Misuse Of Pocket Bikes Presents Potential For Danger

They’re more than a pocket full of fun, but “pocket bikes” are also a major handful when it comes to the safety issues they present.

The miniature motorcycles have emerged as a serious fad in Canada thanks to their light frames which make them small enough to carry under one’s arm, but along with that freedom comes a number of potentially nasty pitfalls.

This is especially the case with certain models that are marketed expressly for kids, and at just over $500 with a top speed of 55 kilometres per hour, they’re very, very appealing.

However, they’re NOT street legal. Why? Well for one, they don’t currently meet the safety requirements of a motorcycle. One of the biggest issues is since they’re so low to the ground, they can be difficult for other motorists to see and far too small to hold their own in the event of a crash.

And there are other problems. Namely, that riders don’t need to be licensed to ride one and as such tend not to wear protective gear. What it all adds up to are several instances of reckless driving, taking place on everything from sidewalks to highways.

But there’s more. Since the tiny bikes have been imported to Canada for three years but aren’t manufactured here, they also fail to meet the regulations set by Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

 

According to Transport Canada, they’re fine for so-called “closed course competition” like the kind you might find on a go-cart circuit.

 

However, as long as they remain classified as “competition vehicles” or “restricted use motorcycles” under the nation’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, police that see them on our roads simply aren’t going to be impressed.

 

Which isn’t to say you need to go sell yours, or put it in the shed to collect dust. No, all you need to do is use it properly in a designated place, and follow some fairly obvious safety guidelines.

 

Beyond that, just have fun.

 

Here are some safety tips to consider when riding a pocket bike:

  • Regardless of how the item’s marketed, remember that pocket bikes are primarily intended for use by persons aged 12 or older.
  • Drivers, regardless of who or where, should always comply with local traffic laws and regulations. Licensing and registration will vary depending on where you live, but regardless it’s something drivers need to be aware of.
  • Always wear a helmet, but more specially one that’s approved and inspected by a safety agency. Elbow and kneepads are also a good idea and will protect you from lacerations in the event of a fall.
  • Don’t operate your pocket bike at night. The vehicle isn’t equipped to be driven in low light conditions, especially since it won’t be easily visible to pedestrians and other vehicles.
  • Only ride on a smooth, hard surface. Gas powered pocket bikes are not intended for off road conditions and can break down or cause you to lose control in such situations. Caution should be exercised when rolling over obstacles.
  • Ride alone. The bikes are small and are only intended for use by one person at a time. Don’t carry additional people or items, and putting heavy loads on the bike by pulling or towing anything is just asking for trouble.
  • Getting insurance for pocket bike can be tricky and your agent may not provide you coverage in the event of an accident. It’s wise to contact your your provider in advance to find out just how flexible your policy really is.

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