Best Dirt Bike For BEGINNERS 2024 Based On Size [5 To AVOID]

[@MotocrossHideout]

2:41 (7-11 year old beginner bikes) 3:25 (11-15 year old beginner bikes) 5:06 (Small wheel vs big wheel 125/140 trail bikes) 5:44 (WORST beginner bikes for adults) 9:00 (5'5" and taller Adult/teen beginner bikes) 10:52 (6'0" and taller Adult/teen beginner dirt bikes) Are you looking to buy your FIRST dirt bike?! Let us know :)

[@GeneralKam]

i just got my new crf150r a week ago as my first bike with clutch and gearbox. i figured out the clutch in less than an hour and was riding relatively ok for a first timer. i highly recommend it. tons of fun

[@mbza.]

how tall are u?

[@MatthewBeattie-e6q]

What about the Honda Dual Sport CRF300L for a new adult rider? It would be nice to cruise around town and ride trails. Also, how do you avoid the crazies on the ORV trails? Your students look like they are focused on technique and riding for skill acquisition and enjoyment rather than riding above their skill level. I would like to get out just to enjoy nature and the woods, but I hear horror stories about people getting seriously injured - sometimes permanently! I would love to enjoy this with my son. Thanks for your informative videos.

[@JessieGyrl7]

I’ve always been on street motorcycles/ cruisers now big adventure bikes and looking for a first dirt bike… videos was very informative thanks

[@MotocrossHideout]

Nice, thanks for watching, Jessica! What bike are you planning on buying?

[@Richars-l8l]

My first dirt bike as a 54 year old was a gasgas ec 300. Dude, that bike should be relegated to experts only. I've never in my life ridden anything so torquey and powerful and fast. I invested a crap load of seat time in it and it still scared me. I was forced to sell it out of fear, and then bought a KTM 150, convinced that a drop of 150 CC s would be more manageable. I was wrong. The 150 is a monster. Don't let the "150" fool you. It rips. Just not as much as the 300.

[@jacobschlicht]

Great; video...thanks for walking through everything! I am 40 years old and getting back into trail riding now that my kids are old enough. I haven't ridden in 20 years, but used to do it a fair amount as a teenager. I am 6'1, 220 lbs. I am torn between the CRF 250F and KLX 300R. I am fine going slower to make sure i build up my skills. Do you think there is a big difference for me? Should I go with one over the other? Thanks agains!

[@MotocrossHideout]

Hey Jacob, thanks for watching - that's awesome to hear that you're getting back into riding with your kids! At your size, the KLX300R would probably suit you a little better, but they're both great and would be a little bit soft for the suspension - just putting around the yard or slow trails would be fine though. The main differences would be air-cooled vs radiators, slight power and suspension performance difference, and weight. If you want to read more about them, here's my article comparing them: motocrosshideout.com/crf250f-vs-klx230r-vs-klx300r-which-is-worst-for-you/ You can also upgrade the CRF250F suspension, seat height and ground clearance - Hyperlitemoto.com has some nice parts.

[@jacobschlicht]

Thank you! I'm going with the 300R. @@MotocrossHideout

[@MotocrossHideout]

You're welcome - let us know how you like it!

[@jakebaur2148]

Hey did you get your bike? I've been looking at getting into dirt biking and have been eyeing up the 300r for a while.

[@jacobschlicht]

@@jakebaur2148 hey! Yes i did pick up a 2021 KLX 300r for $3,800. I really like it. Maybe I am rusty, but I definitely would not want to go any bigger

[@ScaleCrawling]

I'm a 6'3" 300lbs beginner. A modern 300cc carburated 2-stroke seems like my best bet. Found a 2017 GasGas 300 Racing that has both a kickstart and electric start that I'm considering a.t.m.

[@MotocrossHideout]

I get this question all the time and I strongly recommend staying away from a modern 300 enduro bike if you're a beginner that's going to ride single-track trails. You don't need that much power to start on - even at your size. Are they fun? Yes, but riding tight or technical trails when you haven't mastered the basic techniques, such as clutch and throttle control, it's going to be hard to stay in control with that much power on hand. If you really "need" a 300, the Beta XTrainer is toned down and easier to ride. You'll want stiffer springs (no matter the bike). The KLX300R is also a great beginner bike that has pretty good low-end torque. -Kelley

[@ScaleCrawling]

@@MotocrossHideout Thanks. I'm not a complete novice as I had several different bikes as a kid, including a Kawasaki KX80. So the basics such as clutch control and balance etc should be pretty solid, but large obstacles intimidate me as do steep inclines (both uphill and downhill). I never did anything advanced such as jumping or proper wheelies. I could do endless wheelies with my feet on the ground though, haha.

[@EgoGhostX]

I had a 150f as a 12 year old and now 15 with a 200cc 2 stroke

[@commandersavage2]

I've ridden street bikes for 20 years and currently ride a super moto. What dirtbike should I start on. 170cm 75kg

[@MotocrossHideout]

CRF230F or TTR230 would be great for transitioning to off-road.

[@quickguesswho]

Not bad advice. I started out on the CRF250F now just bought a Beta XTrainer. It’s a little tall but getting use to it.

[@MotocrossHideout]

I'm a little surprised to hear that, considering the Xtrainer isn't much taller. Are you happy about your upgrade? Thanks for watching!

[@quickguesswho]

@@MotocrossHideout Getting it lowered by 1 inch. Currently, suspension is being done by All Moto Performance (AMP). When I get it back and ride it, I can tell you more. I only ridden it like 2 miles haha.

[@quickguesswho]

@@MotocrossHideout Yup happy about the upgrade. It's significantly more lighter and way more capable. Feels a little strange riding since I am a newer rider and a bunch of other dirt bikes see me unloading the bike, thinking I am experienced. I got to let them know I have no clue what I'm doing haha.

[@ChrisPeaton]

I 5'7 156 lbs trying to decide between a KLX 300R and Honda 250F.. I can get the KLX for almost same price as 250F.. both brand new. Just worried about weight and power

[@shannonbunch1003]

I rode as a kid and teenager.. the last bike i owned was yz 175 ( yeah i know that was long ago) I've rode bigger dirt bikes ( 250 /450) but i really wasnt crazy about the seat height... I've started riding again and cant seem to find the right bike... perfect fit / perfect power.... ive been told the gas gas 125 will absolutely rip and the seat height is somewhat lower.... Any thoughts on this model??

[@MotocrossHideout]

If it's the MX or enduro model, it's not going to be much, if any, lower. If you want something that's easy to ride trails and requires little maintenance, I highly recommend the CRF250F, KLX230R or KLX300R.

[@misskestrel78]

It's been frustrating for me, looking for a bike. I'm a short 45 year old woman, about 140lbs, and the 125 is too much/big for me to feel comfortable sitting on. The 110 generally is better but I don't know which one is best for dirt trails in the desert.

[@MotocrossHideout]

Hey thanks for reaching out! What's your height, if you don't mind me asking? Have you tried sitting on a CRF125F, TTR125 or KLX140 small wheel version (17/14" tires). My wife enjoys the 110 because it doesn't have a clutch, but the smaller wheels and chassis don't handle quite as well on the trails, but it's great for starting on and building up your confidence when you intentionally practice proper trail riding techniques. Let us know what you think! -Kelley

[@steelbuc39]

Just started watching a few of your videos; very informative. I’m an older adult 5’8, 175#. Never rode in my life but always wanted to. My friend allowed me try his KTM450 XCF-W. I actually did very well riding it, my friend was impressed lol; granted he converted it to an automatic clutch, and I didn’t whiskey throttle it, absolutely know the bike was to big for what I want though. The power didn’t intimidate me, but the height and weight was more than I was comfortable with. Looking at crf250f’s, but I have the opportunity to buy a 2023 crf125f big wheel for $2500. Less than 1 hour on it, in mint condition. Your opinion would it be ok to get 125 or do you think I would outgrow it to quickly? I would definitely be just trail riding

[@MotocrossHideout]

Thanks for watching! The CRF250F would probably fit you a little better, but if you feel more comfortable starting on a smaller/less powerful bike, the 125F big wheel would be fine. At that price, I think it would be pretty easy to sell it next year for the same price if you decide to upgrade :)

[@matiasmaldonado510]

When I was 36 years old I decided to get into the dirt bike sport and since I'm a little guy, 5'4" and weight 135 pounds without gear I thought that a Honda crf125f big wheel would be a perfect bike for me, and I bought one, but it was a mistake, thafora kid's bike, even for a guy my size is way, but seriously way underpowered and too small as well, with a 175 pounds person it would barely move, I don't recommend to you at all, for your size you should get a 250 for sure, yamaha wr250, or 250fx, or maybe ktm 250xcf.

[@Rob-cy5xj]

I'm 173 cm tall and 72 kg my thing is that I'm a car guy but I really need to pick up a new hobbie and want a dirt bike to hit some trails in my days off. My thing is I'm afraid of bikes and always heard horror stories about crashes so I am definitely not going on public roads, I have been looking at 125 cc as first ones since they are the smallest ones for adults, any advices guys ? Feel free to comment please. And also share experience is dirt biking is dangerous :) and what should I be careful with.

[@MotocrossHideout]

Hey Rob, thanks for reaching out! I totally understand why you're afraid after hearing horror stories - I hate getting hurt or hearing about others crashing and getting injured. I recommend watching this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXvVmml8d8t1qac It's episode 2 of my beginner series and answers the question: Is Dirt Bike Trail Riding Safe To Get Into? I'd love to help you get started the RIGHT way (safely), so let me know what you think :) -Kelley

[@MrGoonerfan96]

No mention of KTM? I spent the first 10 years of my life riding but now 15 years later I’ve just bought a ktm sxf250. So far it’s been great.

[@MotocrossHideout]

KTM has many great bikes, but I wouldn't recommend them to a beginner. (except the electric balance bikes for kids.

[@MarkMarconi-o4m]

What is your overall opinion on a 2019 Suzuki DR200S

[@MotocrossHideout]

Hey Mark, it's a good town/city bike if you want a lightweight dual sport bike. It's great for beginners, but if you want a good off-road only trail bike I would recommend something else.

[@MrCoata-pc5uq]

My fist bike is a xt250 iv actully really liked it. I dont plan on selling it but looking for a bike that a bit lighter to really get into the woods. Do you think a honda crf 250f would be a good choice? Im about 5'7

[@MotocrossHideout]

Nice - that's a great beginner dual sport bike, but yes it's heavy for trail riding as you say. The CRF250F or KLX230R would be a good choice at your size for woods riding.

[@kadenNY]

I find the yz125x to be the best. It doesn’t have much low end power and the gearing is lower than the yz125

[@MotocrossHideout]

Best for beginners? I can't agree with you there, but I'm glad you like it :)

[@Spence-jp6re]

I’m thinking about getting my first dirt bike and I’m 14, 5,9 130 pounds and I would greatly appreciate if anyone would recommend a dirt bike to start off

[@JeremiahVance-e9l]

Crf 250f or 150

[@fhp2024]

I am 14 and 5’3 what should i get i wanna start riding

[@MotocrossHideout]

What bike looked best from this video?

[@fhp2024]

@@MotocrossHideout idk probably the 125 big wheels?

[@MotocrossHideout]

@@fhp2024 Yep, that's a great choice at your size!

[@THErickuss]

Get a bmx race bike with 20 inch tires , put slick tires on it, get tires over 2.2 inch wide, and learn to corner really good. Then go mountain biking with it. Then get a dirt bike.

[@Skidgyy]

⁠Hey man i’m 13 5’5 and 125 pounds my dad wants me to get a 250 or a 125 2 stroke i have previous bicycle experience and daily quad riding experience for 6 years what should i choose?

[@MotocrossHideout]

What type of riding will you be doing and what are your goals? A 125 or 250 2-stroke is a lot of bike even if you're used to riding quads.

[@dma98]

I'm super new, but curious, why are you never talking about Husky, KTM, Beta, Sherco?

[@MotocrossHideout]

Good question. I don't typically mention them in beginner bike videos because they don't have bikes that are good for beginners in my opinion. They're Enduro or MX race bikes with more power than most people can handle or need until you're at least an intermediate skill level. Some people start on them and do okay, but I've found that the majority of beginner trail riders learn quicker, have more fun and crash less on a "slower" trail bike from Honda/Yamaha/Kawasaki/Suzuki, if that makes sense. :)

[@WilsonWan97]

What about electric dirt bikes, Like Talaria? Seems to become more popular recent years.

[@MotocrossHideout]

Yeah, I haven't gotten into electric dirt bikes yet, but I'll probably get to them eventually due to their growing popularity, despite the negative feedback from "hardcore" riders.

[@Bait_and_wait]

I’m 14 5’10” and 140 pounds looking to ride trail what bike should I get I’m looking at a trail geared kx 250f

[@TheGrobe]

If you are not looking to race, competitively, the MX style bikes have super short maintenance intervals and things like valves, oil, clutch service. there are full fledged, race, bikes, with twitchy throttles, and the motor will not last very long, even when you do all the proper service, they will last like a quarter as long. These are like the Honda “R” bikes crf250r/450r Yamaha Yz/Yzf. If you get a trail bike something like a Yamaha TTR (just an example, most brands make them) they are much more rideable when you are not all out racing the engine. Plus, the engine will last for years and you don’t have to change the oil every other time you ride the bike. Some race models you have to check the valves every 15 hours.

[@Toxickixxes]

I am a completely new beginner and i dont know anythinf really about dirt bikes. Im 5,4 and 11 i dont know what bike to go for and where to practice

[@MotocrossHideout]

Are you living with your parents? If so, are they willing to help you get started dirt biking?

[@Toxickixxes]

@@MotocrossHideout yeah

[@MotocrossHideout]

Depending on your budget, the TTR125L, KLX140L or CRF125FB would be a good option. Then find a local dirt bike club to join. You should start practicing in an open, flat area, and then transition to some easy trails.

[@Toxickixxes]

@@MotocrossHideout thank you so much :)

[@MotocrossHideout]

You're welcome - let us know when you get a bike :)

[@just_z7137]

I’m 6’3 and 280lbs few years back I tried learning on my buddies crf150r but I busted my ass. He got scared and didn’t let me ride anymore 😂 I want a yz250f but after not being able to handle 150r I’m not sure if it’s right for me, I’ve been looking at TTR230’s what would you recommend?

[@MotocrossHideout]

If you struggled with the 150R then the YZ250F won't be easier. The TTR230 is a great bike to start on. Suspension will be a little bit soft, but that's fine for low speeds. The older TTR250 (slightly larger in size than the 230) would be good too if you're set on a Yamaha

[@landongoforth3050]

14. 5,8. 130pounds what cc should I get

[@masterkilla77]

How about something to tool around in the yard with just under an acre. 5'7 170lbs

[@MotocrossHideout]

What's your budget?

[@masterkilla77]

@MotocrossHideout less than 3k would be nice. Not a beginner... looking at 110s for the smiles. If I can't find much locally thinking of a new crf110

[@MotocrossHideout]

If you're just wanting a 110, should be pretty easy to find one almost new for 3k or less. CRF110 2019+ has EFI. Otherwise KLX110 and TTR110 are good. Suspension will be soft at 170lbs, but just putting around the yard should be fine.

[@masterkilla77]

@@MotocrossHideout thx would u say something else be better?

[@MotocrossHideout]

I prefer EFI, but that's just me. I believe the KLX has the best overall performance and beefiest chassis, or at least they used to. TTR110 is good but doesn't have as big of an aftermarket for upgrades, if that makes a difference.

[@extremegamerboy1523]

Hi I am 15 at 5'9 what bike would you recommend for a beginner

[@MotocrossHideout]

What's your budget? kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX_HiWyYjL-afM0

[@Isabella-wp3hf]

Hi I am 14 and about 5,6 and 125-130 pounds I’ve ridden a dirt bike once before and ridden four wheelers plenty of times I’ve done plenty of research and I’ve been looking at a crf 110 for a while but after watching your video and some other ones it’s seems that a 125 is a better fit for me but it’s more expensive. Do you think that a 110 is fine for me?

[@MotocrossHideout]

A 125 would fit you better and has a manual clutch.

[@Isabella-wp3hf]

@@MotocrossHideout thank you but I was kind of looking to not have to worry about the clutch since it’s new to me. Do you still think the 125 is the better option?

[@MotocrossHideout]

If you don't want a clutch then yes, the 110 is fine. I'm 5'6" and still ride our CRF110F, but it's definitely on the small side.

[@Isabella-wp3hf]

@@MotocrossHideout ok thank you for all your feedback it’s been very helpful

[@michellebennett5878]

What dirtbike should I get I’m 5’0 and weigh 116 pounds

[@MotocrossHideout]

I listed a few that would be good for your size in this video :)

[@hythm_kshb..]

does anyone recommend yz250f as a first bike?

[@fireboybg1745]

its waaay too snappy and has a lot of power for a beginner

[@genefuzer4287]

Love your videos but you’ve forgotten the BEST bike for 5-10 year olds and that’s the Suzuki DR-Z 70. Absolutely brilliant bike. Owned several crf50’s, PW50’s and 80’s and hands down the zookie is the best bike. Electric AND kick start, same height as a crf50, but a bit longer basically same frame, had the throttle adjustment etc etc it has every bell and whistle. Can also get bigger bars and seat when they get bigger, adults can ride them, semi auto same as crf. Just a better all round bike that will last longer before a 110

[@MotocrossHideout]

Thanks for sharing Gene. You're right, it's a great option. The only problem is they're not being sold anymore (at least here in the States). I'll have to include it in a list of the best used dirt bikes for kids. Thanks for watching!

[@genefuzer4287]

@@MotocrossHideout oh no way! My 5 year old currently has one. He has a 2014. Think they started production in 2008. I’m from the UK and they are quite rare here to be fair, not a lot of people know about them. I think they were good sellers in Australia. Honestly though they are a great bike and very reliable. I believe most mods for the CRF50 are bolts on’s for the DR-Z 70 (I believe it’s actually a 62cc engine but classed as a 70). They are a slightly longer but basically same frame as a crf, so an adult and a small kid can fit on the seat and ride. I did have a CRF50 after a PW50 for my eldest, then got the DR-Z after a mate pointed it out as an option for me riding a super mini, so I bought one for my youngest and it’s been a blast! Will last him a couple of years for sure as these things are fast yet have very smooth throttle and power delivery as you can imagine. Great video by the way and spot on with everything you say, good work for the community my Mrs watches your channel as she wants to get out riding with us but has never ridden a dirt bike before. Keep up the quality content brother!

[@MotocrossHideout]

Awesome, thanks so much for your support, Gene! Let us know when your wife is getting a bike!

[@SharkZoneGaming-m2r]

do you know any cheap affordable ones like really cheap, because I want to get a cheap one to buy before spending good money on a good bike that I don't know how to ride yet.

[@MotocrossHideout]

How cheap are we talking here? Check out this video for the best cheap used dirt bikes that are still reliable: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i36zaJyflrWkipI

[@SharkZoneGaming-m2r]

@@MotocrossHideout idk like 700 bc I want to get a nicer bike but don’t want to mess it up since idk how to ride

[@MotocrossHideout]

You might be able to find an older Honda XR100 for close to that. Here's my review on the xr100: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ip6annufqLiZo9U

[@SharkZoneGaming-m2r]

@@MotocrossHideout Alr thank you

[@K_Nasty]

Dude . Get the xpro templar . It's so legit.

[@jimbobpeters620]

I’m 17 and 6’3 so would I go to an adult sized bike?

[@MotocrossHideout]

For sure.

[@coleedwards7186]

but what bike would i get if im 15 and 5'11

[@Crewz97]

9:00

[@mirtooz]

Hi, Im 13 years old, i am 5.5, 5.6 tall and i weight Around 63 kg, i have experience in atvs, i can handle my dads suzuki ltz 400 and my cousins Polaris trail blazer 330 i can speed on them and have good control, so should i go for the bikes Everyone say like a Klx 140 or go for another thing like 125 2t or 250 4t?

[@mirtooz]

I was thinking maybe of a honda crf 250 2t/4t what about that as a first dirt bike and if so which one Could be better?

[@fuco5951]

⁠​⁠​⁠I'm 26, just bought kxf250, I have plenty of experience with atvs too, but the bike feels extremely strong for someone who didn't ever ride a dirt bike (me), you might actually consider something with lower power. 125 will most probably have plenty of power for you

[@mirtooz]

@@fuco5951 yes im looking at a klx 140, i might Upgrade later what do u think?

[@MotocrossHideout]

The KLX140L large wheel or full size wheel model would be a great bike to start on at 5'6" tall.

[@mirtooz]

@@MotocrossHideout yes i was thinking the same but im looking on autoscout and they are quite expensive, do you know where i can find an used one for cheap? Any websites? I live in spain Btw. But the problem now is that my dad wants a registered bike for me, he says i cant do anything without a license plate, i told him it was just to ride through our nearby forest trails with them.

[@NovyielYorobe]

Im 5.4ft and 45kg do u think i can handle a 125cc 2strokes i can ride a scooter btw

[@MotocrossHideout]

Can you handle it? Maybe. Would I recommend it? Not if you've never ridden a dirt bike off-road before.

[@NovyielYorobe]

@@MotocrossHideout I think 4 strokes Is a better choice for me

[@Someone91741]

Can you help me find a perfect bike for me i got a 1500€ budget and im 5'4 and im trying to get an unused bike so can you help me?

[@MotocrossHideout]

You'll have to find a knock-off/Chinese brand 125cc if you want a brand new one for that price.

[@Someone91741]

@@MotocrossHideout ohh...

[@Someone91741]

@@MotocrossHideout well ain't that bad

[@Someone91741]

@@MotocrossHideout although i did find some bikes from some german site so i can maybe use that i mean germans are good but heck no im not buying a chinesse bike

[@CynixalYT_WRLD]

@@Someone91741my best advice would be to keep your eye out for a really good deal on a bike with low hours from like Facebook marketplace or sites like that or cycle trader, just keep an eye out for a barely used but cheap good reliable dirt bike

[@WPCustomsTV]

uh im starting out on a 250 two stroke, should I be worried lmao?

[@MotocrossHideout]

For your first dirt bike? Some people can handle it, most people cannot without holding them back.

[@jorks-u9f]

can i fit on a kx 80. im 170cm

[@MotocrossHideout]

Yes

[@KingKing-b3w]

What happened to KTM bro?

[@shaq5186]

im 5'8, can i fit on a yz125? (the seat height is 985mm) and im 85kg.

[@shaq5186]

@

[@shaq5186]

planning to get it as my first bike.

[@MotocrossHideout]

I would say that you are most likely tall enough, but I wouldn't recommend it as a first bike for a few reasons. Did you watch my whole video?

[@shaq5186]

yes ive watched it, but EVERY other video (and ive watched atleast 40) abt dirtbikes, eveyrone agrees that a yz125 is a great first bike, and that a 2 stroke is good cause it will develop good habbits like extra clutch/throttle control @@MotocrossHideout

[@shaq5186]

rlly i think i can handle the power and i dont want something that will be too easy for me and not give me any adrenaline cause it has a low power for a beginer rider

[@MotocrossHideout]

Are you looking to buy your FIRST dirt bike?! Let us know :) Are you INTIMIDATED to ride a dirt bike? Build your confidence 5X faster without more "seat time"! [FREE Training] - motocrosshideout.com/workshop/

[@matejprochazka2087]

i am 14 and i started on 450 KTM EXC-F

[@1v1dogfights81]

How'd it go?

[@joshuadavidson662]

Ain't you special

[@genefuzer4287]

Your parents want you dead 😂 no reason to start on a 450. You wouldn’t even be able to pick it up with 3 other 14 year old mates assisting you. Silly choice whoever put you on that bike

[@ORBITAL-_-LL]

Same

[@FREAKBAlT]

You need to turn yourself in to an insane asylum How do you start on a 450 at 14 YEARS OLD

[@jorks-u9f]

can i fit on a kx 80. im 170cm

[@jorks-u9f]

can i fit on a kx 80. im 170cm

[@JeremiahVance-e9l]

Yes but uncomfortable