You can ride it at club trials just not at nationals or internation trials. Thats why I have got a 26" now. Last year I couldn't ride a 26" in the british rounds, but now i'm 15 i can do. Comps are good for meeting new people and having a laugh. I don't like it when people take them too seriously. I can understand some people do, but they are alot more fun if you don't. Matt Rushton