Kids Dirt Bike Ultimate Guide: Choosing The Right Dirt Bike Size For Your Kids

Choosing the right kids' dirt bike size for your child is important. If you choose the wrong one, it could be dangerous. In this article, we will discuss the different sizes of dirt bikes and how to choose the best one for your child. Kids' dirt bikes come in a variety of sizes, from small 40cc dirt bike models to large 250cc bikes. The right size bike will depend on your child's age, height and weight. For younger kids, a small 50cc dirt bike is a good choice. These bikes are less powerful, lightweight, and easy to control. They're also relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for kids who are just getting started in the sport.

kids dirt bike

As your child grows, they can move up to a larger-sized bike. Older kids and teens will need a bigger bike, such as a 125cc or 250cc model. These bikes are more powerful and require more skill to ride. But with proper instruction and supervision, kids can safely enjoy these types of dirt bikes. When choosing the right dirt bike size for your child, there are a few things you need to take into account. In this post, we will outline what those factors are so that you can make an informed decision. 

Matching The Seat Height To Your Kid's Height

When choosing the right dirt bike size for your child, seat height is one of the most important factors to consider. You'll want to choose a dirt bike with a seat height that matches your child's height. This will ensure that they can reach the ground with both feet when seated on the bike. Your child will have difficulty controlling the dirt bike if the seat height is too high. If it's too low, they may not be able to reach the controls properly.

One of the most important safety considerations when buying a dirt bike for your kid is to make sure that the seat height is appropriate. The seat height needs to be tall enough so that your child can rest both feet flat on the ground while seated on the bike but not so tall that your child's legs are fully extended. If the seat height is too tall, your child will have difficulty controlling the bike and may end up having an accident. If the seat height is too low, your child will be uncomfortable and may not want to ride the bike. So how do you know what seat height is right for your kid? There are a few different ways to match the seat height of a kid's dirt bike to your kid's height.

Tape measure

Measure from the ground to your child's hip joint (the point where the top of the thigh bone meets the pelvis) while your child is standing with his or her feet flat on the ground. This number is called the inseam measurement. Next, measure the distance from the ground to the top of the seat on the dirt bike. Subtracting the inseam measurement from this number will give you an idea of how much legroom your child will have when seated on the bike.

Measure with the bike

The best way to know if a dirt bike's seat height is appropriate for your kid is to either measure your child's inseam measurement or have your child sit on the bike and then hold it upright while someone else measures from their hip joint to the ground. Whichever method you choose, consider factors such as body positioning and clothing thickness for a more accurate measurement.       

Sizing A Dirt Bike For Kids

Choosing the right size can be confusing as there are different models available in the market with varied dimensions. In this section, we will help you understand how to go about it so that you can make an informed decision.

There are three main factors you need to consider when sizing a kid’s dirt bike for your kids.

Age

As a general rule of thumb, kids between the ages of 4-7 years old should be on mini bikes, while those between 8-11 years old should be on mid-size bikes. Only after they turn 12 years old can they start riding full-size bikes. However, this is just a guideline as some 4-year-olds might be tall enough to ride a mid-size bike while some 11-year-olds might still be better off on mini bikes. This is where height comes into play.

Height

To determine whether your child should be riding a mini, mid-size, or full-size dirt bike, you need to measure their inseam (from the crotch to the ground).

  • Mini bikes have seats 15 inches from the ground, requiring an inseam of at least 25 inches.
  • Mid-size bikes have seats 18 inches from the ground, requiring an inseam of at least 30 inches.
  • Full-size bikes have seats 21 inches (or higher) from the ground, requiring an inseam of at least 35 inches.

Weight

Another important factor to consider when sizing a kid’s dirt bike is weight capacity. Most mini bikes have a weight capacity of around 85 pounds, while most mid-size bikes can accommodate up to 200 pounds. It is important to check the weight before making your purchase, as you don't want to end up with a bike your child will outgrow within a few months.

Dirt Bike Size Chart

When choosing a dirt bike size for your kid, it is important to consider their age, height, and weight. As a general rule of thumb, kids between the ages of 4-7 should be on mini bikes, while those between 8-11 years old should be on mid-size bikes. Only after they turn 12 years old can they start riding full-size bikes. However, this is just a guideline as some 4-year-olds might be tall enough to ride a mid-size bike while some 11-year-olds might still be better off on mini bikes. This is where height comes into play.

Height of Rider

Seat Height(Inches)

Best Kid’s Dirt Bike Fit

6' (182cm) or taller

37.5" or higher

Yamaha YZ250

5'10" (178cm)

35" to 39"

Kawasaki KX450F

5'8" (172cm)

34" to 38"

Yamaha WR250R

5'6" (167cm)

34" to 37"

Honda CRF250L Rally

5'4" (162cm)

33" to 36"

Yamaha TT-R230

5'2" (157cm)

31" to 35"

Honda CRF150F

4'9" (145cm)

26" to 31”

Kawasaki KLX110L

4'5" (137cm)

21" to 28"

FRP Gas Dirt Bike 003

Importance Of Getting The Right Size

Safety First

If the bike is too big or too small, it can be difficult for them to control, and they could end up getting injured. On the other hand, a bike that is too small will not provide the thrill and excitement your child is looking for, and they will quickly become bored. Finding the perfect balance is crucial, so proper sizing is so important. 

Comfort Is Key

Another reason why it's important to get the right sized kid’s dirt bike is for comfort reasons. If you're not comfortable on your bike, you're not going to have as much fun riding. You may also find yourself getting tired more quickly if you're constantly struggling to control a bike that's too big or too small for you. Again, consulting with an experienced rider or dealer can help you find a bike that's the perfect size for your comfort level.

Confidence Is Contagious

If you don't feel confident on your dirt bike, it's going to show when you're riding. This lack of confidence can be contagious, making other riders around you less confident as well. This can lead to accidents and injuries, so it's important to make sure you have the right sized bike so you can approach every ride with confidence.

Conclusion

Choosing the right-sized dirt bike for your kid can be quite tricky, but it is important to get it right, as safety must always be your number one priority. We hope that this guide has been helpful and gives you a better understanding of how to go about it so that you can make an informed decision.