Are Pocket Bikes Legal?

ByAditya kumar

There are high chances that you have seen one of those crazy miniature versions of bikes with a rider wheezing past you on your way over to work. The rider when compared to the bike looks like a giant but it seems like he is riding atop a sort of mini rocket. You wonder are those things are even legal to begin with. Here you will find information regarding the legal use of pocket bikes and what special restrictions apply to them. 

What are pocket bikes?

Pocket bikes most famously known as pocket rockets are small gas-powered or electric-powered bikes. These bikes derive their design from their bigger counterparts and also most of the features. These bikes are generally of around two to three feet high and weigh around 40 to 60 pounds. They come fitted with small engines. The engines are usually of 49cc, 99cc, or 149cc. The typical top speed of a pocket bike is around 40 to 40 miles per hour.   

Are these bikes legal?

There are many municipal and state laws that govern the usage of these pocket bikes. To begin with, some states and municipalities have set restrictions on the use of these pocket bikes on public roads and streets but not on private property. People argue that this is a necessary step because unlike their bigger counterparts these small bikes do not come pre-equipped with turning lights, rear view mirrors, and horns. These equipment are essential for a vehicle to be declared street legal in some states. Also, some states avoid the usage of these street bikes because there are not any options to insure them or get them registered. In states like California and Texas, the usage of these bikes is completely banned. You can not ride them on any streets, sidewalks, trails, or other public properties. The felonies or the charges that you may face if being apprehended while using any pocket bike on road are:

  • Driving an unregistered vehicle

  • Driving without license

  • Driving without insurance

  • Driving a machine that fails to meet the basic equipment standards

There are hefty fines that need to be paid when faced with these charges and more often than not the offender is faced with suspensions and other sorts of penalties. 

While in states like Texas and California riding a pocket rocket is completely illegal some states on the other hand for example new jersey allow the use of pocket bikes but with an age restriction. The minimum eligibility regarding age in new jersey is 12 years. 

To obtain information regarding the restrictions on the pocket bikes in your area you can contact your local law enforcement agency. You can also visit the office of the department of motor vehicles and they will fill you with the details regarding the legal restrictions of riding a pocket bike in your area. 

Dangers of riding pocket bikes:

Pocket bikes are not dangerous. It is all in the rider’s intent and how they handle the machine. For example, despite the use of these bikes being banned in most states people still ride pocket bikes on streets. 

This can be dangerous for the rider. Other drivers might not be able to properly see them and the riders are averse to an accident. The bikes may be smaller in size but they do pack a punch of power in them. This can be quite difficult for other riders. The speed of these bikes also makes the rider prone to serious injuries such as head injuries in case of an accident. Therefore, it is advisable to wear safety gear and helmet irrespective of where you are riding the bike. Make sure that you make this a habit. 

The legal way to determine if your pocket bike is legal:

You can either contact the local law enforcement authority or you can get in touch with an attorney. They will help you to determine the legality of your pocket bike. For more information on pocket bikes click here Venom Motorsports.