Regular Maintenance is Essential for your Pocket Bike
Hints and tips from Super Pocket Bikes
Maintaining your pocket bike is a must to ensure good performance and long life.
Spark Plug
Check your spark plug regularly. It should be located under a protective boot on the top of the engine. It should be light brown or a golden colour, if it is white this can be an indication that the engine is running at too high a temperature. Check that you are using the fuel/oil mixture recommended by your manufacturer. If the mixture is too rich the spark plug may be black or be coated with fuel. The spark plug may also become covered with carbon or oil, or both and should be changed. It is possible to clean a spark plug but it should really be replaced. It is always a good idea to have spares available.
Cleaning the Air Filter
regular cleaning of the air filter is necessary to ensure smooth running and to prevent damage to the engine from dirt and other materials. Dirt particles entering the motor will damage the piston and bore and lead to reduced life and poor performance. remove the filter and clean in either a recommended cleaning solution or soapy water. Rinse well and dry, apply a small amount of filter oil then return the filter to your bike. Dust and particles are trapped by the oil. Do not use too much, you do not want oil dripping from the air filter.
Idling Adjustment Screw
A screw next to the choke can be adjusted to allow your bike to idle correctly. To increase the idling speed turn the screw clockwise, to decrease turn it counter-clockwise. Do not set a too high idling speed, it can be dangerous and will only use up fuel unnecessarily.
Oiling the Chain
The chain should be oiled regularly, at least every time you ride your bike. Some manufacturers even recommend oiling after ten minutes of use. Also check the chain and ensure it is adjusted correctly. There should only be about 20mm movement between the two sprockets. Move the chain while holding between chain between the sprockets and not how much up and down movement there is and tighten or loosen the chain appropriately.
Brakes
Most pocket bikes are fitted with disc brakes. Other bikes have hydraulic or drum brakes. The tension on the cable can be adjusted by loosening the locking nut, then screwing the adjustment nut in or out. Leave the cable slightly loose to prevent rubbing of the brake which will cause friction and increased wear. Ensure that the wheels lock when the brake is used then tighten up the locking nut.
Lubrication
Regular lubrication with a good quality oil is a must and should be carried out regularly. Check your manufacturers manual for lubrication points. Remember over lubrication will be unlikely to cause any problems, under lubrication will always cause problems
Tires
Check the tire pressure regularly and visually inspect the tires for damage and bulges. Change any damaged tire before it causes a blow out when riding at speed!
Ensure you perform all these maintenance tasks regularly and your pocket bike will perform well for many years!