Introduction to Super Pocket Bikes
Small motorised bikes have been around since the 1950’s, not long after racing karts became popular. By the 1970’s Japan was the leader in pocket bike racing, using cheap, low-tech bikes. Since that time pocket bike racing has gained popularity, spreading to Europe and then America where it is one of the fastest growing sports. Invented by the Japanese it was the introduction of excellent quality pocket bikes by the Italian firm Polini that really began the pocket bike racing craze in the rest of the world.
What has made this sport so popular with children, youths and adults?
The pocket bikes themselves are miniature versions of their full size racing motorcycle cousins. The first thing to be aware of is that they are not toys. They are serious pieces of engineering with top speeds of around 75mph. Faithfully replicating sophisticated racing motorcycles they are great fun to ride and, unlike their bigger cousins, relatively cheap. Pocket bikes are small, typically one to two feet and able to bear around 300 pounds of weight.
Types of Pocket Bikes
Mini pocket Bikes
The smallest pocket bikes, mini pocket bikes are usually less than 50cm in height and 36″ in length with a 39 to 50cc two-stroke engine. Electric pocket bikes will reach a top speed of around 20mph. A gas powered open class mini pocket around 45 mph.
Pocket Bikes
Pocket bikes are typically around 39″ in length, with a 47 cc two-stroke and have top speeds around 40-45 mph.
Super Pocket Bikes
The largest pocket bikes with lengths around 51″ 45-49cc two-stroke engines and top speeds up to 65mph, More comfortable to ride than either the min or regular size pocket bikes, they are also more expensive to run.
All of these bikes, including 50cc pocket bikes and above are meant to be ridden on designated circuits. It is not legal to ride them on the road in many countries although some countries do allow them to be ridden on the pavement. Always check your local regulations before you ride.