Ever noticed motorists riding mini motorcycles on streets? Riders who choose the eco-friendly and fun modes of transportation go for mini motorcycles. After knowing this you may have doubts that Is a mini motorcycle street legal? Each state will have its regulations and rules on the mini motorcycle operation.
What are Mini Motorcycles?
Mini motorcycles are nothing but pocket bikes that are smaller than the standard motorcycles. Standard mini motorcycles are about 50lbs in weight and two feet in height. The typical pocket bike has a 40cc engine. Some of them are as powerful as 120cc and speed up to 50mph. These can be either electric-powered or gas. Gas-powered motorcycles generally allow travelling at higher speeds than running on electricity.
Following are the best mini motorcycles
- Massimo Mini Motorcycle 200, 196CC
- Taotao DB10 110CC Mini Bike
- Apollo Jumpfun sedna 16 electric dirt bike
- RPS Falcon 200CC Mini Bike
Is driving a Pocket Bike Legal?
The answer to this is, a mini motorcycle street legal is that it depends on the local jurisdiction and state you are in. States like California and Texas, ban pocket bikes on highways, sidewalks, public roads etc. For example, in the state of Nevada, pocket bikes are used as recreational vehicles which are allowed on public roads as equipped with specific safety features:
- Mirrors
- Brake Lights
- Horn
- Headlights
- Turn Signals
Other limitations like minimum age, legal operations are also considered. Inquire with the state department or law enforcement to find the specific regulations in operating a mini motorcycle.
Consequences for Violation Street laws of mini motorcycle
The main consequences for violating street laws are as follows:
- Seizing of your pocket bike
- Jail Imprisonment
- Traffic fines for driving without the license
- Driving License Suspension
- Insurance Premiums Increase
Important Aspects of Mini Motorcycle
Headlights:
Make sure that your bike has proper headlights and functional high and low beam functionality. Front Indicators should be visible to the on-comers, so the beam must be calibrated properly.
Indicators:
Turn signals are really important for vehicles on road. Make sure you purchase the mini motorcycle which meets DOT specifications.
Horn:
Make sure the mini dirt bike must be fitted with a horn. In some of the states, you need to fit an electronic horn which means the threshold requirements.
Rearview mirror:
Like any other vehicle, mini bikes must also have rearview mirrors to check the traffic coming from all directions. Ensure that you install mirrors in the exact positions to maximize visibility.
For additional specifications of mini motorcycles, you must visit the Dot website. While mini motorcycles look like fun and eco-friendly toys and are quite powerful. Start your ride today with an initial legal evaluation from a liability attorney.