Are Pocket Bikes Legal?

Pocket bikes are tiny motorized bikes. They're so small that it's surprising that men and women can ride them. When you look at a pocket bike speeding down the road, you'll see the rider hunched over, knees pointing out at either side, looking like a giant on the miniature moped.

Are pocket bikes legal? In this section, we'll discuss the legality of these tiny motorcycles. We will also explain the laws regulating pocket bikes and the unique dangers they pose.

What Are Pocket Bikes?

Pocket bikes, also called "mini-motorcycles" and "pocket rockets," are small gas-powered bikes that resemble miniature replicas of full-sized motorcycles. They are small size recreational vehicles. Pocket bikes are about two feet high and weigh around 40 pounds. Typically, they come equipped with 40 cubic centimeter electric motor engines and can reach maximum speeds of up to 40 to 50 miles per hour.

While most pocket bike manufacturers market these products to children, many teens and adults also ride them. Recreational riders treat them like all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) or dirt bikes. Even though it's illegal in most states to ride mini bikes on public roads, many people do so anyway.

Are Pocket Bikes Legal To Ride Where You Live?

Many states and municipalities have enacted laws that ban the operation of pocket bikes and miniature motorcycles on public streets, roads, and trails. Some states do this because pocket bikes typically do not come equipped with safety features like turn signals, mirrors, and horns. Such equipment is required for a vehicle to be considered street-legal.

Because pocket bikes are not insured or registered, lawmakers don't treat them like other types of vehicles. This fact alone makes it illegal to operate one on public roads in many states. Riders must limit them to off-road use.

State Laws and Pocket Bikes

Many states have laws banning the use of pocket bikes on public roads. For example, in California and Texas, the operation of pocket bikes and mini-motorcycles is illegal on all public streets, sidewalks, and trails. Legal operation of pocket bikes in these states and many others can only take place on private property.

In Texas, for instance, the police will cite a person operating a pocket bike on a public road for the following offenses:

• Operating an unregistered vehicle
• Driving without insurance
• Operating a vehicle without a valid driver's license
• Failure to meet certain equipment standards

These violations are usually punishable by fines, but they can also result in suspensions and other penalties. Most states have age restrictions for pocket bike riders. For example, in New Jersey, you must be at least 12 years old to ride one of these motorized vehicles.

To find out whether it is legal to ride pocket bikes where you live, either on private property or on public roads, contact your local law enforcement agency or Department of Motor Vehicles. You can ask what the rules are for pocket bike riding. You can also contact a local criminal lawyer to learn the penalties for violating pocket bike laws.

Why Are Pocket Bikes So Dangerous?

Even though it's illegal to operate pocket bikes on public roadways, some people do. They may not realize it's nearly impossible for other motorists to see them. Their small size, combined with their high-speed capability, makes them dangerous.

Although they are smaller, pocket bikes present many of the same hazards as full-size motorcycles, including the possibility of serious head injuries to riders if an accident occurs. Pocket bike riders should always wear a motorcycle helmet that complies with U.S. Department of Transportation rules.

State and City-Specific Information on Pocket Bikes

Below you will find links to legal and safety information on pocket bikes from several state and local government websites. You may find that many jurisdictions treat pocket bikes like motorized bicycles.

• California DMV: Two-Wheel Vehicles

• Maine Secretary of State: Information for Off-Road Vehicles, Motorized Scooters, Mopeds, and Motorcycles

• New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission: Motorized Bikes and Pocket Bikes

• Oregon: Fact Sheet for Mini-Motorbikes / Scooters

• Texas: Pocket Bikes Illegal on Public Streets

FindLaw discusses more about traffic accident liability and safe driving.

Is Your Pocket Bike Legal? Get a Legal Evaluation Today

Even if it's legal to ride your pocket bike off-road, your pocket bike must meet local and state law requirements. For example, the California Vehicle Code requires that you install a license plate, reflectors, tail lights, headlights, and brake lights on your bike. Your pocket bike may also be subject to federal motor vehicle safety standards.

While a pocket bike may look like a fun toy, it is actually quite powerful and can cause serious injuries. If you have questions about the legality of your pocket bike, an attorney can help give you peace of mind. Get started today with an initial legal evaluation from a local criminal defense attorney.