Pocket bike racing has evolved from a niche interest to a globally recognized sport. Originating in Japan, its popularity has exploded worldwide, particularly in the United States, Australia, and Europe. Switzerland stands out with its prestigious Swiss Pocket Bike Championship, established in 1996 by the Gruyere Pocket Bike Club. This championship attracts over 120 competitors, including racers from France, Austria, and Liechtenstein. The series consists of 8 to 11 races held on various tracks, with categories for different age groups, genders, and pocket bike types (junior, stock, and racing prepared).
The sport’s growth in Switzerland mirrors a broader trend. Pocket bike racing enjoys unprecedented popularity in the United States, with new circuits, stores, and online communities emerging constantly. Australia boasts its own thriving race series, while Japan, the birthplace of organized pocket bike racing, continues to maintain a strong presence in the sport.
The ongoing rise of pocket bike racing demonstrates its lasting appeal. What began as a seemingly peculiar Japanese pastime has solidified its position as a respected and dynamic motorsport, with each race reinforcing its global significance.