From the 1st Jan 1999 all ACU trials have been observed under the FIM System which will be used at our Star Group trial.

A machine will be deemed to be in an observed section when the front wheel spindle has passed the 'Section Begins' Card and until the front wheel spindle has passed the 'Section Ends' card.

Marks will be lost as follows:

0 - Clean

1 - Footing once or stopping once

2 - Footing twice or footing once whilst stopped or stopping twice

3 - Footing and or stopping more than twice 5 - Failure

So what's the difference from the old rules If a rider stops with both feet on the pegs it is a one. If a rider stops with one foot on the ground then it is a two.

A failure occurs if: The machine moves backwards. The rider moves a wheel sideways whilst stopped. The engine stops and the rider touches the ground.

The rules for sidecars have not changed, sidecars are not allowed to stop at all and if they do it is a failure. If any part of the passenger touches the ground or benefit is gained from touching an obstacle (tree, wall etc) it is a failure.

Do not let the changes put you off observing, it is all very straight forward. The main thing is to be consistant. If you have any problems refer them to the Clerks of the Course. They will assess and judge the situation. We shall be using written score cards for this trial.