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Mini-Bike Listings

"A Mini-Bike is a two-wheeled motorized vehicle which is not a moped, motor-scooter, mini-cycle, cross-over, or a full-sized motorcycle and although is typically intended for off-road use, it may be designed for light duty/around the neighborhood use, but could never be street-legal. Said vehicle would typically have a rigid suspension but may be partially or fully suspended. A Mini-Bike is engineered for the young rider. Engine horsepower shall range from 2hp to 8hp." An example of a Mini-Bike according to this classification is the Rupp Rascal.

  1. Efenel Corp. (Chicago, Illinois)

    1. The Cobra
      Efenel-Cobra 2
    2. Grand Prix
    3. Lightning

    "Efenel offers an array of minibikes, which carry a guarantee of 30 days on drive-train parts and 1 year on the frame.

    The Cobra, their deluxe model, is constructed of 14-guage steel tubing and has a 3.5 or 4 hp Clinton engine, kick starter, buddy-type seat, gas guage, and folding handlebars. Several suspension features insure a smooth ride over rough terrain. All Efenel bikes weigh approximatel 100 pounds.

    Price: Cobra, $167; Grand Prix, $119; Lightning, $99." 2

  2. F S Industries (Evanston, Illinois)

    1. Skee-Whee

    Skee-Whee 2

    "F S Industries offers Skee-Whee with a unique concept in propulsion. In place of a rear wheel drive, the bike is propelled by a track system (similar to the snowmobile) that moves the vehicle over most any terrain, light snow, sand, or grass. The moderate top speed of 25 mph, the hand brake, and the flotation tires insure safety for all members of the family in all seasons.The bike can be transported in your car trunk or station wagon. Price: $295." 2

  3. Projects Unlimited, Inc. (Dayton, Ohio)

    1. Skat-Kitty

      2. Skat-Kitty 3

      "Passengers or groceries can ride in the sidecar that comes as an option with the Skat-Kitty scooter. The scooter is priced at $169.95 with a two-cycle engine and $179.95 with a four-cycle. The sidecar is $49.95 extra. Made by Projects Unlimited, 1926 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, Ohio."3

      Skat-Kitty 2

      "Projects Unlimited, Inc. (1926 E. Siebanthaler Ave., Dayton, Ohio, 45414) offers one of the smallest minibikes on the market, the Scat-Kitty, which is about knee-high. The Scat-Kitty's features include 2.5 hp, 4-cycle Tecumseh engine with built-in alternator and one year manufacturer's warranty, one-piece cast aluminum frame and fenders, hi-low sealed beam lighting system, 5" wheels with low-profile Terra Tires. Price: $297.85. Accessories: detachable side car, seat bar, electric horn kit, canvas cover and a deck mount to lock the Skat-Kitty firmly to boats and campers."2

  4. Manco Products, Inc. (4404 Engle Ridge Drive, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804)

    1. Cruiser 573-00

      2. Manco-Cruiser 4

      " Performance 3.5 HP engine. Torque converter for all terrain capabilities. Steel wheels for additional strength. Safety Hand operated band brake. Accessories Remote fuel tank."4

    2. Streaker GL 580B-01

      3. Manco-Streaker 4

      " Performance 3.5 HP engine. Centrifugal clutch drive for increased performance. Reinforced heavy wall steel frame for excellent durability. Steel sheels for additional strength. Safety Dual oil impregnated fork bushings for reliable steering. Accessories Extra thick foam seat for increased comfort."4

To be continued...

Photos/text credits: 1. Science & Mechanics April 1964 | 2. John Malo, All-Terrain Adventure Vehicles, 1972, The Macmillan Company | 3. Popular Mechanics Dec. 1963 | 4. Manco brochure 05/00

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cronen@sbcglobal.net . All content not credited and previously copyright, is copyright Jay Cronen. Photo and text credits given where applicable. Some images may have been edited for space or clarity. Content cited from the Internet is assumed to be public domain. If any material on this page is deemed copyright protected please provide written request to remove with evidence of copyright.