How Safe Are Pocket Rockets?

!±8± How Safe Are Pocket Rockets?

When considering the safety of pocket rockets, there are several things that need to be assessed. If you are unfamiliar with pocket rockets, first be sure you understand that these bikes have many names. They are also known as mini bikes, dirt bikes, motocross bikes just to name a few. Not only are the names different, but they vary in size, weight, type of motor and maximum speed. There is a huge difference in a bike appropriate for an eleven year old and one suitable for a sixteen year old. Unfortunately, the names for these bikes are frequently interchanged regardless of size and other important specifications.

If you are shopping for a child, there are pocket rockets designed for kids as young as eight; these are small with speeds up to 10 to 15 mph. Although the manufacturers indicate that some models have been made with young kids in mind, this needs to take into account each child's size and maturity level.

In researching pocket rockets, it became clear that Razor Pocket Rockets are rated as one of the most popular in the United States. Many customer reviews indicated purchases for children as young as five. Remembering my own kids at that age, there is no way they would have been the proud owners of this bike. We had enough scrapes, bruises, blood and one broken arm from accidents on the old standard bicycle! But again this depends on the child. My oldest son had a dirt bike after he turned 16 and my youngest son had a moped at 15.

Razor has designed their bikes with safety as a priority according to customer comments and product information. Their bikes include a built-in circuit breaker and if the motor becomes compromised, it automatically shuts off. So, if the rider is too heavy or if there are attempts to ride over hills too steep, the circuit breaker kicks in.

Realistically no matter how the bike has been designed for safety, the ultimate responsibility for safety lies with the adults and the young rider. Pocket rockets are small but they are not toys; even the smallest can reach speeds up to 15 mph. They cannot be used on streets, highways or off road. The rider needs to stay on hard smooth surfaces in an open area.

No matter which bike you choose and regardless of the biker's age and maturity level, safety gear is an absolute necessity. You also need to confirm the local rules of the road with your motor vehicle department.

Remember that the manufacturers want to sell the product and the kids they know may be bigger and more mature than yours. As an adult, you need to make your own assessment based on the child.

In the final analysis, use common sense and be sure the young rider fully understands the safety rules. If the child is at least twelve and has a sense of responsibility, the pocket rocket can provide hours of outdoor fun. It's also a great way to teach the kids how to maintain a bike and prepare for one larger and more powerful in the future.