Pocket Bike Racing

Pocket bike racing, also called Minimoto racing, is racing using smaller versions of full size racing motorbikes, called pocket bikes. Pocket bike races usually use go kart tracks. It is a sport that is very popular in Europe and Japan, and is becoming increasingly popular in many other countries, especially in North America.

A typical pocket bike is approximately a fourth the size of a normal motorcycle, with an engine which is about 50 cubic centimetres outputting somewhere between 3 and 15 horsepower, depending on the particular model. Pocket bikes do not have a suspension but instead rely on any bumps being absorbed by the tires. Most weigh approximately 40 pounds. Models designed for beginners often output in the region of 3 to 4 horsepower, although more expensive models can be much more powerful. The ideal racing pocket bikes have a very favorable power-to-weight ratio. Speed and acceleration can be enhanced by special modifications. Despite their miniature size, both adults and children can reach speeds of at least 55 mph in organized racing leagues.

Because they are small pocket bikes are easy to transport, and they are cheap to buy which increases their appeal for both adults and children. The lowest cost pocket bikes imported from China start at as low as $250 for a fairly basic model, while prices can be as high as $6000 for the best Italian manufactured pocket bike. Children from around six or seven can become skilled at the basics about motorcycle racing while adults are able to experience all the excitement of bike racing without the huge costs and danger involved in regular full size motorcycle racing.