The electric dirt bike industry has grown as more kids and adults see how good they can be without using petrol.
More importantly, they provide a slow and steady start for children to motocross.
Kids often like the outdoors, and having the best e-dirt bike will make life much more enjoyable. However, many parents wonder if they are safe for their kids.
Well, this topic is generally looked at subjectively, and it is tough to say whether they are.
For now, we should discuss their nature and introduce a few reasons that may help you decide if your kid is old enough to ride a battery-powered dirt bike.
Table of Contents
Electric Dirt Bike for Kids: Editor’s Choice
As discussed in the following sections, I believe the following models are the best alternatives in the market.
Razor MX350 Dirt Bike – Good For A 7-year Old Kid
5 to 10-year-old kids. |
✅ Good for small kids wanting to start the dirt bike world.
X: No suspension at all.
|
With a 24v battery, the Razor MX350 is one of the most popular e-Dirty bikes for kids, as it can be the safer choice for young ones between 5 and 10 years old.
Please note the manufacturer states it is suitable for 13+ old kids, but recent public reviews reveal this is not true.
Generally, it is a basic model that offers the minimum aspects for children with no experience.
Mototec 24v Gazella Electric Dirt Bike – Good Price For What It Offers
7+ year old kids. |
✅ Good motor torque, considering its size.
X: It is on the heavy side. |
Are you looking for more power? The Mototec Gazella has a 500w motor and 2 x 12v batteries.
On top of that, it counts with three (3) assistance levels that will give between 5 to 16 mph of speed.
As you can see, the speed will not be an issue as it is still within the regulations.
Compared to the MX350 model and based on the manufacturer’s specifications, I believe it could be considered a good electric dirt bike for 12-year-old kids.
KTM SX-E 5 – Excellent e-Dirt Bike Overall Weight
10+ year old kids. |
✅ It offers a lithium-ion battery, making it lightweight.
X: The battery lasts only 25 minutes if full power is used. |
From my point of view, the KTM SX-E 5 is one of the best children’s electric dirt bikes.
Why? If you count on a reasonable budget, your 10-year-old kid could benefit from an entry-level power and a more serious, aggressive experience.
It has a few good things, including a comfortable chassis, 500W power output, and six (6) riding modes.
In addition to the above, the overall weight (15 kg) of this 2023 KTM dirt bike version could be an advantage for kids with small bodies.
I know the high price tag can be an issue, but you will be backed up by one of the most renowned brands in the motorcycle world – KTM.
Razor Dirt Bike MX650 – Great Motor Power
 
8+ year old kids. |
✅ Battery can last around 40 minutes.
X: It is pretty heavy due to battery and structure, and it could be hard to service without the proper knowledge and tools. |
The last item on my list is the Razor dirt bike MX650. I think this model has good stuff under its belt for what it offers.
650 watts power output (not for riding in public spaces) places it at the top of the list for excellent torque (60Nm). However, some users believe this is not good enough for their excitement.
What is an Electric Dirt Bike?
As you may infer, electric dirt bikes generally have the correct elements, such as tires and “suspension,” to tackle most off-road tracks.
When I say “the right elements,” I mean they should provide enough safety to ride on muddy or easy to medium complex trails.
These e-bikes should have mud tires fitted; however, this doesn’t mean they will have suspension, like the Razor MX350.
I could say they look like traditional dirt motorcycles; nevertheless, the power and speed are not similar.
A small motor (ranging between 150w to 500w for a kid) and a medium-sized acid lead battery are the ones that provide the power.
E-Dirt Bikes: Safety Considerations
When considering electric dirt bikes for kids, prioritizing safety is critical. These mini machines offer excitement, but safeguarding your child’s well-being is crucial. From protective gear to supervised rides, ensuring a secure environment is always the foundation for a positive riding experience and maybe a long-term career.
These are some points to think about when first and ongoing riding:
Wear the right gear
Investing in quality safety gear is non-negotiable when introducing kids to electric dirt biking. A suitable helmet, goggles, and pads must always be worn.
Regular maintenance
Whatever you choose, it should be subject to regular maintenance to ensure a good performance of each element.
Complying with the weight capacity
All manufacturers indicate their bike’s weight capacity. Stick to it to avoid damage to the elements, therefore preventing an accident, especially while riding.
Minimum and maximum age
Ensure your kid is the right age to control a heavy structure, have a powerful motor, and feel comfortable sitting on it.
Children must understand that safety matters. You are responsible for them to know the rules.
I know they want fun and enjoy the trails, but questionable behaviors could lead to severe accidents.
Choosing An Electric Dirt Bike For Children: Overview
So, you have decided to buy an electric dirt bike for your kid, and yet, you don’t know what would be the right fit.
To give you a clearer idea of what could be a good investment, there are a few important specifications and features to consider.
1. Durability of components
One of the most important features to remember is durability to protect your investment.
The bike should be durable under all conditions (soft, hard ground, and mud), maintain its performance over time, and hold some hits.
Most of them are constructed using aluminum as the primary frame material. This is finally covered with a plastic shell to give a level of protection to the main components (and, of course, to give a motorcycle look).
Aluminum holds up well under all weather conditions and is designed to resist well compared to steel frames.
Read More: eBike Frame Material Overview: Steel, Aluminum, Carbon Guide.
As you should expect, mud, water, and dust will try to go into the electronics, so checking how well-sealed the cover is around those elements is crucial.
2. Authentic frame geometry
The frame is greatly responsible for the quality of the e-Dirt bike. Having the correct geometry will make balance perfect when riding and potentially jumping.
Also, it is ideal if the frame covers the motor and battery; however, most expensive models will barely cover them.
In those cases, the motor will have a more sturdy structure and possibly more watts, meaning more heat will be created, requiring more ventilation.
Lastly, your kid is expecting to have the feeling of riding a dirt motorbike, so the looks and geometry of the frame should impress.
3. Battery quality
One of the most important parts is the battery. While there is a wide range to choose from, you must focus on the lifespan and the charging times.
Spending hours waiting only a few minutes to ride it can be frustrating.
The average run time for these batteries will be around 30 to 45 minutes (roughly 7 miles – to 11 km). The main reason for this short range is the type of battery used here.
Read More: eBike Batteries: The Beginner’s Guide.
Most electric dirt bicycles use the old-fashioned lead acid configuration, which is heavy and inefficient.
It can differ from brand to brand, though. The good side is that these have been improved over time with a bit more capacity, conserving the standard size.
4. How fast can they go? – Motor
It is hard to cast a blanket and say that one speed is the best for these kids’ e-Dirt bikes.
From my research, most of them have a single speed suitable for safety. The most sophisticated ones (but more fun) have around 3 to 6 levels of throttle assistance.
It all comes down to the motor used. As mentioned before, the power output is generally between 150w and 500w.
Yes, I know other models, like the Oset 12.5 Eco, offer more power output, but it is better to start low.
With all the information above, the maximum speed reached should be 25 km/h (14 mph).
Recommended to read: Electric Bike Laws Overview.
5. Safety features
The safety features can be a broad subject. However, these bikes need to adhere to some form of quality control.
One of them is the braking system. Are they hydraulic or mechanical? Both systems are acceptable, but when it comes to efficiency, hydraulic is the best.
Another safety feature is the throttle system. If the model you like has a single speed, most likely, the motor will cut off when the throttle grip is released.
Why not have a thumb-on and off switch?
Some parents have indicated this is not convenient and without advice.
Lastly, if you worry about your kid losing balance, the accessory below can provide that initial support for confidence.
6. Bike size matters
There are several reasons why the size of the e-dirt bike is essential.
One of the reasons is to make your children feel comfortable when riding. Not too big, not too small.
I have gathered that the smallest frame will suit kids from 3 years of age onwards.
But don’t get fooled. Although manufacturers will tell you the suitable age, they are not always the right fit.
A good example is the Razor MX350. It is advertised for 13-plus-year-old kids, but based on the measurements, it is more suitable for 7-year-olds.
Our best advice is to read a few reviews of the specific model and find out what other parents say.
A good measurement to use as a guide is how easily the handlebar can be reached and if the legs can comfortably touch the ground.
A second aspect to consider is how heavy the whole bike is. This translates to size, of course.
It would be best if you were sure that your kid can handle the overall weight.
7. Suspension system
It is easy to assume that all the e-dirt bikes for children will have a suspension mechanism. This is not the case, unfortunately.
Reducing the weight by removing the suspension makes sense, but the experience won’t be the same.
From my perspective, it is best to target models with suspension (front and rear). Not having any of it defeats its purpose.
Also, experts say that it provides better control and maneuverability and reduces the chances of the bike being too lightweight for a powerful motor.
8. Is the brand Important?
Last but not least, the brand. There are numerous top options (that I will discuss in the next section), so I would recommend that you stick to them.
The mainstream brands might be more expensive, but they provide value for their money.
Traditional Vs. E Dirt Bikes
You may be wondering if it’s better to invest in a petrol dirt bike instead. Below are a few benefits and limitations that may help you decide.
Benefits
- Electric ones have a motor that cuts off when using the brakes or releasing the twist throttle.
- It is easier to control as the motor is generally less potent.
- Who hasn’t been annoyed by a bike’s gas motor noise? Battery powered are quieter than gas bikes. In addition, they won’t produce greenhouse gases.
- Adults can also use some models.
Limitation
- Batteries only provide power for a very short time—usually, no more than 1 hr.
- Motors are good but not too responsive and explosive when required.
- It is often harder to do self-maintenance and repairs.
- Upgrades are not usually possible. Some models may allow for that, but it is minimal.
Electric Dirt Bike for Kids Wrap-Up
Not many of you may know what e-dirt bike will suit your kid. The good news is that, although the industry is relatively new on the electric side of things, there are a few excellent alternatives to match your budget and children.
As I have mentioned, keep in mind that they are just an introduction to the real dirt bike world, and it would be a good idea to simulate it by choosing the right one based on what I have explained.
Remember that it is paramount to teach your children the safety rules; even if it feels like a fun time, it could be dangerous.
Be aware that laws and regulations related to electric bikes on the road vary by State and country, and they apply to these battery-powered bikes.
In summary, the electric dirt bike industry has shown that it can be safe for kids to ride one of these fun dirt machines as manufacturers have promoted skill development and eco-conscious values.
