We live in times where kids can spend fun time as never before, enjoying an amazing ride on toys their parents never even dreamed of. As your kids grow up, they fall in love with scooters, pocket bikes or downsized dune buggies, to name a few. Sooner or later, your kids will want to ride.
From the moment your children ask you if they can get a mini dirt bike you will most certainly have mixed feelings. Obviously, you want your child to be happy and chances are that you are as excited as your kid, or even more so!
As you move forward and start to look for a perfect dirt bike for your kid, you will think about safety, compare different kids’ dirt bike types, and wonder what size of the bike you should go for.
Yes, choosing the right dirt bike for kids can be tough but fortunately, you found us, and we are here to help.
In this in-depth kids dirt bikes’ buying guide, we’ll introduce you to mini dirt bikes for children. Not only you’ll hear some good, practical tips from us but you’ll also learn what are the best bikes currently on the market, what you should pay attention to when choosing right bike and how to decide on the right size.
Let’s start, shall we?
Ultimate Guide to Buying Kids’ Dirt Bikes
We thought it makes sense to start with the quick comparison table which shows kids dirt bike models that we think are amongst the best ones on the market right now. Here are our top picks as of October 2018:
| Kids Dirt Bike | Engine Type | Age | Price | Our Score | Store Link | Our Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket | Electric | 10 - 14 | $$$ | 4.9 | Amazon | Full Razor MX650 Review |
Razor SX500 McGrath | Electric | 8 - 12 | $$$ | 4.9 | Amazon | Full Razor SX500 Reviews |
Razor MX350 Dirt Rocket | Electric | 5 - 8 | $ | 4.5 | Amazon | Full Razor MX350 Review |
Monster Moto MM-B80 | Gas | 8 - 12 | $$ | 4.8 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
Razor MX500 Dirt Bike | Electric | 8 - 12 | $$$ | 4.7 | Amazon | Full Razor MX500 Review |
| Coleman Powersports . | Gas | 10 - 16 | $$ | 4.8 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
Coolster 50cc Dirt Bike | Gas | 6 - 12 | $$ | 4.2 | Amazon | Full Coolster 50cc Review |
Razor MX400 Dirt Rocket | Electric | 6 - 9 | $$ | 4.0 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
SSR125cc Dirt Bike | Gas | 12 - 16 | $$$$ | 4.9 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
Dirt bike 70cc Semi Auto | Gas | 8 - 14 | $$$ | 4.3 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
Apollo Dirt Bike 125cc | Gas | 12 - 16 | $$$ | 4.5 | Amazon | (review post coming soon) |
How Do Dirt Bikes for Kids differ from regular Dirt Bikes?
Kids Dirt Bikes are generally smaller versions of the regular dirt bikes for adults. They are lightweight, easy to ride and often act as an introductory dirt bike for young children.
Those small-sized entry-models for youngest children (age 3-6) typically have limited features and may be considered as ride-on toys rather than regular yet scaled-down motorcycles. However, Razor dirt bikes such as the MX500, MX650 or SX500 which are equipped with dual suspension, thick tires and enough electric power to actually provide some genuine dirt bike experience for our little riders. We could say the same for the Monster Moto.
Getting back to how do mini bikes differ from the regular ones: generally speaking, there are some major differences between mini vs adult-sized bikes that you should know before you start to look for the kids’ dirt bikes for sale:
- Kids’ bikes are smaller in actual size. For example, Razor’s MX350 dimensions are 44 x 24.5 x 31 inches whereas the Kuberg Start electric motorbike for the youngest kids features a low 16-inch seat height and less than 45 pounds in weight. Of course, there are also slightly bigger models for more grown-up kids. But generally mini dirt bikes for kids are much smaller than the adult models.
- They have small-sized engines. Until some years ago, gas powered dirt bikes were the only option available, with engines ranging from 50cc – typical for beginner riders – to stronger four-stroke engines up to 125cc for advanced riders. Although gas dirt bikes for kids are still in demand today, the electric dirt bikes are the ones that have been growing in popularity in recent years. Why? Due to their simplicity, silent and efficient low-maintenance operation, instant torque provided and attractive prices.
- Youth Dirt Bikes are not built for street use. Most bikes that you’ll find these days generally do not meet the so-called “The Federal Minimum Requirement” for on-road motorcycles that every state requires. This effectively means that most dirt bikes for kids are not street legal and can be operated only on racetracks, private roads, or within private properties.
- Limited suspension options. Dirt bikes aimed at children often have limited suspension options. Some models do not have suspension at all but they are typically low-cost entry models for the youngest children. Some more advanced models are equipped with both front and rear suspension. For example, popular Razor Dirt Bike features dual suspension design to ensure a smooth off-road ride. Generally, though, it’s worth to note that suspension elements in kids pit bikes are not as advanced as those seen in adult dirt bikes.
- Kill-Switch or/and Speed Limiter. Naturally, minibikes aimed at kids aren’t that fast like their adult-sized counterparts but even their max speed of 15 – 25 mph is fast enough to be considered too much in some circumstances. This is why, some models you’ll find – and especially those with larger sized engines – feature either an adjustable speed limiter or in some cases a kill switch which allows rider to “pull the plug” and kill the engine instantly when triggered.
How Can Kids Benefit from Riding Youth Dirt Bikes ?
Kids love riding youth dirt bikes as every ride can easily turn into an exciting adventure! Youth dirt bikes can be a great way for young people to forget about TVs, Playstations, Virtual Worlds, Games, and replace those with an uber-important physical outdoor activity.
- Riding youth dirt bikes is not only super fun, but it also engages children’s bodies and minds.Even more importantly, riding dirt bikes helps children develop motor skills, coordination and confidence. Kids that are physically active have stronger muscles, healthier hearts, and properly developed reflexes.
- Riding youth dirt bikes will definitely help young people build endurance, make them feel good, and feel happy! After all, what is more rewarding than seeing a smile on the face of a healthy child?Perhaps the best way to explain the positive effects of riding dirt bikes by kids is to look at this review from a happy customer who purchased a Kuberg Cross youth dirt bike on Amazon. Check it out, it’s worth reading. And as for the bike itself, here’s the 2016 edition where you can learn more.
How to Choose Mini Dirt Bikes for Kids?
Choosing the right youth dirt bike from a variety of available models can be both fun and challenging process. It’s very important to choose wisely, especially if a young rider has never ridden a dirt bike before.
Every child is different and you know yours best, but typically most kids are ready to start riding dirt bikes when they are 3-4 years old – or when they start being able to ride a bicycle without training wheels.
Although the smallest entry-bikes cost less than more “universal” kids dirt bikes, your kid will quickly outgrow a small bike. Therefore, sometimes it makes sense to invest into a larger sized dirt bike that will serve for a few years.
The youth dirt bikes for beginner riders tend to have low seat heights to make kids feel in control. Such introductory dirt bikes are lightweight and nimble enough to be unintimidating, yet challenging enough that young riders won’t grow out of them before getting their money’s worth.
- Pay attention to bike’s weight. The lighter the dirt bike, the easier it is to ride and maneuver. The smallest dirt bikes for the youngest riders can weigh as little as 20 pounds whereas dirt bikes for kids 7 to 14 years old can weigh anything between 60 and 120 pounds.
- For example, a high-end Kuberg Trial E 21-inch Dirt Bike weights less than 65 pounds which is a respectable achievement given that it is recommended for children up to 10 years old.
Kids Dirt Bikes – Our Top Five Picks for 2018
Razor MX350 Electric
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Razor MX350
The Razor MX350 Dirt Rocket is a miniature electric dirt bike for kids that took the market by storm since it was first released back in 2005. We are not surprised as it’s the best value for money when it comes to introductory kids pit bikes.MX350 has dimensions of 44 x 24.5 x 31 inches, weighs 70 pounds and features a steel frame, large knobby tires and gear-less, 24V battery-operated electric engine. It speeds up the bike to 14 miles per hour on a paved level surface. Although Razor rated MX350 as recommended for ages 14 and older, tens of customers reported that due to the low seating position (about 20 inches off the ground,) the MX350 is actually a perfect choice for 5-8 year olds. This little youth dirt bike will ride surprisingly well on the grass and according to many customers, the battery will last even for a 2+ hour ride which is higher than advertised by the manufacturer. [read full Razor MX350 review…]
>> Check out Razor MX350 on Amazon right here
Razor MX500 Dirt Rocket Electric Motocross Bike
Razor MX500
The Razor MX-500 are quality, high-performance dirt bikes that provide amazing riding experiences at an affordable price. MX500 is a slightly larger bike (46.5 x 13.8 x 26 inches) featuring large front (16″) and rear (14″) pneumatic tires, and a 500W electric motor which is enough to carry young riders at respectable speeds of up to 17mph. More importantly, this is a very safe and very durable bike that features an authentic dirt bike frame geometry. This popular bike, with hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon alone, is very easy to assemble even by kids themselves (but then please make sure you tighten up the bolts, just in case.) However, perhaps the biggest advantage of the Razor MX500 is that it is very, very quiet, so you can be sure your kids won’t annoy the neighbors when they ride near their property. What age is the MX500 best suited for? Although rated by the manufacturer for 14+, it will fit most kids between 8 and 12 with ease. In fact, there are many parents have purchased MX500 for their child’s 8th birthday. [Read full Razor MX500 review]
>> Check out Razor MX500 on Amazon right here
Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket Electric Motocross Bike
Razor MX650
As your kids grow up, they will need a slightly larger and more powerful bike. Whereas the MX350 is ideal for youngest drivers (5-8) and the MX500 fits kids aged 8-12, the Razor MX650 will be a good pick either for older kids (10+) or more experienced young riders. It doesn’t come by surprise that the manufacturer rates the bike for 16+, as we already noticed Razor tends to add some sort of “extra safety buffer” to their products. However, from our experience and from other customer reviews, even kids that turned 8 or 9 will master this kids dirt bike with ease. It may look like a full-size bike by the pictures but actually, the dimensions are 56 x 24.5 x 36 inches (LxWxH), so it’s definitely the kids’ version. Similarly to other Razor models, this fully electric model is very quiet and provides enough speed and power to guarantee fun and challenge without presenting an unacceptable risk. What really stands out is the suspension. The rear suspension is fully adjustable whereas the front features inverted motocross suspension fork. We can definitely recommend Razor MX650 to anyone looking for an electric-powered dirt bike for kids that is something more than a toy and something less than a full-blown, gas-powered youth dirt bike. [Read full Razor MX650 review]
>> Check out Razor MX650 on Amazon right here
Kuberg Trial E Electric Offroad Trial Bike
Click to see the product on Amazon
The Kuberg Trial E is an electric kids dirt bike of the highest quality. It’s more expensive than other little mini dirt bikes for kids but on other hand, each and every detail in this bike is a top-notch quality. Pit bikes by Kuberg will carry young riders between 5 and 12 years old. Small kids won’t find any trouble in getting on this bike, as the seating’s height is low at 21 inches. This little beast features the 750W electric motor engine that speeds up to 18 mph. What’s most impressive though is the battery operating time which lasts for more than 2 hours of continuous riding! Another unique feature that we haven’t seen before is the parental speeding control which allows parents to limit the bike’s maximum speed. The Kubert Trial E is essentially a silent bike that allows the fun of backyard riding while keeping peace with the neighbors. It is an amazing invention by Kuberg and we love it for its heavy-duty design, smooth suspension, stylish look, and many safety features, such as responsive brakes. [Read more Kuberg Dirt Bike Guide]
>> Check out Kuberg Trial-E on Amazon right here
Motovox MVX70 Gas-Powered Mini Dirt Bike
Motovox MVX70 Gas 70cc
The Motovox MVX70 is a youth dirt bike with a 70cc gas-powered, four-stroke engine that’s pumping out 5.3 horses. What Motovox has developed is a fully-featured miniature dirt bike featuring a steel frame, coil-over rear suspension and telescoping fork on the front. Brakes are drum-type on both front and rear. One would probably expect that a gas dirt bike like this one might be difficult to operate by kids but…nothing is further from the truth! Motovox MvX70 features clutch-less, semi-automatic 4-speed transmission that allows everyone to spend a great time riding. What’s important, it’s delivered in one piece and needs almost no assembly. Once you unpack it from its box, all you need to do is to attach the handle-bar and your youngster will be ready to go. The 70cc engine is small enough to be safe for kids yet, unlike 50cc which is typical for entry-level gas dirt bikes, it will allow kids to enjoy it for much longer until they outgrow it. [Read the full 70cc Dirt Bike Guide]
>> Check out Motovox MVX70 on Amazon right here
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That said, they are few high-quality and thus expensive dirt bikes that are nothing but a scaled down version of their adult-sized counterparts. Bikes like KTM 50SX Mini, Honda CRF50 or Yamaha TTR50 are all high-end, gas-powered dirt bikes that feature fully-featured suspension.
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Hi! Just looking for advice from parents about dirtbike safety. I purchased an electric model for my 9 year old son. He is a beginner but i think he will do extremely well based on his bike and other skills. What kind of pads besides the helmet would he need? It goes 15 mph and he would ride it on our private street and around our grassy yard, no rocks or funny terrain. Does he need a collar or chest protector? If he would hit a curb or lose control i am worried about injuries. Are regular skateboarding knee and elbow pads ok or should he have “riding pants” ? Please advise! Thank you!
Elbow and knee pads are highly recommended. It’s best to get dirt bike / ATV pads, you can find these on Amazon. However, even skateboard gear can provide some protection. If you son is going to ride in the backyard, on grass, that’s a different threat than when riding on the pavement (or any other hard surface9. We always recommend NOT to save on child’s safety. Good helmet, elbow and knee pads, plus some back and/or chest protector – these are all things we’d very seriously recommend.
My 9 year old is getting his very first 70cc dirt bike and I’m buying all safety items I can. Helmet, goggles, gloves, chest protector, pants, and boots. You can’t ever be too safe on these motorized bikes as they do go pretty fast!
That’s so true! We can’t just stress enough how important the safety gear is and are always recommending buying such. Riding dirt bikes is great fun for the little ones but parents should always act responsibly and invest into their kids’ safety.
Thanks for your valuable comment!