Minimoto
Quick Link - Good Points - Bad Points - Tips - Costs - Resources
Introduction
If you have never heard of Minimoto before, just think baby superbikes! These tiny bikes recreate the design and styling from real racing motorbikes, but are much smaller and much cheaper.
The whole sport is relatively new. Minimoto bikes were introduced into this country from Italy. 5 or so years ago, riders were racing around makeshift tracks in supermarket carparks, but now the sport is much more established, holding organised races around the country on dedicated circuits (often on kart circuits, as the smaller size is better suited to Minimoto).
Technical
The bikes have 39cc 2 stroke engines available in different power output between 3.4 - 12hp. There are junior classes for riders as young as 6 years old. For adults, there are two classes; "Production" which runs standard engines, and "Supers" which allows tuned engines.
New bikes cost between �850-�2000 depending on the specification. Secondhand bikes can start at �300 upwards depending on age & specification.
Engine sizes are tunable from 37cc up to a 50cc race-tuned engine with a potential top speed of 60-70mph!
An example of the small size can be seen in these dimensions: Length 1030 mm, Width 260 mm, Seat height 455 mm
No type of license is required to race Minimoto
Less is More
OK, so Minimoto bikes have tiny engines, and OK, you may look like a playful uncle who's riding away on his 5-year-old nephew's Christmas present. But less is more. The speeds are lower than real bikes, but because you are closer to the tarmac, the sensation is equally exciting.
Another benefit of riding only a few inches from the ground, is that it doesn't hurt as much as falling from a real motorbike.
Racing
With bike specifications alike, it is down to rider skill and daring bravery to win races. This makes for very close racing with plentiful scope for overtaking maneuvers
Regional racing championships mostly take place on professional kart circuits, and have good facilities.
The racing categories cater for young and old alike, in this very accessible sport.
Here are the regional organisations:
SMBRC - Southern Mini Bike Racing Club - 01795 815114
MMBRC - Midlands Mini Bike Racing Club - 01795 815114
SCMBRC - South Coast Mini Bike Racing Club - 01795 815114
SEMRC - South East Minimoto Racing Championship - 01375 401661
MMRA - Mini Moto Racing Association GB - [email protected] or [email protected]
New race bikes are normally �1,000 plus. If you want to try before you buy, the SEMRC has created a "C class" championship, consisting of new riders who hire the bikes and equipment for the race day. For more information see the maximumattitude.co.uk link in the resources section below.
Summary of Minimoto
Good points
Thrilling sensation of speed
Spills are very mild compared to conventional bike racing
Much cheaper than conventional bike racing
Bad points
Awkward riding position for tall people.
Image not as stylish as real superbike racing.
Bikes not as powerful as real superbikes.
Invest in good quality leathers - You might be doing a bit of sliding!
Get in touch with the above regional organisations to find out the details of your nearest race event.
To purchase minimoto bikes and equipment - try the shops listed on Adrenaline Sports under resources.
New bikes cost between �850-�2000 depending on specification.
Secondhand bikes cost between �300-�1000 depending on age, condition & specification.
Add running costs.
(Click to open in new window)
MMRC - Mini Moto Racing Association of GB, national organisation.
Maximum Attitude.co.uk - Basic site, but contains starting, racing and hiring information from the South East Minimoto Racing Championship.
Pocket Bike.com - Although a US site, and redundant for UK purchases, this site has a fantastic technical section.
Minimotoclub.com - UK & US minimoto community bulletin board, with snippets of information here and there, posted by members.
Related sports featured on Adrenaline-Sports.net include: Karting, Motocross, Hovercrafts and BMX.
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Tips
Costs
Minimoto Resources
Minimoto.co.uk - Wiltshire based retailer and corporate minimoto specialist. Site has a good FAQ section.
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