Want to purchase a dirt bike but don’t know what you’re looking for?
Researching on your own can be a little overwhelming, especially given the variety of models available in the market. You need to put in a lot of thought and look at various features before purchasing a dirt bike.
This may seem like a daunting task but fear not. I’m here to help!
In this post, I’ll be giving you a run through some of the best dirt bikes for beginners. We’ll delve in deep by discussing the pros and cons of each product.
In addition, I’ve also included a general buying guide to help you understand the importance of specific features.
Without further delay, let’s begin.
Table of Contents
Best Dirt Bikes for Beginners Review
Just because you’re learning how to ride a dirt bike does not mean you compromise on quality. At the same time, it does not mean you begin with the biggest, pro dirt bike either. The idea is to find a balance, and that’s what I’ll be helping you find.
Let’s look at the industry’s best dirt bikes for beginners.
Honda CRF250X
The CRF250X allows you to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free ride. Unlike some bikes that have a kick start, this Honda bike comes with an electric start button on the handle.
All you need to do is pull the clutch, turn on the start button on the handlebar, and you’ll be zooming off in no time.
The CRF250X comes with an 18-inch rear wheel and a 21-inch front wheel. It’s wheelbase has high ground clearance, which means that you can conquer uneven terrains with ease.
Thanks to the strong frame and wheel package, you can enjoy high speed while maintaining your balance.
Equipped with a four-stroke engine, the CRF250X has a broader powerband and provides amateur riders more control. You get consistent power and a lot of torque with this 250cc engine.
You will find that easier to maneuver the CRF250X as it only weighs around 254 lbs and has a lower center of gravity. The latter is also because the fuel tank and motor are located in the middle of the frame.
The best part about getting the CRF250X is that Honda is a popular brand, which means you can customize your bike with aftermarket parts. You can start learning with the CRF250X, but as your skill level goes up, you can also add upgrades to your bike.
Pros
- Smooth and hassle-free electric start button
- The wheelbase has a high ground clearance
- 250cc four-stroke engine with consistent power
- Easy to maneuver due to the low center of gravity
- Easy to customize with aftermarket products
Cons
- Valves wear out
- Hand brakes are grabby and a bit difficult to get used to
Yamaha TTR-50
If you’re looking for a dirt bike for young riders, then the Yamaha TTR-50 is a good option. This bike is a great first step for younger riders as riders don’t need to fret over balancing and controlling power.
Teaching a beginner to control the throttle, brake, and balance on this bike is a piece of cake. Besides, the four-stroke engine equipped with three gears and no clutch can bear mishandling by beginners.
Now, this doesn’t mean you purposely trash the bike, but as mentioned, it does hold better than most other models.
This bike is a great model to start with because you can attach training wheels to it. Being able to sit flat-footed on the bike while maintaining your balance can be challenging for beginners.
This task becomes more manageable with the help of the training wheels. Not only do they give amateur riders more control, but they are great confidence boosters as well.
If you’re having a hard time handling all the speed that comes with the TTR-50, don’t worry. You can easily limit this speed by screwing in a throttle limiter. The screw limits the amount of throttle and controls the speed.
Once you’re more comfortable testing out higher speed, you can simply remove the throttle limiter.
Another feature that makes this bike ideal for beginners is the electric button start. You don’t have to struggle trying to kick start the bike. A simple flip of a switch is enough to get the engine roaring.
Pros
- Four-stroke engine equipped with three gears and no clutch
- You can attach training wheels
- You can screw in a throttle limiter
Cons
- Shift lever may bend
- The throttle needs to be tightened
Honda CRF230F
Next up, we have another Honda dirt bike. If the earlier model was a bit too much for you, then the Honda CRF230F will be perfect for you. This model is a step down from the earlier CRF250X but is just as reliable.
The four-stroke, air-cooled engine on this bike is well-known for its reliability and high performance. The throttle control is simple to use. Plus, the engine makes use of every drop of fuel in the tank.
Similar to the CRF250X, the CRF230F also has a push start button, making it super easy to get the engine running.
Another great feature about this bike is that it’s lightweight. With an overall weight of 249 lbs, this bike has a lower center of gravity, allowing you to move around with ease. Moreover, it’s easier to pick yourself from the ground.
As with most Honda bikes in the red team, this model also has an 18-inch rear wheel and a 21-inch wheel in the front. It can easily tackle bumpy terrains, allowing you to speed smoothly along any terrain.
Riding your bike while standing on the footpegs can be a thrilling experience. However, if you’re a beginner, we suggest you don’t try standing until you’ve gotten more comfortable with riding. As the seats of the CRF230F are super comfortable, you’ll have no trouble learning how to ride.
Pros
- Four-stroke, air-cooled engine has a high-performance rate and is reliable
- The engine uses every drop of fuel
- Lightweight with a low center of gravity, making it easy to move
- Comfortable seats
Cons
- Jetting requires a little tuning
- Requires regular oil changes every 10 hours
Kawasaki KLX110
If you’ve done a little research on the best dirt bikes for beginners, you’ve probably come across the Kawasaki KLX110. This model is quite well-known by beginners and pros alike for being one of the most customizable bikes in the market.
From motor modification to graphics and fancy bolts, you can upgrade this model in any way you like. Besides, the modifications you make can also add to the resale value, making this bike a worthy investment.
While this bike is a bit on the heavy side, you won’t be complaining once you see the four-stroke engine’s performance.
This model is ideal as the engine is equipped with four gears and no clutch, giving beginners plenty of speed and control.
The KLX110 comes with a 12-inch rear wheel and a 14-inch front wheel making it easier for you to maintain your balance.
Another great thing about this bike is that regardless of your age, you’ll be able to ride this bike with ease.
Pros
- One of the most customizable bikes in the market
- Modifications increase the resale value
- The four-stroke engine has four gears and no clutch
- Great for riders of all age
Con
- A bit heavy
Yamaha YZ125
If you plan on going pro, then the Yamaha YZ125 is a great beginner bike. The YZ125 was first introduced in the late 1970s and is still being produced. Essentially, this means this bike has undergone quite a few upgrades.
Yamaha continuously works to improve the model, so you know this will be a reliable bike.
Another great thing about this bike is that it is super lightweight. It weighs only 207 lbs, even with the gas tank in place. You’re unlikely to find a dirt bike as light as this one.
Plus, it has a low center of gravity, making it easy to maneuver the bike.
As we mentioned earlier, the YZ125 is perfect if you want to go pro. Once you’ve gotten comfortable riding it, you can easily upgrade the engine by adding new pistons, gaskets, and rings.
While most companies no longer sell 125cc bikes, Yamaha’s YZ125 is the best of the best. You’ll have no trouble zooming through the track on this classic dirt bike.
It has top-notch suspension, meaning even on rough tracks, the ride isn’t harsh.
Pros
- Super light, weighing only 207 lbs
- Great beginner bike if you’re planning to go pro
- Top-notch suspension
- Easy to upgrade motor
Cons
- Requires you to mix gas or get premix gas
- May need to change valves depending on your weight and riding style
Buying Guide for Best Dirt Bikes for Beginners
Stroke
Stroke refers to the type of engine your bike is equipped with. Knowing the difference between the stroke types is super useful.
There are two types of strokes:
-
Two-Stroke Engines
These will give you great acceleration and are super easy to repair. Two-stroke engines usually use a mixture of oil and gas. Unfortunately, this means their emissions are quite harmful to the environment.
-
Four-Stroke Engines
These engines provide riders higher speed. Besides, their engine structures are a bit complicated, so if you run into any issues, it’s best to get a professional to look at it.
A good thing about four-stroke engines is that their emissions are cleaner than two-stroke engine emissions.
You can get a good idea of the costs and the amount of maintenance required just by looking at the type of stroke your dirt bike has.
Skill
This goes without saying, but it’s crucial that you assess your skill level before purchasing a dirt bike. Basic mechanical knowledge and hand-eye coordination are essential when one is learning how to ride a dirt bike.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to determine your skill level:
- Can I ride a normal bike?
- Do I know how to work a clutch?
- How much speed am I comfortable with?
Size
Another crucial thing to remember when getting a dirt bike is to ensure the bike’s size is correct for your height and weight.
If you’re too short, you may have a hard time controlling the bike. Alternatively, if you’re too heavy, not only will you put unnecessary pressure onto the bike, but it may also be dangerous for you.
If you can sit on the bike and can’t put your feet on the ground, then the bike isn’t the right size for you. A good way to figure out the bike’s size is by checking if the balls of your feet and your toes can lie flat on the ground.
Here’s a general size chart that adults can refer to:
| Your Height | Bike Seat Height |
| 6-feet or 182 cm | 37.5-inches |
| 5-feet 10-inches or 178 cm | 35-inches to 39-inches |
| 5-feet 8-inches or 172 cm | 34-inches to 38-inches |
| 5-feet 6-inches or 167 cm | 34-inches to 37-inches |
| 5-feet 4-inches or 162 cm | 33-inches to 36-inches |
| 5-feet 2-inches or 157 cm | 3-inches to 35-inches |
Here’s a general size chart for kids:
| Kid’s Age | Bike Seat Height |
| 10 to 12 years | 26-inches to 31-inches |
| 8 to 9 years | 24-inches to 28-inches |
| 3 to 6 years | Electric or 50cc dirt bike |
Should I get an Old or a New Bike?
If you’re on a tight budget, you can still find some amazing used bikes at a great price. I suggest taking a look at different motor communities and even asking around at your local mechanic.
It’s a good idea to test out the bike yourself before you decide to purchase it. Especially with online resellers, it’s best to do some thorough research and testing before you wire the payment.
If you have a really tight budget, I suggest you purchase a new but step down from the latest model. Not only will it be unused and new, but you’ll be able to save up some money as it’s not the latest version.
By investing in a brand new bike, you’re saving yourself additional repair costs that may be needed if you purchase a used model.
In the end, it depends on your preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
Buying a dirt bike is no easy task, but I hope my best dirt bike review has made the job a bit easier for you.
Before you decide to purchase your dirt bike, be sure to give the buying guide a once over to see if the model checks all the essential requirements. Just follow my advice, and you’ll be able to find your dream dirt bike in no time.
