Mastering the Art of Trials with Ryan Leech

By Mike Lawrence

After nearly 8 months of no biking I needed some inspiration. At the local shop waiting for my first ride of the season to begin, I stumbled across this video. With a price tag of $28.95 I didn't hesitate to buy it. A video dedicated to trials and featuring Ryan Leech, one of the most prominent trials riders ever had to be a great flick. Manifesto was brilliant, so I reasoned that "Mastering the Art of Trials" would be even better.

The video shows step-by-step how to properly do trials moves broken into three sections from easiest to most advanced.

Phase 1 starts out with Ryan sitting on a piece of drift wood explaining different methods and ways to ride. Addressing the most basic of skills he discusses what foot should be forward, appropriate gearing, track stands, basic hopping and rocking back and forth in place. He explains each method then shows a variety of clips ranging from 30 seconds to a minute long to illustrate. Next he moves into combination moves of each skill and expands on topics such as balance, endos, side hops and rear wheel hops. A very in-depth and well-explained presentation is done for each method.

Phase 2 brings the skill level up a notch. It starts out with the definition and demonstration of a pedal punch. A variety of "pedal punches" are shown, each accompanied by an explanation. Zap taps, pedal gaps and pedal kicks roll across the screen in slow motion, so you can see each and every move. The video even stops while Ryan is talking so he can explain what happens next, along with body and foot positions.

Phase 3 skills include the most advanced trials moves. With such moves as the pedal up, touch up, hook up, the side hop and surging, Ryan gives great instruction and knowledge of trials. He makes it look so easy, it's sickening.

As phase 3 comes to an end, the "play" section begins. With more advanced / fun tricks to throw around, Ryan shows moves like the front wheel hop, rear wheel 360s, rock walk, the ever-so-hard manual, 360 exits, punch spins, 180s, static and punch, and the Leech Loop. More in-depth video and explanation of these tricks is done, and once again, Leech makes it all look easy.

With a run time of 51 minutes, "Mastering the Art of Trials with Ryan Leech" is sure to help anyone, trials rider or not, with their riding abilities. The video shows actual terrain riding, as well as multi-camera positions. With a white backdrop, and some factory team built stunts, Ryan demonstrates the how-to's. Utilizing 2, sometimes 3 camera angles, and split screens, he is able to show each position of each move, and explain it. After the technical breakdowns, the video moves to outside terrain showing the tricks done in real time, in different varieties of ways.

Bonus features consist of all Ryan Leech's Ride Guide appearances and tips, out- takes, and a trailer of "West Coast Style, Freeride Fundamentals".

Overall the video is amazing, however it was not what I was expecting. I anticipated something along the lines of Manifesto,I guess, just riding, not so much an instructional video. After watching it, however, it has inspired me to ride, and will more than likely teach me how to ride better. I highly suggest this movie to anyone who is looking to tone up on their trials abilities. Be sure to check out www.ryanleech.com

Posted by bikergrl at April 9, 2006 01:26 PM

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