cool compared to other disciplines to the general public.