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In the world of pocketbikes there are numerous parts and pieces users can add to their bikes to improve performance. This list is not complete, but simply a starting point of what users can do to improve the performance of their bikes.

1. Exhaust
The removal of spent gasses in a bike is extremely important. How those gasses are handled are very similar. However different types of pipes offer different types of performance. Pipes other than stock can improve bottom end (torque), top end (horsepower) or all around performance.

2. Tires
Tires are not simply tires. Tires vary by compound and rigidity. The harder a tire is, the longer it will last but the less it will stick to the ground. The softer a tire is the faster it will wear but will offer you improved handling. The tires required will vary on the type of racing that you do and the performance you expect out of your bike.

3. Rocket Keys
A rocket key is simply a small piece of offcut metal that will alter your timing. A lot of users complain that after they have installed a rocket key that their performance has degraded. This is simply because they have installed the rocket key backwards and have retarded their timing. In our experiences rocket keys do not damage motors. However advancing timing can bring other problems such as heat and detonation. Useing a good fuel with good oil will prevent most of these things from happening.

4. Air Filtration
Stock air filters on most bikes are terrible. Replacing them with a performance type filter and stack will increase airflow. Increased airflow means the ability to burn more fuel which in turn offers more power.

5. Reeds
Reeds are possibly the most overlooked item by novice users. Stock reeds tend to wear very quickly and cause fluttering in the top end. What happens is that they lose their rigidity and start to flap around. A stiffer reed will improve this situation. Fibreglass and carbon fibre are typical of upgrades.

6. Carburetor
As all internal combustion engines require fuel and air in order to ignite a controlled explosion, the carb is the device that controls the air/fuel mixture. Stock carbs lack in a lot of areas what performance carbs do. Stock carbs are typically not adjustable, other than the needle. A performance carb will also be bigger than a stock unit and more adjustable. Carb upgrades typically include upgrading the manifold as well.

7. Piston/head
As most educated pocketbike users know, a 47cc pocketbike is not really 47cc. However 47cc bikes are typically sold as small bore and big bore. A small bore 47cc motor is 39.6cc, while a big bore is typically 48.3cc. Obviously upgrading from a small bore to a big bore will increase performance. This upgrade will typically not improve top end performance, only bottom end.

8. Gearing
Gearing is one of the least understood items by users on pocketbikes that I have seen. Owners expect to change their pipe and reeds and complain that they are not going faster. Of course not! Your setup is still limited to what your gearing allows for. You may get to your top speed faster however. Riders can change their pinion (the small gear on the motor) or their sprocket. Doing the wrong changes can result in a bike that does not perform the way you want.

9. Bearings
One completely overlooked item by riders are the bearings on the bike. A cheap bearing will produce more friction which will result in a higher drag. Opt for performance type bearings and riders may notice an increase in performance. Even if you don't notice the improvement, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist.

10. Fuel filters
Lets face it, stock fuel filters suck. They don't flow very well and are prone to breaking. Get yourself a good filter and improve your situation. Make sure if it is directional that you put it on the right way!

11. Clutches and springs
The clutch is what makes the motor turn the pinion so you can accelerate. Stock clutches are fine for stock bikes, but can be improved upon. Tighter springs can offer a harder launch because the clutch engages at a higher RPM. There are also adjustable clutches available that you can adjust to give you the best launch available. Some manufacturers also offer different materials for the pads of the clutch. Different materials allow more or less slip.

There are more things you can do with your bike to improve performance and handling, however this is simply a beginning list of what users can do to improve their ride. In all cases please make sure you have the knowledge and the right tools before attempting to work on your bike. We have a friendly community here so feel free to ask for help if you need it.

This article was written by Bruce Peresky for pocketbikeforum.com. Copying is permitted provided you give credit to http://www.pocketbikeforum.com

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