old trials guy

I made up some of these with my 3d printer.

I think all of the manufacturers build decent bikes today and Sherco is no exception however I am quite impressed with the design, build quality and functionality of the TRS. Small details like the fit of the air cleaner door, the ease of servicing the rear linkage all show the attention to detail in the design. It is also apparent that care is taken in assembly as adequate grease was applied yet there was no superfluous grease to be seen. Honda like cable retainers keep things tidy and even the skid plate is nicely finished with no sharp edges. I was expecting less from a new company and new product so very pleased to receive such a well finished product. Time will tell how well everything will hold up but from the initial hours spent on the bike I suspect it will prove to be a solid bike. otg

Going on two months with my TRS 280. With about ten rides on the bike I have observed that starting is quite consistent. I discovered that rather than seeking compression it starts best when kicking over with a full kick with no "wind up". Selecting neutral is helpful but not necessary. Generally it will start first kick however if it. Sits for several minutes it may not start easily. I engage the choke and it starts usually on the second kick. Since the bike performs so well with the stock jetting I think the issue is not jetting. The choke circuit on the Dellorto I think is at the bottom of the float bowl. Could it be the fuel gets overheated due to the proximity of fuel line and carb to the exhaust and the choke scavenges better? I also though perhaps the extra long pilot jet offered by Dellorto might work better with the angle of the carb. I may do some experimenting with some heat shielding on the carb and fuel line and post my findings. The suspension was harsh out of the crate but settled in quickly. The Tech forks perform well as expected and the rear is plush but feels planted and delivers great control in creek beds and over rough terrain. The frame adds to that planted feel and I find the bike holds line well and is very predictable. The transmission shifts smooth and deliberately with no false neutrals to report but neutral is elusive when running. I don't find that an issue for me. The clutch is one of the best features with a long and predictable engagement making clutch work a breeze. Pull lightened slightly with use and I don't find it an issue. Compared to my previous Sherco 300 the TRS makes great traction and is much easier to finesse off camber uphill turns with. Nasty climbs up rooted and rocky bits seem much easier to handle. My general thoughts are the 280 is really easy to ride, tons of power for an intermediate but not intimidating. I find I really don't think much about the bike itself while riding and I just focus on lines and it willingly delivers. It is more more capable than this rider but a pleasure to ride nonetheless. My only criticisms are that the skid plate mount holes need more tolerance as the countersunk mounts offer no movement by design so a bit more slotted hole for the other two would ease servicing. The side stand foot is too small on softer surfaces resulting in tip overs if one is not careful. Mine sunk in and the bike went over resulting in a bent side stand mount bracket. When trying to remove I discovered 8mm truss head bolts with a tiny 5mm hex and possibly thread lock. Not a good combination. I recommend care and heat if trying to remove. Early models used standard 8mm hex bolts with a more robust hex which I would recommend the factory goes back to. My stand still works but it was annoying. Overall this is without reservation the best trials bike I have owned and there have been many and I would highly recommend a test ride if you are considering a new bike. I apologize for heaping so much praise but TRS has done a great job. otg

I just took delivery of a 280 and have had it out for three rides. Previous bike was a 2013 Sherco 300. The TRS 280 is quite different in the motor department from my Sherco. Power is very linear and the bottom end response solid and smooth. The clutch is one of the best features as it has a longer engagement than the Sherco and again very linear. Right off idle the TRS 280 is smooth and very easy to ride with virtually no abrupt surges or over eagerness to rev and as you dial on more throttle the power builds smoothly but quickly. There is ample power for any hill I attempted and the engine is willing to lug down to idle speed on a hill and power back up without hesitation and negligible wheel spin. I am an experience old guy and ride only at an intermediate level so I cannot attest to the bike's ability to splat or launch a big step but it certainly is an easy bike to ride. Power is so predictable and I am pleased it doesn't have the "nervousness" of the Sherco. The front brake is stellar. TRS has resorted to the two part front caliber rather than the one piece that seems the fashion these days. Regardless, everyone is impressed by the power of the front brake. Rear brake is solid and well modulated. Suspension felt a bit harsh on the first ride but it is loosening up with more hours. Bike is nimble but you can feel the stability likely due to the rigid aluminum frame. It holds a line very well and the steering provides noticeable feel as the geometry is much like a Gas Gas. The transmission feels rock solid. Nice, positive clicks and no false neutrals. First gear is slightly taller than on my Sherco and much taller than a Beta first gear. Most section work would be first but second is close and works well on climbs or situations calling for a taller gear. Fourth gear is not gapped as much as my Sherco making is more useful in fast sections of trail. From the first ride I was impressed and as I get more used to the bike and as it settles in it continues to be a joy to ride. From a club rider's perspective I think this one is going to be a winner. Broad, smooth power and yet lots of willingness to rev, maybe the best clutch of any modern trials bike, impressive build quality, fit and finish. So far there is nothing I can complain about other than I wish I were twenty years younger so I could better test the limits of this impressive bike. I would recommend anyone thinking of a new bike try and get a test ride. I don't think you will be disappointed. Cheers....otg