How Much Is a Dirt Bike and Which One Should You Get?

Dirt Bike Prices

When choosing a dirt bike, it’s essential to learn about all the specific models and their features to find the best fit for your needs. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top dirt bikes from each brand and how much they cost.

Honda

Honda dirt bikes, such as the CRF250R and CRF250RX, are celebrated for their build quality and smooth power delivery. They offer a great balance of performance and ease of use, which is perfect for riders at any skill level. Honda’s reputation for longevity and low maintenance makes it a favorite among many riders.

CRF250R

Price: $8,299

This bike is known for its reliability and balanced performance. It features a 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, offering smooth power delivery ideal for beginners. The CRF250R comes with Honda’s Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system, which ensures optimal performance in various riding conditions. Its twin-spar aluminum frame provides excellent handling and stability, making it perfect for motocross tracks. The suspension setup includes a fully adjustable Showa fork and a Pro-Link rear suspension, which can be fine-tuned to match your riding style and preferences.

CRF250RX

Price: $8,699

Designed for cross-country riding, the CRF250RX shares many features with the CRF250R but includes enhancements for longer rides. It has an 18-inch rear wheel, a larger fuel tank, and off-road specific suspension settings. The bike also features an electric start and a kickstand, adding convenience for off-road adventures.

Yamaha

Yamaha is renowned for producing reliable and high-performing dirt bikes. Models like the YZ250F and WR250F are popular choices for both motocross and off-road riding. Yamaha bikes are known for their durability and excellent handling, making them a top pick for beginners and experienced riders alike.

YZ250F

Price: $8,899

This motocross bike is praised for its strong engine performance and excellent handling. It features a 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine with Yamaha’s innovative reverse cylinder head design. This design enhances mass centralization, improving the bike’s agility and stability. The YZ250F comes with a KYB® Speed-Sensitive System fork and a fully adjustable KYB® rear shock, providing a smooth ride over rough terrain. Its lightweight aluminum frame contributes to its nimble handling, making it a favorite among motocross enthusiasts.

YZ250FX

Price: $8,999

The cross-country version of the YZ250F, the YZ250FX, includes an 18-inch rear wheel, a larger fuel tank, and a six-speed wide-ratio transmission. These features make it better suited for long-distance off-road riding. It also comes with an electric start and off-road specific suspension settings, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride over varied terrain.

Kawasaki

Kawasaki offers a range of bikes that excel in various terrains. The KX250 and KX250X are well-regarded for their strong engine performance and user-friendly features. Kawasaki bikes are designed to be competitive on the track and reliable on the trails.

KX250

Price: 8,599

The KX250 is renowned for its powerful 249cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine, which provides impressive acceleration and top-end speed. The bike features Kawasaki’s Dual Injectors, which optimize fuel delivery for improved performance across the rev range. Its aluminum perimeter frame offers excellent rigidity and stability, making it easy to handle at high speeds. The Showa separate function fork (SFF) and Uni-Trak rear suspension are fully adjustable, allowing riders to customize the setup to their liking.

KX250X

Price: $9,099

Designed for cross-country racing, the KX250X retains the performance attributes of the KX250 but adds off-road enhancements. It features an 18-inch rear wheel, a larger fuel tank, and softer suspension settings. The bike also includes a kickstand and a skid plate, providing added convenience and protection during off-road rides.

KTM

KTM, along with its sister brands Husqvarna and GasGas, is known for its innovative designs and top-tier performance. Bikes like the KTM 250 SX-F and 250 XC-F are equipped with advanced features and high-quality components. KTM’s focus on performance and technology makes them a preferred choice for serious riders.

250 SX-F

Price: $10,199

This bike is a top performer in the motocross world, featuring a 250cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine with KTM’s advanced electronic fuel injection system. The engine delivers strong, consistent power, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced riders. The lightweight chromoly steel frame and WP XACT suspension components provide excellent handling and stability. The 250 SX-F also features an electric start and a hydraulic clutch, enhancing its ease of use and performance.

250 XC-F

Price: $6,699.00 – $10,849.00

The cross-country version of the 250 SX-F, the 250 XC-F, includes an 18-inch rear wheel, a larger fuel tank, and off-road specific suspension settings. It also features an electric start and a kickstand, making it a versatile choice for varied terrain and long-distance rides.

Suzuki

Although Suzuki’s lineup hasn’t seen significant updates in recent years, models like the RM-Z250 still offer solid performance for motocross enthusiasts. Suzuki bikes are known for their affordability and ease of handling, making them a good option for newcomers to the sport.

RM-Z250

Price: $8,099.00

Although not as frequently updated as other models, the RM-Z250 remains a solid choice for motocross enthusiasts. It features a 249cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke engine with Suzuki’s Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) system, which optimizes launch performance off the line. The bike’s aluminum twin-spar frame provides excellent handling and stability, while the Showa separate function fork (SFF) and rear shock offer fully adjustable suspension settings. The RM-Z250 is known for its ease of handling and robust build quality.

Beta 200RR

Price: $6,999.00 to $9,999.00

The Beta 200RR is a fantastic choice for those interested in hard enduro and technical trail riding. It features a 190cc two-stroke engine with an electronic oil injection system, which eliminates the need for pre-mixing fuel. The bike’s lightweight frame and low seat height make it easy to maneuver through tight trails and challenging terrain. The 200RR also includes a Sachs suspension system, which is fully adjustable for optimal performance in various conditions. An electric start adds convenience, ensuring you can get going quickly even after a fall or stall.

Beta 300RR

Price: $7,799 to $11,299

This bike is built for serious enduro riders, featuring a 293cc two-stroke engine with a counter-balancer to reduce vibrations. The Beta 300RR offers a smooth yet powerful ride, making it ideal for both high-speed trails and technical sections. Its Sachs suspension components are fully adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the setup to their liking. The bike also includes an electric start and a six-speed transmission, providing versatility and ease of use.

Engine Types: Four-Strokes vs. Two-Strokes

Understanding the differences between four-stroke and two-stroke engines is crucial in making an informed decision. Each type of engine has its advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will largely depend on your riding style and experience level.

Four-stroke engines are slightly more complex but are generally easier to ride. They deliver power in a smoother, more controlled manner, making them ideal for beginners. Four-stroke engines also tend to be more durable and require less frequent maintenance compared to two-strokes. Honda CRF250R and Yamaha YZ250F are excellent choices for their reliability and user-friendly performance.

Two-stroke engines are simpler and lighter, providing a powerful punch for their size. However, they can be more challenging to handle due to their abrupt power delivery. Two-strokes are known for their high-revving nature and quick acceleration. They are easier to maintain and repair, which can be an advantage if you prefer hands-on tinkering. Models like the Yamaha YZ125 and KTM 125 SX offer a thrilling ride for those ready to embrace the learning curve.

Riding Style

Your riding style and the terrain you’ll be tackling are pivotal in selecting the right dirt bike. Each riding style has its specific demands and knowing where you’ll be riding can significantly narrow down your options. Here’s a breakdown of different riding styles and the bikes best suited for each:

Motocross

Motocross involves racing on closed circuits with jumps, sharp turns, and varied terrain. It’s an adrenaline-pumping style that requires a bike capable of handling high speeds and sudden changes in direction. For beginners, starting with a 450cc bike is not recommended due to their powerful and aggressive nature. Instead, focus on 250cc four-strokes which offer a balanced mix of power and control. Here are some great beginner-friendly models:

• Honda CRF250R: Known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, this bike is a solid choice for new riders.
• Yamaha YZ250F: This model is celebrated for its excellent handling and strong engine performance, making it ideal for learning motocross techniques.
• Kawasaki KX250: Offers great performance with user-friendly features, perfect for those new to the sport.
• KTM 250 SX-F: Renowned for its advanced features and top-notch handling, providing a great balance of power and control.
• Suzuki RM-Z250: This bike is valued for its solid build and performance, making it a reliable option for beginners.

These bikes provide excellent traction, manageable power, and stability, allowing new riders to build their skills and confidence on the track.

Cross Country

Cross-country riding covers varied terrains over long distances, often combining elements of motocross and trail riding. These rides can range from open desert expanses to forest trails, requiring bikes that are versatile and durable. Cross-country bikes have softer suspension, larger fuel tanks, and off-road enhancements like an 18-inch rear wheel and kickstand. Recommended models for beginners include:

• Honda CRF250RX: This bike combines the agility of a motocross bike with the endurance of a cross-country machine.
• Yamaha YZ250FX: Known for its robust build and reliable performance over long distances.
• KTM 250 XC-F: Offers a versatile setup that excels in both open terrain and technical trails.
• Kawasaki KX250X: Designed for durability and performance, making it suitable for various cross-country adventures.

These bikes are built to handle both open terrain and technical trails, offering a great balance for riders looking to explore diverse landscapes.