Restoring and restricting a pocket bike

[8IKERDAVE]

I was given a little pocket bike earlier in the year and intend to give it to my 4 year old lad. The bike is in a pretty poor condition and most people would say just bin it and buy another one, but I enjoy my garage time and I think it would be nice to almost build him his first bike.

First question I have is relating to the plastics. They aren't in the best condition but repairable if required. I have seen loads of plastics available on ebay that apparently are 'universal fitment'. I wonder if anyone has had experience with this or should I just stick with restoring the originals?

Secondly the bike needs restricting. He is only 4 years old and in the worst case scenario I want to be able to run after him and catch him up so 5-10mph is fine at least for the first month. Presumably restricting the throttle slider in the carb is the best way to do this but I'm interested if anyone has other suggestions?

I'm committed now, and I won't be posting up any pictures until it's done as most people will tell me it looks like a death trap but I'm mechanically minded enough to know what needs replacing and how to make it safe.

[podman]

Ive being using this after a recommendation , works very well, sets in seconds and you can sand it, drill it and paint it etc etc .Try and flex the panel afterwards and the panel itself will crack before the repair gives.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SUPA-FIX-EVERBUILD-ADHE...

You can restrict the throttle opening by the slide as you suggest or the twist grip.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MIDI-DIRT-BIKE-QUADARD-M...

Post some pics up when your done & good luck!

[RizzoTheRat]

Bigger bikes restrict the power by fitting a restrictor in to the inlet, so effectively limiting the amount the throttle can be opened without restricting the controls.

[8IKERDAVE]

Thanks guys. I think I will try one of those throttle restricter kits first for the sake of a few quid. If it doesn't do the job I'll resort to a fiddle with the carb. Also ordered the plastic repair stuff, so will report on that. I'm having my own bike vinyl wrapped so I might be cheeky and see if they will tag this on for me

[Rubin215]

podman said:

Ive being using this after a recommendation , works very well, sets in seconds and you can sand it, drill it and paint it etc etc .Try and flex the panel afterwards and the panel itself will crack before the repair gives.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SUPA-FIX-EVERBUILD-ADHE...

Same result using poundshop superglue and sodium bicarbonate (baking powder) for a fraction of the cost.