- Note the size difference between a pocket bike and a full-size motorcycle
Mini motos are generally powered by a small displacement single-speed two- or four-stroke motor connected to a drive chain to propel the rear wheel. The inexpensive motors used on a typical mini moto is often derived from a motor found on basic yard equipment, such as a weed trimmer or edger, and runs on regular gasoline. Most mini motos are not street legal due to the size of the motorcycle and lack of proper equipment (speedometer, headlights, brake lights). There are a few exceptions, however. - Honda released the Z50 minibike in 1969
In the 1950s, mini bikes are said to have been used by drag racers to travel around the drag strip, earning the "pit bike" nick name. But the mini bike wouldn't gain mass popularity until the 1960s. Honda produced the Trail 50 in 1962, which was powered by a 49cc OHV four-stroke motor and was critical to Honda's early success. Other manufacturers began to appear at this time, such as Bultaco and Rupp Industries, producing minibikes that garnered great acclaim until the late 1970s. - A high-performance pocket bike (courtesy of Piutus)
The pocket rocket, or miniature sport bike, is not a new concept. Honda and Yamaha have both produced high-performance 50cc sport bikes, the NSR 50 and YSR 50, respectively. Both bikes featured 49cc air-cooled two-stroke motor and hydraulic disk brakes. The YSR, however, was completely street legal. These bikes are still active today in smaller racing leagues, but good examples are becoming increasingly harder to find, as are parts supplies.
Most modern pocket rockets don't have the same amenities, as smaller bikes are often powered by motors that may have come off of a lawn edger or chainsaw mated to a centrifugal clutch. Larger bikes can be found with displacements up to 125cc and can be made street-legal in some states. - Mini dirt bikes compromise less performance than their size suggests
Miniature dirt bikes have endured since the 1970s, as Honda's Z50 introduced many youth riders to the dirt. Featuring less compromise in technology than their larger counterparts, smaller dirt bikes are plentiful, with manufacturers big and small contributing to the sport. Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki all have dirt models ranging from 50 to 70cc available. Smaller firms, such as Thumpstar, also have a foothold within the category, introducing young riders to motocross. - Mini racing isn't just for kids
As with larger bikes, racing is part of the mini moto's heart and soul. Racing organizations have sprouted around the world, devoted to sending the smaller breeds ripping around the race track. Mini motocross events have been around for decades with grass-roots racing organizations in almost every town. Aspiring mini road racers can also find venues to compete. The Texas Mini GP Series, a Texas-based mini racing organization, has been hosting races with a wide array of mini bike racers vying for the win.
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