Many people will never have heard of Mini Motos and very few know much about them, so we decided to put together an information page, aimed at giving an insight to what Mini Motos are all about.

What is a Mini Moto?

These are essentially very small motorbikes, barely a foot high and capable of upto 45mph Powered by a small, high revving two-stroke engine with a centrifugal clutch (ie it works automatically when you accelerate) and a rear brake which makes for some amusing slides when braking through the corners! The bikes are very light and can easily be lifted and moved about without much effort. Due to the narrow size of the bikes, overtaking is very easy, making the events very exciting to watch and it is not unknown for people to be lapped. The lightness of the bikes gives them an incredible power to weight ratio and fantastic acceleration. The event takes a similar form to the karting events, with a few warm up laps leading onto a small championship.

Are they hard to ride?

No. As long as you can ride a push bike, Mini Motos are no harder to ride than a go-kart and a lot easier than a normal motorbike, due to their simplicity. The last track we used was indoors, so there was no chance of the good old British weather spoiling things.

Is it safe?!?

The venues we use all provide helmets and "boiler type suits" to wear for safety, as well as knee and elbow pads. The circuits are surrounded by "tyre walls" and most slides, which tend to happen in the corners, are very low speed affairs where your biggest concern is how to regain the four places you've just lost!

What do I need to take?

As mentioned all necessary safety gear is provided. Most venues have catering facilities for basic food and drink so some loose change is advisable. A camera perhaps and oh, of course yourself! Events usually happen on a Wednesday afternoon with everyone either meeting at the Students Union or driving directly to the venue but check the details of the individual events. Not having your own transport to the centre won't be a problem as there are always enough car drivers going to give lifts to others between the Students Union and the venue.

Anything else?

The Motor Club has been involved in Mini Moto events for the previous two years and they have always proved highly popular with all those attending. The cost of the event varies although it is usually approximately £25 per head, which is very good value for a unique afternoon's entertainment. This is payable in advance at one of the club's Thursday lunchtime meetings, or to any member of the committee. Unfortunately the numbers of places available for each event are limited to about thirty so it's a case of first come first served. If you decide to accept a lift from someone, then between you and them, I'm sure a small petrol contribution would be appreciated. I hope the above is useful. Ultimately Mini Motos are fun and from the feedback we've had from previous events, they have been enjoyed by all attending.

Further information can be found on the Mini-Moto web site at www.minimoto.co.uk