It may be a good idea to vary the training occasionally, so that it is not always racing at the club’s facility or in sections. In addition to our regular training day(s), we try to “spice” it up at times.
Trial single track training
One of these additions can be Single Track training. Single Track is a term taken from the cycling world (Mountain bike) and relates to riding on trails – often like in the woods. As described in the article “Into the woods“, I would recommend that you start riding in the forest at an early stage. At the trails there is plenty of variety to find, and opportunity for the child to try out new skills.
You can start to interduce Single Track training when the child knows how to handle the motorcycle, and the pace is slightly higher. It will often be necessary to find a bike (Mountain Bike) to be able to follow the child, unless your running pace is high, and your stamina is perfect.
Try not to start on the narrowest of paths, but instead try to find slightly larger roads in the forest. This way the child (and you) get used to the new situation, where you are both on “wheels”.
It is extremely important that the child can master the motorcycle and even in pressured situations can accept (and execute) an instruction. The environment is not as controlled as in a training area, so be careful.
We have found it very useful to have an Intercom system during single track training, so that messages from coach to child can be heard (and carried out).
You will soon find out, that Single Track training offers a whole new opportunity to be together with your child. Single track training provides the ability to train balance, Bike control and brake exercises.
At the same time, it is a good opportunity to introduce the child to higher speed. This can be harder to test during regular training with, for example, sections.
Single Track Training, or similar, also gives you an opportunity to get a more physical training session. This will help the child to get more stamina, as there will be longer between breaks, than normal Trial training in sections.
Different trails offer different options. Some trails are good when you want to practice steering skills , others good to train up and down hill, while others may offer roots or other obstacles for the rider to challenge.
On most trails you can train different techniques, all on the same Single Track ride.
We found it helpful to take the same Trial several times over a period. This allows the child to see progress in his/her own skills.
Our experience is that most people you meet in the forest, tend to be positive when they meet a child on an electric motorcycle. We have used Single Track riding a lot when we used the 12.5 “machine, and now also with 16” machine. In all that time we have never received any critical comments from people we encounter. On the other hand, we are often stopped by people who are interested in the sport and the bike. However, remember to show respect for others and give space.
We use Single Track training in addition to the regular training. This means a to 5-7 km Single Track training every week or 14 days.
Find a trial that work for you and try it.
Most likely, you will also like the addition to the regular training.
You are the coach!
