Pocket Street Bikes - Are They Legal?

While pocket street bikes are being manufactured, they still are not legal for street use in most states. Know the facts - and the laws - before purchasing a pocket street bike that you intend to use on public streets.

First, call your local Department of Motor Vehicles to find out if pocket street bikes are permitted on public roads. If some are allowed in your state, they should give you information as to what is required before the pocket bike can be used on the street. Make sure you listen closely. They may be allowed on some streets, but not on others, such as Interstate highways. Find out!

If your state does allow pocket street bikes on their roads, you still may not be legal. All states have rules about the minimum age of the driver of the bikes. Ask this question when you call the DMV, and get licensing information as well. Make sure you are legal. Also, find out what insurance requirements your state has. The next roadblock may actually be getting an insurance company to insure your pocket bike for roadway usage. Your next obstacle will be getting registration and a license plate for your pocket street bike. Be prepared for quite a few obstacles before you can ride your pocket street bike on the street.

Being legal isn't enough to keep you safe. Remember, these bikes are small, and it will be hard for people in other vehicles to see you. The small size is the reason why most states do not allow the use of pocket street bikes on their roadways. But, if your state does allow public road usage for these bikes, make sure yours is equipped with as much safety equipment as possible, such as brake lights, headlights, flashers, a horn, and mirrors.

Pocket bikes were meant for use on private property and tracks. There are pocket street bikes, which are outfitted with all the safety equipment that would be necessary - and dealers will sell them to you…but this doesn't mean that you will be allowed to ride the pocket street bike on the street!