Best Dirt Bikes for 12 Year Olds: Finding the Perfect Fit

A Parent’s Guide to Best Dirt Bikes for 12 Year-Olds

If you’ve got a 12-year-old itching to get on a dirt bike, you’re probably feeling excitement and nerves—trust me, I’ve been there. The thrill of watching your child take on a new challenge, with the worry about safety, choosing the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds can feel hude, and the financial commitment—it’s a lot! To make things easier and help you make an informed decision, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about picking the perfect dirt bike for your child so you can confidently support them in this new adventure.

What Are the Different Types of Dirt Bikes for Kids?

There are a few main types of dirt bikes for young riders, each suited to different skill levels and types of terrain. Here’s a breakdown to help you find the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds in your life.

• Trail Bikes: If your child learns the ropes, trail bikes are a great way to start. They are built for off-road riding over rough terrain and are often a little more forgiving in terms of power and handling. They offer lightweight, smaller engines, making them easier for kids to manage.
  
• Motocross Bikes: If your child has more experience and is itching for something faster, a motocross bike might be the way to go. These bikes are designed for high speeds and performance on tracks with jumps and tight turns. I’d only recommend these for more experienced riders.
  
• Electric Dirt Bikes: Electric dirt bikes are the best option for the environmentally conscious or kids who need more time to be ready for a gas-powered model. They tend to be quieter and easier to maintain, making them an excellent fit for first-time riders or those still getting used to dirt biking.

What to Look for When Choosing the Right Dirt Bike

When it comes to choosing the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds, the size of the cc dirt bike matters, there are a few essential factors to consider:

• Engine Size (cc): The engine’s size is measured in cubic centimetres (cc), which is a good indicator of the bike’s power. A smaller engine, like a 50 cc bike, is ideal for younger riders or beginners. For a 12-year-old, you’ll likely be looking at a larger engine, something in the 70cc to 125cc range, depending on their size, strength, and confidence level as an essential factor.
  
• Skill Level: If your child is new to dirt biking, I recommend starting with a bike with a semi-automatic transmission. This means they won’t have to worry about shifting gears, making it easier to focus on the basics of dirt bike riding. You can move up to a bike with a manual clutch as they progress.
  
• Safety Features: Take safety seriously. Some beginner bikes have training wheels to help with balance as they learn. Also, look for bikes with electric start, which is a lifesaver for kids who don’t have the strength to kick-start the bike themselves. Proper riding gear, like helmets, gloves, and boots, is essential.
  
• Child’s Age and Size: This might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that your child’s height and physical strength are just as important as their age when picking the right-sized dirt bike. A low seat height helps them comfortably touch the ground when they stop. A bike that is too tall or heavy can be intimidating, especially if it’s their first time as a dirt rider.

My Top Picks for Dirt Bikes for 12-Year-Olds

Here’s a list of my top five dirt bikes for kids around 12 years old, focusing on different skill levels and sizes, check out below for the breakdown of the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds.

Bike Model Engine Size Age Suitability Key Features Price Range

Honda CRF110F     110cc    10-14 years     Electric start, four-stroke     £2,500 – £2,800

Yamaha TT-R110E    110cc   10-14 years     Semi-automatic, low seat height    £2,400 – £2,700

Husqvarna TC 85    85cc     Advanced riders  Lightweight, motocross-ready     £5,000 – £6,000

GasGas MC 65     65cc     Intermediate     Lightweight, fast     £3,500 – £4,200

Yamaha PW50    50cc     6-10 years     Adjustable power, automatic     £1,500 – £2,000

Honda CRF110F

This is an ideal first dirt bike for kids, featuring a four-stroke engine and an automatic clutch is a Honda CRF110F. Its 110cc engine provides a nice balance of power without being overwhelming. My neighbour’s son started on this one and is now confident enough to handle bigger bikes. You don’t want to give them too much power until you are confident they understand the bike and its dangers and can feel secure and safe on the bike.

Yamaha TT-R 110E

A lot like the Honda, this one has a semi-automatic transmission and is perfect for kids stepping up from smaller bikes. It’s great for kids who are still learning but have a little more experience. The electric start is also a huge plus—no more getting frustrated with kick-starting and can be a better option for little kids moving up in bikes!

Husqvarna TC 85

This is a solid pick and the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds when they are interested in competitive motocross bikes. Its 85cc engine is designed for kids with a bit more experience. It’s a lightweight bike but packs enough punch for racing around tracks and tackling rough terrain with the Husqvarna TC 85 .

GasGas MC 65

This youth dirt bike has a 65cc engine, making it the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds in a transition bike for kids moving up from smaller bikes. It’s fast, responsive, and has a low seat height, which gives young riders the confidence they need when learning with the GasGas MC 65.

Yamaha PW50

For younger or smaller kids or more hesitant children the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds is the Yamaha PW50 is one of the most popular starter bikes. With its 50cc engine and automatic clutch, it’s simple to ride. Parents love that it has adjustable power settings, so you can control how much speed your child can access.

Safety First: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Child Safe

When it comes to dirt biking, safety is the ultimate goal. Here’s a quick safety checklist you can use before each ride to ensure your child is safe and ready to hit the trails:

• ✅ Check tyre pressure.
• ✅ Test the brakes.
• ✅ Inspect the chain and controls.
• ✅ Ensure your child has the right-sized gear: helmet, gloves, and boots.
• ✅ Go over any hand signals or riding rules to follow.

Many parents (myself included) worry about their kids getting hurt. While dirt biking can seem intimidating, with the proper safety features and a little preparation, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience. I learned early on that regular maintenance is critical to preventing accidents. Regularly check the rear brakes, chain tension, and oil levels.

Financial Considerations: Balancing Safety and Costs

Dirt biking isn’t the cheapest hobby, but making intelligent purchases is possible without exceeding budget when looking for the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds . When I started looking into this for my kids, I realized that financial compensation doesn’t always mean buying the newest or most expensive bike. You can find great second-hand bikes from reputable sellers or take advantage of sales to get a good bike and safety gear choice.

FAQs: Common Questions Parents Ask

What’s the difference between a four-stroke and two-stroke engine?

A four-stroke engine provides a smoother power delivery and is generally more manageable for beginners, while a two-stroke engine offers more power but is harder to control. Only you will know which is the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds in your life.

How often should I service my child’s dirt bike?

It’s best to perform regular maintenance after every few rides or at least once a month, depending on how often your child uses the bike.

What size dirt bike is right for my 12-year-old?

For most the best dirt bikes for 12 year olds is a bike with an engine size between 70cc and 125cc should be appropriate, depending on their experience and confidence level.

What should my child wear for maximum safety?

A helmet, gloves, riding boots, and protective clothing are must-haves. Always ensure they’re wearing gear that fits properly for maximum protection.

UK Law

This is not intended as legal advice always check the legal rules yourself.

In the UK, the rules for dirt bikes are strict, particularly regarding where and how they can be ridden legally. If you’re considering getting a dirt bike for your child (or yourself), here’s a breakdown of the key regulations you need to know. Please check the official websites for up-to-date legal information:

Legal Age and Licenses

• Off-road riding: There is no specific legal age limit for riding a dirt bike on private land with the landowner’s permission. However, if your child is riding on a track or in an off-road park, they should follow the park’s guidelines and safety requirements.
• On-road riding: If a dirt bike is road-legal (meaning it’s been adapted to meet the requirements of a road vehicle), the rider must be at least 16 years old and hold the appropriate license (either a provisional license with a CBT for a moped or a full motorcycle license, depending on the engine size).

Where Can You Ride a Dirt Bike Legally?

• Private Land: Dirt bikes can be ridden on private land with the landowner’s permission. This could be your own land or dedicated off-road parks. However, riding on any land without permission is illegal.
• Public Roads: If you want to ride your dirt bike on public roads, it must be registered, insured, and meet road vehicle standards. This means it needs working lights, indicators, a speedometer, etc. Most dirt bikes are not road-legal without significant modifications.
• Public Spaces and Parks: Riding a dirt bike in public parks, on pavements, or other public spaces that aren’t designated for off-road riding is illegal. This includes places like playgrounds, footpaths, and public woods.
• Green Lanes: These are public rights of way for motor vehicles, often in the countryside, and sometimes called BOATs (Byways Open to All Traffic). You can legally ride a road-legal, insured, and registered dirt bike on these lanes.

Insurance and Registration

• Insurance: You must have valid insurance if you plan on riding your dirt bike on public roads or even green lanes. Off-road parks typically don’t require insurance, but checking individual park rules is always a good idea.
• Registration: Any dirt bike used on public roads must be registered with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). You must also get a V5 logbook for the bike, display a license plate, and have the appropriate tax and MOT (if required).

Noise Regulations

One reason dirt bikes are restricted in public areas is noise concerns. If your child is riding in an off-road area, it’s essential to ensure the bike is fitted with an appropriate silencer to minimize noise, as many regions have noise limits.

Protective Gear

While safety might not be legally required on private land, it is strongly recommended that all riders wear proper safety gear. For young riders, this includes:

• A well-fitting helmet (mandatory on public roads).
• Protective clothing (gloves, padded jackets, trousers).
• Boots designed for off-road riding.

Penalties for Breaking the Law

If caught riding illegally (for instance, on pavements, in parks, or without insurance on a public road), the penalties can be severe:

• Fines: You may be fined up to £1,000 for illegal riding.
• Bike seizure: The police can seize and destroy the bike.
• Penalty points: Riders can receive points on their license, which may carry over when they obtain a provisional license.

CBT and Learner Riders

If your child is over 16 and riding a road-legal bike, they must pass a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. This certificate is required for anyone who wants to ride a moped or motorcycle on public roads. After completing CBT, the rider can legally ride a 50cc bike at 16 years old or up to 125cc at 17 but will need L-plates and be restricted from carrying passengers.

Summary of Key Points:

• Private land only unless you have a road-legal dirt bike.
• No age restrictions for private land, but UK law prevents anyone under 16 from riding on public roads.
• Road legal requirements for bikes on public roads: registration, insurance, tax, MOT, and full or provisional license.
• Protective gear: Always use helmets and protective gear.
• Penalties: Fines, bike seizure, and penalty points for illegal riding.

Parents must know where their child can legally ride and ensure they follow the rules to avoid hefty fines and penalties. If you need clarification on a location, check with your local council or the relevant authorities to ensure you’re ready.

Building a Safe and Fun Experience

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