50cc Pocket Bikes - A Buyer's Guide

If you are planning to shop for new 50cc pocket bikes, you need to know what to look for, and what questions to ask before you visit the stores or shop online. Failure to pay attention to the right features or to ask the right questions can result in you owning a 50cc pocket bike that you don't want, or can't use.

First, determine what your 50cc pocket bike will be used for. Will it just be used for recreation, or will you be racing? It is important to know this before you set out to make a purchase. If you will just be using the pocket bike for recreational purposes, and you have no intention of racing, you can expect to pay about $400 or more. However, if you plan to race, you may find that you need to pay up to $7000 to get what you want.

There are pocket bikes that are built in Italy, and then there are pocket bikes that are manufactured in China. The bikes made in Italy are typically higher quality bikes. Of course higher quality brings a higher price - but again, the bike that you choose depends on what you will be using it for. If you just want a bike for recreational purposes, go for the ones made in China and save your money.

You should note that pocket bikes are not very comfortable, due to their small size - unless you are very small or a kid. So, comfort isn't what you need to look for, however, you should be comfortable enough to ensure that you have full control of the bike at all times. Take the bike for a test run, and make sure that your body isn't touching anything on the bike that it shouldn't - such as the exhaust pipe, and that you are comfortable controlling the bike in turns and straight paths.

Talk to the pocket bike dealer to find out what spare parts are available for the bike, and how hard those parts may be to get. This is important information to have - especially if you will be racing. Find out what parts need to be replaced often in their opinion. Remember, they sell these 50cc pocket bikes for a living, and they know what the bikes need, and what they don't need. Also, find out if there is a mechanic at the dealership, or in the town, that is capable of making repairs should they be needed, and inquire about warranties as well.

When making your purchase, make sure you bring along enough money to ensure that you can afford the protective gear that you will need. You will need a helmet, gloves, a leather jacket, and leather chaps as well. Leather will offer you the best protection in the event of an accident.