How to Install an Air Filter on a Pocket Rocket

Pocket rockets perform best with clean air, fuel, and oil filters.

Pocket rocket motorcycles are becoming a hot item in many cities around the U.S. As prices for these small versions of superbikes continue to fall, it is more and more enticing for consumers to buy their own stunt bike to ride in a local parking lot or motorcycle track. Pocket rockets give even small children the chance to own a performance motorcycle without the high cost, license requirements or upkeep of street motorcycles. The 49-cc engines on pocket rocket motorcycles generally are low maintenance and do not require many replacement parts. However, as with any other vehicle, it is often better to perform preventive maintenance than wait until a problem with your bike is evident. One area that is in need of routine maintenance on your pocket rocket is the air/fuel delivery system. In particular, the air filter is your bike's first line of defense against contaminants and should be changed regularly.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdrivers
• Ratchet set

Instructions

1. Purchase the air filter recommended for your bike. Your local motorcycle or small engine shop should be able to help you locate the filters and may even have an online supplier that they can recommend.

2. Use the screwdrivers to begin removing body panels on the front half of the motorcycle. Remove enough of the body panels that you can comfortably work inside the engine compartment. The frame is very compact, so this may be the majority of the body on the front half of the bike. Locate the air filter on top of the carburetor and use the screwdrivers to loosen the bolts holding it on. In some cases, these bolts will need to be removed with the ratchet set.

3. Slide the new air filter into place and tighten down the screws that hold it onto the carburetor. Make sure not to install the filter too low on the carburetor, as this could decrease your airflow and hurt performance. Reinstall the body panels that you took off of the bike and then take it for a test ride.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not overtighten the airfilter bolts when installing the new filter, as this can lead to a crushed filter element or manifold hose.