Motocross remains one of the more popular off-road motorcycle racing choices for those learning how to sandbag.  From flexing all the muscles to using your core strength, motocross is one of the most strenuous sports.

Let’s face it – few other sports give an adrenaline rush similar to what you get from dirt bike races. You get a one-of-a-kind experience traveling through rough terrains.

Beginners interested in dirt bikes and looking to experience the same motocross journeys with their dirt bikes have more than a few options.

Let me tell you, though – don’t just listen to your friends when buying one. Your need for a dirt bike may be very different from that of a professional rider.

For one, motocross riders don’t start their journey with the fastest, most significant, and super-cool-looking bikes available on the market. Instead, you look at your body size and riding skills to find the perfect bike.

I know it can get confusing. Here is a guide I’ve created to help you find a dirt bike that’s just right for you.

Make sure you also read our posts about where beginners can learn to dirt bike as well as different dirt biking categories.

What are Dirt Bikes?

Many people get confused between a dirt bike and a street bike. They are two very different motorcycles, starting from their looks to what they offer.

A dirt bike, for one, is specifically designed for off-road riding. These bikes come with a smaller gas tank, offer a flat and narrow seat, have increased suspension travel, a short wheelbase, and different frames.

Dirt bikes also make riding on rough terrains much smoother than a legal street motorcycle. They are intended to ride off the road and are great for cross–country riding or to go across muddy and rocky landscapes.

Things to Look for When Choosing a Dirt Bike for Beginners

Every rider’s riding style is different, and no two riders may enjoy a similar dirt bike. The fact there are plenty of dirt bikes in the market does not make this an easy process.

To avoid getting tangled up in various questions, focus on these three crucial factors if you’re a beginner.

The Weight

Dirt bikes don’t come with the tag ‘one size fits all.’ Also, steel dirt bikes are a better bet for heavier rides than aluminum.

The more the weight on the bike, the slower it will ride. That being said, the bike speed that you may get will also depend on your experience and skills.

On the flip side, a bike bigger in size with a powerful engine and stronger springs can carry more weight. It can also perform well than a smaller bike.

Also, if a dirt bike is heavier, it can support your weight.

Tip: Heavy riders will love the powerful 250cc 2-stroke and 450 cc 4-stroke engines.

The Size

Parents often go for the larger machines, figuring their kid will just “grow into it.” This is not always the best approach.

You do need to make sure that both of their feet touch the ground and they can hold up the bike and that heir hands comfortably reach and operate the handlebars and controls.

Just remember this: It doesn’t help if your kid grows into a bike only after he becomes disenchanted with the sport trying to manhandle a too-big bike and doesn’t want to ride anymore.

To examine the perfect size in a dirt bike, you can follow these steps:

Your feet should be able to stand firmly on the ground, and the bike must be steady under your control. While you reach for the handlebars, there should be a slight 90-degree angle in your elbow. Your back must be straight and comfortable without any discomfort.

When you bring your feet up from the ground towards the footpegs during the acceleration, your knees should have a slight bend. You can also place a foot out towards the front wheel when getting over an obstacle.

Tip: If the knees are cramped up and close to the body, you won’t be able to ride the dirt bike properly.

The Height

Know what your height is when choosing a bike.

To know what’s right for you, look for its seat size. Look for stability – your legs should firmly be set on the ground.

Many beginners believe that having the foot on the ground equates to a perfect dirt bike for their height. It doesn’t. It will leave the rider in a cramped position and may lead to a foot injury.

Should You Get Trail Riding or Motocross Bike?

From the outside, a trail riding bike and a motocross bike might appear the same.

Sure, they are often used interchangeably. To be honest, both rides brilliantly on tracks as well as trails. Yet, beginner riders need to remember the subtle differences.

Motocross bikes

For one, a motocross is much lighter than a trail bike. It’s all about racing and giving a head-strong competition to your rivals. Motocross bikes are set to take high jumps and corners at high speeds.

These are designed for short and intense bursts of acceleration, ideal for those looking for adrenaline.

Motocross bikes also have a smaller gas tank, no headlights, a stiffer suspension, and a lack of spark arrestors.

So, why should you get one? These are ideal for different track and speed conditions – just what you need from adventure bikes.

If you are big on safety, these bikes come with little protection. You will have to equip yourself with radiator guards, skid plates and handguards to protect your hands and the control.

Trail bikes

In contrast, trail bikes offer a much smoother ride. They are built for more extended travels and not just for a quick ride across the tracks. The suspension of a trail bike is softer, making the ride smoother than a motocross.

And you do it all without breaking the bank – yes, trail bikes are cheaper with little tech and an electric start to help you ride a steep hill.

Even with all the falls and crashes, trail bikes remain forgiving and a good choice for many beginners.

What I love about trail bikes is that you can modify them according to your riding level.

I recommend beginners start with a trail bike first, even though motocross may look cooler.

Which is Best for Beginners- 2-stroke or 4-stroke Bike?

The debate over 2-stroke and 4-stroke is a common one for many riders, but in the end, there is no definite answer. Choosing a 2-stroke or 4-stroke dirt bike is entirely over the rider’s personal preferences and ability.

What is a stroke?

In dirt biking, stroke is a vital step in the process of getting the bike’s engine going. A stroke refers to the up or down travel of the piston in the cylinder. Both 2-stroke and 4-stroke dirt bikes involve intake, compression, power, and exhaustion.

We will take a look at how a 2-stroke and 4-stroke bike differs from one another.

What is a 2-stroke dirt bike?

Like its name, a 2-stroke bike uses ‘two movements’ to complete an entire engine cycle. They are also one of the less complicated options out of the two.

A 2-stroke dirt bike hits hard and appears to be more intense for the rider.

The process of a power stroke in this movement results in less wastage. A 2-stroke dirt bike is built more efficiently, using 30-50 percent fewer moving parts than a 4-stroke.

2-stroke dirt bikes are also the most accessible type of engine to clean. Plus, they are lighter and produce a higher-pitched noise.

On the flip side, these engines require more maintenance, as the parts are cheaper than a 4-stroke.

Pros:

• They are lighter in weight and allow the rider to make a quick decision.
• They are cheaper than other dirt bike engines and save up a lot of money on upgrades.
• You can easily clean a 2-stroke bike as it has only a few parts.

Cons:

• More shifting is required in a 2-stroke dirt bike engine as the threshold for gears is smaller than a 4-stroke engine.
• Although the maintenance is cheaper, you may need to spend more time on it.
• A 2-stroke dirt bike isn’t as environmentally friendly as it consumes higher fuel.

What is a 4-stroke dirt bike?

In contrast to 2-stroke, 4-stroke dirt bike engines require four strokes or movements to complete an engine cycle. This stroke is a bit more complex than the rest as it requires more parts resulting in a heavier engine.

More parts in a 4-stroke dirt bike engine mean spending less time on brakes and shifts.

You have to worry less about maintenance here – it’s rarely needed as it has more parts than a 2-stroke and weighs 50 percent more than a 2-stroke counterpart.

They are also much more complicated to clean due to the number of parts present in them.

Pros:

• A 4-stroke engine has a broader powerband and can run more efficiently while requiring minor shifting.
• 2-stroke bikes are jumpier, while a 4-stroke is smooth and much easier to handle.
• A 4-stroke engine has a reliable output of power which gives a smoother feel to it.

Cons:

• As a 4-stroke engine uses more parts, it makes the bike heavy and more complicated to handle for the beginner.
• The maintenance is much more expensive for 4-stroke simply because the components cost a lot.

For a beginner, the 2-stroke proves steadier and easier to control. They are easy and lighter for the rider to handle and ride. The 2-stroke bikes are quick and provide enough revs a beginner rider may need.

You can opt for a 4-stroke for a long run after practicing on a 2-stroke and leveling up your riding skills.

The 8 Best Dirt Bikes for Beginners on the Market Today

Now that you know the basics let’s get down to one of the most important decisions – which dirt bike should you go for? Here are the eight hottest choices right now.

1. Honda CRF250RX

Honda CRF250RX is a high-performance Enduro and trail machine built to win. This is an ideal bike for those riders who enjoy trail riding.

It is lightweight and has the powerband of championship bikes.

The downdraft of the bike produces strong power and excellent throttle response by reducing resistance. The 44 mm throttle body provides low rpm intake for more substantial corner exits.

The new fuel-injected design makes the bike start quickly, even in the coldest weather and the highest of the altitudes.

In this dirt bike model equipped with an electric start, a rider can pull in the clutch, push the electric start button and start rolling again smoothly.

Honda CRF250RX has a four-stroke engine, giving beginners an easier way to control the bike. The 250-cc engine produces power consistently and allows for the throttle to twist without much discomfort.

Remember, you need to buy a light frame that does not pull the bike’s weight down, right? Well, this dirt bike has a lightweight yet rugged twin-spar frame built to handle the most challenging off-road riding.

The wide 18-inch rear and the large 21-inch wheel in the front offer a comfortable ride during inconsistent trails.

The bike weighs 254 pounds and is designed to have a low center of gravity. Don’t be intimidated by its weight as it is big enough to go on some real adventures. Honda CRF250RX is perfectly easy for a beginner to handle and manipulate the dirt bike on trails.

Choose a riding mode you like, from standard, smooth, to aggressive for simple tuning.

The other thing that works for Honda CRF250RX is that you can find spare parts easily. That’s something you do want to consider if you’re looking to own a bike for a while.

Honda CRF250RX is the go-to choice for many bikers for its all-around and beginner-friendly features.

2. Yamaha YZ125

Yamaha YZ125 is a championship-winning motocross dirt bike and the ideal choice for many legendary dirt bike riders. Many consider it to be among the best 125cc 2-stroke dirt bikes available in the market.

This bike model is for teens looking for a full-size motocross bike ready to race at competitions.

The 125cc 2-stroke engine ultra-lightweight dirt bike, weighing 207 pounds, helps produce consistent power and features a six-speed transmission. The gears are matched to the engines for higher performance and offer easy control over a trail or a track for beginners.

The digital ignition delivers real spark and monitors the engine speed giving you faster and decisive responses – combined with more brutal acceleration.

The super-light aluminum chassis and outstanding agility will provide you with impressive accelerating, braking, and turning skills.

If this is not enough to get your dream dirt bike, the speed-sensitive forks in Yz125 will give precision steering. While riding, the Monocross rear soaks up the bumps, not letting the rider experience any discomfort.

The Yamaha YZ125 is a familiar model in the market and is simple to work on its modifications.

You will only need a new piston, gasket and rings to rebuild its motor, which is cheaper than the 4-stroke bikes.

The bike is complete with an aluminum handlebar, gripper seat, and titanium footpegs, some of the ‘ready to race’ features. The compact body is specifically designed for the rider to shift their body weight and with ease.

Finally, nothing beats the razor-sharp styling and striking blue wheels to show off the signature look of an iconic Yamaha dirt bike.

3. Yamaha TTR 50

The Yamaha TTR 50 is one of the best beginner bikes for kids designed for young riders to learn and practice their riding skills. It is aimed at riders aged three to seven years, and this model never fails to provide a good start for younger riders.

As expected during their first classes, kids may crash the bike every 50 feet of the track. However, there is nothing to worry about serious replacement of parts as TTR 50 has solid durability. The throttle grip may fly off the bike, and the shift lever can get twisted during crashes, yet the dirt bike remains strong and can be easily mended.

The motor is tailored to take abuse with the ability to stay in one gear for the rider.

The 49cc engine is solid, reliable and air-cooled. The bike has a reliable motor that comes with three gears and no clutch. This model is ideal for a young beginner to learn throttle control, braking, and balancing processes.

The model does not come with a kickstart, but this feature isn’t a huge deal. Most kids aren’t strong enough to kick start a bike, and they can always perform a push start instead.

Don’t forget that the bike is equipped with an electric start for an effortless ride, compensating for a kick start.

The dirt bike comes with a three-speed gearbox and automatic centrifugal clutch, making it easier for kids to learn gear shifting.

The bike sits a bit lower than other smaller dirt bikes to help build confidence for the younger beginner. Generally, a flat-footed bike is undersized for a rider, but the Yamaha TTR50 helps build up the kids’ confidence when their foot is touched down. It gives the ability for riders to control the bike with ease.

Otherwise, if the seat is higher, you may find them crashing every time they stop because they will have to lean over the bike too much.

One can also bolt-on some training wheels to the bike to help the young riders learn efficiently.

If you think this is similar to a playful little dirt bike, you are wrong. This dirt bike is a serious one, going 32 miles per hour. However, the bike comes with a throttle stop to control the stop.

It also has a  throttle limiter screw twisted to control the speed. If you want to go fast, pull out the screw a little to allow a more throttle twist.

The TTR 50 is also low on maintenance than other bikes aimed at young riders.

4. Kawasaki KLX 110

While the Kawasaki KLX110 was initially produced for small dirt bike riders, it remains popular among motocross beginners and veterans. This model is aimed at 13 years and older for enthusiastic motocross riders.

For a fun and adventurous dirt biking journey, the kick or e-start access proves to be beginner-friendly.

The various pedals in the bike-shift, break and kick start pedal operate efficiently and never come in the rider’s way.

KLX110 also features an impressive throttle operation that you can perform by one hand while starting and stopping the engine.

When you look at its engine, the air-cooled SOHC pumps out enough responses with low-rpm torque needed for a beginner rider offering a stable performance when riding on rough roads and trails.

This model weighs slightly more than a 50cc mini dirt bike but generates more power with its 4-stroke engine and lower center of gravity, making it ideal for beginners of all ages.

The four-speed transmission introduction results in more gear selection, providing plenty of adventure and fun in the pit. On the other side, the tire size of KLX110 has a 14-inch front and 12-inch rear tire handles more speed than any other mini dirt bikes.

One of the best things about KLX110 is that it is open to changes and modifications. You will find it to be one of the most customizable dirt bikes on the market, complete with graphics and motor modifications.

One look at this Kawasaki model, and you will experience the same feeling as riding a true motocrosser.

5. Honda CRF250F

The Honda CRF250F is one of the most trail-friendly dirt bikes for beginners. It is an incredibly versatile trail bike that tackles the most challenging terrains.

Expect plenty of power and torque in all areas. The bike is renowned for its excellent designed engine.

For starters, we have the Keihin electronically controlled fuel injection, which delivers linear power. At the same time, the 250cc SOHC engine returns a smooth but powerful delivery.

This bike’s easy start-up works brilliantly when the bike is hot on trails or is sitting for a long time.

The 4-stroke engine in the bike is light, fuel-efficient and straightforward, producing power across a broad powerband. The fuel engine starts in the coldest of the weather, reduces emission and enhances performance.

The bike comes with an electric starter – just what you need to go on trails. Plus, there are plenty of tire options for you with this buy.

The handling is sturdy with a tubular steel twin-spar frame, which is both light and tough. The Showa Fork feature in this bike makes it more robust and helps add to its excellent handling, helping beginner riders learn to handle varied terrains.

The bike has a long motocross-style seat which makes up for a comfortable ride through trails and tracks.

All of the specs in the Honda CRF250F  bike are fun but make up for a capable bike, ready to take on trails immediately.

6. Kawasaki KX450F

Just as one would expect from a Kawasaki, the KX450F is made for high-level competitions and has incorporated advanced technology into its design.

The motor of this dirt bike is physically smaller and lighter than other Kawasaki models. This makes riding more accessible and faster.

The lightweight, robust and agile aluminum frame bike is praised for its excellent throttle response combined with an effortless clutch, making it easier to manipulate power.

The new Showa fork does not allow any harshness to be felt while jumping and landing. The work has also been done on the suspension as KX450F has a softer suspension, ideal for lighter riders.

The new aluminum frame allows for balance and cuts corners like no other bike.  While in the air, you can effortlessly move the bike, thanks to its adjustable peg mounts and handlebars.

The engine, for one, delivers a smooth and linear powerband that beginner riders find manageable. The launch control automatically disengages ignition timing and maximizes traction.

The dirt bike also comes with three different power options – stock, mellow and white. Riders ranging from beginners to pros can opt for white (aggressive) because it makes the throttle respond quickly.

To modify your KX450F model, you can use the Kawasaki Motocross Software.

7. KTM 250 XC-W 250 cc

The KTM 250 XC – W is a combination between power and rideability, well-known for its unique style, intuitive handling, and incredible performance. Made for enduro competition sporting softer specs, it offers wide transmissions and sticks to the ground.

The ground-breaking Transfer Port Injection (TPI) demonstrates its unrelenting commitment to 2-stroke. The 2-stroke and TPI fuel injection technology enhances the bikes’ performance and makes them more refined.

The engine is light and powerful and fitted with an electric starter powered by a super lightweight battery.

With KTM 250 XC- W, there is an impressive balance between having enough aggression and ultra competitiveness and keeping the rider firmly racing all day.

This compact and lightweight 2-stroke bike is ideal for off-road riders who ride the roughest of the terrains.

You will love the high foam padding and the improved ergonomics – great choices if you’re looking to ride for a while.

Talking about convenience, you have the handlebars equipped with high-strength aluminum that offers different positions for the riders,

8. KTM 350 SX-F

The KTM 350 SX –F delivers a mix of horsepower and agility, offering a significant power to weight ratio with plentiful torque.

The bike is powerful, lightweight, dominant, and built for serious championship events with an innovative clutch system. The clutch is perfectly geared, has a lightweight double overhead camshaft (DOHC), and durable transmission.

The model also features a new oil pump gear fitted with the latest electronic fuel injection system.

The KTM 350 SX-F also uses a starter drive, a strong starter motor providing a quick and reliable e-start and helping you achieve a strong race finish.

It’s also one of the few bikes on our list that features traction control, guaranteeing more traction and better control of the bike. You will appreciate it more when you have to travel through wet and slippery surfaces.

The ergonomics are pretty good too. The narrow design of the exhaust and the internal design of the silencers is a plus point.

The seat of the KTM 350 SX-F deserves mention. It is designed to match the dynamic performance of a rider boasting silicone strips that provide a better grip for a beginner.

There is also something called ‘Launch Control.’ Activating it will ensure an efficient launch and better control for you.

This KTM model only contributes to your efficient riding and maybe even winning several races!

How Old Do You Need to be to Start Riding Dirt Bikes?

Children as young as four can start riding dirt bikes.

There is no particular age limit when you can introduce someone to dirt biking. Three-year-old kids, for instance, can use smaller electric bikes. When they turn four, they can ride 50cc dirt bikes attached with training wheels. After a while, you can eliminate the training wheels.

By the time kids turn six years old, they will take supervised rides on advanced bikes. Don’t be surprised when you come across an 8-year-old dirt biker who leaves you behind on the trail.

While selecting a dirt bike for a younger rider, keep the age in mind.

What suits a three-year-old is not designed for older kids. Child-friendly models range from 50cc to 250cc. After kids progress, they will be able to handle bikes with over 250cc power engines.

One rule to keep in mind is never introducing kids to powerful bikes when they don’t have the necessary skills. The less powerful the machine is, the safer the bike is for kids and beginners.

Once these young riders reach seven years of age, they will demand more power and speed. At this stage, it is safe for them to ride 70cc to 100 cc dirt bikes. However, you must assess the child’s ability to handle a powerful motorcycle before moving to this stage.

If you are an older individual starting just now, your physical fitness becomes a more vital determinant than your age. As dirt bikes are physically demanding, a fit and healthy body play a more significant role. Several motocross classes cater to different age groups, even 60 years plus.

Nevertheless, as with any other sport, dirt biking requires patience, so you should never hurry up through the process. Always equip yourself with protective gear, and never ride more than what your skills allow you to.

Remember- Don’t underestimate your kid

You can’t teach size, and handling an aggressive power curve takes serious seat time. But basic skills, like shifting and clutch operation, come easily—with the right training.

Clutch is such an important part of operating a motorcycle properly and safely that the sooner you can get your new rider adapted to a manual transmission, the better they will be in the long run.

For the littlest riders who will only fit on the smallest machines, there’s a halfway step: a bike with an auto clutch, but a transmission with a standard toe-shifter. These give a child a chance to learn to shift without using the clutch.

Remember- Don’t Overestimate Yourself

Sometimes the most expensive minibike you can buy is the cheapest used machine in the classifieds—particularly if you don’t have the ability to rebuild it yourself.

Things you need for safe operation—fresh brakes, bearings, sprockets, tires and more—can cost hundreds of dollars to replace at once. You could easily equal the cost of a new machine by the time you’re done.

If you find a good deal on a used bike, and you aren’t confident in your mechanical abilities, most professional service departments will look it over for a reasonable fee, which you may be able to use as a negotiating tool in your purchase.

Conclusion

From Honda to Kawasaki and the famous KTM, there is a dirt bike for every enthusiastic rider out there.

Get a bike that is easy to handle and the performance you’re looking for.

After you’ve found your dirt bike, it takes practice and patience to develop skills and set out for competitions and challenging trails. Dirt biking isn’t all about showing off; it is more about enjoying the sport, developing your intuitive skills, and having fun while riding. Now you can go and learn how you can start your dirt bike.