What You Should Know About A Mini Bike Frame

A mini bike frame is one of the critical components of a bike. If you want to build a mini bike from scratch, deciding on the frame should be your first step. This is because the frame you buy largely depends on the type of mini bike and how you intend to use it. For example, the frame of a motocross mini bike will have a different shape and weight than that of a chopper bike or a quad. The principles though behind the functioning of a mini bike frame are not much different from that of a standard motorcycle except for the size.

The mini bike frame has evolved over time. The minibikes of the past had fixed frames with wheels attached. The latest mini bikes have frames fixed to the suspension to which the wheels are attached. The front fork suspension has oil-filled telescoping tubes called fork tubes while the rear suspension supports the swingarm and is attached by a bolt to the axle of the rear wheel. Either dual shock absorbers are placed at the ends of the swingarm or a single one at the front above the pivot bolt.

There are several aspects to look for while buying a mini bike frame.

The first is the weight of the frame, vital if you are inclined towards dirt-track or off-road racing. High-end bikes have frames made from light yet tough expensive materials and this will give you an edge on the tracks. By the rule of thumb, the more expensive mini bikes have a lower weight mainly due to the quality of the material used in the manufacture of the mini bike frame.

Another aspect to check in frames is the type of welding used to connect the tubes. Among the options are using the same material as the tube (TIG), brazing the tubes with silver or brass, or using lugs to join the tubes.

Mini bike frames are manufactured from different types of metals and what you buy depends a lot on your driving style, your sense of adventure, how you use the bike, and your weight.

Let’s check out some of them.

The most common material used for manufacturing a mini bike frame is high-tensile carbon steel. It is strong and durable but not as light as the technologically advanced version of steel known as Chromoly. Frames made of this material last for years and flex well, adding to the stability of the ride.

Aluminum has been used in the manufacture of mini bike frames for ages. It is not only inexpensive but is light and strong and provides a safe and stable ride even over challenging terrains and uphill biking.

One of the most expensive materials used in the manufacture of a mini bike frame is titanium. It is lighter than steel but equally strong and flexes well, making for a safe ride.