Marlborough Trials Centre

 MTC was born when Brendon and Cathy (trials enthusiasts) acquired the sole agency for Montesa Cota in 1999.  This was a home business to start with, with Brendon also working full time.  Around this time MTC also contacted makers of trials accessories and clothing overseas and applied to be NZ Agents for one brand of trials clothing (Clice).  This was all successful, and resulted in MTC importing a large amount of specialist trials gear.  Many trials riders in NZ responded to this by supporting the business and helping it grow.  A huge amount of time and huge borrowings from the mortgage also helped it grow!  Brendon (and occasionally Cathy) were competitors at many trials events around the country, which allowed Brendon to talk to riders about what we were doing with the business.  The business operated from home while Brendon did full time work for 4.5 years.  During this time Brendon and Cathy (and growing family!) moved to Blenheim (from Nelson) and to a new job for Brendon.  MTC also acquired the sole agency for Scorpa and Clipic motorcycles in New Zealand during this time. 

In July 2004 Brendon left his full time job with the view to growing the business as a home business for at least a year and then trying to move the business to it’s own premises, if it was viable to do so.  Due to unforeseen circumstances (i.e. a neighbour) Nelson Marlborough Trials Centre had to find premises outside of home or close up shop.   This turned out to be the best thing that could have happened for the business, although at the time involved a great deal of personal risk and borrowing of money (again!). 

Brendon was lucky enough to find some affordable premises in Blenheim.  With the move into Auckland Street, MTC picked up some local business, which necessitated the hiring of a mechanic after 6 months, and two part timers.  MTC also picked up local agencies for GasGas and  Aeon. 

While still providing a service for trials riders around the country, MTC has expanded – locals who are involved in other facets of motorsport – Motorcross/enduro/trail riding have also supported MTC.  Another big part of the business today is local farmers (Farm four wheelers) and on site servicing of farm bikes. 

 Many friends have helped Brendon and Cathy along the way; the support of NZ’s trials riders has been fantastic and is much appreciated! 

We can now offer you Finance on all purchases over $500. Our store will be open Monday – Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 9am – 12pm. So Support New Zealand’s first full time trials store, have a look at our latest bike specials, and get into the wonderful sport of Motorcycle Trials! 

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As the saying goes “Dad Knows Best”.  True to that I think that Brendan has a lot of experience over the years with trials to be able to pass on this knowledge to his son Gareth.    

Sunday 30th September was the day we all went over the the Nelson Trials Park.  Although the weather was a bit overcast, a bit of rain here and there, everyone enjoyed themselves.  Brendan has had Gareth out recently riding over stop banks at their local river and his confidence was high so Brendan wanted Gareth, who I must say is only seven years old, to take on a new challenge and the Trials Parks was just the spot to do it. 

After starting with follow the leader Gareth was left to ride a circuit that was marked out earlier while being supervised by Mum, while Brendan, Nick & Steve went for a ride. It was good to see that while Gareth was enthusiastic he also has the sense to be cautious in the slippery conditions and the steeper climbs and descents on unfamiliar ground. Having said that the big cows did not phase him. 

Brendan has encouraged both Gareth & Jenna to enjoy the bikes and support their progress without pushing them too fast. A good day was had by all