Ive been riding and racing dirt bikes for 20 years.
Thats not going to cut it.
Motocross bikes arent cheap.
Even a quality minibike for kids is going to be $1500+ from a leading brand like Honda.
But, these types of bikes WILL stand the test of time if maintained properly.
Looking at another brand?
The popularity of the Honda CRF50 knows no bounds.
There are literally race series (for kids and adults), dedicated to the bike across the world.
Its also one of the most popular pit bikes for adults.
And, thats because its a top bike, from a leading brand.
But what makes it suitable as a first time dirt bike?
Lets just hit you straight with the price; the M.S.R.P is a little shy of $1,600.
Youll be able to pick up a used examplefor under $1,000 on eBay, on occasion.
hey dont do that.
And, hey read carefully before you make your decision.
As weve already mentioned, the CRF50 pit bike is perfect for beginners.
Jump over to this page on theHonda websitefor the full specification list.
Youll get a basic telescopic front fork, with a single shock at the rear.
A Honda dealer will be able to advise on the correct weighted springs.
The smaller 50cc bikes tend to have a smoother power delivery than bigger bikes.
Over the years, Ive had plenty of Hondas, and not just bikes.
The CRF50 isnt highly tuned (but can be).
Buying a $500 poor quality no-name bike of Amazon?
You wont have that problem with Honda.
CheckAmazon,eBay, or leading minibike shops such asFast 50sandBBR Motorsportsfor parts.
Review Verdict:Who Needs The Honda CRF50?
Its one of the best dirt bikes for kids that money can buy.
Dont take my word for it.
Drop a message on thePlanet Minis forum, and see what their users say about the CRF50.
Want them to jump straight into racing?
Have a bigger budget than the $1600 M.S.R.P, and want something thats more technologically advanced?
If you were shocked, look away now.
The M.S.R.P of the KTM50 is $3,899.
So, what does nearly $4,000 get you in terms of minibike racing?
Well, KTM lists this as a bike suitable for 4 years old through to 10 year olds.
Id suggest this bike for riders 4 years old through to around 6 years old.
By 7-10 years old, your kid should be progressing towards a 65cc or 85cc machine.
And the low seat height of around 22 inches means theres a low center of gravity for increased stability.
Better still, youll get ridiculous stopping power thanks to top quality KTM disc brakes.
Well cover the most important features below.
Suspension is just as, if not more, important.
Theres no point having a quick bike, if it cant handle bumps, ruts, whoops and jumps.
From the box, youll get 35mm WP XACT upside down front forks.
The CRF50 has a smooth 4 stroke 49cc engine.
Thats not going to cut it on the race track.
Not only will top speed be slow, theyll get destroyed on the exit of turns.
Kids on a KTM SX50 Mini.
The SX50 uses a much more powerful 2 stroke 49cc; theres literally no comparison between the two.
Whats worth bearing in mind, is this is designed for racing.
It wasnt until around 2000 that KTMs became popular.
Before then, they simply fell apart.
Luckily, the build quality has improved massively over the years.
Ive had newer versions of the SX125 and EXC300, and Ive been happy with both.
Theyre now classed as one of the best dirt bike brands for kids and adults alike.
There are KTM stores globally stocking all manner of components…my nearest one is 10 minutes away.
So, youll never struggle for parts.
Find your nearest KTM dealerhere, and theyll be able to hook you up with whatever you need.
For fun and trail?
Head for the CRF50.
For race wins, your kid needs the KTM SX50 Mini.
And, dont trust my opinion.
Ask a question onKTM Talk.
Kids Motocross Gear Guide
Got a bike?
Now it’s crucial that you look for quality dirt bike gear.
It makes me cringe when I see kids on dirt bikes with little, no, or cheap protection.
Dont scrimp and save when it comes to safety.
Theres a great resource covering reputabledirtbike gear brandshere.
Ive used almost all the brands on that list, and you wont go wrong with any of them.
Time to get out on the track and start stacking up some big grins, and moto wins!
