Pocket bike racing is a sport that continues to grow in appeal all across the world. While Japan is credited with the first large scale cultural interest and organization of pocket bike racing, this is no longer just a Japanese or Asian phenomenon. Pocket bike racing has increased dramatically in popularity through out the world. While the United States and Australia are two of the most noted places where this sport is growing rapidly, don’t forget Europe!
Switzerland actually holds a championship that is gaining international recognition. Geographically close to Italy, where almost all of the highest quality racing pocket bikes are manufactured now, the Swiss Pocket bike Championship first appeared in 1996. This happened when a pocket bike club (the Gruyere Pocket Bike Club, to be precise) decided to compete against all Swiss pocket bike riders who showed. It has been growing ever since and now the Swiss Championship has grown to become one of the biggest in the world, when compared to the nation's size.
Commonly the competition will now have over 120 competitors, with a few of them coming even from nearby countries like France, Austria and Liechtenstein. There are between 8 to 11 races on 8 to 11 different tracks that are counted for the championship, meaning there are anywhere from 64-121 races. Several categories are awarded based on age and gender of the pilots and on the type of pocket bike (junior, stock or racing prepared).
The growth of this sport in Switzerland and Europe is a continued reflection of worldwide trends. Pocket bike racing has never been more popular in the United States than it is now, and there are no signs of it diminishing. New race circuits, pocket bike stores, and online forums pop up every year, and the devout group of pocket bike junkies grows with that number. Australia has a respectable series of races and a continued growth in the sport, and it is not like pocket bike racing just disappeared in Japan. The sport is still going strong.
The trend continues in pocket bike racing’s rising popularity, and seems to continue unabated. What was once seemingly a strange Japanese sideshow has proven itself to be far more, and with each new race, only further re-enforces its current respect.
Showing posts with label Bikes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bikes. Show all posts
Monday, May 2, 2011
Customizing with Performance Parts
Customizing your pocket bike can turn a common bike into a real pocket rocket when you use pocket bike performance parts. Many pocket bikes performance parts not only make your pocket bike faster and more powerful, they add to the general look of “attitude” you want your competition to see on the track! Those cool side stripes may look great, but they're not going to get you around the track any faster. Put your money into high performance pocket bike parts and then you'll have a bike that can back up the appearance of attitude you've given it.
When you’re looking for pocket bike performance parts, remember your bike's speed and power is “all in the mix”. The correct mixture of gas, oil, and air are the elements that combine to work like jet fuel for your pocket rocket. However, if your customized bike is riding too hot, a good solution is to start with a temperature sticker. These parts for pocket bikes are typically sold in packs of three, and can easily be applied to your bike’s engine, suspension and other heat sensitive parts.
Most pros get the largest boost in speed and overall performance from pocket bike performance parts like velocity stacks and air filters. While those are king, take the time to still add some performance pocket bikes parts for pipe and custom carburetion and the only thing that will be able to stop you will be your own brakes! In addition, there’s something about performance parts pocket bikes custom pipes and exhaust system that makes your bike look like a formidable adversary to your competition, and gives you an early psychological edge in any competition!
There are many other performance parts for pocket bike enthusiasts that not only help you stay in the race, but combined with your skill, will put you in front of the pack. Some things that you might overlook are pocket bike performance parts like custom grips and foot pegs that improve your ability to control your bike. Remember not to have immediate expectations. The best racers are those who know their bikes, so it may take some time for you to re-adjust after adding these improvements. Concentrate on getting used to how they ride, and soon the only thing you'll have to worry about is how far ahead of everyone else you are before hitting the finish line.
When you’re looking for pocket bike performance parts, remember your bike's speed and power is “all in the mix”. The correct mixture of gas, oil, and air are the elements that combine to work like jet fuel for your pocket rocket. However, if your customized bike is riding too hot, a good solution is to start with a temperature sticker. These parts for pocket bikes are typically sold in packs of three, and can easily be applied to your bike’s engine, suspension and other heat sensitive parts.
Most pros get the largest boost in speed and overall performance from pocket bike performance parts like velocity stacks and air filters. While those are king, take the time to still add some performance pocket bikes parts for pipe and custom carburetion and the only thing that will be able to stop you will be your own brakes! In addition, there’s something about performance parts pocket bikes custom pipes and exhaust system that makes your bike look like a formidable adversary to your competition, and gives you an early psychological edge in any competition!
There are many other performance parts for pocket bike enthusiasts that not only help you stay in the race, but combined with your skill, will put you in front of the pack. Some things that you might overlook are pocket bike performance parts like custom grips and foot pegs that improve your ability to control your bike. Remember not to have immediate expectations. The best racers are those who know their bikes, so it may take some time for you to re-adjust after adding these improvements. Concentrate on getting used to how they ride, and soon the only thing you'll have to worry about is how far ahead of everyone else you are before hitting the finish line.
BMX - Biking
BMX bikes are a special kind of low bike, with smaller wheels than normal, that can be used for racing. They are designed to be very light weight but also very robust, as well as streamlined for speed. They are also known for being easier to perform tricks with than normal bikes.
BMX stands for bicycle motocross, which refers to the origin of the sport: children saw motocross races on the TV in the ‘70s and wanted to emulate them. Since they had no motorbikes of their own, they used their bicycles to race around similar dirt tracks to the ones they had seen. Today the sport is notable for being one of the few sports that is taken part in almost exclusively by the under-10s. Although there are a few older professional BMXers, most good ones move on to other cycling or motorcycling sports.
Among children today, BMXes remain one of the most popular kinds of bikes around, even if they do not compete in competitions, and BMX magazines are some of the biggest-selling hobbyist magazines. This was a surprise to many, as the sport was considered pretty much dead in the ’80s and early ‘90s, only to undergo a dramatic revival in the mid-‘90s that is still going on now.
BMX is now one of the range of extreme sports like skateboarding and snowboarding, and similar tricks can be performed with the bikes to the ones the boarders do. The sport of Freestyle BMX was invented to allow BMXers to concentrate on doing tricks in skate-parks instead of racing, and has since arguably outgrown the popularity of BMX racing altogether – this is the style that the most famous BMX bikers, Mat Hoffman and Dave Mirra, compete in.
BMX stands for bicycle motocross, which refers to the origin of the sport: children saw motocross races on the TV in the ‘70s and wanted to emulate them. Since they had no motorbikes of their own, they used their bicycles to race around similar dirt tracks to the ones they had seen. Today the sport is notable for being one of the few sports that is taken part in almost exclusively by the under-10s. Although there are a few older professional BMXers, most good ones move on to other cycling or motorcycling sports.
Among children today, BMXes remain one of the most popular kinds of bikes around, even if they do not compete in competitions, and BMX magazines are some of the biggest-selling hobbyist magazines. This was a surprise to many, as the sport was considered pretty much dead in the ’80s and early ‘90s, only to undergo a dramatic revival in the mid-‘90s that is still going on now.
BMX is now one of the range of extreme sports like skateboarding and snowboarding, and similar tricks can be performed with the bikes to the ones the boarders do. The sport of Freestyle BMX was invented to allow BMXers to concentrate on doing tricks in skate-parks instead of racing, and has since arguably outgrown the popularity of BMX racing altogether – this is the style that the most famous BMX bikers, Mat Hoffman and Dave Mirra, compete in.
How To Choose A Mountain Bike
The first thing to do before purchasing a bicycle for any reason is to know what your primary riding is going to be. Most people initially purchase a dual use bike, something that can be ridden on road and off road. Eventually, when the bug bites big it'll be time to invest in a bike that is all muscle for the mountains.
One of the ways that mountain bikes differ from other bikes is that they have very strong, lightweight frames, multiple gears, powerful breaks and wide tires. A comfort bike, or recreational weekend bike, touring bikes and cruiser bikes are built more for comfort than durability. WIthin the mountain bike category there are several types of bikes available; the cross country bike, the trials bike, the downhill bike and the jump/slalom bike.
Generally the largest percentage of mountain bikes sold are in the cross country, or XC classification. These are good dual purpose bikes. They are lightweight and good for riding over tough terrain, but they are also comfortable for road riding.
Jump/slalom bikes are also good dual purpose bikes. They are very strong and have an excellent front suspension.
Downhill and trial bikes are for serious mountain bikers. The downhill bikes have both front and rear suspension, disc breaks and are very strong. A trial bike is for a very skilled rider. Trail riding itself is a very competitive sport demanding a lot of precision. Most riders of downhill and trail bikes build their bikes from scratch, choosing each component individually.
You will want to do a lot of reading about different types of bikes, and you'll want to visit many bike shops. A cross country mountain bike can cost between $600 and $800 or more. Some bikers say that your first bike should be the best bike you can possibly afford, even if you think that it's too much bike for you. If you buy a low-end bike initially and then find you want to change components later it can get costly. Before choosing a bike you will want to ride it. Most dealers allow for a 15 to 20 minute test ride. If you do a test ride make sure you go "off road" if you can, even if it's over curbs and grass. You want to get a feel for the bike.
One of the ways that mountain bikes differ from other bikes is that they have very strong, lightweight frames, multiple gears, powerful breaks and wide tires. A comfort bike, or recreational weekend bike, touring bikes and cruiser bikes are built more for comfort than durability. WIthin the mountain bike category there are several types of bikes available; the cross country bike, the trials bike, the downhill bike and the jump/slalom bike.
Generally the largest percentage of mountain bikes sold are in the cross country, or XC classification. These are good dual purpose bikes. They are lightweight and good for riding over tough terrain, but they are also comfortable for road riding.
Jump/slalom bikes are also good dual purpose bikes. They are very strong and have an excellent front suspension.
Downhill and trial bikes are for serious mountain bikers. The downhill bikes have both front and rear suspension, disc breaks and are very strong. A trial bike is for a very skilled rider. Trail riding itself is a very competitive sport demanding a lot of precision. Most riders of downhill and trail bikes build their bikes from scratch, choosing each component individually.
You will want to do a lot of reading about different types of bikes, and you'll want to visit many bike shops. A cross country mountain bike can cost between $600 and $800 or more. Some bikers say that your first bike should be the best bike you can possibly afford, even if you think that it's too much bike for you. If you buy a low-end bike initially and then find you want to change components later it can get costly. Before choosing a bike you will want to ride it. Most dealers allow for a 15 to 20 minute test ride. If you do a test ride make sure you go "off road" if you can, even if it's over curbs and grass. You want to get a feel for the bike.
50cc Pocket Bikes
If you are planning to shop for a new 50cc pocket bike, you need to know what exactly it is you are searching for, and the right questions to ask before you visit a store, or even before you shop online, if that's your preferred method. Not paying especially close attention to specific features, or not asking the right questions can result in you buying a 50cc pocket bike that you don't really want, or even worse, can't use.
First, know exactly what you want your 50cc pocket bike will be used for. Will it be fun and recreation, or will you be racing? This decision has to be firmly set in your mind before you go out to make the purchase. If you will be using the pocket bike for recreational purposes, and you have no intention of racing, you can expect to pay about $400 or a little more. A very reasonable price. It's a completely different story if you want to race. If you eventually plan to race, you may find that you need to pay up to a full $7000 to get what you want. The price difference shows you pretty quickly why you have to know what you're investing in.
Generally you will find that any pocket bikes you are looking at were made in one of two places. There are the pocket bikes that are built in Italy, and there are pocket bikes that are manufactured in China. The bikes made in Italy are typically among the highest quality bikes. Higher quality also brings a higher price, but once again what you should be willing to spend on a 50cc pocket bike depends on what you are going to use it for. If the bike is going to be used solely for recreational purposes, then look at the ones made from China, because the difference is not that large if it is just for fun. If you're looking to race, buy from Italy.
Keep in mind pocket bikes are not very comfortable, due to their small size - unless you are very small or a kid. So, comfort isn't what you need to look for, however, you still need to be comfortable enough to ensure that you have full control of the bike at all times. Take the bike for a test run, and make sure that your body isn't touching anything that it shouldn't, like the exhaust pipe, and that you're comfortable controlling the bike.
Talk to the pocket bike dealer to find out what spare parts are available for the bike, and how hard those parts may be to get. Find out what parts need to be replaced often. Remember, they sell 50cc pocket bikes for a living, and they are probably the best experts you are going to find. They will be able to tell you all you need to know about what the bikes need, and what they don't need. Also, find out if there is a mechanic at the dealership, or in the town, that is capable of making repairs should they be needed, and inquire about warranties as well, the same types of information you would want for a new car. Make an informed decision based on your needs, and you will find a pocket bike an enjoyable investment.
First, know exactly what you want your 50cc pocket bike will be used for. Will it be fun and recreation, or will you be racing? This decision has to be firmly set in your mind before you go out to make the purchase. If you will be using the pocket bike for recreational purposes, and you have no intention of racing, you can expect to pay about $400 or a little more. A very reasonable price. It's a completely different story if you want to race. If you eventually plan to race, you may find that you need to pay up to a full $7000 to get what you want. The price difference shows you pretty quickly why you have to know what you're investing in.
Generally you will find that any pocket bikes you are looking at were made in one of two places. There are the pocket bikes that are built in Italy, and there are pocket bikes that are manufactured in China. The bikes made in Italy are typically among the highest quality bikes. Higher quality also brings a higher price, but once again what you should be willing to spend on a 50cc pocket bike depends on what you are going to use it for. If the bike is going to be used solely for recreational purposes, then look at the ones made from China, because the difference is not that large if it is just for fun. If you're looking to race, buy from Italy.
Keep in mind pocket bikes are not very comfortable, due to their small size - unless you are very small or a kid. So, comfort isn't what you need to look for, however, you still need to be comfortable enough to ensure that you have full control of the bike at all times. Take the bike for a test run, and make sure that your body isn't touching anything that it shouldn't, like the exhaust pipe, and that you're comfortable controlling the bike.
Talk to the pocket bike dealer to find out what spare parts are available for the bike, and how hard those parts may be to get. Find out what parts need to be replaced often. Remember, they sell 50cc pocket bikes for a living, and they are probably the best experts you are going to find. They will be able to tell you all you need to know about what the bikes need, and what they don't need. Also, find out if there is a mechanic at the dealership, or in the town, that is capable of making repairs should they be needed, and inquire about warranties as well, the same types of information you would want for a new car. Make an informed decision based on your needs, and you will find a pocket bike an enjoyable investment.
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