Trials legend Martyn Ashton is on a mission to make mountain biking accessible for all

Martyn Ashton, renowned for his dominance in bike trials and influence in cycling media, is now channeling his expertise into making mountain biking more accessible for everyone. As a former four-time British BikeTrial Champion and World Expert BikeTrial Champion, Ashton has long been a prominent figure in the cycling community. Beyond competition, he gained widespread recognition through his engaging video series showcasing extraordinary bike skills performed on unconventional machines.

Ashton's early years were steeped in motorcycle trials, a discipline he took up around the age of ten, fostered by a family environment passionate about motorbikes. Despite challenges posed by his parents' amicable separation, which limited access to motorcycles, Ashton found an unexpected avenue to hone his balance and control skills on a BMX during weekdays. This inadvertent training laid the foundation for his eventual success in mountain bike trials, demonstrating the interconnectedness of bike disciplines.

Transitioning from motorcycle trials to mountain bike competitions, Ashton carved out a professional niche in a sport that traditionally offered limited financial rewards. His career flourished through sponsorships and dynamic stunt shows that toured internationally, highlighting the entertainment value of trials riding. Yet, it was the rise of digital media platforms that allowed Ashton to reach a broader audience. Inspired by pioneering cycling videos that captivated viewers globally, he created innovative content that blended technical prowess with humor, notably his viral "Road Bike Party" series where he executed trials moves on road bikes.

This creative venture marked a pivotal moment, elevating Ashton’s profile and demonstrating the potential of online media to revolutionize how cycling sports are consumed and appreciated. His collaboration with skilled videographers and the production of visually compelling content underscored a shift from traditional print media to video-centric storytelling within the cycling world.

In recent years, Ashton’s focus has evolved toward inclusivity in mountain biking. He established RideAble Now, a nonprofit organization devoted to adaptive mountain biking, aiming to break down physical barriers and broaden participation. The initiative reflects a commitment to leveraging cycling's therapeutic and community-building benefits for riders with disabilities, promoting tailored equipment and accessible trail experiences.

Ashton remains connected to the motorcycle trials scene as a commentator for international events, affirming his enduring passion and expertise. He observes the transformations brought by technological advances such as electric motorcycles and the rise of e-motos in youth culture, noting their impact on traditional riding styles and public perceptions.

His perspective on electric bikes is nuanced; while acknowledging exciting developments in competitive electric motorcycle trials and hard enduro, Ashton distinguishes these from the less regulated urban e-moto scenes that sometimes attract controversy. This awareness highlights the complex interplay between innovation, sport integrity, and community responsibility.

Martyn Ashton’s journey from a young motorcycle enthusiast to a world-class trials champion and digital content creator culminates in his current advocacy for adaptive mountain biking. His work with RideAble Now signifies a broader movement within cycling to embrace diversity, accessibility, and the transformative power of the sport for all riders, regardless of physical ability. Details on RideAble Now’s programs, events, and support opportunities can be explored through their official channels, reflecting Ashton’s ongoing mission to reshape the mountain biking landscape.