1. General - There shall be seven rider classifications based on ability level and they shall be named YOUTH, NOVICE, INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED, EXPERT, CHAMP, VINTAGE A, VINTAGE B, (youth and vintage will only be run at selected events). The actual competitive classes in a trial may at times differ in name from the rider classification.
2. Riders may reclassify themselves whenever they feel the need due to change in ability, injury, age, or equipment.
3. An interview with the promoter or a member of the Executive Board shall help a rider determine which class to ride if unsure.
4. A Rider wanting to compete in a class other than their normal class may do so by indicating to the event organizer that they are riding for “Exhibition only”. This allows the rider to test their performance in another class. An exhibition rider will not be eligible for series points but may be eligible for the awards of the day.
5. Rider classifications will be established for each rider who competed the previous year by the COTA Executive Board using the following ability level guidelines:
1. YOUTH - Any rider 14 and under who is not ready to ride the novice line. If there is any question concerning rider eligibility, the Sporting Steward(s) will make the determination. Note: any youth rider who cannot competently handle their motorcycle shall be accompanied by an adult. Youth events will only be held at events where the trials marshal has made separate sections for the youth class.
2. NOVICE - The novice classification is for the beginning trials rider. These are riders that understand the sport and are developing basic trials skills. Section challenges should allow for generous approach and recovery space. First time competitors should feel comfortable attempting all sections.
3. INTERMEDIATE - The Intermediate classification is for the experienced trials rider who has shown ability well above the Novice level, but is not yet ready to handle extreme terrain challenges such as those typically seen in the support class at the North American Trials Council (NATC) national championship events.
4. ADVANCED - The advanced classification is for riders who know and can use advanced riding techniques. Advanced riders should be able to handle competition and challenges approaching that typically seen in the support class at the NATC national championships.
5. EXPERT - The Expert classification is for those riders who desire to compete in more technically challenging sections while minimizing exposure to unnecessary risk. Challenges should not require spotters to make competitors feel comfortable attempting any section. Expert riders should be able to handle competition and challenges approaching that typically seen in the Expert Sportsman class at the NATC national championships.
6. CHAMP- These sections will be the most difficult and technical. The challenges will be similar to what would be seen in the Expert class or above at the NATC national championships. Spotters may be required on occasion (Minders are allowed at no additional entry fee).
7. VINTAGE A – Will include Intermediate level riders on pre-1980 bikes.
8. VINTAGE B - Will include Novice level riders on pre-1980 bikes.
Vintage classifications are suggestions based on motorcycle vulnerability and rider ability.
