What’s the Best Size Dirt Bike for My Height?
So, you’ve decided it’s time to buy your first real dirt bike.
But where do you start? Not all dirt bikes are created equal, and the best type for you depends on a variety of factors. In this article, I’ll explain what factors come into play and what the best size dirt bike is for you.
What Factors Are Important?
There are several factors to consider when choosing the perfect dirt bike. Each person is unique, and therefore, there are different types of bikes on the market. Some are heavier, some have more cc, and others are more suitable for taller individuals.
Your Weight and Age
If you’re under 1.65m tall or weigh less than 65kg, there are a few things to consider. It’s essential that you can reach the ground with your feet when sitting on the bike. Your feet should almost touch the ground, at least the entire forefoot. Doing this barefoot will give you a good idea of the correct seat height.
Your weight also plays a role. You need to be able to control the bike. If the bike is too heavy for you, you might fall when stationary because you can’t support the weight. In this case, a lighter bike is wiser.
On the other hand, relatively tall people may find it challenging to choose a suitable bike. This is because they may quickly develop back pain from an uncomfortable seating position. While a bike can always be adjusted, it’s easier to downsize a bike than to upsize it.
Different CCs and Seat Heights
There are several lighter bikes to choose from if you’re a beginner or relatively small. An 80cc semi-automatic, a 65cc automatic, or an 85cc manual, for example. Additionally, you have the option of a 125 two-stroke or a 240 four-stroke.
If possible, take a test ride. This will allow you to see if you’re sitting comfortably and stably and if you can reach the ground with your feet. You can also check if the weight isn’t too heavy for you. This way, you can discover the best size dirt bike for you.
However, it can be dangerous for young riders to start with an 80cc right away. These dirt bikes are quite fast and not easy to learn to ride. If you’re still getting used to operating the throttle and brakes, it’s better to start with a semi-automatic. Also, read through all our beginner tips.
As mentioned above, the best way to determine the correct seat height is to sit with your bare feet flat on the ground. Once you know the correct seat height, you can look for bikes with that height. If you’ve found a great bike but you’re just a little too short, most bikes allow you to lower the seat. This will lower it by about 3cm. Additionally, some bikes offer a lowering kit, which can lower it by another 3cm.
Age-Height Overview
Below is an overview of different ages and advice regarding buying a dirt bike. However, this is a general guide. Always make sure you’re sitting comfortably on the bike, able to reach the ground with your feet, and able to support the weight when necessary.
- 3 to 7 years old – 50cc dirt bike
- 5 to 9 years old – 50/70cc dirt bike, seat height between 43 and 66 cm
- 7 to 10 years old – 110cc dirt bike, seat height between 66 and 73 cm
- 10 to 12 years old – 110/125cc dirt bike, seat height between 73 and 81 cm
- 157cm tall – 125cc dirt bike, seat height between 73 and 81 cm
- 162cm tall – 140cc dirt bike, seat height between 76 and 86 cm
- 167cm tall – 140/150 or 250cc dirt bike, seat height between 86 and 93 cm
- 172cm tall – 125/150 or 250cc dirt bike, seat height between 86 and 96 cm
- 178cm tall – 250cc dirt bike or higher, seat height between 91 and 96 cm
- 182cm tall – 450cc dirt bike or higher, seat height between 95 and 98 cm
The Right Size Dirt Bike for Children
The correct size of a dirt bike for children is trickier because you have two other factors to consider: (1) buying a bike that the child feels comfortable on and isn’t intimidated by, and (2) a bike that allows the child to continue growing without the need to replace their bike every year for a larger one.
The above table also gives you an indication of the right size bike for children. Try to be on the lower end when purchasing a bike so that if your child grows, the size remains sufficient for longer.
Once your child can stand flat-footed with both feet on the ground, it’s time to start looking for a new size.
If you’re planning to teach your child to ride, be sure to read our post with tips for teaching kids to ride dirt bikes.
Different Models of Dirt Bikes by Seat Height
- With a seat height between 43 and 66 cm, a Honda CRF50F is a good choice
- With a seat height between 66 and 73 cm, a Yamaha TT-R110E is a good choice
- With a seat height between 73 and 81 cm, a Honda CRF125F BW is a good choice
- With a seat height between 76 and 86 cm, a Kawasaki KLX140L is a good choice
- With a seat height between 86 and 93 cm, a Honda CRF230F is a good choice
- With a seat height between 86 and 96 cm, a Yamaha WR250R is a good choice
- With a seat height between 91 and 96 cm, a Suzuki RM-Z250 is a good choice
- With a seat height between 95 and 98 cm, a Yamaha WR450F is a good choice
Please note that it greatly depends on the individual whether the bike is comfortable. It’s important that you become familiar with it because you’re the one who has to ride it.
I hope I’ve helped you get started in choosing the right size dirt bike for you or your child. If you’re just starting out riding, I also have a post with tips for beginner riders, which I highly recommend reading.
