Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN - On Saturday, June 21, the countryside outside Lucan welcomed its first-ever Southwestern Ontario Classic Trials Group (SOCT) event, Round 4 – Lucan, drawing approximately 50 riders and dozens of spectators. This marked the fourth round in the club’s annual series and the first time such a competition had been hosted on private land in the area.
Local property owner Jim Thomas opened his land for the event, which featured eight technical sections laid out among trees, hills, and a streambed. “It was amazing,” Thomas said. “People just kept arriving — like a wagon train. We had all sorts of bikes here, including vintage models and electric trials bikes. Some riders even had European accents. It was incredible to see the variety and passion.”
Unlike motocross or speed-based racing, trials riding focuses on balance, control, and precision. Riders navigate obstacles such as rocks, logs, and steep inclines, attempting to avoid putting their feet on the ground. Each “dab,” or foot touch, adds to the rider’s score. The goal is to complete each section with as few dabs as possible.
“This event had eight sections, and riders tackled them multiple times throughout the day,” explained trial master Rob Lang. “We start around 11:00 a.m. and finish by 4:00 p.m. Riders self-score their performances, which keeps the atmosphere friendly and cooperative.”
Lang, who spent over 30 years in enduro racing before moving into trials nearly a decade ago, also owns a motorcycle shop in Dorchester. “A few years ago, we had 25 to 30 riders per event. Today, we have over 120 members, and some events draw more than 70 riders,” he noted.
The Lucan event welcomed riders of all skill levels, from seasoned competitors to newcomers trying the beginner “C line.” Between rides, participants chatted, encouraged one another, and exchanged tips. “There’s a strong sense of community here,” said one club member. “You’re riding with friends, not against them.”
The SOCT also supports local economies by purchasing food, fuel, and supplies in the communities where events are held. While no prizes are awarded at individual trials, the club hosts a winter banquet with informal awards such as “Most Improved Rider” and “Silliest Mistake.”
The next SOCT event will take place on July 6 in Troy, Ontario. For details or to join, visit the Southwestern Ontario Classic Trials Group website.
“Every bike has a story,” Thomas said. “This isn’t just a sport — it’s a shared passion.”
