FAQs

Bike & Specs

What type of engine is in a FatCat?

Every FatCat runs a 212cc four-stroke engine, built to the same design as the classic Honda GX200. That means parts like air filters, oil and spark plugs are widely available, not just from us. Fill the 3.5L tank with regular unleaded and you're set for roughly 3 to 4 hours of riding.

How many cc is the FatCat?

212cc. A reliable four-stroke, built off the same design as the Honda GX200.

Do FatCats have a pull-start engine?

Yep, easy pull-start, no battery needed.

Are FatCats equipped with an automatic transmission?

Yes. Fully automatic — twist the throttle and go, no clutch or gear changes to think about.

Does the FatCat have gears?

No gears to shift. It's a one-speed automatic, so there's nothing to learn before your first ride.

What controls do FatCat Mini Bikes have?

Everything's on the handlebars. Left side: rear brake lever and headlight switch. Right side: twist throttle, front brake lever and engine stop switch. Front and rear are hydraulic disc brakes, no foot brake to worry about.

What are the measurements of a FatCat Mini Bike?

The bike is 163cm long, 83cm wide and 92cm tall, with a seat height of 66cm. Folding the handlebars down can reduce the height further for easier transport.

How much do FatCats weigh?

75kg — noticeably lighter than a full-size trail bike, which makes it easier to move around, load for transport or work into tight spots on the property.

Do I need to run the engine in first?

Nothing special, just take it easy for the first little while. Your bike ships with oil already in it. First oil change is due after the first month or 20 hours, whichever comes first, then every 3 months or 50 hours after that. Full detail on our Maintenance page.

What types of screws and bolts are used in FatCat?

Mostly grade 8.8 bolts, with screws to the Japanese Industry Standard (JIS), the same quality standard used on high-end Japanese bikes.

Is the FatCat a dependable workhorse?

A 212cc FatCat with rugged wheels is a genuinely useful way to get around a property, checking fences, stock or just getting from one end of the place to the other, without the price tag of a full-size buggy.

How much noise do FatCats make?

Around 72 decibels cruising, up to 85 decibels at full throttle.

Does the FatCat feature rear suspension?

No rear suspension, but the chunky tyres and comfy seat do a lot of the work soaking up bumps. Rides better than you'd expect.

What colour does the FatCat come in?

Standard FC-212 comes in black with the black sticker kit. Want to make it yours? Our coloured sticker kits come in 12 colours.

What are the measurements of a FatCat Mini Bike?

The bike is 163cm long, 83cm wide and 92cm tall, with a seat height of 66cm. Folding the handlebars down can reduce the height further for easier transport.

Does the FatCat have an oil filter?

No oil filter on these engines.

Are you able to put in a larger engine or do engine modifications to get the torque and power increased?

It's possible, but it's custom work, not something we do ourselves or supply parts for. If you're after more punch without diving into custom work, check our aftermarket upgrades first. Worth knowing: modifying the engine can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part. The safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the engine in standard configuration during that period.

Rider & Legal

Who can ride a FatCat?

FatCat Mini Bikes are intended for riders aged 16 years and over. The automatic gearbox and comfortable seat make it straightforward to get the hang of, and the throttle limiter screw lets you dial in how much power's available, wound in for a gentler ride, wound out for full throttle once you're ready for it.

Is there a rider weight limit?

Bikes are rated for riders up to 100kg. Riding heavier than that will wear the transmission belt faster over time. We do offer lower-gearing sprocket options that trade a bit of top speed for extra torque, which some heavier or sand-riding customers find useful. Since that's a modification to a factory component, it can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part — the safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the bike in standard configuration during that period.

Can I get road registration for FatCats?

No, FatCats are strictly off-road and can't be registered for the road.

Where can you legally ride a FatCat?

Private property, farms and motorbike club tracks are the obvious ones. Australia's got no shortage of off-road areas too, but rules vary by state and council, so check with your local council for what's allowed near you.

Do I need a drivers license to ride a FatCat?

No licence needed, FatCats are off-road only and can't be road registered.

Terrain & Tyres

Can the FatCat handle sandy terrain?

Yes, the chunky tyres handle smaller dunes and soft sand well. For frequent sandy riding, we also offer a lower-gearing sprocket and matching chain, plus optional garter springs, which some riders find helpful for extra low-end grunt. These are modifications to factory components, so they can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part — the safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the bike in standard configuration during that period.

How well do FatCats handle slippery, muddy conditions?

Standard tyres have around 8mm of tread. Our chunky tyres step that up to 16mm with square-edged lugs for extra grip in the mud. The A003 in particular is built for the sloppy stuff.

Shipping & Delivery

Are FatCat Mini Bikes currently available?

Yes, we've got bikes in stock and ready to go.

How much is shipping?

Free shipping on accessories with any bike purchase. Otherwise it's $15 flat on accessories (tyres excluded) and $60 flat on tyres. FatCat gear (tees, hoodies, caps and beanies) is $10 flat per order, however many pieces you grab, and ships separately as it's made to order. Pop your address in at checkout for the exact bike shipping cost to your nearest depot. Full details on our Shipping & Delivery page.

Where is the FatCat warehouse?

We're based on the NSW South Coast and ship Australia-wide. See our Shipping & Delivery page for transit times to your state.

How does the shipping process work?

Bikes ship in their crate to your nearest freight depot for collection, not to your door, the cartons are too big for a courier van. We dispatch within 72 business hours of your order, then you'll get tracking details as soon as it's on the way. Transit times vary by state, see our Shipping & Delivery page for the full breakdown.

How large are the crates the FatCats arrive in?

Crates are 127cm long, 51cm wide and 78cm high, weighing around 87kg, small enough to fit in the back of most one-tonne utes. The assembled bike itself is 163 × 83 × 92cm.

Do you ship outside Australia?

Depends where you are and what you're ordering. Get in touch before placing your order and we'll see what we can do, see our Shipping & Delivery page for more.

Is pick-up available?

Our warehouse isn't open to the public, but free shipping applies to most depots around Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with nationwide shipping everywhere else. Pop your address in at checkout to see what's available near you.

Can I see a FatCat in person or test ride one before buying?

We're primarily an online, ship-anywhere brand, so most riders never need to visit in person. If you'd like to see a FatCat before buying, get in touch and we'll let you know what's currently available near you, at the moment that includes our stockist in Toowoomba, QLD.

Do you deliver to a business address?

This is assessed case by case. The address needs suitable forklift access to unload the crate, and it's not something we can offer for residential or farm addresses. Send your address details to fun@fatcatbikes.com.au and we'll confirm whether it's possible.

Assembly & Manuals

Do FatCats require assembly?

Some, yes, mainly the front wheel, brake caliper, forks and handlebars. Full instructions come with the bike, and our Assembly & Manuals page has the complete guide plus a video walkthrough if you'd rather watch than read.

Can I purchase a pre-assembled FatCat?

Not directly from us. If you're not confident assembling it yourself, we recommend getting help from someone with appropriate mechanical experience.

Is there a complete "how to assemble" video available?

Yes, a full video walkthrough of the assembly process is on our Assembly & Manuals page and YouTube channel.

Maintenance

How do I service my FatCat Mini Bike?

First oil change is due after the first month or 20 hours, then every 3 months or 50 hours after that. Beyond oil, keep the chain lubed and tensioned and give the belt an occasional clean. Full checklist on our Maintenance page.

What oil should you use for your FatCat?

SAE 10W-30, available at most hardware or small engine shops. The engine oil capacity is 600mL. Fill with the bike upright until it's just about to overflow from the filler plug.

Are spare parts readily available?

Yes, browse our Parts & Accessories page, or check the FC-212 Spare Parts Catalogue for the full part-by-part breakdown. Can't find what you need? Email fun@fatcatbikes.com.au.

What type of lubricant should I use?

For the chain, RP7, CRC or WD40 work well and don't attract as much dirt and sand as dedicated chain lube. Give the chain a clean, relube it and check the tension before you ride. For the front brake caliper mounting bolts, a small amount of low-strength Loctite does the job.

What's the best way to clean my FatCat?

A hose or bucket of water with a soft brush or sponge is all you need, detergent's rarely necessary. Skip high-pressure cleaners around the bike, since water can get into bearings and electronics.

Are there any essential safety tips and cautions to ensure a thrilling and secure ride?

Check fuel and oil before every ride, and keep brake lines and cables clear of the steering and away from the front mudguard. Keep tyres at the recommended 10psi (see our tyre pressure FAQ for how that can be adjusted). Your chain ships with an anti-rust coating, not lubricant, so give it a proper lube before your first ride. For CVT care, see our Maintenance page.

What is the ideal tyre pressure?

10psi is the standard recommended pressure. You can adjust up to 15psi depending on rider weight, terrain and conditions, just don't go below 10psi, as it can cause the tyre to unseat or develop slow leaks.

What kind of spark plug does the FatCat use?

NGK BPR6ES.

Does the FatCat have auto transmission oil?

No transmission oil, it's a belt-driven CVT with two variable pulleys. The driven pulley needs an occasional clean and re-lube with graphite dry lube.

Accessories & Upgrades

If I purchase accessories, will they be installed for me?

Not pre-installed, but we'll ship them in the same box as your bike so you can fit them yourself, exactly how you want it.

What type of tyres do FatCats come with?

Standard V-pattern tyres front and rear. Great all-rounders, though chunky tyres are worth it if you're often in wet or muddy conditions. We can't swap tyres before shipping, but we can send extras with your order, some riders buy the chunky set alongside their bike so they're ready to swap once the originals wear down. Chunky tyres are available in A-003, A-051 or Steer patterns.

Are the tyres tubeless?

Yes.

I want to know more about the coloured graphic kits!

Designed and made right here in Australia, tough enough for the outdoors, in 12 colours. Sold separately from the bike (which ships with standard black stickers), clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol first for the best finish. Shipping is $15 flat, or free with a bike purchase.

Are the garter springs easy to install?

Yes, it's a straightforward swap, the parts come with fitting notes, or check our Maintenance page for the general process. Worth noting: your top speed won't change with lighter springs, they just engage the drive a little earlier. Since this modifies a factory component, it can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part — the safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the bike in standard configuration during that period.

I want more details about the aftermarket sprockets and chains!

Our larger sprockets gear the bike down, trading some top speed for extra torque, handy if you're riding sand or softer terrain, or carrying more weight. You'll need a longer chain to match; all three of our chain options are long enough, you'll just remove a few links to get the right fit. Since this modifies factory components, it can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part — the safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the bike in standard configuration during that period.

I want to know more about the New FatCat Packages!

Our packages bundle a FatCat with accessories we reckon suit that riding style, at a better price than buying separately. Everything ships together, but accessories arrive unfitted so you can set the bike up exactly how you want it.

If I buy a FatCat Package will these accessories come pre-fitted to my bike upon arrival?

No, accessories ship in the same box as the bike, but you'll fit them yourself.

Payment & Finance

How do I purchase a FatCat online?

Add your bike and accessories to the cart, enter your shipping details, then pay. We take PayPal, Credit Card, Bank Transfer and Afterpay. Prefer an invoice instead? Email fun@fatcatbikes.com.au and we'll sort it out.

Do you have financing options?

We offer Afterpay, buy now, split the cost into fortnightly instalments.

How does the Afterpay finance option work?

Buy now, get your bike now, pay it off in fortnightly instalments. You'll need an Afterpay account set up on their site before you check out with us.

Can I get a better price if I purchase more than one FatCat?

Yes, email fun@fatcatbikes.com.au with your order details, suburb and postcode and we'll sort out a deal.

Do you have a referral program?

Refer a mate, and when they buy a bike you both get a $100 FatCat Accessories Gift Card. Just point them our way.

Can I make a tax deduction for my FatCat purchase?

Some riders have looked into claiming it, worth checking with your accountant to see if it applies to you.

Can I make a payment when I collect my order at the freight depot?

No, the depot is run by our courier, not us. Full payment needs to clear before we dispatch from our warehouse.

How can I become a FatCat distributor?

Keen to bring FatCat to more riders in your area? Email fun@fatcatbikes.com.au and we'll talk through what's involved.

Hints & Tips

Troubleshooting for a Non-Starting Bike

Check the fuel tap and choke are both on, and that there's fuel in the tank. Once it fires, leave the choke on for 30 seconds, then move it halfway for another 30 before turning it off fully. Still not starting? Check the oil level with the bike upright, low oil will stop it running. More troubleshooting is in your owner's manual.

Having trouble with your headlight?

Check all three electrical plugs are connected properly. If the switch still isn't lighting it up, it's probably just a blown globe, get in touch and we'll send a replacement.

How to put the chain back on

Usually a loose chain or a slightly out-of-line rear wheel. Check the chain tension adjusters on both sides against the scribe marks and even them up, that'll straighten the wheel and get the chain tension back where it should be.

If I make the back sprocket smaller will the FatCat be faster?

Yes, gearing up with a smaller rear sprocket can add some top speed, but you'll trade off low-end torque, and go too far and it may struggle to reach full revs. It's a balance between speed and torque. Since this modifies a factory component, it can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part — the safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the bike in standard configuration during that period.

How can I make the FatCat faster?

Start with the throttle limiter screw under the airbox, wind it out fully for full throttle. Beyond that, carburettor and exhaust upgrades can make a difference, though keep in mind that kind of engine work can affect your warranty cover, especially if a claim relates to the modified part. The safest way to keep the voluntary 6-month warranty fully intact is to leave the engine in standard configuration during that period.

Do you have a FatCat community I can connect with?

Yep, search "FatCat Minibikes Owners" on Facebook for photos, tips and the rest of the FatCat crowd.