It's definitely not a race, as often the first one finished is not the winner. The rider is scored from the time their front axle crosses the section start line and until their front axle crosses the exit line at the other end. The riders usually ride the loop three times. The riders may ride as fast or as slow as they wish on the loop. After three dabs, you can paddle your way through the section if necessary without fear of extra points.
Trials is the only motor sport in which a number becomes a verb.
However, riders are allowed no more than three minutes while in each section. A Zero is the best score. Observed Trials motorcycles look and perform differently than any other type of motorcycle. When the sport began in England, the bikes used were usually nothing more than street bikes with most of the shiny bits removed. Over the years, the bikes have gotten lighter, narrower, and taller.