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About miniature motorbikes
Miniature motorbikes are also called monkey bikes, mini bikes or pocket bikes.
They are powered by an internal combustion engine or are electrically powered. Miniature motorbikes are capable of speeds of up to 80 km/h. They differ from battery operated ride-on toys, which are designed and intended for use by children.
Despite appearances, miniature motorbikes are not toys and can be dangerous for children. Young children may lack rider experience or the ability to operate these motorbikes at their maximum speed.
It’s illegal to ride miniature motorbikes on public roads. They are for recreational purposes only.
Risks and injuries from the product
Miniature motorbikes can cause serious injuries if they:
- are ridden on public roads or at high speeds
- are ridden without protective equipment
- are misused or ridden by inexperienced riders
- are ridden under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- have unstable structure
- have mechanical flaws
- lack an emergency stopping device
- lack effective brakes and steering
- lack adequate footholds.
Things to look for when buying the product
Serious injuries have happened to people riding miniature motorbikes. For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.
Only buy and use a miniature motorbike that complies with the miniature motorbikes mandatory safety standard.
The mandatory standard excludes:
- vehicles that are registerable for road use
- vehicles with a maximum design speed of 30 km/h or less
- power-assisted pedal cycles
- motorised scooters
- motorised recreational devices such as motor-assisted rollerblades, rollerskates and other similar wheeled devices
- small off-road mini bikes designed and intended for use by children as a learner or introductory mini bike.
Marks and labels
- There is a manual containing instructions for use. The manual must be in the English language.
- A permanent warning label is attached to the miniature motorbike. The label must comply with the requirements of the mandatory standard.
- The miniature motorbike is supplied with a swing tag warning that meets the mandatory standard.
- If a miniature motorbike is supplied in packaging, the packaging is marked with the swing tag warning.
This is an example of the warning label:
This is an example of the swing tag warning:
How to use the product safely
- Always read the instruction manual.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Wear protective clothing and gear. This includes goggles, long sleeves, long pants, boots and gloves or hand protection.
- Never let children ride miniature motorbikes without adult supervision.
- Children must have adequate training before using miniature motorbikes.
- Use the speed limiting device for children so that the motorbike doesn’t go too fast.
- Never carry passengers.
- Don’t ride the miniature motorbike illegally on public roads.
- Don’t ride the miniature motorbike at high speeds.
- Maintain the miniature motorbike so it is safe.
