Pocket Bikes
Pocket bikes are a new breed of motor bike that resemble hi-speed racing bikes. In fact, many pocket bikes are duplicates of popular racing bikes only much smaller in size. Though the current craze for pocket bikes is something new, the concept is anything but. The current popular mini bike, or pocket bike, has been around since the early 1950s, at about the same time as the go-cart took hold (after soap box derbies). During the early evolution of the (now) sport of pocket bikes, there was no uniform design, ubiquitous rules or upstanding safety equipment. People with a little mechanical knowledge and more time than not built these in their garages, formed out of old lawnmowers, piping, engines, skateboards and whatever odds and ends could be hacked, bent and welded together. Some designs were quite sporty, but most were pieced in a blasé style that often led to injuries, breakdowns and some good laughs. Today, pocket bikes have come a long way since then.
The sport saw various countries take pride and interest in the sport of pocket bike racing. The first ever championship was held at the Swiss Pocket Bike Championships in 1996. Unlike way back when, today there are plenty of riders and racers looking to win big at such events. There are over a dozen races held each and ever year, with competitors divided into categories, from male and female to the size of bike and type of pocket bike. First it was the Japanese, then the Italians and then the Swiss who have upped the ante when it comes to design, power and speed.
There is also a class of pocket bikes called “super” pocket bikes and most cases the tiny motorcycles can registered and license to be street legal. I don’t think I would have the nerve to cruise around town in heavy traffic on a tiny pocket bike but many braver souls do it daily. If you are using a street legal version, like a full-size motorcycle, the pocket bike rider must carry insurance, have a current inspection, and wear a helmet if local laws require it. Depending on if the state classes a pocket bike as a "moped" or full "motorcycle", the rider may or may not need a special motorcycle license. If not, a regular driver's license may suffice.
A pocket bike is not something you want to purchase for younger child. These mini motorcycle versions are not toys and can cause some serious injury to the rider if it is not ridden with care and skill.
The gas powered versions are much faster than their electric counterpart and many “pocket bike” racing events have sprung up.
Make sure you wear the proper gear whenever you’re riding one of these mini dynamos and always ride with care.
You can pick up some decent used pocket bikes on the internet and we’ve provided this site for you to learn a little about pocket bikes and hopefully help you find that used or even new pocket bike you’re looking for.
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