Best Mini Bike - Buyer’s Guide

Gareth Otwell By Gareth Otwell · Last Updated January 04, 2022

featured imageMini bikes are scaled-down motorcycles that are around 20-inches high and that both adults and kids can ride. They are easier to control and maintain than motorcycles. Mini bikes can run between 10 to 60 mph. I will present you with the list of six best mini bikes with their most prominent features. The list will be followed by buyer’s guide and what things you should keep in mind if you decide to purchase one.

Monster Moto MM-E1000-BB - Best Mini Bike

The Monster Moto MM-E1000-BB offers a welded and gusset-reinforced steel tube frame with powder coating, durable construction, and polypropylene, no-dent fenders. With a 35.5-inch wheel base, it has 145/70-6 steel-rimmed, off-road, pneumatic, tubeless tires. For your riding comfort, this mini bike provides a large 23-inch high seat. It weighs 110-pounds. It is intended for those 14 and older with a maximum weight of 185-pounds.

The 1000-watt electric motor provides an easily-operated, automatic clutch with a motorcycle style throttle, an on-and-off switch, and a top speed of 17-mph. Since it is electric, this mini bike will have to be charged before you can use it. It will take six hours to charge the battery, and it will run for 45 minutes. The Monster Moto MM-E1000-BB provides a charger that plugs into the E1000 connector, and on the handlebars, it has a charge status indicator.

This mini bike is pre-assembled. After you charge the battery, you only need to attach the handlebars and you are ready to ride. The toolkit you need to attach the handlebars is included.

For safety, the Monster Moto MM-E1000-BB provides a chain guard, a power stop button that is easy to reach on the handlebars, and hand-operated rear disc brake.

Pros
  • The durable Monster Moto has a welded and gusset-reinforced steel tube frame and polypropylene, no-dent fenders.
  • You only need to attach the handlebars and the toolkit that you need is included.
  • It includes a charger and a toolkit to attach the handlebars, which is the only assembly you need to do.
Cons
  • Since it is electric, you will have to wait until it is charged before you can use it the first time.
  • It takes six hours to charge and only runs 45 minutes.

Monster Moto MM-B80-AF

The gas-powered Monster Moto MM-B80-AF offers the ruggedness of Monster Moto with a powder-coated, welded steel tube frame that is gusset-reinforced. This easily controlled mini bike has a motorcycle-style throttle; polypropylene, no-dent fenders; spring loaded foot pegs; a large seat; custom graphics; steel-rimmed, mag wheels; and 14.0X5.7R6.0 off-road, pneumatic, sure-grip, tubeless tires.

The Monster Moto MM-B80-AF provides a heavy-duty, 80-cubic centimeter, 2.5-horsepower, four-stroke, overhead-valve (OHV) engine and an automatic no-shift centrifugal force transmission. It offers an easy pull starter and a top speed of 23-mph.

A tool kit to attach the adjustable handlebars is included. Since it is gas-powered, filling the gas tank and attaching the handlebars is all you need to do to be ready to ride off-road.

The Monster Moto MM-B80-AF provides an engine stop switch, an exhaust heat shield, a chain guard, and a hand-operated rear disc brake for safety.

Pros
  • The rugged Monster Moto MM-B80-AF provides a powder-coated, welded steel tube frame that is gusset-reinforced.
  • It offers a motorcycle-style throttle; polypropylene, no-dent fenders; spring loaded foot pegs; a large seat; custom graphics; steel-rimmed, mag wheels; and 14.0X5.7R6.0 off-road, pneumatic, sure-grip, tubeless tires.
  • Since it is gas-powered, filling the gas tank and attaching the handlebars is all you need to do to be ready to ride off-road.
  • A tool kit to attach the adjustable handlebars is included.
Cons
  • Since it is gas-powered, it will be heavier, noisier, and will give off more fumes than an electric mini bike.
  • There have a few reports of defective products with starting and stalling issues.

Coleman Powersports CT200U - Best Gas Powered

The Coleman Powersports CT200U gas-powered mini trail bike provides a sturdy metal frame, a jackshift, clutch, and chain drive that combine to make it a rugged off-road mini bike. To provide a soft and stable ride on rough terrain, the CT200U has low pressure tires. It weighs 112-pounds, will carry a top weight of 200-pounds, and is intended for those 13 and older.

The 196-cubic centimeter, 6.5-horsepower, four-stroke, one-cylinder, overhead-valve (OHV) engine and automatic, centrifugal-clutch transmission offers an easy pull-start.

Among the safety features, the Coleman Power Sports CT200U provides a hand-operated rear drum brake.

Pros
  • The CT200U mini bike provides a sturdy metal frame, a jackshift, clutch, and chain drive that combine to make it a rugged off-road minibike.
  • It has low pressure tires to provide a soft and stable ride on rough terrain.
  • The 196-cubic centimeter, 6.5-horsepower, four-stroke, one-cylinder, overhead-valve (OHV) engine and automatic, centrifugal-clutch transmission offers an easy pull-start.
  • This mini bike will carry a top weight of 200-pounds, and is intended for those 13 and older
  • Since it is gas-powered, you can just refuel and keep the fun going.
Cons
  • Gas-powered mini bikes are heavier, noisier, and will off more fumes than electric mini bikes.
  • It requires assembly.

Monster Moto MM-E250-PR - Best Electric Mini Bike For Kids

The durable Monster Moto MM-E250-PR Mini Bike has a welded steel tube frame with powder coating, polypropylene no-tdent fenders, low-profile 10.8X4.3R6.5 pneumatic tires, and one-piece cast aluminum wheels. This mini bike includes an easily accessible on and off toggle switch, motorcycle-style throttle control, adjustable handlebars, and red and pink decals for customization,

The batteries in the 24 volt, 7 amp hour, 250-watt electric motor are rechargeable and replaceable. It includes a direct-connecting charger, and on the handlebars, it has a charge status indicator. The battery charges in five hours and runs for 45 minutes. When you receive this mini bike, you will have to charge it before you can use it. This mini bike is for beginners and children. It has a maximum speed of 11 mph and can be set down to seven mph.

Minimal assembly is required on this mini bike. The tools needed to attach the adjustable handlebars are included.

Besides the speed limiter, this mini bike adds a hand-operated, rear disc brake for safety.

Pros
  • The durable MM-E250-PR has a welded steel tube frame, polypropylene no-dent fenders, low-profile 10.8X4.3R6.5 pneumatic tires, and one-piece cast aluminum wheels.
  • With a maximum speed of 11 mph that can be set down to seven mph, this mini bike is for beginners and children.
  • The tools needed to attach the adjustable handlebars are included.
Cons
  • When you receive this mini bike, you will have to charge it before you can use it.
  • The battery takes five hours to charge and runs for 45 minutes.

Massimo MB200 - Best Mini Bike for Adults

The Massimo MB200 Supersized Mini Bike offers a durable metal frame and a 24-inch high seat. With a 36.5-inch wheelbase, it has AT 19 x 7-8 tires for good traction and aluminum wheels. It weighs 152 pounds.

This mini bike features a 6.5-horsepower, 196-cubic centimeter, four-stroke, one- cylinder, air-cooled engine with automatic, chain-drive transmission and hydraulic, telescopic, dual front suspension. It has rear-wheel drive with a carbureted fuel system, a recoil pull start ignition, and a large capacity fuel tank. The MB200 is intended for those 16 and older, can hold up to 200 pounds, and reaches a maximum speed of 24 mph.

The Massimo MB200 is pre-assembled. All you have to do is attach the handlebars, fill the gas tank, and you are ready to start riding.

For safety, it has an engine stop switch, exhaust heat shield, chain guard, and rear drum brake.

Pros
  • The Massimo MB200 is an extra large mini bike.
  • It features a 6.5-horsepower, 196-cubic centimeter, four-stroke, one- cylinder, air-cooled engine with automatic, chain-drive transmission and hydraulic, telescopic, dual front suspension.
  • It has a large capacity fuel tank.
Cons
  • Gas engines are noisy and create fumes.
  • Gas mini bikes cost more to operate than electric engines.

Razor MX350 - Best Dirt Motocross Bike

The Razor MX350 is a scaled down electric motocross youth dirt bike that is designed for riders from age 13 and up. It features a high-torque, 350-watt, single-speed, extremely quiet, chain-driven motor that gets off to a fast start and that can reach speeds of up to 14 mph. The battery will hold a charge for up to 30 minutes which allows for a ride of approximately 10 miles. It takes approximately 12 hours to recharge the battery. The bike is powered by two 12-volt, sealed, lead acid batteries for 24 volts of power.

The motor operates easily with a twist grip throttle control. The rear brake is hand operated.

The bike has a steel frame with a double-crown fork and shatter-resistant plastic fairings. The angle of the riser-style handlebars can be adjusted. The frame supports up to 140 pounds, and is manufactured with true dirt-bike geometry. The bike weighs 70.25 pounds.

While some small adults report that they have ridden this bike, other purchasers report that it fits children as young as five years old and that they believe the bike may be too small for a 13-year-old child. Several purchasers agree that any child who can ride a bicycle without training wheels can learn to safely operate and ride this dirt bike.

Users agree that assembling is easy.

The Razor MX350 has been applauded by Sports Illustrated for Kids, and it has received numerous toy awards.s
Pros
  • The bike has an all steel frame with a double-crown fork and shatter-resistant plastic fairings.
  • The angle of the riser-style handlebars can be adjusted.
  • The motor operates easily with a twist grip throttle control. The rear brake is hand operated.
  • Several purchasers agree that any child who can ride a bicycle without training wheels can learn to safely operate and ride this dirt bike.
  • Some small adults report that they have ridden this bike.
  • Users agree that assembling is easy.
  • The Razor MX350 has been applauded by Sports Illustrated for Kids, and it has received numerous toy awards.
Cons
  • Some purchasers report that this bike fits children as young as five years old and that they believe the bike may be too small for a 13-year-old child.
  • The bike gets off to a fast start and that can reach speeds of up to 14 mph, and some purchasers worried that this may be too fast for children.
  • The battery only holds a charge for 30 minutes and takes 12 hours to recharge.

Mini Bikes Buyer’s Guide

Gas-powered or Electric-powered?

There are standard issues with any motorized product when choosing between gas and electric power.

Electric motors are quieter and more eco-friendly, so mini bikes with electric motors might be welcome in areas where gas motors are banned. However, many mini bike enthusiasts feel that the smell of gasoline and the sound of a gas-powered engine are part of the mini bike experience. Just remember that with gas-powered mini bikes, you are dealing with a flammable liquid.

As far as torque and speed, electric motors offer instant torque. So for racing, whether the instant torque is an advantage depends on the length of the race and the top speed of your bike. For short sprints, the instant torque can make a difference. For longer races, gas-powered engines are lighter weight, have more horsepower, and are faster. You should check the description for any bike to see what the maximum speed is.

The length of time that you can use your bike before it runs out of power is an important factor for both those who are racing and those who are riding for pleasure. However, there is a workaround for this issue for gas-powered mini bikes. Having a can of gas available can prolong the fun.

Gas-powered mini bikes do require maintenance that electric-powered mini bikes do not require. However, changing the oil and the spark plugs in a gas-powered mini bike does not have to be done that often. In addition, gas-powered engines are easier to work on than electric-powered engines if any repairs do need to be done.

Costwise, electric-powered mini bikes are cheaper to run.

So, the choice between gas-powered and electric-powered mini bikes is more of a personal choice rather than an overwhelming decision based on the pros and cons.

Types of Mini Bikes

As smaller versions of regular motorcycles, mini bikes are available in four styles:

  • Pocket Bikes
  • Pit Bikes
  • Mini Chopper Bikes
  • Midi Motorbikes

While among the smallest mini bikes, the electric-powered Pocket Bike offers an aerodynamic plastic body with sleek styling and high performance. They usually have two-stroke engines, but some have four-stroke engines. Pocket bikes are top choices among racers because of their speed.

The Pit Bike from the 1950s was a gas-powered bike used by racers and was one of the first mini bikes. It is now being made as an electric-powered bike. With their shorter wheelbase, they offer more stability for younger riders and for pit bike and motocross racing.

The electric Mini Chopper Bike is a style bike that can be customized with different body styles and paints.

The Midi Motorbike is similar to the pocket bike but larger than the other mini bikes. It also has larger engine, and that larger engine allows it to run faster.

Size

Mini bikes are actually available in two sizes — youth and adult. Youth bikes are usually small for adults and will only hold 150 to 175 pounds. Adult bikes hold 200 to 300 pounds. Children will find adult mini bikes harder to control.

Frame and Body

The mini bike type determines the frame shape. Make sure the frame is stable and durable.

The style of the body is also a characteristic of the bike type. However, side panels, rear faring, and other parts can be added to change the look of the bike.

Engine and Horsepower

The features of the engine determine the speed and performance of the bike. Just like regular motorcycles, the gasoline engine includes gears, crankshafts, air filters, and bearings. Mini bikes offer two-stroke or four-stroke gas engines and electric engines.

The 39- to 50-cubic centimeter, two-stroke, gasoline engines are lighter and smaller, have fewer moving parts, and provide faster starts, but at 30- to 40-mph, they do not offer top speeds.

Four-stroke, gasoline engines are heavier and larger, have more power, can run up to 60-mph, but they use more fuel. These engines are durable and are best for racing.

As mentioned previously, electric or battery engines are cheaper, quieter, and eco-friendly, but recharging is time-consuming. In addition, as most only reach 20-mph, they are not meant for racing. When you are shopping, be sure to read how long the battery holds a charge and how long it takes to recharge.

There is a range of 2.5 to 6.5 horsepower available in mini bikes. For kids and first-time adult riders, a lower horsepower might be they best idea. Racers will want higher horsepower mini bikes.

Tires

Mini bikes come with different tires that are intended for riding on different surfaces. Treaded tires are for off-road riding. Smoother tires are for smooth surfaces and racing. Low-pressure tires provide stability on uneven terrain.

Just for appearances, some mini bikes come with rims.

Steering and Brake

There are also options with the steering and braking on mini bikes. Racers will want smaller pedals on their bikes. Off-road riders will want larger pedals. Having rear brakes provide better stopping control.

Ease of Assembly

Assembling a mini bike may not seem like an issue to some people, but you should check to see how much and how difficult any assembly is for each mini bike. Also, see if you have the tools needed to assemble the bike or if they are included with the bike.

Safety

Do not let an injury happen to you or your child that could have been prevented. Make sure everyone wears a full-face helmet, goggles, and shoulder and chest pads. Also make sure the bike is appropriate for the skill of the rider.

Conclusion

While there are restrictions on where you can ride either gas or electric mini bikes and even more restrictions on gas mini bikes, we are fans of the power, speed, sound, and even the smell of the gasoline. However, these are for more experienced riders. Younger and less experienced riders should consider the slower, lighter weight, more manageable electric mini bikes. Remember these electric bikes are also less expensive, quieter, more eco-friendly and welcome in more places than gas bikes. If you want an electric bike, we recommend the Monster Moto MM-E250-PR Electric Mini Bike because it has a top speed of 11 mph that can be set down to seven mph.

Among the gas-powered mini-bikes, while Massimo offers the extra large MB200, we like the Monster Moto MM-B80-AF gas-powered mini bike. It is gas powered, so it has more speed along with features that we associate with the traditional larger motorbikes. It offers a durable welded frame, no-dent polypropylene fenders, steel-rimmed wheels, and sure-grip, off-road tires. It has a powerful 2.5-horsepower engine that provides a top speed of 23 mph. It requires minimal assembly, and the tools are provided to attach the handlebars. Overall, it appeals to us for its durability and power.

Gareth Otwell

About Gareth Otwell

Gareth Otwell is a 28-year-old tech geek. Currently working at a big IT company. He chooses to widen the topics he writes about so as to provide his readers with an all-in-one go-to platform that they can use to research for just about anything. Read more

Comments

Les Les

mm250 mini bike

Gareth, thanks for review! I am thinking of getting this mini bike for my 10 year old son for Christmas. My only dilemma is whether it is to small/slow for him? He would be a beginner but he is a wide open risk taker type kid-thanks for your input.

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