When it comes to purchasing a dirt bike, there are multiple factors to take into consideration. Dirt bikes are no small investment, and choosing one that isn’t suitable for you will not only be money down the drain, it could also be dangerous for an inexperienced rider. This article will guide you on how to pick the perfect dirt bike based on your requirements.
If you have already taken a look at the dirt bike market, you probably already know that there is a seemingly endless selection of bikes in various sizes, engine capacities, and manufacturing styles that make them unique. Certain dirt bikes are built for specific tasks like casual off-roading, while others come off the line track-ready. So, how do you go about deciding which dirt bike is best for you? To make your purchasing decision a little easier, let us discuss the following list of things you should take into consideration before making your purchase:
Remember, there are risks involved in riding a dirt bike. While these steps will help you choose a two-wheeler appropriate for you, there is no guarantee of an accident-free experience. Make sure always to wear the necessary safety equipment when riding and avoid reckless riding practices on the road and under the influence of alcohol.
Above any other factor, your experience level is the most critical aspect to consider before purchasing a bike. Dirt bikes are powerful and agile machines that are designed to conquer rugged terrain. Regardless of how tall or big you are, lack of experience could make riding a beginner-level 125cc bike incredibly difficult.
Let us start with young first-timers. If you are looking to purchase a dirt bike for your child, there is an excellent array of mini dirt bikes falling under the 110cc category, which would be a superb powertrain to start with. Additionally, many bigger dirt bikes come with a three-speed, automatic clutch transmission, which helps young riders adapt to controlling the bike before concentrating on a clutch system.
For adults, you probably want to start with something a little bigger and more powerful. If you are still a beginner, it’s best to stay under the 250cc range until you get used to the feel of a bike. Smaller bikes are also lighter and more agile, making them easier to control. If you have no experience riding any bikes, a dirt bike with a smaller engine capacity and a manual clutch system is a good option. However, if you are already comfortable with gears, then pay attention to the following detail.
By intention, we mean what type of off-roading you intend to do. It is important to note that dirt bikes are broken down into specific subcategories. Certain dirt bikes are made for general off-roading, while some are explicitly designed for track races. You get dirt bikes designed for hill climbs and others specifically for flat tracks. So, before you think about purchasing a dirt bike, consider its intended use.
Below is a list of the most common dirt bikes and their specific uses:
Okay, this is where your anatomy is going to influence your purchase. Your height compared to the size of the bike you want to purchase plays a highly pivotal role in your safety and comfort, which is why it is a good idea to sit on the bike to get a feel of how it is for you. Some dealers may even allow you to test ride the bike before purchasing.
There are a few indicators to look out for. Start by sitting on the bike. If your feet are flat on the ground while sitting, then it is most likely too small for you. On the flip side, if you are standing over the bike and are still tip-toeing to find balance, then the bike is too tall for you. The ideal ride height should allow the rider to keep one-third of their foot on the ground, making it easy to find your balance whenever you need your feet to control the bike.
One of the most important things about a dirt bike is its suspension. The suspension on a dirt bike concludes its overall comfort, safety, and top speed. Therefore, it is easy to understand that a featherweight novice rider will need a completely different suspension setting than a 220 lb. pro rider.
It is generally recommended for riders below 150 lb. to start with engine capacities lower than 250cc, making it easier for them to get accustomed to the feel of the bike and build confidence faster. For riders on the heavier side, you want a bike with an appropriate suspension to handle your weight and a powerful engine that will help you to tackle varying terrain. For this, depending on your experience, you can look to work with something between the 250cc and 450cc segments. However, keep in mind that the latter is extremely powerful and should only be handled by pro riders.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right size of dirt bike for you. However, one of the main things to keep in mind is to always look for something that will match your skill level. If you are still unsure, any employee at a bike showroom will be happy to help guide and advise you on selecting the best bike.