With lots of options available, parents can find it daunting to choose the right size dirt bike for kids. The right dirt bike size can help make the riding experience more enjoyable for your kid. It also helps with their safety. Your child could fall if they can’t handle the bike they are riding.
The perfect dirt bike size depends on the childs’ body, and the bike’s seat height. The most important body measurements for determining the best fit dirt bike size are kids’ height and inseam. If they are struggling and stretching to touch their feet on the ground, then that dirt bike may be too big.
Dirt biking can be fun and exciting motorsport. But this is mostly dependent on getting the right size dirt bike at first. In this article, you’ll learn how to select the right size of dirt bike for optimal performance.
Kids and Youth Sizing Chart
The ease of a riding experience is largely dependent on how much control the rider has over the bike. If your child cannot control their bike, their safety is compromised. They will also believe dirt biking to be difficult.
To prevent this, making an informed decision on what bike to buy is important. There are many sizing charts available online and in dealer stores to guide buyers. But most of these charts do not take into cognizance the inseams of the young rider. They use only the heights.
But two riders of the same height can have different inseams. So, taking into account the inseams is important in determining the dirt bike size of a young rider. Other factors such as the age and skill level of the rider also matter.
| Age (Years) | Height (Inches) | Inseam* (Inches) | Engine Size (CC) | Seat Height (Inches) |
| 3 – 5 | 36″ – 38″ | 16″ – 20″ | 50 | 18″ – 22” |
| 5 – 8 | 38″ – 48″ | 18″ – 24″ | 50 – 65 | 20″ – 27” |
| 8 – 12 | 48″ – 56″ | 22″ – 28″ | 65 – 110 | 25” – 32” |
| 12 – 14 | 56″ – 62″ | 24″ – 30″ | 85 – 150 | 27” – 34” |
| 14 – 16 | 62″ – 72″ | 27″ – 33″ | 85 – 250 | 31” – 38” |
Note: Dirt bike boots can add another 1″ – 1.5″ to child’s height and inseam measurement. Also when a rider sits on the dirt bike, due to their weight the bike’s rear shock absorbers lowers the bike’s body and the seat height. Depending on the child’s weight, seat height could lower by another inch or more. So, by wearing the riding boots and sitting on the dirt bike a rider can easily gain additional 2-4 inches. That’s why we always recommend a seat height higher than the rider’s inseam measurement.
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Right Size Dirt Bike
Several factors must be considered when selecting the right size dirt bike for your kid. These factors include:
1. Age and physical development of the child
Kids typically have physical developmental stages they should have attained at specific ages. How your child grows should be factored in when selecting a dirt bike for them. Dirt bike models are designed for specific age ranges.
A smaller child may find it challenging to maneuver a bike larger than their frame. Similarly, a bigger child will feel cramped on a small bike. The right bike size boosts their confidence. It also prepares your child for a successful riding experience.
2. Height and weight considerations
Another crucial consideration is the height and weight of your child. It is important the rider feels grounded while riding. A seat too high leaves the feet of the child dangling. This can lead to instability on the bike and even anxiety. A seat too low can hamper free motion and limit the ability to navigate terrains.
A heavier child will have a more difficult riding experience. This is because the weight has an impact on the suspension of the bike. This affects the handling and performance of the bike. To avoid this, get a bike with adjustable suspension.
3. Riding experience and skill level
Consider your child’s riding experience and skill level when selecting a bike for them. If your child is a beginner rider, a less powerful dirt bike is a good introduction to off-roading.
Such bikes allow the kids to gain confidence. They also grasp the fundamentals of dirt biking. As they gain more experience, you can get them bigger bikes. They can push their limits after considering how fast do dirtbikes go?
Choosing the Appropriate Size
As mentioned earlier, the inseams of the young rider should be considered as much as the height of the rider.
Step-by-step Guide to Determine the Right Size Dirt Bike for a Child
Here is a step-by-step guide to determine the right size of dirt bike for a child.
1. Stand them up straight
Have your child stand straight against a flat surface with bare feet.
2. Measure their height
You will need a measuring tape to measure the height of your child. The feet should be shoulder-width apart. Measure their height from the top of their head to their feet on the ground. The measuring tape must be straight and parallel to the floor. Note down the measurement.
3. Measure their inseam
The inseam measurement is the length from the crotch area to the ground. This measurement must be accurate. It can determine how comfortable your child will be riding a particular bike.
You can use a flat object like a book to create a flat surface in the crotch area. This will help you be more accurate. Measure from the top spine of the book to the ground.
3. Add 2 – 4 inches to the inseam measurement
The inseam measurement should be done bare feet. You can then add 1 to 1.5 inch of riding boot’s sole height. The rider’s weight can lower the bike’s seat height by 1 – 2 inches depending on the weight.
4. Consider the seat height range
The seat height of the dirt bike model you are considering is also important. A comfortable seat height allows your child to touch the ground with both feet. If they have to tiptoe to the ground, the bike may be too large for them. Motocross bikes are exception to this rule, where the feet can tiptoe due to bike’s tall heights.
Ensure the seat height falls within the inseam measurement, plus the extra 2 to 4 inches gained in step 3 above.
5. Test the bike
Another way to assess the right bike for your child is to let them sit on the bike. You can then observe how easy it is for your child to reach the handlebars and foot pegs. Search for “dirt bike dealer near me” online. Call and ask if they have a kids size dirt bike. Visit a couple of motorcycle dealerships near you. Have your child try sitting on one. Check to see if their feet touch the ground? Is their sitting position balanced? These questions can help you make an informed decision on the right dirt bike to choose.
Tips for Parents
As a parent who wants their child to get involved in the world of dirt biking, the experience can be rewarding. It can be challenging. You will want to keep your child safe as well as create an enjoyable experience for them.
Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
Guidance for Parents When Teaching Kids to Ride Dirt Bikes
- Start with the right equipment. This includes getting the appropriate dirt bike size for their age, height, and weight. Fitting safety gear is also essential.
- Find a suitable riding area. This should be in designated areas. Follow local laws and regulations on dirt bike riding.
- Teach your child the basics. Explain the various parts of the bike and what they do. Show them how to mount and dismount the bike safely. Teach them about all the controls too and how to achieve balance.
- Emphasize the importance of safety and why it is important to wear safety gear every time they ride.
- Trust the process. It is no use jumping onto a big bike when basic techniques have not been mastered. Start with easy riding techniques. Progress in difficulty level as they gain more skills.
“As long as I’m improving and learning and going from there and getting better, then that’s what I’m going to do.”
Cooper Webb
Importance of Supervision and Monitoring
Your child must receive constructive feedback on their riding. You can only be able to do this when you monitor their riding closely. Keep a close eye on their progress. Even offer positive reinforcement for achievements. If possible, set milestones and correct their mistakes when they make them. Be supportive.
Encouraging Safe and Responsible Riding Habits
Encourage safe and responsible riding habits by setting a good example. Your child will be less likely to ditch wearing a few safety gears if you don’t do the same. Practice safe riding habits and instruct them to do the same. emphasize the importance of adhering to safety rules and regulations.
Conclusion
Remember, safety should be a top priority when choosing a dirt bike for kids gas. Riding skills are not developed by using the biggest bikes. Instead, they are developed over time through practice on a easy to control dirt bike. You can give your child an enjoyable learning and riding experience. This can be done by choosing the right size dirt bike for them.
FAQs
What size dirt bike for 5 year old?
An appropriate dirt bike size for a 5-year-old would be a 50cc engine capacity dirt bike. These bikes usually fall within the 12-16 inches wheel size. A 23-25 inches seat height suitable for these kids.
What size dirt bike for 6 year old?
For a 6-year-old, a dirt bike with an engine size of 50cc or the best 65cc dirt bike will be suitable.
What size dirt bike for 8 or a year old?
The skill level and height of the 8-year-old and 9-year-old can determine the size dirt bike the child. This size can range from 50cc to 110cc dirt bikes.
What size dirt bike for 10 year-olds
A 10 year old can ride a dirt bike with an engine size of 65cc – 110cc. The wheel size for this dirt bike can range from 20-26 inches.
Are dirt bikes safe for 11 year olds?
Yes, dirt bikes are safe for 11-year-olds. Even kids younger than 11 years old can ride dirt bikes. You only need to find the size of a dirt bike appropriate for their age.
What size dirt bikes for 12-year olds?
A 12-year-old can ride a dirt bike up to 125cc. The seat height for this age group hovers around 26-31 inches.
What size dirt bike for a 13 or a 14 year old?
13 and 14-year-olds can ride dirt bikes up to 125cc engine size. Depending on their skill level, they can step up from 2-stroke engine to 4-stroke engine dirt bikes.
What age is a 50cc dirt bike for?
Depending on their body size, kids aged 3-6 years old can ride one of the 50cc dirt bike.
What age is a 70cc or a 65cc dirt bike for?
Kids aged 6-10 years old can ride 65cc and 70cc dirt bikes.
What age is a 110cc dirt bike for?
Kids aged 9-12 years old can ride a 110cc dirt bike.
What age is a 125cc dirt bike for?
A 125cc dirt bike is suitable for kids from the age of 12 years and above.
What age is a 250cc dirt bike for?
Kids aged 16 years and above can ride a 250cc dirt bike. A 250cc dirt bike is a powerful bike. It is important to note the skill level of your child before getting them a 250cc dirt bike.
Is dirt biking dangerous?
Yes, dirt biking can be dangerous. There is the risk of collision, crashes, and falls. But all these risks can be reduced if you wear your safety gear at all times. They can also be avoided when you stick to the right riding technique and style.
