'Spotting' is a trials term. Riders provide support for each other through a difficult
section, learning a new technique, and likely to crash the motorbike on a difficult obstacle.
In trials riding, it usually means grabbing the motorbike so the riders can look after themselves.
They can either jump clear, knowing the spotter will look after the motorbike....
or can hang on to the motorbike on a steep ascent,
trusting the spotter to hang on to the front wheel.
Spotting can make a massive difference to your confidence
and therefore your ability to take on tricky stuff
- instead of worrying about trashing your motorbike or
yourself, you can focus more on your technique.
Some riders will think spotting is only for 'wimps'...
and of course this is true.
But let's face it, we only ride motorbikes to try and compensate for our inner wimp.
So just admit it and accept help when needed.
One problem though is your average motorbike is around 70% heavier than a trials motorbike.
They also have way more power and speed so the spotter needs
to be even more careful around dirt motorbikes.
There is usually a lot of trust involved both ways with spotting
- it can pay to team up with another person
and talk through exactly how you will spot for each other.
Is the spotter meant to just catch the motorbike, or the rider?
Will the spotter stand well back and just move in if needed, or is closer support more reassuring?
Spotting isn't just for tackling very tough terrain.
Look out for new riders who may be intimidated by even a small log, and offer to spot for them.
It can be very reassuring to know someone is
looking out for you and you can focus on riding, not panicking!
As a spotter, your own safety comes first.
Always wear your gloves.
If saving the motorbike, make sure you grab the motorbike
in safe spots like the tires, handlebars or forks.
You don't want broken fingers from getting jammed in spokes or the chain and sprockets.
Stand somewhere safe where you won't fall down a slope
or be hit by the motorbike flying out of control.
It can be tricky to position yourself to be close enough to catch the motorbike or rider quickly,
but not actually be hit or distract the rider by standing too close.
On a longer steep section, the spotter will need
to work out where they best position themselves for the rider's safety.
Experienced riders are usually able to jump off their motorbikes and bring them
down on the first part of a steep climb or ledge.
It is usually in the upper parts that the motorbike and rider have a long way to fall.
It's a good idea to be ready to grab the motorbike and have your arms extended already.
This way you aren't moving as the motorbike approaches
and are less likely to distract the rider.
You don't want to grab the bike until you know the rider cannot get through successfully.
Jumping in too early can put the rider off their game,
and you will probably have to buy all the beers at the pub afterward.
If you are filming, there can be those awkward moments when you
have to decide to keep filming or save the rider.
Personally if there's at least a 10% chance the rider won't die we keep
filming. Riders come and go, but funny video footage last forever.
Any suggestions on spotting? We'll leave this space here blank to add any tips you have.