Pocket bikes are miniature versions of bikes, as the name suggests and stand barely one to two feet tall, small enough to carry under your arm. These mini moto pocket bikes typically have a 49cc engine, and can easily reach up to speeds of 40-50 km/hr, though bikes with 110cc engines are also pretty common these days. Pocket bikes, were built with only one purpose in mind, to get the maximum thrill out of speed and make it the most fun experience, anyone can ever have. The Honda CRF50 has in fact become a standard for these mini pocket bikes.
Though the pocket bike is considered illegal in many parts of the country, since they don’t have a VIN number, and are automatically restricted from being driven on main roads and national highways. A number of factors add up to it being considered illegal, including its small size, which can be missed by many motorists, the amount of noise it makes, even with its tiny muffler and the absence of many bike safety features, such as indicators, head lamps, rear view mirrors, horns etc. Consequently, you can’t get a pocket bike registered or insured. But on the plus side, you don’t need a license to drive it!
Some states however allow modifications of these, called super pocket bikes (in contrast to mini bikes), to operate on the roads. These modifications include headlights, turn signals, speedometer and horn, or even just a rear view mirror and brackets for a license plate, to qualify for a license. They are generally grouped under the category of unique or home-built vehicles.
Mini Pocket bikes consist of two types, gas powered or battery powered. The gas powered ones are preferred by speeding enthusiasts, because they take up hardly any fuel and promise excellent mileage, with the added speed of course. Electric or battery powered pocket bikes, however are safer for use by kids, since they don’t go above a top speed of 40km/hr and are even cheaper than gas powered pocket bikes. Just charge the battery overnight, and you’ll be good to go, the next day. These work the same as an electric go cart.
Safety is a crucial aspect of driving a pocket bike, because like any other motor vehicle, the chances of an accident at high speeds are unavoidable. Always take the necessary safety precautions like, helmets, gloves and the like, to safeguard your body from damage. Their small size makes the vehicle and the rider, prone to massive damage on collision and is a great danger to both life and limb. If you feel like the conditions for driving are less then amiable, then don’t drive. Its also very stupid to drive an unlicensed vehicle on the main roads, where the traffic fines can be as high as $2000.
Since the market for the pocket bike has grown sensationally in the past few years there are thousands of modifications and customization kits available on the market. Pocket bike parts are becoming more available to the consumer of such products. Racing tournaments are often held at the local beach or mud track, similar to dirt biking for pocket dirt bikes to come show their skills and share their passion with other speed enthusiasts.
Sat, Aug 29, 2009
Pocket Bikes