Best Dirt Bikes For Teenagers

I got my first dirt bike on my 16th birthday. The classic 1999 Honda XR100. Although I had started riding bikes many years prior, I never actually had my own bike. My uncle was a Pro racer and owned a small bike repair shop. It was customary for him to test the bikes after being serviced. From time to time, small 50cc bikes would come by the garage, which is how I first learned to ride.

From there I progressed to a Kawasaki KDX 200 when I turned 18. After a couple of years my riding progressed, and so did my machinery. My latest bike is a 2018 KTM 300 EXCW, perfect for the hard enduro riding that I love. I’ve now relocated and am in the process of purchasing a 450cc motocross bike. With a lot of first hand experience growing up with dirt bikes, I figured I put together a guide on which dirt bikes are the best for teenagers.

Factors To Consider

Type of Bike

Choosing the right type of dirt bike can make or break the riding experience. There are 3 main types of dirt bikes to consider.

1. Trail Bikes
2. Enduro Bikes
3. Motocross Bikes

Trail Bikes

A trail dirt bike is a great option for teenagers because it’s designed to handle a wide range of terrain and provides a comfortable and easy ride. With a suspension setup that can handle rough terrain and a low seat height that’s easy to handle for riders of all sizes, a trail dirt bike is the perfect tool for teenage riders who want to explore off-road trails and build their skills and confidence. The Yamaha TT-R125LE would fall in this category

Enduro Bikes

Enduro bikes can be appropriate for teenagers who have experience with off-road riding and are ready for a more challenging riding experience. However, they are typically larger and more powerful than trail bikes. This means that enduro bikes may not be suitable for inexperienced or younger riders. If you’re just starting out, I’d suggest holding back on an Enduro bike for a little while. I got my first enduro bike when I turned 20. My two previous bikes were both trail bikes, the Honda XR100, followed by a Kawasaki XC-W 300cc which I still ride to this day.

Motocross Bikes

Motocross bikes are designed for high-performance racing and are typically not suitable for recreational riding. They have a powerful engine, lightweight frame, and specialized suspension that allows them to handle high jumps, sharp turns, and faster acceleration. Because of their high-performance capabilities, motocross bikes can be dangerous for inexperienced or younger riders, and are generally not recommended for teenagers who are just starting out with off-road riding.

Engine Size and Power

When it comes to dirt bikes, engine size and power are the meat and potatoes of the machine. Choosing the right engine size and power for a teenager is crucial for their riding experience and skill level.

For beginner riders or younger teens, a smaller engine size such as a 125cc is perfect for learning the ropes. It provides enough power to learn basic riding skills while not being too overwhelming. A larger engine size of around 250cc is suitable for more experienced riders who want to take on more challenging terrain and obstacles.

The best dirt bike engine sizes for a teen would typically range between 100cc and 250cc.

The most common engine sizes in this range include:

• 100cc
• 125cc
• 150cc
• 200cc
• 230cc
• 250cc

It’s important to note that more power also means more responsibility. It’s crucial to ensure that the rider has the necessary skills and experience to handle a more powerful bike. A bike with too much power for the rider’s skill level can be dangerous and lead to accidents and injuries. If the rider started young on a 50cc bike for kids, it’s likely they have enough experience to handle a more aggressive ride.

Height and Weight

Choosing the right size and weight of dirt bike for teenagers is crucial to their safety and enjoyment while riding. When it comes to selecting a bike in the 100cc to 250cc range, it’s important to consider the teenager’s age, height, and experience level. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that teenagers grow quickly, so a bike that is appropriate now may become too small or underpowered in a short period of time.

For younger or smaller teenage riders, a bike with a lower seat height and a lighter weight can provide a more manageable ride. There’s nothing worse than the feeling of stopping and trying to find the ground with your feet and it’s just not there. For taller or more experienced teenage riders, a bike with a taller seat height can provide a better riding experience.

It’s also worth noting that there are adjustable features on many dirt bikes that can help to accommodate growing teenage riders. For example, the suspension on some bikes can be adjusted to account for changes in weight and height. Additionally, some bikes have adjustable footpegs and handlebars that can be moved to fit the rider’s size and preferences. If the rider outgrows the bike, you could also look at a replacement pair of taller handlebars.

For teenagers, a bike with a seat height of around 26-34 inches is typically suitable. The weight of the bike should be light enough for the rider to handle comfortably, but not so light that it becomes unstable. A bike that weighs around 150-220 pounds (70 – 100 kilograms) is typically appropriate for teens.

Best Trail & Enduro Dirt Bikes Teenagers

Teens looking to get into dirt biking are big enough to move on to a bike without a clutch. There are a ton of options out there so let’s get into some of the best trail and enduro dirtbikes for teenagers.

Honda CRF 125F Big Wheel

The Honda CRF 125F Big Wheel is a fantastic bike that offers a perfect balance of power, comfort, and stability. With a seat height of 31.7 inches and a weight of 194 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 187 pounds and measuring up to 5’8″ in height. It’s a great choice for those who want a bike that is easy to ride and maneuver while still providing enough power to tackle off-road terrain.

One of the standout features of the Honda CRF 125F Big Wheel is its four-speed transmission. This transmission is perfect for beginners or riders who prefer a more relaxed riding experience, as it provides a smooth and consistent power delivery. The bike’s 124cc engine is also designed to provide ample power and torque, making it perfect for riders who want to tackle challenging terrain.

The Honda CRF 125F Big Wheel is also built to last. Its sturdy construction and reliable performance make it a great investment for anyone who wants to hit the trails with confidence. The bike’s big wheels offer increased stability and improved ground clearance, making it perfect for riders who want to tackle rough terrain. Additionally, its durable frame and high-quality components ensure that it can withstand the toughest of riding conditions.

Honda CRF 150R

The Honda CRF 150R is a great dirt bike for beginner to intermediate riders who want to take their off-road riding to the next level. With a seat height of 32.8 inches and a weight of 187 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 130 pounds and measuring up to 5’6″ in height. Its liquid-cooled 149cc four-stroke engine is designed to offer strong mid-range power and a high level of performance on the trails.

One of the standout features of the Honda CRF 150R is its suspension system. The bike is equipped with high-quality Showa front and rear suspension that offers excellent stability and control on rough terrain. Its Pro-Link rear suspension system is also adjustable, which means that riders can fine-tune the bike’s handling to suit their specific needs.

Yamaha TT-R125LE

The Yamaha TT-R125LE is a versatile and reliable dirt bike that is suitable for a wide range of riders, including beginners and intermediate riders. With a seat height of 31.7 inches and a weight of 198 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 130 pounds and measuring up to 5’4″ in height. Its air-cooled 124cc four-stroke engine is designed to offer smooth and reliable power on the trails, making it an excellent bike for learning the ropes of off-road riding.

One of the standout features of the Yamaha TT-R125LE is its electric starter, which makes it easy to start the bike and get out on the trails quickly. The bike is also equipped with a user-friendly four-speed transmission that is easy to operate and offers a good balance of power and control on the trails.

The Yamaha TT-R125LE has a lower seat height and a heavier weight than the Honda CRF 150R. It is also slightly less powerful which makes it a good choice for beginners who are just getting started with off-road riding.

The Suzuki DR-Z125L is a versatile and agile dirt bike that is well-suited for beginners and intermediate riders. With a seat height of 32 inches and a weight of just 196 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 160 pounds and measuring up to 5’7″ in height. Its air-cooled 124cc four-stroke engine is designed to offer smooth and reliable power on the trails, making it an excellent bike for learning the ropes of off-road riding.

One of the standout features of the Suzuki DR-Z125L is its lightweight and agile handling, which makes it easy to maneuver on the trails and navigate tight turns and obstacles. The bike is also equipped with a user-friendly five-speed transmission that offers good power and control on the trails.

Suzuki DR-Z125L

The Suzuki DR-Z125L is a versatile and agile dirt bike that is well-suited for beginners and intermediate riders. With a seat height of 32 inches and a weight of just 196 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 160 pounds and measuring up to 5’7″ in height. Its air-cooled 124cc four-stroke engine is designed to offer smooth and reliable power on the trails, making it an excellent bike for learning the ropes of off-road riding.

One of the standout features of the Suzuki DR-Z125L is its lightweight and agile handling, which makes it easy to maneuver on the trails and navigate tight turns and obstacles. The bike is also equipped with a user-friendly five-speed transmission that offers good power and control on the trails.

Compared to other bikes on the list, the Suzuki DR-Z125L has a slightly higher seat height and a lower weight than the Yamaha TT-R125LE. It also has one additional gear in its transmission, which may make it a better choice for riders who want a bit more control on the trails.

Here are the specs for the Suzuki DR-Z125L:

Kawasaki KLX 140L

The Kawasaki KLX 140L is a rugged and powerful dirt bike that is designed for intermediate and advanced riders who want to tackle the toughest trails and challenges. With a seat height of 31.5 inches and a weight of 218 pounds, this bike is appropriate for riders weighing up to 165 pounds and measuring up to 5’9″ in height. Its air-cooled 144cc four-stroke engine is designed to offer strong and consistent power on the trails, making it an excellent choice for riders who want to push themselves to the limits of off-road riding.

One of the key features of the Kawasaki KLX 140L is its tough and durable construction, which is designed to withstand the rigors of extreme off-road riding. The bike is equipped with a sturdy steel frame, long-travel suspension, and high-performance brakes, all of which are designed to provide excellent handling and control on even the toughest and most challenging terrain.

Kawasaki KLX 140G

The Kawasaki KLX 140G is another impressive dirt bike from Kawasaki that is designed to offer an outstanding off-road riding experience for intermediate and advanced riders. With a seat height of 33.9 inches and a weight of 218 pounds, this bike is suitable for riders weighing up to 150 pounds and measuring up to 5’7″ in height. Its air-cooled 144cc four-stroke engine is designed to provide excellent power and acceleration on the trails, making it a great choice for riders who want to tackle challenging terrain and obstacles.

One of the key features of the Kawasaki KLX 140G is its advanced suspension system, which is designed to provide excellent handling and control on even the most challenging terrain. The bike is equipped with a high-performance 33mm telescopic fork and a Uni-Trak linkage system in the rear, which work together to provide a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough and rocky terrain.

Compared to the KLX 140L, the KLX 140G has a higher seat height and a similar weight, which may make it a better choice for taller riders who want a bike that provides a more commanding riding position. It also has a slightly different suspension system, which may offer a different type of riding experience for riders who prefer a softer and more responsive ride.

Best Motocross Bikes For Teenagers

KTM 125 SX

This is an exceptional bike for younger or smaller riders who are looking to get into motocross. The lightweight frame and powerful engine make it easy to maneuver on the track. With a seat height of 37.8 inches and a weight of just 187 pounds, it is the perfect size for smaller riders who are looking to compete at a high level. It has a 6-speed transmission and a liquid-cooled, 2-stroke engine that delivers a lot of power.

Gas Gas MC 125

The Gas Gas MC 125 is a relatively new entrant to the motocross scene, but it’s already making a name for itself among teenage riders. This bike is known for its excellent handling and suspension, which allows riders to tackle difficult terrain with ease. The MC 125 also features a powerful two-stroke engine, which delivers impressive acceleration and speed. In terms of design, the MC 125 has a sleek, modern look that’s sure to appeal to teenage riders. This bike is a good option for teens who are looking for a bike that’s both powerful and easy to handle. It’s also a good choice for riders who are looking for a bike that’s a little different from the more common KTM and Yamaha models.

The Gas Gas MC 125 is another great option for younger or smaller riders. With a seat height of 37.4 inches and a weight of 198 pounds, it is slightly lighter and shorter than the Yamaha YZ125. It has a 6-speed transmission and a powerful 2-stroke engine that delivers a lot of torque. The suspension system is also top-of-the-line, making it a great choice for competitive racing.

Husqvarna TC 125

The Husqvarna TC 125 is a top-of-the-line motocross bike that’s designed to deliver impressive performance on the track. This bike features a high-performance two-stroke engine that’s capable of producing up to 40 horsepower, along with a lightweight chassis and state-of-the-art suspension system. The TC 125 also features a range of advanced features, including Brembo brakes, an adjustable seat height, and an electric starter. Overall, the Husqvarna TC 125 is a great choice for teenage riders who are looking for a bike that’s fast, powerful, and easy to handle. It’s also a good option for riders who are looking for a bike that offers a high level of customization, as there are a variety of aftermarket parts and accessories available for the TC 125.

KTM 150SX

The KTM 150SX is a standout option among the motocross bikes, especially for those who are looking for a higher-performance machine. One of the most impressive aspects of this bike is its power-to-weight ratio. With a lightweight design and a powerful 2-stroke engine, the KTM 150SX delivers a great deal of power and speed. It’s also known for its excellent suspension, which can handle the most challenging of terrains.

In terms of specs, the KTM 150SX has a 143.99cc engine, a 6-speed transmission, and a seat height of 37.4 inches. It’s suitable for riders weighing up to 165 pounds and with a height of at least 5’4″. One of the key features that set the KTM 150SX apart from other bikes in its class is its hydraulic clutch system, which offers a more responsive and precise feel. It also comes equipped with high-quality Brembo brakes for excellent stopping power.

Yamaha YZ250F

The Yamaha YZ250F is a popular choice for riders who want the power and agility of a motocross bike. Its lightweight aluminum frame and advanced suspension system make it easy to maneuver, while its 250cc liquid-cooled engine provides plenty of power to tackle any track. With a sleek, aerodynamic design and top-of-the-line features like a multi-function LCD display and push-button electric start, this bike is a great choice for serious riders looking to take their performance to the next level. It’s best suited for experienced riders looking for a high-performance bike with advanced features.

Honda CRF250R

The Honda CRF250R is another excellent choice for riders who demand power and precision. With a fuel-injected 249cc engine and advanced suspension system, this bike delivers top-of-the-line performance in any conditions. Its lightweight aluminum frame and agile handling make it easy to ride, while its sleek design and advanced features like a titanium fuel tank and dual exhaust system give it an edge over the competition. This bike is best suited for experienced riders who demand top-of-the-line performance from their equipment.

KTM 250 SXF

The KTM 250 SXF is a top-of-the-line motocross bike with all the features and power that experienced riders demand. Its lightweight frame and powerful 250cc engine make it one of the fastest and most agile bikes on the market, while its advanced suspension system and top-of-the-line components ensure smooth handling and maximum performance. With features like a hydraulic clutch, electric starter, and high-tech LCD display, this bike is the ultimate choice for riders who demand the best. It’s best suited for experienced riders who want a high-performance bike with top-of-the-line features.

Best Cheap Dirt Bikes For Teenagers

It’s not always necessary to buy an expensive bike when starting out. In fact, I don’t recommend it at all. What I do recommend is making sure that you buy a quality brand in good working condition and ample replacement parts. I started riding in 2007 and my first bike was a 1999 Honda XR100 which my dad bought for around $500. Check out my guide to the best cheap dirt bikes for adults. Here are my recommend budget dirt bikes for teenagers.

Honda XR100

The Honda XR100 is an excellent choice for beginners. Its small frame and lightweight design make it easy to handle, and its low seat height of 30.1 inches makes it comfortable for shorter riders. The XR100 is powered by a 99cc air-cooled engine with a four-speed transmission, providing enough power for teens to have some fun on the trails. It can accommodate riders up to 150 pounds and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

Yamaha TTR125

The Yamaha TTR125 is another great option for beginners. It has a low seat height of 31.7 inches, making it comfortable for shorter riders, and its lightweight design makes it easy to handle. The TTR125 is powered by a 124cc air-cooled engine with a five-speed transmission, providing enough power for teens to enjoy the trails. It can accommodate riders up to 150 pounds and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

Honda CRF150F

The Honda CRF150F is a step up from the XR100 and is suitable for intermediate riders. It has a slightly taller seat height of 32.8 inches and a more powerful 149cc air-cooled engine with a five-speed transmission. The CRF150F is designed to handle rough terrain with ease, and its suspension system provides a comfortable ride. It can accommodate riders up to 230 pounds and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

Honda XR200

The Honda XR200 is a classic dirt bike that has been around for decades. It has a seat height of 32.3 inches and a 198cc air-cooled engine with a five-speed transmission. The XR200 is suitable for more experienced riders who want a bit more power and performance. It can accommodate riders up to 250 pounds and is recommended for ages 16 and up.

Yamaha TTR230

The Yamaha TTR230 is a great option for intermediate to advanced riders. It has a seat height of 34.3 inches and a powerful 223cc air-cooled engine with a six-speed transmission. The TTR230 is designed to handle more challenging terrain, and its suspension system provides a smooth ride. It can accommodate riders up to 250 pounds and is recommended for ages 16 and up.

Here is a table comparing the key specs of each bike:

Best Trail & Enduro Dirt Bikes By Age Group

In this guide, I’ve provided a lot of different options. To help simplify things, here is a list of dirt bikes that are most commonly suggested to teens by age group. I’ll start with trail and Enduro bikes, followed by motocross bikes.

Best Dirt Bikes For Age 13-14:

• Yamaha YZ85
• KTM 85 SX
• Husqvarna TC 85
• GasGas MC 85
• TM Racing 85 MX 2T
• Kawasaki KX85
• Kawasaki KLX110
• Suzuki RM85

Best Dirt Bikes For Age 15-16:

• Yamaha TT-R125LE
• Kawasaki KLX140G
• Honda CRF125F
• Suzuki DR-Z125L
• KTM 125 XC-W TPI
• Husqvarna TE125

Best Dirt Bikes For Age 17-18:

• Kawasaki KLX140R F (140G)
• Kawasaki KDX 200
• Yamaha TTR230
• Kawasaki KLX230R
• Honda CRF230F
• Honda CRF250F
• KTM 200 XC-W
• Beta 200 RR
• GasGas EC 200

If you’re interested in more four stroke options, check out our guide on the best four stroke enduro dirt bikes.

Best Motocross Bikes By Age Group

Keep in mind the differences between 4-strokes and 2-strokes. If you’re teen is more interested in motocross, the below bikes are some of the best options by age group.

Best Motocross Bikes For Age 13-14:

• KTM 85 SX
• Yamaha YZ85
• Kawasaki KX85
• Husqvarna TC 85
• GasGas MC 85
• Suzuki RM85

Best Motocross Bikes For Age 15-16:

• Yamaha YZ85 Large Wheel
• KTM 125 SX
• Husqvarna TC 125
• GasGas MC 125
• Yamaha YZ125

Best Motocross Bikes For Age 17-18:

• KTM 150 SX
• Yamaha YZ250F
• KTM 250 SX-F
• GasGas MC 250F
• Husqvarna FC 250
• Honda CRF250R
• Kawasaki KX250

Best Dirt Bike For Short Teenagers

The beauty of dirt bikes is that there is an option out there for every rider, even shorter teens. In this case, in the simplest option would be to choice a smaller bike like a 85cc. However, if you want something with a bit more power, you can always modify the setup to make the bike an approprite size for a shorter rider, while still getting that extra Braap. Consider the following setup mods.

1. Lowering the suspension – The suspension can be lowered to reduce the seat height and make it easier for shorter riders to reach the ground. This can be done by adjusting the rear shock, lowering the fork tubes, or using a lowering link.
2. Changing the handlebars – Shorter riders may benefit from using shorter or narrower handlebars, which can improve control and make it easier to reach the controls.
3. Adjusting the footpegs – The footpegs can be moved up or down to improve the rider’s leg position and help them reach the ground more easily.
4. Using a lower seat – Some dirt bike manufacturers offer lower seat options, or you can purchase an aftermarket seat that is designed for shorter riders.
5. Installing a handlebar riser – A handlebar riser can raise the handlebars to make it more comfortable for shorter riders to reach them.

The best dirt bike options for short teenagers would be:

• Honda CRF125F
• Kawasaki KLX140
• Yamaha TTR125

Best Dirt Bike For Tall Teenagers

If you or or your kid has hit their growth spurt and not stopped growing, you can make similar bike mods for taller riders. Without going to deep into the mods, or risking too much power of a 250cc, the best dirt bikes for taller teens would be:

• Honda CRF125F
• Kawasaki KLX140
• Yamaha TTR125

If you’re concerend that you or your child might outgrow the bike too fast, it might be a good idea to consider looking at a beginner adult dirt bikes. That way, you know the bike will be a good fit for the skill level, as well as a good fit in terms of size for a long time.

Last Checkpoint

I’ve had the pleasure of growing up around dirt bikes. From my PW50 I took a break, started again on an XR100, jumped onto a KDX 200 with toes barely touching the floor, and now I enjoy my 300 EXCW. The journey has been nothing short of incredible. It was never about the size or the power of the bike I was on. It’s about the guidance, the group, and having fun.