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Laws Regarding Pocket Bikes Mini Motorcycles
Do you love riding on a pocket bike? And are thinking of purchasing one but not sure of the laws regarding it? Don’t worry as we are here just for that. These mini bikes offer some adventurous rides but needs to be handled cautiously while keeping in mind the rules and regulations set by law. So, let’s take a look at these laws:
What are Pocket Bikes?
The miniaturized version of full sized motorcycles, Pocket bikes or mini motorcycles were originally designed for motorcycle pit events. However, with mass production and distribution, now they have become a part of mainstream culture. Available in variety of sizes, they come in the ranges of 49cc, 50cc, 110cc, 125cc, 150cc and 250cc as well. The most common are usually two feet high (49cc) and does not weigh more than 60 pounds.
Electric pocket bikes and electric super pocket bikes, we have them available from 500 watts to 2000 watts. These Pocket bikes are sometimes also called rocket bikes, mini motors, pocket rockets or mini bikes.
Pocket bikes are fun to ride and give an adventurous experience. However, there are a few concerns with them.
- Despite having small size, a few of these bikes can reach high speeds as fast as 50 miles per hour or more. Most of these bikes are equipped with 49cc engine and a lot higher. And this makes them dangerous for not only the operator but other vehicles as well.
- Given their small size, it can be difficult for other motorists to see them on the roads. Custom pocket bikes often lack the typical safety equipments such as visibility reflectors, turn signals, brake lights etc. that are extremely important for safety reasons. Due to these reasons, the use of these pocket bikes have been restricted on public roads.
Is it legal to ride them?
There is no uniform law for Pocket bikes, every state has different laws regarding their use. In some local municipalities and states, riding a pocket bike on streets, public roads, highways or trails is illegal. In these states, pocket bikes can only be driven on designated outdoor field or other privately owned lands as in racetracks. California and Texas are such states that limits the use of pocket bikes only on private property.
In other states, the operation of pocket bikes is allowed but have been bound by rules and regulations. For instance, in the state of New Jersey, only a person over the age of 12 years can ride a pocket bike.
In order to find out if using a pocket bike is legal in your area, check it with your DMV or Department of Motor Vehicles. You can see if they allow these minibikes to be registered with the state. If the registration is not allowed, it is probably illegal to drive them in your particular area.
In case DMV allows the registration of pocket bikes, get it registered before using it. This is far more common for the larger versions such as super pocket bikes. The Super Pocket Bikes are often referred to as Motorcycles. Moreover, check to see if there are other restrictions with its usage. For instance, in few states, it is required for all motorcycle seats to be at least 25 inches off the ground. Also, you may require to equip your mini bike with all the standard equipments.
So, if you aren’t sure about the use of pocket bikes in your area, check with DMV or consult with an attorney for the same.
What are the penalties for violating the law?
The most common and likely offence with pocket bikes is operating an unregistered vehicle. The illegal operation can range anything from a misdemeanor to as simple as a traffic violation. Depending upon the jurisdiction, such acts could lead to:
- Fines
- Confiscation of Pocket Bike
- Suspension or Loss of Driving privilege
- Jail Time
Moreover, your vehicle can also be subjected to traffic violations such as not having headlights, lack of taillights etc., if your vehicle fails to meet safety specifications. Also, being associated with stunts, police can issue a reckless driving citation.
Do I need a lawyer?
If you receive a citation regarding the use of a pocket bike, it would be a smart decision to contact an attorney, more so if the charges are criminal misdemeanor. Make sure before operating a pocket bike or doing any modifications, consult with an attorney or DMV to know the specific laws in your area.
So, make sure to follow the rules and regulations when operating a pocket bike to enjoy a issue free and safe ride! If you are looking for purchasing a pocket bike, get in touch with us today!