First time winners and debutants make their mark at the annual – and this year well supported – Talmag Trophy Trial.
Words and photographs: Andy Withers
The Talmag is addictive for classic riders and enthusiasts alike.
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Traditionally held on the last Sunday in January, it’s etched on calendars as a must-see winter event, with many making the annual pilgrimage to Hungry Hill near Aldershot in Hampshire.
This year saw a resurgence in entries, 218 compared with the 180 of the past few years, so nearing the 240 limit. There were many stalwarts and past winners in the field, however, there was a host of surprises as young riders reigned, taking debutant or first time wins.
The Talmag became a ‘four-stroke only’ trial for British machines in 1975, which was a bold step, sceptics saying it would never be popular as two-strokes were dominant. They were proved wrong with riders from all over the UK and mainland Europe putting it on the classic bucket list of events ever since.
However, there has been a Talmag Trophy Trial in existence since 1946. The Territorial Army (London) Motorcycle Club, formed before the war, published a club magazine which became known as the ‘Talmag.’ The first event after the war and subsequently the club itself took on this catchy name and it has stuck ever since.
Read more and view more images in the May 2019 issue of TCM – on sale now!
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