Minibikes are rapidly becoming one of the hottest trends of the century, and, to meet the growing demand, manufacturers are coming up with an increasing variety of styles and types. One of the most popular types is the chopper, while its smaller cousin, the mini chopper, is threatening to become more popular still. A Harley mini chopper attracts attention and gets you noticed, and packs a surprising amount of power for its size.
How it All Started
The first minibikes were built around 1958 as an offshoot of go-karts, and reached the height of their popularity in the mid-1960s. By the early 1970s, the craze had almost died out, partly because the laws relating to their use were becoming much stricter, and also because the early enthusiasts were moving on to full-sized motorcycles. Now, however, a whole new generation is discovering the benefits and fun potential of the minibike, also called a pocket bike.
It was the massive success of the 1969 movie Easy Rider that originally made Americans fall in love with the chopper, particularly the hard tail chopper. It was the hard tail frame, with its low-slung, stretched-out appearance, that riders especially loved, with or without the Harley engine — it has a unique ride, making you feel part of the road. However, there are still plenty of Harley hard tail choppers, with their HD V-twin engines, on the roads as well.
In contrast to the chopper, which has been called the eagle of the road, the Harley mini chopper could be called the hummingbird — colorful, attractive and fun. The latest generation of mini chopper bikes come with the same style and panache as their larger Harley counterparts — they are just smaller and easier to handle. They have the characteristic chopper design features, including small front tires, thick rear ones, and raised ape hanger handlebars.
Choose Gas or Electric
Minibikes, including mini chopper bikes, come in two main types — gas and electric. Gas minibikes are usually faster and more powerful, and have engines that can be revved, which many riders want. Electric minibikes run on batteries that need recharging from time to time — they are less powerful, but quieter, and much cheaper to run since they don’t require fuel.
Gas mini chopper bikes are the fastest-growing segment of the market, as they are the most similar to the full-sized choppers that became so popular in the 60s. They have an air-cooled two-stroke engine, often with a 49cc capacity, but the Kikker 5150 Bonesaw model, which is one of the most recommended, has a 25cc, or optional 44cc, engine. It has the classic chopper look, with a stretched-out body, and can reach speeds of 35 mph with a rider of up to 300 pounds on board.
In fact, however, many people prefer to custom-build their minibikes, rather than buy them prebuilt. Custom building means you can have a unique minibike to fit your individual style and taste. If you are a beginner, you can use minibike kits — “bikes in a box” — until you are experienced enough to build from scratch.
Electric mini chopper bikes can also be purchased prebuilt or built from a kit. These minibikes are easier to maintain and run than gas-powered models — the batteries can be recharged from an ordinary domestic power outlet — so are popular with beginners. One popular electric model is the Razor Mini Chopper, with a powerful 250-watt electric motor, enabling a speed of up to 15 mph.
Stay Safe
If you are considering becoming a minibike owner, the main point you have to bear in mind is that the minibike and mini chopper were never intended for use on the street, or in traffic — they were built primarily for the fun of MiniMoto racing. Most states and cities have passed strict laws restricting their use on the road, and some have banned them altogether. The best place to enjoy your minibike is at your local go-kart track.
Remember too that these bikes are built to be used on dry, hard surfaces, so avoid water and mud, which can cause damage, unless your particular model is built for it. You should also avoid ice, gravel, or any surface that could cause you to skid. Always wear a helmet and protective gear, and never let a child under 12 ride without supervision.
Enjoy
Provided safety precautions are observed, minibikes can bring you great benefits at a very low cost — they don’t even have to be taxed, insured, or registered with the DMV. All users talk of the excitement, exhilaration and enjoyment they bring, especially when used for racing in the open air. They are also excellent gifts for children, and are a great way to give them their first experience of biking, provided they are used under close adult supervision.
It’s true that minibikes are more about fun than function. However, many enthusiasts are carrying out performance modifications that can make their minibikes as exciting to ride as regular motorcycles. Certainly, minibikes have never been more popular, and the signs are that this renewed craze will not die down any time soon.