Methods To Break In Your Pocket Bike
You’ve just got your brand new Pocket Bike, and all you want to do is get on and race. STOP right there. The engine on a new Pocket Bike needs to be broken in. By not breaking in the engine correctly, you will dramatically decrease your enignes life. There are various opinions on how to do it correctly, but the following two methods are the most common methods to use. Remember - do it right the first time, and your new bike will last you a much longer time.
The most common method is often called “heat cycling.” Heat cycling means you run the engine at idle or barely above idle for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. After this time the pocket bike 2-stroke engine will be right below the normal operating temperature. Then you turn the engine off and let the bike cool down. Once the engine is cool, you turn the bike on for another 10 minutes and then shut it down again. Do this process for a total of three to four times. When you have finished this process, run the bike at an easy pace for about 1 full tank of gas. Don’t put stress on the engine and avoid high RPM. When you have run through the tank of gas, your bike is ready to go and can be used at normal speeds.
The second method, called “racing break in” is less commonly used, though it is more fun. First, warm the engine for 5 minutes by letting it idle on the stand. Slowly bring the throttle up to figure out where the clutch engages. This way you can avoid getting ejected by applying too much throttle when riding. Then you hit the track. Take the first lap slowly to warm up the tires. On the second lap you can hit the gas and ride for 10 to 15 minutes. By accelerating, decelerating and hitting varying RPMS you will break in the engine. Remember to make sure that the pocket bike 2-stroke motor has been sufficiently warmed up. Although you don’t have to ride the bike too hard, you also shouldn’t ride so slowly that the clutch never completely engages or you will burn out the clutch. You will be able to tell when the clutch is fully engaged by the sound of your engine and the feeling of the bike. It may be necessary to adjust the clutch to the rider’s weight.
Your oil and gas mixture will be slightly different for breaking in a than for normal riding. Some experts suggest using a richer oil mixture (40 parts gas to 1 part oil) when you break in your bike. Others will say that you should stick with the normal 50 to 1 ratio. It is best to consult your instruction manual to find what the best mixture for your bike is. Also, rather use a non-synthetic oil, as it will help your piston ring to seat fully. After your first tank it is recommended to switch to semi-synthetic oil.
Before and every ride you should look your bike over for any loosened fasteners. Also, check your spark plug from time to time to verify if you are using the correct fuel mixture. If your spark plug is a tanish color, then your ratio is correct. If it’s got a whitish or grey color then your running the engine lean.