Quite probably the biggest OSET weekend to date…saw over 100 riders taking part in OSET events up and down the country! Since the ACU lowered the starting age for events to four years old (down from 6) to support youngsters getting started on electric machines, OSET has helped swell the numbers of youth trials riders.
The OSET Cup events which, this weekend took place in Yorkshire, Kent, Cheshire, Northern Ireland and Cornwall are in part a ‘feeder’ system for established trials clubs and allow kids to reach a high level of riding at a very young age.
Each event is run slightly differently but all hold the same aim. The kids are there to have fun learn new techniques and develop their riding ability. It’s an opportunity for parents and children new to the sport to learn about trials riding and what other events are happening locally to them with different clubs.
Recent statistics from the ACU show the introduction of OSET Bikes to youth trials has been responsible for a 300% increase in registrations since 2007. This has also translated into riders of good enough quality to enter the small wheels British National Championship, that has witnessed a significant increase in competitors.
Ian Smith, founder and CEO of OSET Bikes, said: “the evidence is clear – growth in the sport of trials is building from the grass roots – and on electric bikes. If the momentum can be carried from the youngest youth riders through to the adults, the future for trials looks rosy.”