Motorcycling: Haynes takes the next step up

Reporoa's John Haynes will face the biggest challenge of his young career at this weekend's World Motorcycle Trials Champs in Australia.

It's the first time on the world stage for the 16-year-old Reporoa College student, who will ride in the youth class (16-18 year olds).

Despite coming up against largely unknown opposition, Haynes is aiming for a top four finish.

"It will be the hardest and biggest event I have ever competed in and I will need some great rides to even challenge the Europeans who dominate the sport," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it, it's going to be good."

Haynes said it had been a six-month build-up to the event with hard work on and off the bike.

"I've been working on my fitness, running and biking," he said.

This year Haynes has stepped up to the expert class in domestic competition, claiming two thirds and two fourths in the opening rounds of the North Island championships.

The championships continue over the winter, culminating in the New Zealand championships in October.

Moto trials is a non-speed motor sport that's all about balance, clutch and throttle control with riders riding over obstacles without putting their feet down.