Pocket bikes, although not small enough to fit in anyone's pocket, are still pretty tiny. Most models only measure in at about 47 inches long and 18 inches tall, making it easy for someone to carry around under their arms. But, don't be deceived. Just because these babies are small, doesn't mean they aren't fast. Mini bikes can reach speeds from 34 to 45 miles per hour, and some have even broken 50 miles per hour. Believe it or not, these small bikes can reach speeds that exceed the weight of the vehicles themselves!

Lower prices and lower health risks have been probably the two main factors that have contributed to the popularity of pocket bikes. Engine sizes for a typical mini bike ranges from 49ccs to as much as 110 ccs. The latest fad in mini bike production has been the introduction of the mini-chopper. With so many avid fans watching shows like Orange County Choppers and American Choppers, it isn't that hard to see why.

Mini Bike Models: Essentially, there are two main categories of mini bikes. The first is mini bikes designed specifically for children, and the second is mini bikes created with adult riders in mind. Of course, in addition to these models there has also been the introduction of the mini choppers we mentioned earlier which are designed for both children and adults.

Pocket Bike Pricing: Pocket bike prices are very inexpensive. A new model pocket bike can be purchased for as little as $300 or you could pay as much as $1,000. The mini chopper models are currently have a little bit higher of a price tag, but still very reasonable - $500 to $1500. If you decide to save more money by purchasing a used mini bike, be sure to do a little research. In the world of mini bikes, there have been some models that have been recalled for safety reasons. So, don't neglect to do your homework, it might just save your life.

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Mini Bike Fun: Enthusiasts use mini bikes for any number of purposes, but they are typically restricted to off-road riding. While many riders simply use them for a little private outdoor fun, growing numbers of mini bike fans are entering the world of competitive pocket bike racing. While this trend has been prevalent in Europe and Asia for years, it has finally begun to take hold here in the United States. Mini bike races and competitions are often held at local Go-Kart tracks, but before you head out with your bike in hand, you'll definitely want to check and make sure that mini bike riding is permitted. Others have broken into Pitbike racing, a cheaper and safer version of dirt bike races such as Motocross.

Mini Bikes as Motivators Recently, a new use has been found for mini bikes, and its purposes and success might very well surprise you. A YMCA in Washington State has recently come up with a motivation program that has caught on like wildfire, and parents and children both are reaping the rewards. Within this program, children and parents work together to create a contract that leads to certain behaviors. For instance, if Sally isn't getting her homework done, her contract with her parents would probably be to complete all of her homework on time. If Jimmy's bad about breaking his curfew, then this would probably be the contracts main focus. After the contracts are made, children who follow through on their contracts over a specified period of time are rewarded mini bike riding lessons and up to 2 hours per week of riding time. In addition to this, they also receive complete riding gear, including helmets, goggles, gloves, boots, jerseys and durable pants. Kids who successfully fulfill their contract are rewarded by getting to keep their new gear.

The project has been provided in association with the National Youth Project Using Mini Bikes (NYPUM) and has met with great success. Before long, this new method may soon find itself playing out in YMCA's all across the country.
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