Welcome to the official website of the Columbia Observed Trials Association (COTA)

The Columbia Observed Trials Association as a Trials club was formed in the early 70’s by Bob Reed. The Trials story in Oregon begins with the intoduction of what was initially called “English Trials”, which was introduced to America with the introduction of trials specific motorcycles. Montesa and Bultaco were the first serious Trials motorcycles manufacturers to make their way to Oregon. It is rumored that the club name “COTA” was inspired by the Montesa Cota. Shortly after the arrival of Bultaco and Montesa, the Japanese manufactures entered the Trials market, introducing the Honda TL, Yamaha TY, Kawasaki KT, and Suzuki RL. Inexpensive Trials bikes were readily available, which inspired the “Hay-Day of the Seventies”, when hundreds of riders would attend local Trials events.

Since then, many bikes have come and gone, events have been held in many locations, and popularity has risen and fallen. Now our events are staged in the Tillimook State Forest, the Mt. Hood National Forest, and on private land. On average, a local trial attracts 30-50 riders, with about 70 to 100 different riders that make it out over the course of the season each year. Trials in Oregon is very small, close-knit group.

 standings