Asian Pocket Bikes

Pocket bikes, the minuscule versions of motorbikes, are a major craze nowadays. These bikes are small and light enough to carry under the arm, but big enough for a child to ride. One can find models for children as young as three or four years old. They are cheap, at just over $500, and accelerate quickly to speeds of 55 km/h and faster.

The pocket bikes are not “street legal,” as they do not have VIN numbers and do not have to meet the safety requirements of a motorcycle. As they are quite small in appearance, other motorists may not see them. The riders do not need to possess a license and generally do not wear the suitable protective gear. Mostly, these pocket bikes are run off road and in by lanes. A pocket bike can cause danger to the person who lacks the fine motor skills that are very essential for very precise throttle control.

The pocket bikes come with a forty to forty-nine-cc size engine, and they continue up to 110cc engine. The Honda CRF50 has become a standard in pocket bikes. The rate of speed possible on a pocket bike is breathtaking. There are strong chances of getting hurt if you are not careful while driving it. These bikes make a lot of noise and can be disturbing to neighbors and others. Many other brands of bikes are also available in the market.

An entire industry has sprouted around the modern-day pocket bikes. As a result, pocket bike owners have an array of choices available to them for customizing their pocket bikes with parts and accessories unique for each pocket bike.

e-PocketBikes.com Pocket Bikes provides detailed information on Pocket Bikes, Mini Pocket Bikes, Cheap Pocketbike, Pocket Bike Parts and more. Pocket Bikes is affiliated with i-MountainBikes.com Mountain Bike Parts.

  

Eliza Wiley, Associated Press

Trevor Swanson, 6, takes a closer look at a kids’ minibike on the showroom floor at Helena Cycle Center in Helena, Mont.

Federal regulations put in place to protect kids from lead in toys have sellers pulling mini-ATVs and dirt bikes designed for youths from their showrooms.

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Ron Stipcich 

Les salons ont ceci de passionnant que l’on y trouve toujours le moyen de s’émerveiller au détour d’une allée. En voici un nouvel exemple avec le stand Rider Concept présent aux dernières JPMS. Bien en évidence, deux pit bike exhibent de magnifiques cadres alu, généreusement ajourés et directement taillés dans la masse. L’un est disponible à la vente, l’autre encore au stade de prototype.

Almir, le boss de Rider Concept : “Aujourd’hui, on trouve nettement moins de pit bike de mauvaise qualité et les prix commencent aux alentours des 1 000 €.”

Le pit bike sur la voie de la respectabilité

Rider Concept est bien sûr un des acteurs majeurs du genre et fait régulièrement l’actu dans les revues spécialisées. Pourtant, difficile de connaître exactement l’ampleur du marché du pit bike (et/ou de la minimoto), estimé selon les assureurs à quelques milliers d’unités et par les éditeurs aux alentours des 20 000 unités vendues par an. Almir Lekovic, le boss de Rider Concept, a vu évoluer la catégorie au gré de l’arrivée des produits chinois, de l’avènement des boutiques en ligne sur internet… et des dernières réglementations : “En 2006, les magasins vendaient des dizaines de pit bike tous les jours, on en trouvait pour à peine 400 € en provenance directe de Chine. Mais aujourd’hui, les Douanes ont freiné les importations et les volumes ont beaucoup baissé. Les gens ne peuvent plus rouler et il n’y a pas de terrain. Les utilisateurs se font “allumer” partout, d’autant que les médias ont largement contribué à la mauvaise image de ce type de deux roues à cause des évènements dans les banlieues…”

Le pit bike Gunshot CNC 160 est doté d’un magnifique cadre alu type CRF, d’une fourche avec traitement anti friction et d’un amortisseur DNM tous deux réglables. Son moteur GS 160 cm3 4 temps fournit 17 ch. pour un poids total de 65 kg. Il coûte 1 990 €.

Moins de pit bike mais plus de passionnés

Dans ce contexte, les dernières réglementations prévoyant entre autres l’immatriculation des mini motos, pit bike et autres motos de cross va sans aucun doute influencer le marché. “Si les revendeurs doivent passer plus de temps pour les vendre en raison des contraintes administratives, on peut imaginer que cela risque de les démotiver alors qu’ils font déjà peu de marge sur ces véhicules” constate Almir, et de conclure : “A terme, le pit bike va devenir marginal, mais il va progresser en qualité et s’adresser en même temps à des gens de plus en plus passionnés.” Un moindre mal ?

Lors des JPMS 09, Rider Concept présentait aussi ce prototype de cadre pit bike en alu taillé dans la masse… Miam !

Vos réactions sur ce su

Moto Gp 2009. Tutti i pezzi

E’ il 16 febbraio del 1979 quando a Urbino nasce Valentino, figlio del pilota di motociclismo Graziano Rossi, terzo nel mondiale 250 del ’79 alla guida di una Morbidelli, e di Stefania Palma. Dopo pochi mesi dalla nascita la sua famiglia si sposta a Tavullia, piccolo centro del pesarese dove il futuro figlio d’arte ha modo di compiere i primi passi nel mondo motoristico partecipando alle prime gare di kart con la supervisione del padre Graziano. Si dimostra fin da subito in grado di padroneggiare istintivamente il mezzo e, a soli undici anni, il 25 aprile 1990 Valentino Rossi vince la sua prima gara di go-kart. In seguito è la volta delle minimoto, con le quali prende la prima licenza da pilota come corridore del Moto Club Cattolica, storico sodalizio attivo dal 1948, e gareggia nelle corse disputate sulla pista Motorpark della cittadina romagnola. Del ’92, a soli tredici anni, è la sua prima volta con una moto 125, l’Aprilia Futura, esperienza replicata l’anno successivo a Magione con l’esordio nel campionato Sport Production, in sella ad una Cagiva e con Claudio Lusuardi come responsabile tecnico. Il suo talento e la sua sensibilità innati hanno poi modo di affinarsi ulteriormente grazie alla doppia partecipazione nei campionati GP italiani e Sport Production della stagione 1994, il secondo dei quali lo vide vincitore con la sua Cagiva numero 26, malgrado la concorrenza di futuri piloti del Motomondiale come Roberto Rolfo, Ivan Goi e Gino Borsoi. Frattanto matura esperienza nel campionato GP, esperienza che metterà a frutto l’annata seguente conquistando il suo primo titolo italiano della categoria, a un’età di sedici anni che lo rende il più giovane vincitore della storia. Lo stesso anno termina al terzo posto il campionato europeo della 125, sempre alla guida della Cagiva: ormai i tempi sono maturi per esordire nel Motomondiale.

Il 1996 è l’anno del suo debutto iridato nella classe 125, in sella all’Aprilia della scuderia AGV; si tratta di una prima stagione tra i “grandi” promettente, conclusa al nono posto in classifica e arricchita dalla combinazione pole position più vittoria al Gran Premio della Repubblica Ceca a Brno. Suo, ma solo per qualche giorno, è il record del più giovane pilota a conquistare una gara nel mondiale 125. Il numero sulla carena della moto, nel frattempo, è cambiato: dal 26 del campionato Sport Production passa al 46, “ereditato” dal padre Graziano e che diverrà il suo portafortuna. Le qualità dimostrate nel corso delle quindici gare del calendario e la possibilità di migliorare ulteriormente convincono il team ufficiale Aprilia ad affidargli una delle due RS 125 preparate per il campionato 1997. Le attenzioni della scuderia di Noale vengono ripagate con gli interessi dal diciottenne Rossi, il quale, al termine di una stagione conclusa con undici vittorie su quindici gp disputati, porterà a casa il suo primo titolo iridato con ben 321 punti finali. Ma i suoi successi non si limitano solo all’ambito sportivo. Valentino esplode infatti come fenomeno mediatico grazie alla sua capacità di accattivarsi i favori del pubblico attraverso festeggiamenti spettacolari e travestimenti ironici come Robin Hood, il gladiatore o Superman, oltre al giro di pista con la bambola gonfiabile denominata “Claudia Skiffer”, scherzosa allusione alla relazione di quel periodo tra Max Biaggi e Naomi Campbell. Dopo aver stracciato ampiamente la concorrenza, “Rossifumi”, così viene chiamato per l’ammirazione che ha nei confronti del pilota giapponese Norifumi Abe, decide di porsi nuovi obiettivi e passa alla categoria superiore, la 250.

Esordisce così nella quarto di litro, in sella all’Aprilia 250 del “mega team” ufficiale della casa veneta, diretto da Rossano Brazzi e comprendente oltre a lui il giapponese Tetsuya Harada e l’italiano Loris Capirossi, entrambi concorrenti per il titolo iridato. La prima annata di Rossi nella classe intermedia è caratterizzata da un progressivo miglioramento tradottosi in un escalation di ottimi risultati culminati nelle quattro vittorie consecutive con le quali conclude la stagione, giungendo secondo dietro a Capirossi, laureatosi campione del mondo. Cinque successi sono il bottino di questo primo campionato, preludio ad un trionfale Mondiale 1999. Valentino infatti demolisce letteralmente gli avversari conseguendo ben nove vittorie su sedici gran premi disputati e conquistando il suo secondo titolo mondiale dopo quello di due anni prima in 125. Per Okada e Capirossi, suoi avversari nella lotta all’iride, non c’è nulla da fare con un Rossi davvero imprendibile. Aggiudicatosi anche l’alloro in 250, il centauro pesarese decide, così come due anni prima, di confrontarsi con nuovi avversari e di intraprendere la sfida della classe regina. Nuova categoria, nuova squadra: Rossi abbandona infatti l’Aprilia e sul finire del ’99 firma con la Honda per il posto di primo pilota della scuderia ufficiale HRC per il 2000. Nonostante i diversi errori commessi durante tutta la stagione, frutto di inesperienza e a volte anche di eccessiva irruenza, Valentino riesce a concludere la stagione al secondo posto dietro al campione del mondo Kenny Roberts in sella alla Suzuki. Ad insaporire una prima annata più che positiva, arrivano anche due vittorie, la prima conseguita a Donington, circuito tra i più amati dal pilota di Tavullia, la seconda in Brasile, a Rio de Janeiro. La stagione seguente è l’ultima prevista per la 500, che sarà sostituita dalla MotoGp a partire dal 2002; una motivazione in più per Rossi a far bene e cercare di laurearsi campione nella categoria ritenuta da tutti come la più difficile. Il pesarese non delude le aspettative: puntuale arriva il terzo titolo mondiale, scandito da undici successi in sedici gare, segno inequivocabile di un dominio assoluto, forte di un’accoppiata moto-pilota pressoché senza rivali. Il totale dei punti conquistati è 325, 106 in più dello storico avversario Max Biaggi su Yamaha.

Ed è proprio questo l’anno in cui la rivalità tra i due raggiunge l’apice: nel primo gp della stagione, in Giappone, un tentativo di sorpasso di Vale su Biaggi neutralizzato dal romano grazie ad un gomito un po’ troppo largo provoca, nel giro successivo, un irruente attacco vincente di Rossi conclusosi con il dito medio alzato verso il pilota Yamaha. Ancora, il 17 giugno, al termine della gara di Barcellona, un contatto tra Biaggi e il manager di Valentino Gibo Badioli mentre il primo percorreva il ristretto passaggio per accedere al podio, scatenò ripetuti insulti tra i due centauri, separati prima che potessero arrivare allo scontro fisico. In entrambe le occasioni la Federazione Motociclistica Italiana (FMI) minacciò sanzioni, senza però arrivare a prendere misure contro i piloti coinvolti. Negli anni seguenti altri episodi contribuirono a rinfocolare la tensione fra i due, come quanto accadde al termine della vittoria a Donington di Rossi nel 2002, con Biaggi che arriva quasi a sfiorare il pesarese pochi metri dopo il traguardo, nella foga di difendere il secondo posto dagli attacchi di Barros. Ancora nel 2004 e nel 2005 la possibilità per il pilota romano di sfruttare moto più competitive rispetto al passato lo portò a duellare spesso con Valentino, purtroppo per lui senza riuscire a mettersi dietro nella classifica finale il motociclista di Tavullia. Insomma, una querelle che sembra non finire neanche oggi che i due corrono in campionati diversi (Biaggi è approdato infatti da due stagioni in Superbike), tanto che nel 2007 il “Corsaro” ha definito “da ridere” le polemiche di Rossi verso Toni Elias che lo aveva toccato nel Gp di Turchia, ricordando i precedenti contatti “sospetti” tra lo stesso Rossi e Gibernau a Jerez nel 2005.

Nonostante le polemiche e i veleni di quello che i quotidiani stranieri hanno definito lo “Spaghetti Duel”, Valentino prosegue imperterrito a mietere successi, per niente spaventato dall’introduzione della nuova classe, grazie soprattutto alla preparazione svolta in casa Honda negli anni precedenti alla novità MotoGp. Il 2002 lo vede quindi riconfermarsi campione, forte di undici trionfi di cui otto nelle prime nove gare e del totale-record di 355 punti, ben 140 in più del rivale Biaggi. Stesso copione nel 2003, con una supremazia resa meno schiacciante forse solo dall’ottimo campionato del nuovo avversario Sete Gibernau, distanziato comunque di ottanta lunghezze in classifica, 357 a 277. Un campionato “monstre” per Rossi, che nelle sedici corse previste dal calendario non scende mai dal podio, portando a casa nove vittorie, cinque secondi posti e due terzi posti. Al termine della stagione, però, le diverse incomprensioni con la Honda e la voglia di tentare nuove sfide lo portano al divorzio dalla team nipponico, per accasarsi alla rivale Yamaha. La scelta, biasimata da molti data l’inferiorità tecnica della moto della Casa dei tre diapason, si rivela invece azzeccata per Valentino, il quale dimostra ancora una volta la sua classe andando a vincere il suo quarto titolo mondiale consecutivo nella classe regina, il sesto in assoluto, ancora una volta davanti a Sete Gibernau, staccato di quasi cinquanta punti. Grazie anche all’aiuto di un team Yamaha motivato ed arricchito da elementi chiave dell’HRC (tra cui il capotecnico Jeremy Burgess), Rossi sembrava rispondere con i fatti alla domanda se contassero maggiormente le qualità della moto o del pilota nel conseguire il successo finale. La risposta veniva poi ripetuta con un dominio ancora più netto nel 2005, con il pesarese campione del mondo addirittura con quattro gare di anticipo e con 367 punti totali, 147 in più del secondo, il talentuoso Marco Melandri su Honda. Ancora una volta le vittorie erano undici, con tre piazzamenti al secondo posto e due al terzo, oltre ad un ritiro in Giappone. La scommessa Yamaha era dunque vinta, ed in virtù di ciò il 2 agosto 2005 Valentino firmò il rinnovo con il team giapponese anche per il 2006, mettendo a tacere le voci di un possibile passaggio in Ducati o in Formula 1 al volante della Ferrari.

Le premesse della stagione 2006 sembravano far pensare ad un ennesimo successo del Dottore, ma la straordinaria continuità di rendimento dell’americano Nicky Hayden su Honda e l’altalena di risultati del pesarese sembrano far pendere la bilancia a favore del primo, in testa alla classifica con 51 punti a sei gare dal termine, situazione che sembra non lasciare speranze al centauro italiano. A questo punto Rossi mette in atto una delle sue più splendide rimonte, collezionando una vittoria, tre secondi posti e un terzo posto che lo portano al comando con otto lunghezze di vantaggio sullo statunitense, a un gran premio dalla conclusione. Conquista la pole position del Gran Premio della Comunità Valenciana, ma una partenza sbagliata e il successivo tentativo di riprendere terreno lo portano a forzare un po’ troppo e a cadere, riuscendo comunque a risollevarsi e a concludere la gara al tredicesimo posto. Troppo poco per il Mondiale: Hayden, grazie al terzo posto alle spalle di Bayliss e Capirossi, conquista il suo primo titolo iridato. Finisce così il “quinquennio felice” di Rossi, il quale tuttavia è pronto a dare battaglia per l’alloro 2007.
Quello con cui però il Dottore non ha fatto i conti, sono i miglioramenti della Ducati e del suo giovane pilota, l’australiano Casey Stoner, il quale comincia fin dall’inizio della stagione 2007 a dettare il suo ritmo: vince tre delle prime quattro gare e si aggiudica dieci gp su un totale di diciotto disputati. Per Rossi e una Yamaha svantaggiata, secondo il pesarese, anche dalla diversità di rendimento tra i pneumatici Bridgestone montati da Stoner e i suoi Michelin, non c’è proprio niente da fare. Valentino riesce comunque a vincere quattro gare e ad arrivare tre volte secondo, ma sul suo terzo posto finale (dietro anche a Pedrosa) e sul distacco di 126 lunghezze dall’australiano pesano soprattutto due ritiri e in generale prestazioni diverse volte non convincenti. Il 23 settembre Stoner si laurea così campione del mondo, sancendo il secondo anno di digiuno del Dottore dopo i cinque allori iridati conquistati dal 2001 al 2005. Come se non bastassero le difficoltà sportive, emergono nel 2007 anche le inadempienze di Rossi verso il Fisco italiano, le quali ammontano a 43,7 milioni di euro, cifra che, considerate le sanzioni e gli interessi da pagare, arriva a 112 milioni da versare nelle casse dell’erario. Tale mancanza è dovuta alla dichiarazione Irpef con reddito inferiore a quello reale, riguardante gli anni 2000-2004, a quella Irap ed Iva del 2000 e alla mancata dichiarazione Irap ed Iva degli anni dal 2001 al 2005; a tale accusa Rossi si difende dichiarando di aver pagato le imposte del Regno Unito, dove è fissata ufficialmente la sua residenza. La vicenda si conclude comunque con l’accordo tra il pilota e l’Agenzia delle Entrate ed il patteggiamento di 19 milioni di euro per il 2004 e 16 milioni per il 2005, riguardante gli introiti del periodo ed i mancati versamenti.

Messa la parola fine alla disavventura economica, Rossi torna carico di motivazioni per il 2008, determinato a riprendersi il trono della MotoGp. A tale scopo, decide di cambiare fornitore di gomme adottando anche lui le Bridgestone vincitrici del Mondiale con Stoner l’anno precedente ed abbandonando così le Michelin. Stando al primo Gp del 2008 in Qatar le cose sembrano essere rimaste immutate rispetto al 2007, con il centauro australiano che taglia per primo il traguardo della gara di Doha, proprio davanti a Rossi. I due successivi gran premi non arridono ancora al pesarese, che vede trionfare prima Pedrosa a Jerez ed in seguito il proprio compagno di squadra Lorenzo all’Estoril. Il ritorno alla vittoria di Valentino arriva finalmente nel Gp di Cina, a cui seguono altre due vittorie in Francia e nel Gran Premio d’Italia al Mugello. Dopo un altro successo di Pedrosa, Stoner risponde con tre trionfi di fila, ma il Dottore non molla la presa e a Laguna Seca, nel Gp degli USA, sferra l’attacco decisivo per la conquista del titolo: al termine di un testa a testa impressionante fatto di mosse forse anche oltre il limite del regolamento, Vale conquista il suo quarto gran premio della stagione, rafforzando la sua leadership nella classifica iridata. Nelle due gare successive a Brno e a Misano la storia non cambia, con Stoner ad uscire di pista e a perdere punti preziosi, gli stessi punti che Rossi porta a casa aumentando progressivamente il suo vantaggio. Dopo una nuova vittoria del pilota di Tavullia ad Indianapolis con la quale supera Giacomo Agostini nel computo delle vittorie nella classe regina (69), si arriva così a Motegi, dove con un primo posto ottenuto davanti al rivale, Vale conquista il suo ottavo titolo mondiale, il sesto nella massima categoria del Motomondiale.
E’ il 28 settembre 2008, e Valentino Rossi entra di nuovo nella leggenda.

Pocket sized and petite, these two words best describe pocket bikes. These bikes are magnificent mini road crackers. Built with aluminum steel frame, the bike provides great fun and entertainment to all enthusiastic riders. Pocket bicycles offer minimum speed and velocity on road and thus they can simply be termed as rocket racers on road. However, a lot depends on the size and weight of the individual riding the bike. The less the weight of the rider the faster the bike will move.

The inside story

When opting a suitable pocket bicycle, it is always better that you gather some information before you put your feet on the brakes. A perfect choice is the first way to maximum biking pleasure. Pocket bicycles run on both gas and electricity. The bike that runs on gas is comparatively cheap because they utilize negligible gas for their whole day movement.

Apart from being cheap, the pocket bicycles powered by gas run faster than the others do for they can easily catch up with speed and move forth with tremendous force and swiftness. The bikes on gas run on batteries, which need to be charged as per necessity.

A pocket bike running on electricity is specifically ideal for the smaller ones, and you can shop a pocket bike in both departmental and motorcycle shops.

Things to consider before going for a perfect pocket ride

1. The purpose of using the bike

2. The person for whom the bike is to purchased

3. The place where you live

4. Which model of the bike will be most suited to your purpose

Once you have purchased the bike then with a little care and attention, the bike will serve you for many years.

Check the power and potential of the pocket bike type you opt to purchase. Do it yourself for no one else can choose the perfect riding partner for you. In such matters, instincts do speak at times.

You must be sure about the robustness of the bike because durability of the mechanism definitely matters. Make sure to buy the bike from a reputed store and check the return policy offered by the dealer.

Safety

When riding a pocket bicycle it is better to be extra careful and cautious on road. This is mainly for the speed the bike imparts. While riding, be sure to wear safety equipments like helmets, elbow pads, kneepads, gloves and shoes.

In many cases, adults make use of pockets for racing purposes. Such races should take place in safe and secluded areas where the bikers have less chances of being injured. Never ride a pocket bike in heavy traffic areas.

Maintenance and storage

When you purchase a bike, you will definitely want it to last for long. Maintenance is the key word, which keeps a bike alive for several years to come. For this, you only need to have a regular replacement of the worn out parts of the bike. This is the best way to empower your bike for an effective output.

Storing a pocket bike is not at all a problem as it can be well fitted in one particular corner of the room. A proper storage is essential as several weather conditions can cause much damage to the material with which the bike is constructed. Therefore, select a safe place for your bike and get rid of unnecessary tension.

A Pocket bike is a great way to ride and enjoy. When compared to other contemporary models, the pocket stands out to be the best and the most outstanding.

Motorbikes greatly captivate the youth and entice them to great extend. Many of you love bikes and have a passion for them as now days there are various types of bikes available in market. All these bikes come with enhanced features and have good styles that match your personality. But for many of you buying a motorbike just remains a dream as the insufficiency of funds may pose a problem. But motorbike loans extend a financial relief to bike lovers by providing adequate financial help to you.

Motorbike loans can be entailed in tow forms secured and unsecured. Secured motorbike loans are an option for those homeowners who can pledge their house, car or valuable documents as collateral against the loan amount. The advantage of secured motorbike loans is that you can raise huge loan amount and they carry flexible terms. Moreover you can grab the funds at low and affordable rates of interest.

Whereas, those homeowners and non homeowners who don’t wish to pledge or have nothing to offer as collateral can easily apply for unsecured motorbike loans. These loans offer a small loan amount and carry relatively higher rates of interest. Unsecured loans are quickly approved as there is less of paperwork involved and no property evaluation is required. Through these loans you can easily borrow a required sum of money suiting your financial needs and repay by making monthly installments.

Motorbike loans can be taken up to buy a brand new car or an old one that fits your pocket. You can purchase a bike of any brand, make or model. But in case of used bikes remember that motorbike you intend to purchase should not be more than 5 years old.

You can apply for motorbike loans through banks and even online. The online medium is faster and quite conveniently. You can apply by completing a simple form. A good market research can help your fetch a lower and lucrative deal easily for yourself.

NUNEATON’S young people are being given the opportunity to learn how to ride mini-motos safely and legally.

A scheme has been set up by Warwickshire County Council, Warwickshire Police and the Auto Cycle Union to help reduce the amount of illegal and anti-social use of mini-motos and give riders a better understanding of the equipment.

The first event takes place at the Warwickshire Opportunities Centre on the Pool Road Industrial Estate, Camp Hill, on February 18 (11am -1pm).

Young people aged between six and 16 are invited to ride around a specially laid-out track.

They will need to take along a mini-moto bike that is in good working order and must wear appropriate clothing including helmet, jacket, gloves, long trousers and sturdy shoes.

They must also be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If the project generates sufficient interest, a new club will be formed that will hold regular events.

The initiative is based on a model developed by the Rugby-based ACU, the national governing body for motorcycle racing in the United Kingdom, who have similar projects across the country.

A federal prohibition on the sales of new and used mini dirt bikes has impacted every original equipment manufacturer (OEM), dealership and repair facility for 85cc, 70cc, 65cc and 50cc displacement mini bikes.

This targets an entire industry of age 12-and-under motorized recreationalists that accounts for a conservative number of 50,000 young athletes nationwide.

The Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) introduced a broad sweeping stay (prohibition) with the Feb. 10 release of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, which impacts a large spectrum of the economy, not just mini bikes.

The intent of the act is to protect children from ingesting harmful substances (lead) or dangerous product designs that can cause harm from everyday consumer goods like cribs, window blinds, bicycles and common toys.

In the CPSIA language, certain parts of a mini bike may contain lead in excess of 600ppm (parts per million). Specifically in the mini bike: valve stems, sparkplugs and rarely applied battery terminals in vehicles with electric starts or lights.

Many dealers reported having only a 10-day notice from their OEMs to pull all of the 19 listed mini bike and mini quad models off their showroom floors.

In a blanket statement to their contracted dealers, “Do not sell.”

That notice included all replacement parts necessary for maintenance and repair that applies as a (cataloged) component application for each mini bike model. No exceptions; zero sales.

To put that into writing for basic public understanding: frequently worn and replaced parts such as tires, tubes, grips, levers, gaskets, brake pads, chains, springs, cables, fork seals and body plastic are just the top of the heap of every conceivable component banned for distribution or sale.

This includes safety gear and aftermarket accessories designed for specific models.

Local dealers’ perspective

R.J. Savage, owner of All American KTM in Ramona, stated, “Two weeks ago my OEM sent me a very gray document. I believe the OEMs were not aware this was coming down the pipe.”

Savage sighed, “It said all two-wheeled 85cc and below mini bikes, and the 90cc Polaris four-wheeled quads, must be pulled from the showroom floor.

“The Polaris have to await a sticker kit to be delivered to put on the little machines stating that only kids 13 years old and older can legally ride the 90cc quads. Then they can go back out on the sales floor.

“Shortly after that, KTM sent me a notice to pull all youth [safety] gear. I pulled helmets, boots, goggles, gloves, pants and knee guards off the showroom floor.

“Yeah, that’s really looking out for children’s safety, ’cause all that gear has to be tested for lead too?

“We’re a small boutique dealer. Over 400 families nationwide race out of this store. No more donations and helping out the Risk Safety Foundation or the volunteer education, outreach and community fundraising efforts of the Fire Police MX Team we support.

“The problem is my business is down 70 percent year to date over this time last year. Now the federal government is taking away an additional 40 percent of my revenue that’s directly mini market-related? I’m done.

“The MX industry is getting completely disassembled. I have $200,000 in inventory that I can’t sell and I’m paying interest on $180,000 of that.

“I know I’m not the only one. This is a national travesty. The burden of layoffs is next.”

Jeremy Howe, the sales manager of Callaway Motorsports in downtown Riverside, received his first “Do not sell” notice from one of the OEMs three weeks ago.

“At this time [Feb. 11] it seems nothing is being done,” he said. “[The CPSC] don’t seem to want to correct the problem.

“They’re being counterproductive to what they’re trying to do. They seem so destined to get our youth off of off-highway vehicles. It’s insane. It’s un-American.

“I understand the intent to protect children from lead poisoning grossly painted on general consumer products. That’s fine. I’m all for that protection where it’s been an issue by acceptable definition and public concern.

“But to paralyze an industry where there’s never been an issue? What the heck?

“The problem is [the CPSC] have absolutely no definition about what an ‘accessible component’ is. What is readily accessible for a child to remove in a sealed compartment and ingest is definitely a ‘No list, no law.’ They couldn’t even get that definition down.

“My other question is this stay notice. In my opinion, how was it voted on? From my understanding a committee member and an acting chair may have produced this stay in private. I’m not sure. I want to know. Something doesn’t seem right about that.

“In another one of my opinions, I question the timeline. While there is absolute strife in this economy, [businesses] should be encouraged to operate, not be further restricted.

“On a global perspective, I can only imagine other countries looking at our government entities and saying, ‘What a bunch of retards.’ Blunders and problems need to go away. This is embarrassing for our nation.

“My biggest concern is facing the parents who still want their children to ride by purchasing [in protest] 200cc and 125cc bikes.

“Is safety really a concern on the big agenda? Yes, it is. Now more so than ever it really, really is. [The CPSC] have no idea [about the industry].”

Corona Motorsports general manager Gus Ysatsa was calmly hopeful.

“I’m optimistic that this will heal itself,” he stated. “With the unintended consequences forced on the industry I’m sure our industry leaders can help repair this matter. At our [retail] level we can’t do anything. The OEMs are strapped [by the government commissions]. So are we.

“Forty percent of our business comes from the families supporting the mini bike kids’ industry. I now have $100,000 in inventory in storage that we’re paying interest on. Not good.”

Temecula Motorsports, a leader in local area powersports with a reputation for community outreach and support, voiced concern through its new owner, Jerry Gilding.

“At the end of the day – and I’m not saying this lightly – I believe that we have enough logical people to turn this around.

“It’s affecting my business dramatically. Nobody’s happy about this,” he concluded.

Adult mini bike market

Jimmy Gallegos, manager of aftermarket manufacturer Sano Systems, based in Murrieta, explained, “Our specialty mini bike aftermarket parts are specifically designed and sold to the adult market to adapt to the size and physical needs of our customers.

“[CPSC is] pulling the roots of the sport right out of the ground. The kids [riding] today grow up to be our customers.

“We’ve had a chance to discuss this matter with Red Baron Racing and BBR Motorsports, also very reputable leaders in the professional racing and adult mini bike market. Our roundtable discussion concluded that we’d fight this absurdity.

“This is absolutely crippling for the economy. It’s going to take away more jobs. In a technical sense our technology is taking a big hit by false expectations appearing real in [the CPSC] world.

“It’s almost like [the CSPC] just sat around yelling out random items to add to a checklist without thinking or caring about the consequences.”

None of the dealerships interviewed in this story had any documents stating the CPSCIA stay order from the federal commission or any related officiating agency, office director or staff.

On the race front

Greg Robinson, vice president of marketing for Unadilla MX Park in upstate New York, had some grim news to share with his customers.

“We received a directive from Yamaha issuing a recommendation standard,” he said. “We’ve considered complying a with a new age restriction on our entire amateur racing series by raising the age limit to 13 years old for entries. We haven’t adjusted anything as of yet.

“The concern could be a huge liability for: a) the industry and b) our insurance. Right now we’ve got to look at the whole scope of this and factor in the least common denominators.

“Since we’re connected with factory sponsorships and contingencies we’d be crazy to drop a [race] gate on anybody under the age of 13 where they could be ‘potentially exposed to traces of lead’ deemed under the federal regulation.

“Unadilla hosts seven events with three major amateur races: the American Motorcycle Association MX Nationals with 1,200 entries, All Terrain Vehicle Association Pro ATV Series with 600 entries and Grand National Cross Country series that varies between 1,500 and 1,800 entries.

“The kids made for one-third of our entire entries, which equaled exactly one-half of our spectator attendance in additional family members.

“In the ripple of the effect you lose. Without amateur racing there is no series. We lose a whole generation out of the sport, a whole demographic.

“The sad part for me, in mid-January I had never heard of this. Three or four days ago we’re in this position of canceling everything. This is definitely the tail wagging the dog.

“We’re 20 minutes away from Cooperstown, the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. They used to have an annual event that brought 30 to 50 thousand people to town for a weekend. They don’t have that anymore.

“The good thing for us is we don’t race year-round. There’s two feet of snow on the ground so I don’t have to cancel a race this weekend, but in warmer climates there’s racing every weekend.

“Bad regulation produces bad results and unintended consequences. The CSPC painted this act with too broad of a brush.”

Robinson was invited for an in-studio interview with his local NBC station for future airing.

Practice makes perfect

Rick Johnson, co-owner of Perris Raceway, the oldest motocross park in the State of California, offers the very popular Mini Night practice on the big track for experienced young riders.

Mini Night practice will evaporate in a matter of weeks, as regular maintenance parts that keep the mini bikes safely operating are no longer available for the parents to purchase and replace.

Johnson lamented, “Oh, I can’t imagine how this is going to affect the entire industry. This will put a major damper on everything.

“We have to do what’s right. What they’re doing is not right, period. This [stay] doesn’t benefit anybody.

“The focus of [Perris Raceway] is to release energy and to have a positive connection with one’s mind, body and soul. Essentially, [CSPS] just want the kids to sit at home for another night hooked up to electronic games, watching TV and snacking away.

“We enjoy families; I have kids too. We’re always aimed and focused on building the future of the sport. This is a travesty.”

Industry troubleshooting

Ty van Hooydonk, director of product communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council, stressed, “This day in particular, what’s critical for us is we’re rallying everybody at the [four-day] Dealer Trade Show in Indianapolis Feb. 13-16.

“We have representatives available for discussions. There are displays and signs all over the show.

“We have a computer in our booth for online commenting. The tradeshow attendees can easily make their opinions known.

“Consumers need to step up the need for common-sense exclusions.

“The public can do so by visiting the letter generator at the Americans for Responsible Recreation Access Web site, the Motorcycle Industry Council’s Web site or the American Motorcycle Association’s Web site.

“There are directions and links for writing to the CPSC for economic emergency exemption.”

Leading motocross apparel brand Fox has come on board as presenting sponsor for the 2009 Mini SX Series being held at Frankston and Shepparton BMX tracks on March 14 and March 28 respectively.

Despite tough economic times Fox Racing continue to show their commitment to racing here in Australia and in particular the ‘grass roots’ events that facilitate new interest in motocross.

“We are proud to support the 2009 Mini SX Series. Each year the event attracts new riders and spectators to enjoy our sport. Our aim is increase participation by helping showcase all forms of our sport to a fresh audience.” Scott Runcimen said– Fox Brand Manager

2009 marks the events fourth year running, since the first ever Mini SX event in April 2006. The event were the first ever Motorcycling Australia (MA) affiliated mini bike race. The event also made history as the first ever motorcycle event to be held on a purpose built competition BMX track.

Mini SX racing makes for exciting entertainment and a great day out for families of all ages. The action is high intensity and the whole track can be seen at once from almost all of the spectator areas.

Up to 200 riders make the annual pilgrimage to Frankston BMX track each year from as far as Queensland and Tasmania to compete. Attracting spectator numbers of between 2000 and 3000 people, the Mini SX atmosphere is exciting and unique.

A huge contributor to the success of the Mini SX events is the combination of world class Freestyle Motocross (FMX) demos. Local riders Cam Sinclair and Blake Williams, continue to turn up the action for the Mini SX crowd. Since the Mini SX began in 2006 both riders careers have continued to sky rocket to the point where they are both ranked among the best in the world.

For 2009 Sinclair and Williams will again perform at the Mini SX, also being joined by recently crowned Australasian FMX champion Kain Saul. The event is a perfect opportunity for fans of FMX , the Crusty Demons and the boys to see them perform up close, and grab an autograph before they head off on their Crusty campaign around Australia.

Supporting sponsors for the 2009 Mini SX Series include, Wals Mini Bikes, Electric Visual, Motovert, Trading Post, Freerider Magazine and Freestyle Honda.

Tickets are available at the gate for $20 an Adult, $15 for Children (under 15) and $50 for a family

For competitor entry forms and details go to www.myspace.com/minisxopen or call 0412 686 148

THE 2009 Pro Moto Series kicks off this Sunday at the Wollongong City Raceway.

This year promises to be not only bigger and better, but with increased fields it will be even more exciting.

The Pro Moto Series is held for motorcycles under 150cc in capacity, made up of four different classes, that includes Elite Water-cooled, Chinese Water-cooled, Mini Motard and Juniors, and the on track action amongst these pockets rockets promises to be fast and furious.

The elite class within the Pro Moto Series is the Elite Water-cooled and they have fields of over a dozen with the heavy hitters expected to be Paul Borg, Allan Bollins and a host of others that are keen to get among the winner’s circle.

After only contesting the latter half of last year’s Pro Moto Series; Allan Bollins is ready for a full-on assault in 2009 and he has two ambitions and they are to dominate and ultimately win the series.

“I finished last year with a winning streak and I hope to continue that throughout this year’s Pro Moto Series and challenge for the overall series honours,” said a confident Bollins.

“Although I had a good run last year I am not taking anything for granted this year, as it’s a whole new ball game. I have prepared very strongly this year and the goal is to take out the Pro Moto Series and nothing else.”

Stepping to the Elite Water-cooled class in 2009 on a full-time basis is Chinese Water-cooled class front runners Chris Lawler and Brad Watson and those two are not just going to there to make up the numbers.

“Last year I was jumping between both the Chinese and Elite classes

and this year I am concentrating on the Elite class,” said last year’s

Pro Moto Series for the Chinese Water-cooled class winner Lawler.

“Jumping between the two classes wasn’t a problem with the Chinese Water-cooled but it was with the Elite Water-cooled. With the Elite Water-cooled class it’s very tough and in order to run up the front you need to put in 100 per cent effort or otherwise you will be left behind.”

Another exciting development in 2009 is the launch of the National Pro Moto Series that is a three round series over three states; Victoria, NSW and Queensland.

Action is set to begin at 10am and continue right through to 5pm.

Wollongong City Raceway is located on the corner of West Dapto Road and the Princes Highway at Kembla Grange.

On Tuesday, the federal government passed legislation severely limiting the amount of lead that can be used in toys. The lead legislation is far reaching and has forced motor sport shops to take mini machines off their floors.

For 8 year old Damian Alano, riding his dirt bike with his dad has become a favorite hobby. But the government would like to keep Damian off his bike for another 4 years. New lead toy regulations make it illegal to sell ATV’s and dirt bikes designed for kids 12 and under. ATVs have lead in the battery, the metal alloys, paint, and other parts.

It’s forced dealers like Flamingo Motorsports to pull the machines from the sales floor.

Sales Manager of Flamingo Motorsports John Barry said, “You have 60 or 70 thousand dollars worth of inventory in our case and it’s got to be even bigger in other peoples cases that we can’t sell right now.”

And those who already own pint-sized motor bikes and ATV’s could find them useless down he road, since manufacturers have been ordered to stop making replacement parts. It’s not only upsetting young riders, but also their parents.

Parent Christopher Alano said, “That was one of our major things to get outside and go riding and enjoy the day.”

Local dirt tracks are also concerned. Motocross 338 in Southwick says one third of their entries come from riders 12 and under.

Moto-X 338 Track Manager Ralph Pittello said, “We have about 27 races scheduled for this season alone and with a third of the riders who are under the age of 13 that ride these bikes and quads our events will be really devastated.”

Motocross enthusiasts say the sport and the machines involve shouldn’t fall under he same guidelines as a toy.

Pittello said, “I don’t think any child has ever been able to ingest a whole break cable or a fender or a piece of plastic from a bike.”

There is legislation in the works to roll back the lead toy regulations until a solution can be found. Until then manufacturers have advised dealers to stop selling the small machines or risk fines.

Police and residents are not keen on teenagers riding mini motos

A teenager who tried to escape from police on a mini motorbike has been bailed while officers decide what to do with him.

Police in Whitstable arrested a 19-year-old boy from the town who was spotted riding his mini motorbike in the Grimshill area on Wednesday, February 18.

The teenager was told to stop by neighbourhood officer PC Dan Ashton who works in the Gorrell ward but the mini-motorcyclist refused and rode off.

But he was stopped later by a member of the motorcycle unit and was arrested for making off from police and for having no insurance.

He has been released on bail until March 27 pending a decision to prosecute.

PC Ashton said: “The noise and nuisance caused those riding mini motorcycles as well as the potential danger was raised as a priority issue by the Partners and Community Together (PACT) panel.

“So we have been working together with local residents and the local authority to ensure that we have the evidence of those causing the problem.”

To contact PC Ashton or other members of the Whitstable neighbourhood team telephone 01227 868028

22,000 enthusiasts experienced the sights and sounds of the inaugural Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast last week (Friday February 20-Sunday February 22).

The first-run event eclipsed the Brisbane (2007) attendance figures by an incredible margin, with organisers Exhibitions and Trade Fairs reporting a 65% increase in visitors.

Exhibits, displays and action demonstrations made full use of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre’s interior and exterior facilities, with constant crowds adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Occasional inclement weather couldn’t dampen showgoers spirits – and neither could an equally gloomy economic climate – exhibitors reported record interest in new motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and PWCs plus products, accessories and services.

Event Manager Mark Petersen said the Expo had the potential to become one of the Gold Coast’s premier events after an exceptionally successful staging last week.

“The Australian Motorcycle Expo Gold Coast shows that the industry is thriving despite tough financial times,” said Petersen. “We’re ecstatic with the response from visitors, who really embraced the event and all it had to offer.”

“The venue’s extension allowed us to expand on exhibition space and demonstration areas, and the locality made the various test ride options a favourite with visitors.

“All exhibitors should be congratulated on the quality of their displays, including manufacturers and distributors who went to amazing lengths to secure the newest and most exclusive motorcycles for public viewing.”

“We were privileged to host some very special guests, including Troy Bayliss, Chris Vermeulen, Jamie Whincup and Seth Enslow, who were very popular with visitors.”

“We’re already looking forward to next year, with every indication the event will return and already a huge amount of interest in bookings.”

The Yamaha Action Arena gave visitors a chance to check out some high-flying freestyle motocross from the Showtime FMX team, as well as the antics of the Brown’s Grafix mini moto riders.

The grassy banks provided a perfect view of the Yamaha Water Zone where a host of renowned PWC pilots put on regular and spectacular shows of skill and precision.

Dylan Robb took out top honours in the East Coast Custom Australian Custom Bike Championships, with his entry from Melbourne capturing the judges’ attention as national champion.

Brendon ‘BJ’ Kelly continued his winning ways in the National Pogo Championships, presented by Motostik and Dirt Action, capping off his routine with a crowd-pleasing backflip that earnt him first prize and a trip to the Las Vegas Supercross in May.

A local winner was drawn in the $15,000 Honda Voucher promotion, with 15-year-old Daniel Notley-Cole from the Gold Coast unable to believe his luck when his entry was announced.

He now has the envious task of choosing Honda products to the value of $15,000, and said he was eyeing off a new dirt bike.