The Pocket bike or sometimes popularly called pocket rockets are those mini bikes that are about 1/4 the size of a real motorcycle usually only three to four feet in length and about 2 feet tall. They typically only weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and were first introduced by avid Asian and European motorcyclists. Pocket bikes are an excellent beginner ride for the younger generation although racing adults tend to migrate toward them purely for recreational purposes.
History
Like go karts they were first built using spare parts in garages of long time enthusiasts. They were popularized in the 1950′s as for drag racers to get around the pits with thus termed “pit bikes”. This made it easy for navigating through tight pit areas and was a quicker alternative to bicycles or other modes of transportation.
As time went by racers started taking these little minibikes home and using them in neighborhoods and the phenomenon started to spread rapidly among children. Pocket bikes started to emerge from companies that were powering go carts, choppers and trikes.
Types
Minimoto/Pocketbike – Modeled after today’s sport bike these little machines are used in pocket bike racing on go cart racing tracks. Built in two and four stroke versions, gas or electric they usually average speeds of 20- 40 mph. Their popularity skyrocketed with the huge import of cheap pocket bikes from Asia.
Pit Bikes
The pitbike is the small scooter that looks like motocross bikes used around pit areas as I previously stated. Pit bike racing has taken in recent years. They are sometimes used in motocross competitions including the largest event of it’s kind the Las vegas Mini Supercross held yearly held in Las Vegas.
Mini Choppers
Mini bikes that look like raked out custom choppers but have the set up of a pocket bike.
Mini Motos
Basically a larger version of the pocket bike with a 1-2 foot higher seat height. They often run 110cc 4 stroke engines that are capable of producing speeds of 65 mph. Most are built in China with Honda engines.
Quad Bikes
4 wheeled off road motorcycles that look like pocket bikes made for off road (ATV).
Electric Pocket Bikes
First manufactured in Japan the electric pocket bike became popular in America through the racing circuits. Now there are a host of American manufacturers building their own electric pocket bikes. The advantages to going with an electric bike is not only low maintenance but also various styles that cater to children. In my opinion it is the perfect way to get your child acclimated to a motorcycle as the speeds average about 15mph. Though they are typically built for the smaller riders with just a few minor modifications they can be supporting the 200 pound adult rider.
Gas Pocket Bikes
The gas pocket bike is the king of the small motorbikes. They can weigh as much as 100 pounds and are built solely for performance hitting the 60 -80 mph range. They are built for racers and this also allows you to modify engine specs for speed, trick the body out and completely customize it to your liking. That said this little pocket rocket need not be on the street.
Mini Pocket Bikes
The pocket bike gets even smaller with mini pocket bikes. They can go quite fast despite their size at around 35 mph which makes them ideal for children learning to ride a bike. With more children nowadays wanting to own one of these mini pocket rockets, parents are looking to them because of their ease of use due to maneuvering, transporting and maintenance. Their styles vary to include mini choppers, dirt bikes, sport bikes and scooters. The adult population like to show them off as collectors items sort of like model cars.
Super Pocket Bikes
Super bikes average about $700 and can reach speeds in excess of 60 mph. Some super pocket bike models come with an adjustable suspension, headlights, pull or electric starts and kickstands built into the frame. Other features include gauges (digital or analog), key ignition and sequential manual shifting.
Despite their popularity super pocketbikes are not street legal. Because of their small stature manufacturers simply cannot get all the safety requirements onto the bike like adeguate lighting and proper brakes as required by the FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) of the department of transportation.
Pocket Bike Racing
Pocketbike racing also referred to as circus or mini moto racing is hugely popular in Japan and Europe but making it’s way to other parts of the world. Full sized motorcycle racing is expensive so racing pocket bikes is a cheap alternative with models costing around $200 if imported from China or up to $7000 for an Italian model. They can be raced by children and adults despite their little size reaching speeds of close to 80mph. Valentino Rossi is one of the most successful motorcycle racers of all time and he got his start on minimoto racing.
Brands
Brands include Rupp, Heath, Taco, Gilson, Fox and Arctic-Cat to name a few. There are many Chinese manufacturers as well such as Sendai and V-Racer. Italian made pocket bikes usually cost more than others. Brands such as Polini as well as other premium brands range from $1000-$1500 but you can get most for only a couple hundred dollars. You can always find cheaper bargains at Amazon or eBay as there are usually hundreds or more for sale at any given time.
If go karting is something you love to do then why not get involved in the pocket bike market. You can totally customize them the way you like and they are a fun alternative to real expensive motorcycles.
Laws
USA - DOT laws vary by state but for the most part pocket bikes are illegal. The seat height is required to be at least 25 inches (64 cm) off the ground which makes it difficult to get one registered although many brands are making them these days. Requirements for street legal use include blinkers, headlights, brake lights, horn and appropriate muffler for noise pollution.
However some of the super pocket bikes have all the necessary requirements for street use such as the X18, X19 and X22. Along with headlights, tail/brake lights, turn signals, horn and speedometer they also meet the speed requirements and may only need to add a license plate. An MSO (manufacturers state of origin) is needed to license a pocket bike and the appropriate insurance is required. Needing a license to operate one will depend on the state and if they decide to classify it as a scooter/ moped (which needs no license) or a motorcycle.
CANADA – The pocket bike is illegal for street use in Canada deeming it unfit for the road. It does not match the needed seat height or required federal safety standards. Ontario does not allow a pocket bike to be ridden on any public road which includes sidewalks and the minimum fine for being caught on anything but private property is subject to a stiff $5000 fine. In British Columbia they can seize your bike and stick you with a $900 fine.
UNITED KINGDOM – The UK also does not allow pocketbikes on public roads. They are only permissible on private property and sanctioned race tracks. Police can prosecute and seize the bike of any violators.
Buying Tips
There are many reasons to buy a pocket bike and it starts with expense. Super pocket bikes can be as safe as their big brother the full scale motorcycle at half the cost. Their various styles appeal to kids and adults making them look like a $15,000 full scale replica. There are number of ways to get your hands on a pocket bike of your own. Online markets like Ebay and Craigslist have hundreds to choose from. There are also many companies online that have enormous inventory.
Before looking at pocket bikes for sale, be sure you are familiar with the different types available and what might be the suitable for your child. For example, there are electric and gas powered pocket bikes with 49 cc-110 cc engines, each with their own pros and cons. Ask a lot of question specifically if you plan to buy a used pocket bike.
Be sure it is well taken care of and the seller is willing to be forthcoming with information. Ask to test drive it before you make any decision.
