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Trials Tyre Pressure Explained
ACU Environmental Mat Rules for Trials and Motocross Meetings
Why Environmental Mats Matter at ACU Events
ACU Environmental Mat Rules for Trials and Motocross Meetings
Why Environmental Mats Matter at ACU Events
Whether you're competing in a local club trial, an ACU Championship round, or a motocross meeting, environmental protection is becoming an increasingly important part of motorcycle sport.
The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) has clear environmental requirements designed to protect venues, landowners, watercourses, and the long-term future of off-road motorcycle sport. One of the simplest ways riders can comply is by using an environmental mat whenever refuelling or servicing their motorcycle.
Failure to follow environmental regulations can result in disciplinary action and, at some events, specific sporting penalties.
What Does the ACU Say?
The ACU Environmental Code states that competitors at off-road events must provide and use an environmental mat whenever refuelling or servicing a motorcycle. The mat must protect the ground from contamination and be removed by the competitor after use. The same requirement applies to petrol or diesel-powered generators used in paddock areas.
The ACU also requires organisers to ensure fuel, waste oil, and generators are positioned on environmental mats as part of their event environmental management plans.
Environmental Mats in Trials
The ACU Trials Standing Regulations are very specific regarding refuelling.
The regulations state that all motorcycles and generators must stand on an environmental mat while being refuelled.
Although trials motorcycles are generally low-maintenance during an event, small fuel spills, gearbox oil leaks, and chain lubricant can still contaminate the ground. Many trials venues operate on sensitive farmland, woodland, or private estates where maintaining good relationships with landowners is critical.
Using an environmental mat demonstrates professionalism and helps protect the future of the sport.
Environmental Mats in Motocross
Motocross events often involve larger paddock areas, more intensive servicing, and frequent refuelling.
Many ACU-affiliated motocross championships require environmental mats to be used within the paddock. Some championship regulations even specify sporting penalties for non-compliance. For example, the ACU British Motocross Championship regulations have included penalties for riders who fail to use environmental mats within the paddock area.
As a result, environmental mats have become standard equipment for serious motocross riders and teams.
What Is an Environmental Mat?
An environmental mat is designed to:
- Protect the ground from oil, fuel and coolant contamination.
- Absorb minor leaks and spills.
- Provide a clean working area in the paddock.
- Demonstrate compliance with ACU environmental regulations.
- Protect relationships with landowners and venue operators.
Many modern mats combine an absorbent upper layer with a waterproof backing to prevent contaminants reaching the ground. Environmental mats meeting recognised motorsport standards are commonly used across motocross, enduro, trials and road racing.
Additional Benefits
Beyond regulatory compliance, environmental mats offer several practical benefits:
Cleaner Working Area
Working on a clean mat is more comfortable and professional than kneeling in mud or gravel.
Workshop Protection
The same mat can be used at home to protect garage floors and workshop surfaces.
Improved Presentation
A clean environmental mat gives your paddock area a more professional appearance and can also display rider, team or sponsor branding.
Easier Spill Management
Small oil drips and fuel spills are contained before they become a problem.
Choosing the Right Environmental Mat
When selecting an environmental mat, look for:
- Oil and fuel-resistant construction
- Waterproof backing
- Adequate size for your motorcycle
- Durable edge binding
- Easy cleaning and storage
- ACU-compliant design
For many riders, a larger workshop-style mat provides the added benefit of protecting the bike during transport, maintenance and storage as well as at events.
Final Thoughts
Environmental mats are no longer optional accessories for riders competing under ACU regulations. They are an important part of responsible motorcycle sport and help protect the venues that make trials and motocross possible.
Whether you ride trials, motocross, enduro or adventure bikes, carrying an environmental mat is one of the simplest ways to meet ACU requirements, keep your paddock area tidy, and demonstrate respect for the environment and the landowners who support our sport.
At CB Moto, we believe good paddock practice is just as important as good riding. Investing in a quality environmental mat is a small cost that can help protect both your motorcycle and the future of off-road motorcycling.
Which Paddock stand do i need?
Getting the right stand or stands.
How to Choose the Right Paddock Stand for Your Motorcycle
Whether you're maintaining your bike in the workshop, displaying it in the paddock, or simply looking for a safe way to park it between rides, choosing the right paddock stand can make a huge difference. At CB Moto, we stock several popular options from Jitsie and 24MX, each designed for a different purpose.
This guide will help you choose the best stand for your riding style and needs.
Why Use a Paddock Stand?
A good paddock stand offers several advantages:
- Keeps your bike stable and secure
- Makes maintenance easier
- Reduces the risk of accidental damage
- Saves space in the workshop or van
- Helps protect tyres during storage
- Makes cleaning and inspections simpler
The best stand for you depends on whether you ride Trials, MX, Enduro, Adventure, or Road bikes, and how you use your motorcycle.
1. Jitsie Support Stand – The Best Choice for Trials Riders
Best For:
- Trials riders
- Riders who remove their side stand
The Jitsie Support Stand is specifically designed for trials bikes. Rather than lifting the motorcycle, it supports the bike upright by the rear wheel, making it ideal for competitions and practice days. It is lightweight, compact and extremely quick to use.
Advantages
- Extremely lightweight
- Takes up very little space
- Fastest option for parking a trials bike
- Ideal for events and competitions
- Easy to carry in a van or trailer
Limitations
- Not designed for maintenance work
- Does not lift the bike off the ground
Our Verdict
If you ride trials and want the quickest, simplest way to keep your bike upright, this is hard to beat.
Rating: ★★★★★ for trials competition use
2. Jitsie Folding Paddock Stand – The Workshop Favourite
Best For:
- Workshop maintenance
- Bike washing
- Long-term storage
The Jitsie Folding Paddock Stand lifts the motorcycle from underneath the skid plate, keeping the tyres off the ground. The folding design makes it easy to transport while remaining strong and stable. The stand folds into a compact triangle shape and features a non-slip top surface.
Advantages
- Excellent stability
- Perfect for maintenance work
- Ideal for tyre changes and cleaning
- Compact folding design
- Strong construction
Limitations
- Slightly heavier than a support stand
- Takes longer to set up
Our Verdict
For serious trials riders, this is arguably the most useful stand to own. If you only buy one stand for home use, this is probably it.
Rating: ★★★★★ overall
3. Jitsie Plastic Moto Stand – Lightweight and Portable.
Best For:
- Riders with limited storage space
- Travelling riders
- Occasional maintenance
The Jitsie Foldable Plastic Moto Stand is made from durable plastic and folds flat when not in use. Despite its lightweight design, it can support up to 150kg and includes non-slip rubber strips to keep the bike secure.
Advantages
- Very lightweight
- Folds almost flat
- Easy to store in a van
- Durable plastic construction
- Affordable option
Limitations
- Not as rigid as steel stands
- Better suited to lighter bikes
Our Verdict
A great choice for riders who travel regularly and want a stand that takes up minimal space.
Rating: ★★★★☆
4. 24MX Folding Paddock Stand – Best Budget All-Rounder
Best For:
- MX riders
- Enduro riders
- General workshop use
The 24MX Folding Stand (Proworks) is constructed from heavy-duty plastic sections and is rated to support up to 250kg. It offers a large stable platform and folds down for transport and storage.
Advantages
- Excellent value for money
- Supports heavier motorcycles
- Large stable footprint
- UV-resistant plastic
- Folds away for transport
Limitations
- Bulkier than the Jitsie alternatives
- Less specialised for trials bikes
Our Verdict
An excellent choice for MX, Enduro and Adventure riders looking for a strong stand at a sensible price.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Which Stand Should You Buy?
Rider Type Recommended Stand
Trials Competition Rider - Jitsie Support Stand
Trials Workshop Use -Jitsie Folding Paddock Stand
Rider Short on Storage Space - Jitsie Plastic Moto Stand
MX Rider - 24MX Folding Paddock Stand
Enduro Rider - 24MX Folding Paddock Stand
Adventure Rider - 24MX Folding Paddock Stand
General Home Workshop - Jitsie Folding Paddock Stand
Our Recommendation
For most trials riders, the ideal setup is actually two stands:
Jitsie Support Stand for events and quick parking.
Jitsie Folding Paddock Stand for maintenance, cleaning and storage.
This combination gives you the best of both worlds and covers every situation you'll encounter as a trials rider.
For MX, Enduro and Adventure riders, the 24MX Folding Paddock Stand offers excellent stability, high weight capacity and superb value for money.
Looking for a Paddock Stand?
Browse the latest range of Jitsie and 24MX workshop equipment at: www.cbmoto.uk
Quality motorcycle accessories, tools and workshop equipment for Trials, MX, Enduro and Adventure riders.
How to Clean and Care for Leather Trials Boots
Keep Your Trials Boots Looking Great and Performing at Their Best
How to Clean and Care for Leather Trials Boots
Keep Your Trials Boots Looking Great and Performing at Their Best
A good pair of leather trials boots is one of the most important investments a rider can make. Whether you ride local club trials every weekend or compete regularly, your boots are constantly exposed to mud, water, rocks, branches and the occasional tumble.
Proper cleaning and maintenance not only keeps your boots looking smart but can also extend their lifespan, maintain comfort and help preserve water resistance.
In this guide, we'll explain how to clean, condition and protect your leather trials boots so they continue performing season after season.
Why Leather Trials Boots Need Regular Care
Trials boots work hard.
During a typical event, they are exposed to:
- Mud and wet grass
- Water crossings
- Dust and dirt
- Chain oil and fuel splashes
- UV exposure
- Repeated flexing and movement
Without regular maintenance, leather can become dry, stiff and prone to cracking. Buckles and stitching can also suffer if dirt is allowed to build up.
Regular cleaning and conditioning helps:
✓ Maintain flexibility
✓ Improve comfort
✓ Protect against cracking
✓ Extend boot life
✓ Improve appearance
✓ Support water resistance
Step 1 – Remove Excess Dirt
After every ride, allow any heavy mud to dry naturally.
Once dry:
- Knock the soles together to remove loose dirt.
- Use a soft brush to remove dried mud.
- Pay particular attention to buckles, stitching and sole edges.
Avoid scraping the leather with hard tools as this can damage the surface.
Step 2 – Wash the Boots
Use warm water and a soft brush or cloth to remove remaining dirt.
Work gently around:
- Stitching
- Flex panels
- Buckles
- Sole joins
Avoid pressure washers whenever possible.
High-pressure water can force dirt and moisture into seams and may damage leather over time.
Step 3 – Allow Boots to Dry Naturally
Once cleaned:
- Open buckles fully.
- Remove insoles if possible.
- Allow boots to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
Never place boots:
- On radiators
- In front of heaters
- Near open fires
Rapid drying can cause leather to harden and crack.
Step 4 – Condition and Protect the Leather
Once completely dry, apply a quality leather treatment.
This is one of the most important stages of boot maintenance.
Leather conditioner helps:
- Replace lost oils
- Restore suppleness
- Reduce drying and cracking
- Improve weather resistance
- Maintain the appearance of the leather
Why We Recommend DucksWax
At CB Moto, we recommend using DucksWax Leather Care Treatment.
DucksWax has been developed to nourish, protect and revive leather while helping to maintain flexibility and appearance.
Benefits include:
- Suitable for leather trials boots
- Helps condition and nourish leather
- Easy to apply
- Restores a natural finish
- Helps reduce drying and cracking
- Ideal for regular maintenance
A little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective addition to any rider's maintenance routine.
How to Apply DucksWax
Applying DucksWax is simple:
- Ensure boots are clean and dry.
- Apply a small amount using a clean cloth.
- Work evenly into the leather.
- Pay extra attention to flex areas.
- Allow the treatment to absorb.
- Buff lightly with a clean cloth if desired.
Regular applications throughout the season will help keep boots in excellent condition.
Don't Forget the Buckles
While cleaning your boots, check:
- Buckle fasteners
- Straps
- Rivets
- Hinges
Remove any dirt build-up and ensure everything operates smoothly.
Replacing a worn buckle is much cheaper than replacing an entire pair of boots.
End-of-Season Storage
If you're storing your boots for an extended period:
- Clean thoroughly.
- Apply DucksWax leather treatment.
- Store in a cool, dry location.
- Avoid damp sheds or direct sunlight.
Proper storage helps prevent mould, drying and premature ageing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my trials boots?
A quick clean after every ride is ideal, with a deeper clean and leather treatment every few weeks depending on use.
Can I use DucksWax on other leather riding gear?
Yes. DucksWax is suitable for many leather items including gloves, boots, luggage, saddles and other leather motorcycle equipment.
Can I use household furniture polish?
No. Motorcycle and outdoor leather products benefit from dedicated leather care products designed to nourish and protect the material properly.
Final Thoughts
A quality pair of trials boots can last for many years when properly maintained. Regular cleaning, careful drying and routine conditioning will help keep them comfortable, flexible and ready for the next event.
By incorporating DucksWax Leather Care Treatment into your maintenance routine, you can help protect your investment and keep your boots looking and performing at their best.
One dab goes a long way.
Best Trials Bike Paddock Stand: A Buyer's Guide for Trials Riders
Why Every Trials Rider Needs a Quality Paddock Stand
Best Trials Bike Paddock Stand: A Buyer's Guide for Trials Riders
Why Every Trials Rider Needs a Quality Paddock Stand
Whether you're preparing for a national championship, a local club trial or simply maintaining your bike at home, a good paddock stand is one of the most useful pieces of equipment you can own.
Unlike motocross or enduro bikes that often use traditional lifting stands, trials motorcycles require a different approach. The lightweight design and narrow rear tyre of a trials bike make dedicated support stands a practical and convenient solution.
A quality trials bike paddock stand keeps your motorcycle secure, upright and ready for maintenance, cleaning or storage.
In this guide, we'll look at what makes a great trials bike stand and why the Jitsie and Proworks options are among the best choices available today.
Why Use a Trials Bike Support Stand?
A dedicated support stand offers several advantages:
- Keeps your bike upright and stable.
- Saves space in the workshop.
- Makes cleaning easier.
- Reduces the risk of accidental damage.
- Ideal for transport and event paddocks.
- Quick and easy to use.
Many riders use their support stand every time they return from a trial.
What to Look for in a Trials Bike Stand
Not all stands are created equal.
When choosing a stand, consider:
Stability
The stand should securely support the rear wheel without the bike feeling unstable.
Ease of Use
The best stands allow the rider to simply roll the bike into position without lifting.
Durability
Look for strong steel or aluminium construction capable of years of regular use.
Portability
Trials riders often travel to events, so a compact stand that is easy to transport is a major advantage.
Workshop Compatibility
A good stand should work equally well in the garage, workshop, van or paddock.
Jitsie Moto Support Stand
For many riders, the Jitsie Moto Support Stand has become the benchmark for trials bike support systems.
Designed specifically for trials motorcycles, it offers a simple roll-in design that makes parking and storage effortless.
Key Features
- Easy roll-in operation.
- Specifically designed for trials rear tyres.
- Secure and stable support.
- Strong tubular steel construction.
- Non-slip rubber feet.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Suitable for workshop and paddock use.
One of the biggest advantages of the Jitsie design is its simplicity. Simply push the motorcycle backwards into the stand and the bike remains securely supported without straps or complicated mechanisms.
This makes it ideal for riders of all ages and abilities.
Best For
- Regular club riders.
- National competitors.
- Workshop storage.
- Event paddocks.
- Van transport.
Proworks Trials Support Stand
The Proworks Trials Support Stand is another excellent option for riders looking for a practical and affordable solution.
Offering a similar roll-in concept, the Proworks stand provides secure support while remaining lightweight and portable.
Key Features
- Trials-specific design.
- Lightweight construction.
- Stable wheel support.
- Easy transportation.
- Suitable for workshop and event use.
- Excellent value for money.
The Proworks stand is particularly popular among riders looking for a reliable support stand without compromising on quality.
Best For
- New trials riders.
- Club competitors.
- Home workshops.
- Budget-conscious buyers.
Jitsie vs Proworks
Both stands perform the same core function exceptionally well.
Choose Jitsie If:
- You want a premium, proven design.
- You regularly attend events.
- You value long-term durability.
- You prefer a well-established trials brand.
Choose Proworks If:
- You want excellent value.
- You're buying your first support stand.
- You need a lightweight, portable solution.
- You want dependable performance at an affordable price.
The reality is that both products provide a significant improvement over leaning your bike against a wall, van or tree.
Perfect Partners: Environmental Mats
Many riders combine their support stand with an environmental mat.
This provides:
- ACU compliance at many events.
- Protection for workshop floors.
- A cleaner working environment.
- A professional paddock appearance.
Together, a support stand and workshop mat create the ideal setup for maintenance, cleaning and event preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these stands fit all trials bikes?
Most modern trials motorcycles, including Beta, GasGas, Sherco, TRRS, Vertigo and Montesa models, can be used with dedicated trials support stands.
Can I use one for long-term storage?
Yes. Many riders use support stands year-round in their workshop or garage.
Are support stands better than leaning the bike against a wall?
Absolutely. A support stand provides significantly greater stability and reduces the risk of accidental damage.
Do I need a stand for every event?
While not always mandatory, most riders quickly discover how useful a support stand becomes both at events and at home.
Final Thoughts
A quality support stand is one of the most practical investments a trials rider can make.
Both the Jitsie Moto Support Stand and the Proworks Trials Support Stand offer simple, reliable and effective ways to keep your bike secure and stable. Whether you're maintaining your motorcycle, displaying it in the workshop or preparing for your next event, a dedicated stand makes life easier.
For riders looking for a proven premium solution, the Jitsie stand remains one of the most popular choices in the trials world. For those seeking excellent value and practicality, the Proworks stand is a fantastic alternative.
Whichever option you choose, you'll soon wonder how you managed without one.
Trials Tyre Pressure Explained: How the Right PSI Can Improve Your Riding
Why Tyre Pressure Matters in Trials Riding
Trials Tyre Pressure Explained: How the Right PSI Can Improve Your Riding
Why Tyre Pressure Matters in Trials Riding
Ask a group of trials riders for the secret to better grip and you'll probably hear the same answer: tyre pressure.
While suspension setup, rider technique and tyre choice all play important roles, tyre pressure is one of the quickest and easiest adjustments you can make to improve traction and confidence on the sections.
The difference between a tyre that grips and one that spins can often be measured in fractions of a PSI.
In this guide, we'll explain how tyre pressure affects performance and help you find a suitable starting point for your next trial.
Why Trials Bikes Run Such Low Pressures
Unlike motocross or enduro bikes, trials motorcycles are designed to maximise grip at low speeds.
The rear tyre works by conforming to obstacles such as:
- Rocks
- Roots
- Logs
- Mud
- Loose terrain
Running lower pressures increases the tyre's contact patch, allowing the rubber to mould around obstacles and generate more traction.
The result is:
✓ Improved grip
✓ Better climbing ability
✓ More predictable handling
✓ Reduced wheel spin
✓ Increased rider confidence
Typical Trials Tyre Pressures
Every rider has their own preferences, but these are common starting points:
Rear Tyre
Dry conditions:
3.5 – 4.5 PSI
Mixed conditions:
3.0 – 4.0 PSI
Wet and slippery conditions:
2.5 – 3.5 PSI
Front Tyre
Most riders run:
5.5 – 7.0 PSI
The front tyre generally requires more pressure to maintain steering precision and protect the rim.
Factors That Affect Tyre Pressure
Rider Weight
Heavier riders often need slightly more pressure to prevent excessive tyre movement.
Lighter riders can often run lower pressures without issues.
Terrain
Rocky Terrain
A slightly higher pressure can help protect the rim from impacts.
Muddy Conditions
Lower pressures can improve grip by increasing the tyre footprint.
Hard Ground
A small increase in pressure may improve stability and steering feel.
Riding Style
Aggressive riders who use large splatters and big impacts may prefer slightly higher pressures to reduce the risk of rim damage.
More traditional riders may benefit from lower pressures to maximise traction.
The Importance of a Quality Pressure Gauge
At typical road bike pressures, a difference of 1 PSI is often insignificant.
In trials riding, a difference of 0.5 PSI can be noticeable.
For example:
4 PSI to 3.5 PSI is a 12.5% reduction in pressure.
That can have a significant effect on grip and tyre behaviour.
A quality low-pressure gauge is one of the most useful tools a trials rider can own.
What Happens If Pressure Is Too High?
Excessive tyre pressure can result in:
- Reduced traction
- Increased wheel spin
- Harsher ride quality
- Smaller contact patch
- Less confidence on slippery terrain
The bike may feel nervous and less planted on technical sections.
What Happens If Pressure Is Too Low?
Running pressures that are too low can lead to:
- Rim damage
- Tyre creep
- Unstable handling
- Increased risk of punctures
- Excessive sidewall movement
While grip may initially improve, there is a point where performance and reliability begin to suffer.
Modern Tubeless Rear Tyres
Most modern trials motorcycles use a tubeless rear tyre system.
These systems allow riders to safely run very low pressures while maintaining excellent traction.
However, it's important to:
- Check pressures before every ride.
- Inspect valve stems regularly.
- Look for signs of rim seal leaks.
- Monitor tyre condition.
A small pressure loss can have a significant effect on handling.
Recommended Starting Pressures
If you're unsure where to begin, try:
Clubman Rider
Rear: 4 PSI
Front: 6 PSI
Intermediate Rider
Rear: 3.5 PSI
Front: 6 PSI
Expert Rider
Rear: 3 – 3.5 PSI
Front: 5.5 – 6 PSI
These figures should be viewed as starting points rather than fixed rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common rear tyre pressure for trials bikes?
Around 4 PSI is a popular starting point for many club riders.
Should I change tyre pressure between events?
Yes. Terrain, weather and riding style can all influence the ideal pressure.
Is lower always better?
No. While lower pressures generally increase grip, going too low can increase the risk of rim damage and unstable handling.
How often should I check tyre pressures?
Before every ride or competition.
At trials pressures, even a small air loss can noticeably affect performance.
Final Thoughts
Tyre pressure is one of the simplest and most effective setup adjustments available to a trials rider. Spending a few minutes checking and adjusting pressures before an event can dramatically improve grip, control and confidence.
Start with a sensible baseline, make small adjustments and keep notes on what works best for your riding style and local conditions.
The perfect pressure is rarely the same for every rider, but finding your ideal setup can make every section a little easier and every ride a little more enjoyable.