Scottish Six Day Trial 2024

SSDT 2024 Police Trials Team

The club would like to hear from any Enduro / Trials Riders, please get in contact

Riders:

Chris Howman (Met Police Staff @ Hendon Driving Academy)

Ben Howman (Met Police Constable) West Area Response Team

Steve Lane (TVP Police Constable) Road Policing Unit

Preparation: Well the preparation always starts at the beginning of the year. This year’s riders was the same as last year. Both Ben and Steve would be in a much better position to start as they could draw on their experience from last year.

My preparation is always broken down into two main areas:

Bike fitness.  The fitter you can get yourself on the run up to the competition the easier / more enjoyable you will find the whole experience. My routine starts with general fitness which includes lots of running, rowing, weight training and High Intensity Cardio fitness. As we get closer and closer I then concentrate more and more on my bike fitness. This year was a little tougher for me as I had been carrying a neck injury for 10 months which I believe I picked up from last year’s SSDT.  I managed to get myself booked into Flint House (Rehab) where they worked their magic over 5 days.

After Steve’s first day retirement last year due to an accident, he was determined to get to the finish line this year. Steve knew what to expect this time so he spent a lot of time training. He made a number of special trips further up North to practice on “Rocks”

Us Southerners don’t get to ride rocks very often. He was in a very good physical state to start this year.

Ben is just lucky enough to have youth on his side. He had a much better understanding of where he needed to be physically in order to hopefully finish another year successfully.

Bike preparation.

The bikes get fully stripped down and re-built so you know everything is as good as it can be prior to the start.

Unless I come across any difficulties it normally takes me 3 to 4 days to get my bike ready. Again this year was a little easier as my young apprentice being “Ben” learnt what was required from last year.

This meant he did nearly all of his own bikes prep.

4am Saturday 4th May 2024 we headed north for what is now a very familiar 500 mile trip up to Fort William , Scotland.

We had a good run up the Motorway and arrived stress free, early afternoon. The only doubt I had was the weather as it had been glorious the whole trip up. From my experience this normally meant it was going to be a wet week.

Soon after we arrived at our accommodation we were met by Steve who was in good spirits and itching to get this year started. Over the next few hours all of our support crew arrived. It is a tradition to run the bikes very quickly up the road to double check everything is as good as it can be. No issues form both Ben and myself but Steve felt his bike wasn’t quite revving out like it should be. Steve was again riding last year’s Beta Evo 300cc 2 Stroke. Ben and I were on our trusty Honda Montesa 260cc 4 strokes. Two very different bikes. The Betas are quite a bit lighter and like to be revved high. Our Montesa’s are heavier but have great reliability on their side + sound amazing on full throttle.  Steve stripped his carburettor and changed the needle setting and it appeared to be running lovely.  Nothing else to do apart from the standard tradition of what to carry in our rucksacks (Tools / Spares). This process I find much easier whilst drinking a nice cold beer.

Sunday 5th May (Signing On / Scrutineering / Parade

After a leisurely breakfast we made a familiar trip to go and sign on. This is always the point that things become exciting for me. It was great to catch up with numerous riders that I have encountered over the years. No issues with any of the Team signing on. So after we were handed our little goodie bags, including our official number boards we made our way down to the Parc Ferme where all the bikes get scrutineered prior to starting the competition. We then all fitted our number boards which are mounted on to our extra fuel tanks, a requirement for this event.

Final check over of all the bikes and then it was a very familiar push up the ramp to get the bikes checked. This process has been done by the same officials for as long as I can remember. It was nice when they see hundreds of riders each year to get greeted by “Nice to see you back again, how many times now Chris?” When I told him it was my 20th time I got a hand shake and a congratulations on reaching that milestone.

Now this from a long standing local official was a nice compliment. It’s probably connected with my competitiveness and being a little OCD that I was super pumped up this year to not only compete but to successfully complete another year. I know Steve was also mega keen to get his first finish this year after an injury caused him to DNF after only 1 day. As for my son , Ben well those that know him would say he is one of those people that is quite laid back and just gets on with things. I was excited for him because I know he was better prepared this year and it was going to be a great competition between ourselves. All three bikes went through scrutineering no problem which includes getting the frames and engine painted. These markings then get checked by officials whilst out on the course each day to make sure we are: A. On correct route & B. Correct machine we started with.

2pm All the riders met back at the Parc Ferme for the traditional Parade through the town centre. As always we did it in uniform to fly the “Police” flag. This is something I have actively encouraged every year as I feel it is a great PR opportunity in this world recognised motorcycle event. Again it was great to see the Army in their uniform as well so we did the parade alongside them.  The parade went off with no issues and we had some great banter with the crowd. The bikes then went back into the secure Parc Ferme.

The day was then finished off with some logistical planning from our ever helpful support crew. As I have mentioned in previous reports, due to the extensive experience / knowledge of this event from our support crew they are all over the logistics.

Day 1

Every day you have a different start time. Due to our late numbers this was to be our late start. At least this meant we could have a leisurely breakfast and relax a little. Steve rider no 258 would be first away for us. Followed by myself No 260 and Ben 261. After a traditional good luck and picture on the start line we were off. The logistics of how I felt it would work best had been discussed months ago. Steve would set off on a steady pace and Ben and I would what I describe as “Clip his heals”. We should see Steve in the sections for advice on what line to take ect but the plan was for Steve to remain in front. If at any stage he had any issues we would be there to assist.

I am pleased to say this first day went off with no issues. I know it takes a few days to get back into riding this type of terrain. We all had some steady rides and I saw a couple of lovely rides from both Ben and Steve. We got to the final time control with a good 20 minutes to spare. This is what I try and achieve every day. In this 20 minute window I can get the bike prepared for the following morning. The following list of jobs are essential for a successful week.

1.   Use air compressor to blow as much of dirt off the bike. Especially around the radiator. This will also allow to proper access to the numerous bolts that need checking for tightness.

2.   Replace air filter + check spare

3.   Check whole bike for any faults.

4.   Adjust and lubricate chain.

5.   Check and possible replace wheel spokes.

If you come in late on time the bike would have to go straight into Parc Ferme otherwise you will be awarded time penalties. The riders get 15 minutes prior to their official start time to work on their bike every morning.

We all had very little to do on the bikes so it was a good start to the week. Due to our late start we didn’t get back to our accommodation until around 9pm. A big thanks to Mick for keeping all of us fed for another year. After some war stories about how the day had gone it was off for a decent sleep.

Scores for Day 1

Steve 98 marks dropped

Ben 91

Chris 82

Day 2

Every day this year our start time got earlier and earlier which meant that we would be up really early on our final day. Today we would be away around 11am. As normal we wait patiently at the security barrier to be called in by the officials. The first thing you do is go straight to your bike to see if you have any punctures. If the tyres are flat 15 minutes is not a lot of time to get it sorted. Fortunately all our tyres were good with the normal, Front 9 psi Rear 4.5.

All was good and we were off at our allotted start times. First section of the day was probably the most famous called “Witches Burn” I would describe this as two waterfalls. The first part is quite ridable and doesn’t cause too many issues. The second part is “BIG” Without exaggeration it is probably about 20 foot high. The only way you can get up is to fully commit and you need to be on the right line. Many riders over the years have ended their week early on this one. I have a 50% success on this but a few years ago they changed the route in which makes it even harder. This is always busy with spectators which are waiting for some action. On discussing it with the boys it was voiced that if we weren’t on line we shouldn’t go for it. Steve went first and unfortunately he wasn’t on the correct line so he didn’t attempt the big step. I went next and once I had seen Bob on top ready to catch if required I was happy to launch it. Unfortunately I wasn’t on the right line so it was a good job Bob was there as he managed to catch. I was so close but no cigar. I still got a clap for getting out. Well it was Bens go and I have to be honest some of these sections are pretty big. I must care because I was worried. Well I really didn’t need to as it was very evident that he was definitely getting up. He had an absolute star ride and made it look easy. When he flew out the end cards he got a huge cheer from the crowd. To say Ben was pleased was an understatement. I don’t think he stopped smiling until we got to the next group of sections which was about 10 miles away. Respect where it’s due, it was a great ride and chuffed I witnessed it.

The next few groups of sections went well with us all. It was great to see both the guys having some great rides throughout the day. Ben had followed his great start to give a good solid performance all day. This was to be Bens best scoring day of the week.  I was starting to get my eye in a little more but as normal my score was spoilt with a number of inconsistent rides. Again we were lucky with the weather as it was still dry which makes the moor crossing much easier. This wasn’t to last long. My most memorable ride of the day was a double sub section called “Bellgrove”. This is another full commitment and just hang on and hope you find enough grip to reach the top, preferably still on your bike. Ben and I would quite often take it in turns, attempting the section first. Well I went up to top of the rock face to catch him. He flew up it for a single dab to steady himself at the top. He then came to help me. I was lucky enough to get out without losing any marks. It’s always a great feeling when on the odd occasion you have some decent rides.

As the day went on we didn’t see Steve much so clearly he was riding at a good pace. We again all came in with about 25 minutes to spare out of our allocated 7hrs 45 minutes running time. The normal bike servicing and we booked the bikes back in for the night.

Day 2 Scores:                                                   

Steve 87

Ben 75

Chris 80

Day 3

Historically Wednesday and Thursdays are tight on time as they are looking to take time penalties off us riders. With this in mind I had let the team know we wouldn’t be hanging around. Today’s route was very similar to what is normally the Saturdays. This also meant the moor crossings could be tough. We set a good pace and arrived at the first group in good time. The group named “Callart” are more big slabs of rock where if you’re not good with heights this could be an issue. I have had various success of the years but never have I cleaned the top sub which has a tricky undercut step to finish. Well this was the year I would do it. Clearly I must have been on a good line and paced correctly because I flew up this year. Taken me 20 years but I nailed it eventually. Ben had a steady three but was just pleased to be up and out.  The other memorable group of the day was the famous “Pipeline” which is 4 sections. The last one being really tough to find enough grip to get over another step.  I haven’t walked these sections for years because you can see the whole section from the bottom. Basically a never ending hill which is next to huge pipeline. There are no big rocks but it’s very difficult to pick a line up as you get moved everywhere. I normally have about ¾ throttle in 3rd and hold on tight. I watched several riders attempt it before me and they didn’t appear quick enough as they were spinning out to much. To my delight my 3rd gear worked a treat and for once I flew up the first 3 subs, feet up (0 marks lost) only to have reality smack me in the face with ANOTHER 5 on the final step. So close, yet so far. Can’t remember how Ben got on but he definitely didn’t get out the last one.

We had so great fun across the moors as for the majority although still tough because the ground wasn’t saturated it made it easier to negotiate.

The rest of the day went without incident and I was pleased to have made good progress during the day because we only had 12 minutes to spare after our 7hrs 55 mins allotted running time.

Marks lost:

Steve 85

Ben 78

Chris 70

Day 4 Thursday

This was to be by far the toughest of all the days this year. We were woken up in the middle of the night to the sound of thunder and lightning. When it rains up in Scotland it REALLY rains. The rain storm was a big one so I instantly knew it was going to be mega tough. Today was all about getting to the end, hopefully without losing time. I remember Steve looking a little worried as he peered outside. It’ll be fine but don’t spend long looking at the sections because the moors WILL be tough. People tell me I’m mad because I actually love these extreme weather days as you don’t need to be a top class rider, you do need the right mental approach + a decent set of waterproofs help.

Well up until the lunch break the majority of the sections were completely submerged in white fast flowing waters. It’s always a lottery if you are on a decent line as you really can’t see where you’re riding. Normally the organisers pull some of the sections out under grounds of safety but to my surprise this wasn’t the case this year. As long as it’s consistent for everyone it’s fair. I have included some videos of the day including Dougie Lampkins attempt on one of them. Now if he’s struggling to even get out, what chance do riders like myself have. Well I haven’t got too much to say about the day apart from I can clearly remember it being a tough of challenge all day from the second we started. My timing has always been a strong point of mine so we even got in with about 15 minutes to spare. I can remember seeing some tired riders coming in.

As soon as we met up with Steve he immediately said “That was the hardest day he has ever had on a bike and he just prayed it was going to dry out for tomorrow”. It’s Scotland and everyone knows it just loves to rain a little. He also mentioned that he was just going for a finish and didn’t think he would be entering it again. As for my son, well he’s a fit youngster who appeared to love the challenge. It was to be his highest scoring day but when Dougie dropped 27 marks, it’s no surprise as he normally drops less than 10 for the WHOLE 6 days.

Scores:

Steve 102

Ben 114

Chris 87

Day 5 Friday

We woke to better weather but I knew it wouldn’t last. At least we would start the day dry. A solid day from team today. We had a trouble free day, well apart from the numerous crashes across the moors. Up to this point we had lots of offs. It is unlike any other terrain as you need a little speed to get through the boggy ground. This would be much easier had the moors not had rocks in varying sizes every few feet to catch you out. After many years I very much know how to part company with my bike. I have noticed that I don’t bounce as well these days + it takes a lot longer to recover these knocks. I did have a little accident today. This happened at a group of sections called “Gorton” Section 1 has a really tricky start. You have no run up and you have to negotiate a tricky step which has a very narrow line. There is no room to put your left foot down once you set off. I must have been just off line as before I knew what happened I was falling to the left which has a 10ft drop. I landed quite heavy and was pretty winded. I was more worried if my bike had sustained any battle wounds. I must have hit a rock hard on the way down as I had a huge dent in my left fork leg. (Front suspension). To my amazement it was still working fine and not leaking oil. Although annoying this could have taken me out the trial. It must have been catching because at the very next section, Ben also had a big crash but luckily nothing broken on him or his bike. We finished the day with 25 minutes to spare.

Scores:

Steve 93

Ben 90

Chris 84

Day 6 Saturday

Always the sting in the tail. Every year this is shown as the shortest day but trust me, quite often the hardest moor crossings. It was evident that Steve was eager to get to the finish line. This was our early day which meant the sections would be really slippery as we would be the first to ride them. After some words of encouragement from the officials and our support crew we were off on the final day. All I can say is this was to be another tricky end to our week. This was mainly down to size of the sections. I know this was voiced by a lot of riders who also found the sections really hard.

We had ridden really closely all week with a local rider called Sam Haslam who is a top 10 finisher and fully sponsored. Even he was struggling with the sections on this final day. I think I only got through a handful of sections during the first few groups. I was one of the first riders up the famous “Trotters Burn” sections. I was pleased to say I flew up the first couple but unfortunately not on the right line to launch it on the final big step. Never cleaned all three at once so I suppose I will have to wait to try it again next year. Everything was going well until we reached the final group at “Leanachan”. Massive slabs of rocks would be my description. This is just a matter of bench pressing your bike for a well-deserved 3. I waited for Ben to arrive at one of the end cards. As he came into sight he was having a great ride up to the point his chain snapped. The chain also managed to get wrapped around the front sprocket which is never good. We managed to get the bike out the section to work on it. I asked Ben to get his spare split link out while I freed up his sprocket.  This would have been a really easy fix had Ben packed the correct split link. He was running a heavy duty O Ring and unfortunately he only bought a standard one. This took me about 15 minutes to fix. I knew we were close to losing time penalties so everything went a little hectic. I still needed to ride the last few sections and I didn’t realise Ben had asked for 5’s. Long story short we lost sight of each other for about 20 mins. We all arrived at the final section together. It was great to see Steve’s reaction as we rode up onto the finisher’s podium. Another great week which was down to our amazing support crew. Every year is very special and to be able to ride round with Ben again was great.

Day 6 scores:

Steve 100

Ben 100

Chris 78

Final Standings / Scores

Steve 236th on 548 Marks

Ben 242nd on 565 Marks

Chris 208th on 481 Marks