Street Legal Pocket BikesIf you are at all familiar with pocket bikes, you know that the typical bike is about one quarter the size of a motorcycle. Too little to be street legal and useful only for the track, off road, or some other remote place. Soon, however, a few larger models of pocket bikes are certain to be street legal and a cheap form of transportation around town. One model, the X-18 Pro Racer already qualifies for that designation, giving it the dubious distinction of being more of a street bike than a "pocket" bike. Let's examine the X-18 and what sets this bike above the rest. Size really does matter and the X-18 is the biggest of all the pocket bikes out there. Truthfully, there is little that is "pocket" about it; instead, the X-18 is bigger and heavier, roughly half the size of a standard sized motorcycle. Unlike most pocket bikes the X-18 comes standard with a more powerful 4 stroke engine so there is no mixing of oil and gas before heading out to the track. In addition, a 4 stroke engine will help you decelerate and brake easier, they are less noisy, and friendlier to the environment. With the X-18 you get pocket bikes that have a bigger, DMV compliant headlamp; a sturdy all steel kickstand; fully adjustable rear suspension; 15 inch aluminum front wheel and a 16 inch rear wheel; a kick starter; speedometer and heavy duty chain. What's more, all X-18 Pro Racer pocket bikes now have a vehicle identification number inscribed as an anti-theft measure. This is a terrific turn of events as thefts of pocket bikes are on the rise worldwide. So, is the X-18 Pro Racer street legal everywhere? Well, you will have to check with your state's Division of Motor Vehicles to make certain. Likely, if it is, you'll have to take a motorcycle exam to drive it around town. Add in registration fees and insurance too while you are at it. Other manufacturers are expected to bring their street legal pocket bikes to the market in the coming months and years. As the industry matures, many enthusiasts prefer the heavier weight and size of X-18 Pro Racer pocket bikes compared to the "little critters" that have popularized the sport. Surprisingly, prices on this particular bike are very low with one retailer advertising the X-18 Pro Racer for just $659! |