Best Dirt Bikes For Kids | Hunt or Shred

Discover the top-rated dirt bikes for kids and make their off-road dreams come true with our expert-curated guide.

The best dirt bikes for kids are the Yamaha PW50, Honda CRF50,  KTM 50 SX Mini, Kawasaki KLX110, Suzuki DR-Z50, Husqvarna TC 50, OSET MX-10, and Beta MiniCross Electric. They offer safety features and appropriate engine power, ensuring kids can confidently pick up the sport without too many hiccups.

With years of experience and extensive industry knowledge, I’ve dedicated my career to researching, analyzing, and evaluating the best dirt bikes available for young riders. My expertise allows me to carefully assess safety features, age-appropriate designs, and performance capabilities to provide accurate and reliable recommendations.  As such, I’ll empower kids and parents with the knowledge they need to find the perfect dirt bike that paves the way to endless adventures.

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Best Dirt Bikes for Kids

As a parent looking for the best kids' dirt bike, it can be overwhelming due to the many options available. When picking the best dirt bikes for kids, there are several factors to consider, including the engine type, seat height, tire size, bike weight, and safety features.

Below is a table comparing some popular models:

Bike Model Engine Type Seat Height Tire Size Bike Weight Key Safety Features
Yamaha PW50 Two-stroke 18.7" 10" 90 lbs A shaft drive system, throttle control, heat shield, rear drum brakes
Honda CRF50F Four-stroke 21.6" 10" 110 lbs Keyed ignition, adjustable throttle limiter screw, heat shield
KTM 50 SX Mini Two-stroke 22.0" 10" 90 lbs A diaphragm spring clutch, rear disc brakes
Kawasaki KLX110 Four-stroke 26.8" 14" 167 lbs Keyed ignition, throttle limiter, automatic clutch
Suzuki DR-Z50 Four-stroke 22.0" 10" 126 lbs Keyed ignition, adjustable throttle limiter, automatic clutch
Husqvarna TC 50 Two-stroke 22.4" 10" 91 lbs Centrifugal automatic clutch, disc brakes
OSET MX-10 Electric start 19.0" 12" 79 lbs Magnetic lanyard cut-out switch, disc brakes
Beta MiniCross Electric Electric start 21.0" 12" 90 lbs Throttle selector, disc brakes

1. Yamaha PW50

The Yamaha PW50 is the go-to choice for kids' dirt bikes. This bike offers impressive performance and is reliable, affordable, and easy to ride.

Specifications

It’s equipped with a 49cc 2-stroke engine, providing more power for young riders. The single-speed automatic transmission makes it easy to operate, eliminating the need for manual shifting. With a VM12 carburetor, the PW50 ensures smooth fuel delivery and efficient performance.

The telescopic fork suspension at the front and the unit swing suspension at the rear offer a comfortable and controlled ride. Additionally, the 19-inch seat height makes it accessible for young riders, allowing them to plant their feet on the ground while maintaining stability confidently.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Yamaha PW50 is designed with beginners in mind. Featuring a single-speed automatic transmission, young riders won't have to worry about shifting gears. The 49cc 2-stroke engine provides just the right amount of power, while the user-friendly throttle allows for easy acceleration control.

What Sets it Apart

The PW50 is perhaps best known for its low seat height of just 19 inches. This makes it accessible to most young riders, allowing them to keep their feet firmly on the ground and build confidence.

Additionally, Yamaha's oil injection system eliminates the need to pre-mix oil and gas, simplifying maintenance.

Recent Updates

Yamaha continually fine-tunes the PW50, its first dirt bike, to ensure it remains a top pick for young riders. Some updates in recent years include the addition of an adjustable throttle to limit speed for beginners and improved bodywork for better overall stability.

Benefits

  • Excellent choice for beginner riders
  • Low seat height for increased confidence
  • Simple and user-friendly operation
  • Reliable and low-maintenance design
  • Cheap dirt bikes that help you save money

Drawbacks

  • Lack of room for growth due to the single-speed transmission
  • Some riders may outgrow the bike quickly

Who Should Buy It

If you're looking for a trustworthy dirt bike to introduce your child to the world of off-road riding, the Yamaha PW50 is a fantastic choice. Its user-friendly features and reliability make it perfect for young riders who are just starting out.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Yamaha PW50 from authorized Yamaha dealers and online retailers. Always be sure to do your research and check reviews before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

2. Honda CRF50F

When it comes to selecting the best kid’s dirt bike, the Honda CRF50F stands as the top choice for many parents and youth riders. This 50cc dirt bike is the first bike in the Honda CRF series and has been popular for decades, offering a beginner-friendly experience for young riders.

Specifications

This dirt bike is equipped with a reliable 49cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, an automatic clutch, and a three-speed transmission. This combination ensures ease of use for new riders who are just starting out. It has a seat height of 21.6 inches, making it accessible for most children aged three and up, and it can be fitted with training wheels for added support.

Performance

Given its engine size, the Honda CRF50F is not designed to be an outright performance machine. However, it has an adequate level of power for young riders who are just starting out in the world of dirt biking.

Its suspension and brakes are designed to offer a balance of performance and comfort, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience for kids.

What Sets it Apart

It stands out in the market for kids' dirt bikes for numerous reasons. One key factor is its long-standing reputation for reliability, making it a perfect choice for parents who want a dependable dirt bike for their kids.

Additionally, the bike's user-friendly features, such as the automatic clutch and training wheel compatibility, make it an excellent choice for a beginner rider.

Recent Updates

For 2023, the Honda CRF50F has remained largely the same, with only minor updates to its features and styling. However, the bike has maintained its proven powertrain and reputation for reliability, ensuring that it remains a popular choice for kids.

Benefits

  • Reliable and more durable than other brand dirt bikes
  • Automatic clutch for ease of use
  • Compatible with training wheels
  • Suitable for children aged three and up
  • Proven track record of success

Drawbacks

  • Limited power for more experienced riders
  • Minimal updates over the years
  • Higher price compared to some other Honda dirt bikes

Who Should Buy It

If your child is between the ages of 3 and 10 and has little to no experience riding a dirt bike, the Honda CRF50F is a great option.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Honda CRF50F from authorized Honda dealerships, as well as through online retailers specializing in power sports equipment. You can also find used models for sale on various online classified platforms.

3. KTM 50 SX Mini

The KTM 50 SX Mini is one of the best kid’s dirt bikes, offering an excellent combination of performance, safety, and reliability. It is designed to accommodate shorter riders, making it great for young children who are just starting on their dirt biking journey.

Specifications

This small dirt bike is equipped with an air-cooled, 2-stroke, 49 cc engine. It features an automatic clutch, making it simple for young riders to learn and develop their skills without having to worry about manual shifting. It has a seat height of 22 inches, which is perfect for accommodating shorter riders.

Performance

This dirt bike offers exceptional performance for its size. It has a smooth power delivery, allowing young riders to gain confidence while learning proper dirt bike riding techniques. The suspension is also designed to provide an optimal balance between comfort and agility, making it suitable for various terrains.

What Sets it Apart

It stands out from the competition due to its beginner-friendly design, making it both accessible and enjoyable for young riders. It also has high-quality components, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance on the motocross track.

Recent Updates

The 2023 KTM 50 SX Mini features an improved ventilation system for better engine cooling, ensuring consistent performance during extended riding sessions.

Benefits

  • Easy to learn and ride
  • Suitable for various terrains
  • Reliable and durable

Drawbacks

  • It may be more expensive than some other kids' dirt bikes on the market
  • Its 2-stroke engine requires a fuel-oil mix, which might be less convenient for some users

Who Should Buy It

It's a good dirt bike for the junior rider who is just getting started with dirt biking. It’s the best motocross bike for children who need a manageable, beginner-friendly bike designed specifically for shorter riders.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the KTM 50 SX Mini from authorized KTM dealerships, as well as various online retailers. Be sure to check for the most recent prices and availability in your area.

4. Kawasaki KLX110

The Kawasaki KLX110 is the best kids' motocross bike for young riders who are just starting out in the world of dirt biking. This bike offers great performance and reliability and is simple for a beginner rider to learn.

Specifications

It boasts a 112cc air-cooled, four-stroke, and single-overhead-cam engine. Also, it has a 26.8-inch seat height that makes it perfect for beginners in the 7-to-10-year-old age bracket.

Performance

This dirt bike delivers too much power and torque, making it an ideal choice for beginner dirt bike riders. Its manageable power delivery enables young riders to comfortably learn the ropes while still providing the best trail riding experience.

What Sets it Apart

This trail bike stands out for its balance of ease of use and performance, which is perfect for young riders who are still learning. Its manageable power, combined with its reliability and impressive list of features, makes it a top choice for kids starting their journey in dirt biking.

Recent Updates

In recent years, Kawasaki introduced the KLX110R L model, which features a taller seat height, larger ground clearance, and manual clutch transmission, catering to kids who may have a bit more experience and want to progress in their riding abilities.

Benefits

  • Easy-to-learn and user-friendly features
  • Reliability and durability offered by the Kawasaki brand
  • A great option for 7-to-10-year-old beginner riders

Drawbacks

  • Limited customization options compared to other trail dirt bikes
  • It may not be suitable for more advanced young riders

Who Should Buy It

This is the right dirt bike for kids aged 7 to 10 years who are just starting their journey in the world of dirt biking. It provides a comfortable and safe learning experience, making it ideal for beginner riders.

Where to Buy It

You can find these trail bikes at local Kawasaki dealerships, online retailers, or websites for used bikes. Keep an eye out for official Kawasaki dealers and reputable sources to ensure you're purchasing a genuine product.

5. Suzuki DR-Z50

When it comes to finding the best dirt bikes for kids, the Suzuki DR-Z50 stands out as an excellent choice. With this bike, young riders can experience the thrill of rough terrain while beginning their journey into the world of motorcycling.

Specifications

It features a 49cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine, making it suitable for new riders as young as six years old. With a curb weight of 119 pounds and a seat height of 22 inches, this bike is designed for easy maneuverability and comfort for children learning to ride.

Performance

Despite its compact size, the DR-Z50 offers impressive performance with a smooth and reliable engine. The automatic clutch and 3-speed transmission make it easy for beginners to learn how to shift gears without the worry of stalling.

What Sets it Apart

It differentiates itself with a number of safety features, ensuring a secure introduction to dirt biking for kids. These include adjustable throttle limiting, allowing parents to control power output based on their child's experience, and a tethered engine stop switch that can quickly shut down the engine if needed.

Recent Updates

The 2023 model of the DR-Z50 has seen a slight price increase of $290, bringing its suggested retail price to $2,499. This change reflects the overall quality and features offered by this youth-oriented bike.

Benefits

  • Easy-to-use automatic clutch for beginners
  • Adjustable throttle limiting for increased safety
  • Its compact and lightweight frame is perfect for young riders

Drawbacks

  • Limited weight capacity may be an issue for larger or older children
  • Slightly more expensive than some competing models

Who Should Buy It

It’s the right bike for young riders who are just starting out in the world of dirt biking and need a safe, reliable, and user-friendly bike to learn on.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Suzuki DR-Z50 through authorized Suzuki dealers or by searching for reputable online retailers that offer youth dirt bikes. Always ensure you purchase from a trusted source to guarantee the quality and authenticity of the bike.

6. Husqvarna TC 50

The Husqvarna TC 50 is an excellent choice for children just starting dirt biking. It perfectly balances power, handling, and safety, making it one of the best dirt bikes for kids.

Specifications

It’s equipped with a powerful 50cc, 2-stroke engine that delivers reliable performance. Its automatic transmission simplifies operation, allowing young riders to focus on their off-road adventures.

It also features hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring excellent stopping power and enhanced safety. Its 21.9-inch seat height provides a comfortable and confident riding position for young enthusiasts.

Additionally, it has knobby tires for improved off-road performance.

Performance

This race bike offers smooth power delivery with its 2-stroke engine, making it manageable for young riders. With an automatic transmission, kids can focus on their riding skills without worrying about shifting gears. The hydraulic disc brakes offer consistent stopping power, ensuring safety on the trails.

What Sets it Apart

The Husqvarna TC 50's adjustable suspension allows for a customizable riding experience, accommodating various rider weights and skill levels. Its compact size and light weight make it easy for kids to maneuver and handle, giving them confidence in their riding abilities.

Recent Updates

In recent years, the Husqvarna TC 50 has undergone revisions to improve its performance, including updates to the exhaust system, refined engine management, and an enhanced cooling system. These improvements further contribute to the bike's reliability and handling.

Benefits

  • It is designed for beginner riders
  • The automatic transmission provides an easier learning curve
  • Strong braking performance for increased safety
  • Compact size and lightweight design for easy handling

Drawbacks

  • It may not be suitable for taller or heavier riders
  • Maintenance of a 2-stroke engine can be more frequent

Who Should Buy It

It’s a perfect beginner bike for kids who are new to dirt biking, aged between 5 and 9 years old. Its automatic transmission and suitable power output make it easier for young riders to develop their skills and confidence on the trails.

Where to Buy It

If you're interested in purchasing a Husqvarna TC 50, you can find them at your local Husqvarna dealership for more information.

7. OSET MX-10

The OSET MX-10 stands out as one of the best electric bikes for kids because of its reliable performance and user-friendly design. It caters to children aged 4 to 7 years old, providing an excellent starting point for their off-road adventures.

Specifications

This electric dirt bike features a 48V 1200W brushless motor, delivering reliable and efficient performance. It’s equipped with a 48V 20Ah lithium-ion battery, providing ample power and range for off-road adventures.

The top speed of the bike is adjustable, reaching up to 20 mph.  Also, the ground clearance of 7.5 inches ensures the bike can tackle various terrains with ease.

Performance

This starter bike offers impressive performance for its size, boasting a 48V, 1200W brushless motor that powers the bike efficiently and quietly. With a top speed of 20 mph, which is adjustable to suit the rider's experience level, it provides a thrilling experience for kids without being too intimidating.

What Sets it Apart

Unlike other small dirt bikes, it’s specifically designed for young riders, providing a safe and enjoyable introduction to dirt biking. The bike's adjustable top speed, lightweight design, and responsive handling make it a popular choice among parents and kids alike.

Recent Updates

The MX-10 has received updates to its suspension and brakes, enhancing the bike's overall performance and safety gear. These improvements ensure that the young rider has an even better experience on the trails.

Benefits

  • Electric operation for quiet, clean performance, unlike a gas dirt bike
  • Adjustable speed settings for safety and skill progression
  • Lightweight design for easy handling
  • Kid-friendly aesthetics

Drawbacks

  • Limited range compared to a gas-powered dirt bike
  • It may not suit older or larger children

Who Should Buy It

This electric bike is ideal for children aged 4-7 years old who are new to dirt biking or have some experience on smaller, less powerful bikes. The adjustable top speed and lightweight design make it a fantastic choice for kids to develop their skills and confidence on the trails.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the OSET MX-10 from the OSET Bikes website or from authorized OSET dealers. It's essential to buy from a trusted source to ensure the bike's quality and performance.

8. Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14

The Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14 is a fantastic entry-level dirt bike designed specifically for young riders who are eager to experience the thrill of off-road biking. It's among the best kids' electric dirt bikes that meet every young rider's needs and desires.

Specifications

This mini dirt bike boasts a 36V 13AH Li-Ion battery that provides continuous power for up to 45 minutes. The electric motor delivers sufficient power to handle a variety of terrains while also ensuring a safe and exciting experience for kids. It's equipped with a front and rear suspension system for smooth handling.

Performance

With its quiet, efficient electric motor, the Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14 offers an impressive off-road experience without producing excessive noise. The 45-minute battery life ensures that children can enjoy extended rides before having to recharge the battery.

What Sets it Apart

The focus on safety is what truly sets the Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14 apart from other electric dirt bikes in the market. It's designed to gradually introduce young riders to the world of off-road biking while minimizing potential risks.

Recent Updates

The second-generation Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14 has a new and improved battery, providing a longer ride time and enhanced energy output. This latest version offers even more reliability and enjoyment for young riders.

Benefits

  • Quiet electric motor for noise-free riding
  • Safe and gradual introduction to off-road biking
  • Long battery life for extended rides
  • Easy-to-use for beginners
  • Efficient suspension system for smooth handling

Drawbacks

  • Limited power compared to gas dirt bikes
  • It still requires supervision and guidance for very young riders
  • Battery life might be insufficient for ambitious off-road adventures

Who Should Buy It

It’s the best electric dirt bike for children between 3 and 7 years who are just starting to explore the world of off-road biking. It caters to new riders who want a safe and thrilling experience while learning the basics of dirt biking.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Beta MiniCross Electric 12/14 from the official Betamotor website or at authorized Beta dealerships. Opt for an authorized dealer to ensure you're buying a genuine product with a full warranty and support.

Key Takeaways

  • Opt for dirt bikes with safety features to ensure the well-being of young riders.
  • Choose age-appropriate designs to ensure a comfortable riding experience.
  • Dirt bikes with durable constructions can withstand the rigors of off-road riding.

Definitely read our guide to Kids Dirt Bike Safety Features and Tips to keep your young ones safe and healthy while enjoying the sport.

About THE AUTHOR

Kellie

Kellie

23 years old. I work at a motocross store where we specialize in gear, parts, and apparel for ATV and UTV riders.

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