Observed Trials is the somewhat arcane motorcycle sport that involves riding motorcycles over obstacles without putting your feet down. Sections are set up along a loop, at each section one or more observers watch as each rider in turn attempts the section. All obstacles must be negotiated with the rider not putting his feet down. A dab costs a point, crashing or riding outside the section markers costs five points. Low score wins.
Trials bikes are highly specialized.
Steering geometry is very quick and suspension travel is shorter than normal dirt bikes at six to seven inches front and rear. The rear tires are radials and most riders run 3.5 to 4 psi. The '96 Beta Techno is an evolution of the previous two years' Technos. The main visible difference is the 'right side up' Paoli forks that replace the upside-down forks used on previous Technos. Less visible are changes to the clutch to make the engagement more progressive, and a new digital ignition.