Mini motorcycles

These pint-sized motorcycles are beset with problems for both friend and foe. One of the major problems the mini motorcycle enthusiast faces is the lack of viable warranty and repair parts. Although mini motorcycles are cheap, ranging in price from under $200.00 to over $3,000.00, many of the low-end bikes are over-seas knock-offs of better bikes. These little zippers snap easily, disgruntling owners and putting a black mark on quality bikes from reputable manufacturers.

Created for closed circuit racing on a paved track, mini motor cycles are typically neither street ready nor street legal. However, many riders overlook the hazards of piloting these short-rides through traffic as the low price tag makes them a popular method of transportation for both teens and young adults. In addition to putting the mini motorcycle in the “outlaw” category, many law enforcement agencies are ticketing riders, confiscating — and in some cases destroying — pocket bikes.

In addition, laws that ban the sale of mini motorcycles combined with consumer complaints about invalid warrantees and non-existent parts are turning the heads of many dealers who have championed the mini motorcycle in the past. For instance one large pocket bike wholesaler, Running Wolf Imports (out of Nevada), recently announced that it is leaving the pocket bike market in favor of the more stable and street-ready 4-stroke mini motorcycles.

It looks like the hope for the future of the mini motorcycle lies in the fast growing number of pocket bike clubs that are finding and opening new closed circuit tracks for their members. These organizations also have the capability to re-cycle public opinion of mini motorcycles through promotion of safe and legal riding practices.