MotoTec Electric 36v Mini Pocket Bike Motorcycle Review
- Affordable price tag
- Perfect for younger children
- Well-balanced with disc-brakes for added safety
- Good quality construction and materials with easy setup
Price list
Description and Review
If you’re looking for a way to introduce your child to moto sports without putting them at risk, a pocket-bike is a great way to go. Capable of speeds up to 20mph, these electric mini-bikes are scaled down versions of high-performance vehicles. Younger children have the opportunity to get to grips with the controls, balance and braking before feeding their speed demon on larger models.
Mototec is currently one of the leading producers of pocket-bikes. This 36V bike is available with a gas-powered engine for those that need more range and torque, but as an entry level bike we’re testing out the electric version. It offers a decent range, superb top speed and look alongside some excellent safety features. Want to know what makes it tick? Read on to find out.
Features
Look
This a kids bike and its plain to see why. The curves are a streamlined which gives it a futurist feel whilst the chrome black paint-job is finished with blue flame decals. The standalone height of 24″ means it may be too small for some kids although, with a little effort an adult can just about ride one.
Engine
The engine power comes from a 500W hi-torque chain driven motor. Three 12V lithium batteries are stored just below the seat and deliver a 46V charge. The engine is engaged via a twist grip variable throttle although, if you invest in the gas-powered alternative it’s a pull start.
Ride
Being so low to the ground makes 20mph feel like 40. The Mototec 36V has the advantage of a low-center of gravity which makes balancing relative easy for a child starting out. The fold down pegs help you to keep things steady although some suspension would of been nice as you can really feel tarmac cracks beneath the wheels.
Brakes
There’s high-powered disc-brakes fitted to the front and rear wheels. They’re extremely responsive so it’s probably best to get used to them at low-speeds. The upside is that the stopping distance is extremely short which will keep kids safe in the driveway and away from the side-walk.
Tires
With a height of just 24″ we wouldn’t expect to see large tires. The wheels are 11″ and manage well enough on smooth asphalt. The sports grip provides some traction although we wouldn’t recommend using it in wet conditions.
Tech
It’s slim-pickings on the tech front although the electric version does have a storage space for food or drink just in front of the saddle. Some night lights would of been nice although the specs in this area are rarely abundant. What we do get is a key-start ignition system as well as a battery meter.
Setup
Other than attaching the retractable pegs, there’s really not much to do on the setup front. With no expertise we managed to get one up and running in under twenty minutes. You might want to tweak the handlebars, or front-forks if you notice any rub on the first usage.
Battery life and range
From a single charge you can expect to get about 50 minutes of run-time. This bike supports weights of up to 170llbs but if you ride it flat out, you’ll be looking at around 30 minutes per charge. Recharging the lithium batteries takes just 4 to 6 hours.
Price
What really makes this bike stand out is the price. It’s one of the cheapest on the market, which really takes the risk out of investment. As a cheaper option the performance does suffer, although for young kids it still has more than enough power to keep them entertained.
Strengths
- A very reasonable price for what is a well-built and stylish looking pocket-bike
- Suitable for younger children
- Key ignition, storage space and battery meter
- It’s super easy to setup and doesn’t require any prior expertise or complex tools
- Quick turnaround time when it comes to charging the batteries
Weaknesses
- Limited in terms of its weight capacity
- Not the strongest performance wise, but more than capable of handling flat tarmac
Specifications
Dimensions: 43 x 24 x 15 inches
Weight: 88lbs
Wheels type: 11″ pneumatic wheels (90/65-6.5)
Motor: 500W motor
Age Recommendation: 13+
Weight Capacity: 170 pounds
Battery Life: 20 miles
Maximum Speed: 20mph
Battery Type: 36v Lithium Ion
Charging Time: 4-6 Hours
Available Colors: Black, Black+Red, Black+Yellow, Black+Pink, Black+White, Black+Blue