Is your young rider ready for a dirt bike? It’s easy to purchase the wrong bike for their age or skill level, which is why it’s important to factor in several considerations. The best way to choose the best dirt bikes for 13 year olds is to trust the experts (like us).
Whether you have a beginner rider or your teen is ready for a small upgrade, the bikes in our list fit a variety of needs. We highlight the best buying considerations and show you which bikes to consider, whether you want a gas- or electric-powered model.
Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Olds: Buyer’s Guide
Before we dive into the good dirt bikes for 13 year olds, let’s evaluate a few buying factors. By working through this list, you’ll be able to better decide what’s best for your child.
Size
According to the CDC, the average 13 year old’s height is 5’1 ¾”, whether it is a boy or a girl. However, the range that’s considered normal is much wider than this. If you have a shorter or taller child, the bike needs to reflect the appropriate size.
For kids less than 4’10”, consider a dirt bike with a seat height measuring less than 31”, such as a Honda CRF110. This allows them to touch the ground with a foot, further enhancing their riding confidence. If they are taller than this, a seat height ranging from 31-36” may be more their speed, such as a Yamaha TTR 125.
Engine Size
With this height range in mind, you may want a 110cc dirt bike. However, skilled riders might do better upgrading to 125cc or higher. Only you know what their ability is and what top speed they can handle.
Additionally, you need to think about using a clutch. Most kids this age are ready to learn the basics of this skill. It will take some time and practice, but by this age, they’re ready to start learning.
Power Type
Do you have your heart set on a gas- or electric-powered dirt bike? There’s nothing quite like the feel of a gas dirt bike, and did we mention the sound? However, some people are moving to electric dirt bikes because of the efficiency and benefits to our environment.
If you do choose a gas-powered dirt bike, you have one more decision to make. Do you want a 2- or 4-stroke dirt bike?
Brand
You can choose many different brands, from those you’ve never heard of, like Kayo or XPro, to the most popular, like Yamaha and Honda. You can save a lot of money upfront by choosing a no-name brand, but the bike may not hold up, causing you to spend more money later on (and a lot of frustration!).
Best Gas Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Olds
Honda CRF250F: Our Top Pick
While most enthusiasts are brand-loyal, you’ll have a hard time finding anyone speaking poorly of the Honda lineup. Honda dirt bikes are well-made and designed to head down the roughest trails.
As our top choice, we picked the Honda CRF250F for your child’s enjoyment. With the electric start and fuel injection, this is meant for serious beginners. It also has the torque needed to get up and going.
Kawasaki KLX110: Best for Shorter Riders
This Kawasaki KLX110 comes with a lower seat height, measuring 28.7”. For this reason, it’s a great option if your child is a little shorter than average. It’s also great if your beginner rider wants to touch the ground more for security.
There’s also an L model with larger wheels. This more advanced option contains a manual four-speed transmission with a clutch, perfect for drivers looking for a challenge.
Honda’s CRF110 is a very similar machine, if you prefer red or Honda over green and Kawasaki.
Yamaha TTR230: Best for Taller Riders
On the other end of the spectrum, taller riders may prefer the Yamaha TTR230. This bike is the newer version of the well-loved TTR225. It’s deemed one of the most reliable on the market and the price isn’t exaggerated.
With the electric start and superior power, your kid will be able to grow with this bike. That’s what makes it a great investment.
Best Electric Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Olds
Razor MX650
Razor has been known for making good dirt bikes for 13 years olds that want an electric model. Because there’s no gas involved, they can be cheaper to maintain.
With a full charge, the electric Razor MX650 offers up to forty minutes of riding time. However, it can take up to 12 hours to charge.
Kuberg Trial Hero
The Kuberg Trial Hero is another electric bike, but it’s probably not one that you aren’t familiar with. However, it offers a big advantage over the Razor. After a six-hour charge, you can ride for up to two hours.
There’s also a handy kill switch, just in case your child comes off of the bike. Above all, the durable design makes this a top choice, especially if you think your kid might be rough with the bike.
Conclusion: Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Olds
You want your kids to get comfortable on a dirt bike as young as possible, especially if you are an enthusiast yourself. By choosing a bike that’s specifically geared toward their height and skills, you ensure a safer, more enjoyable ride. If they get scared off the bat, they’re unlikely to want to ride again.
Evaluate any possible dirt bike by the criteria we listed above. We also recommend reading through customer reviews to see what other parents suggest. You can learn a lot about the pros and cons of a bike by seeing what other parents have to say.
We also have a lot of guides about dirt bikes and their top speeds, here on our site.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Olds
Can a 13 year old legally ride a dirt bike?
Yes, a 13 year old can legally ride a dirt bike. There isn’t a license required to ride a dirt bike in the United States. You just can’t take the dirt bike on the road, but you wouldn’t be able to as an adult, either. With proper safety protocols, it’s perfectly acceptable for a 13 year old to ride a dirt bike.
How do I keep a 13 year old safe on a dirt bike?
You can keep a 13 year old safe on a dirt bike by choosing the correct bike for their size and ability, as well as requiring them to wear the correct gear (helmet, boots, goggles, gloves, pants, and a long sleeve shirt, as examples).
What age is a 125cc dirt bike for?
Most 125cc bikes are best for young teenagers. We recommend riders from 12 to 15 years old. This power is geared toward a height of about 5’ to 5’5’.
Can a 13 year old ride a dirt bike?
As long as their parents are okay with, a 13 year old can absolutely ride a dirt bike.
