23+ Best Dirt Bikes for 13 Year Old Kids (2023)

By Joshua Davis •  Updated: 04/08/22 •  19 min read

Choosing a dirt bike for kids age 13 can be a quite challenging task. The market is filled with all types of dirt bikes and all of them claim to be the best ones.

That’s why we have created this guide containing the top dirt bikes after comprehensive research work and testing.

Read the following list of 24 best dirt bikes and choose the product that suits your kid the best.

Helpful Tip: Purchasing a dirt bike will more than likely entail locating a dealer in your vicinity. If a particular bike is not conveniently available through Amazon, we provide links to the manufacturer which in turn will direct you to a list of dealers.

QUICK LINKS
  1. Things to Consider When Choosing a Dirt Bike
  2. Top 24 Dirt Bikes for 13 Years Old
  3. Safety Considerations for 13 Year Olds on Dirt Bikes
  4. Wrapping Up Best Dirt Bikes for Kids
pair of dirt bikes

Things to Consider When Choosing a Dirt Bike

Other than the cost of a new dirt bike for kids age 13, it’s important to consider the following factors to make the best decision depending upon your kid’s needs.

Engine Type (Gas vs Electric)

Dirt bikes for 13 years old kids come in two different types of engines, including gas-powered and electric. An electric dirt bike is a better option for those kids who have never owned a dirt bike before because of its lower top speed than most gas dirt bikes.

In addition, electric dirt bikes don’t pollute the environment and they also don’t require a lot of maintenance, unlike gas dirt bikes. However, if your kid is transitioning to a race bike, you should look for gas dirt bikes. They’re more powerful than electric dirt bikes but have higher maintenance requirements.

Helpful Tip: If you go with an electric bike, expect very short ride times (30-40 minutes) between charges. If you take one of these out for trail riding, you’re likely to be Flintstoning it back!

(Flintstoning. As in Fred Flintstone. As in, foot-powering your vehicle …)

The only electric bikes in this review are the Razor brand of bikes.

Piston Displacement

You should look for a piston displacement ranging from 50 to 125 cc if you’re planning to buy your kid a dirt bike for the first time. While dirt bikes for 13 years old kids are available in 250cc piston displacement, these package too much power for young inexperienced riders. However, you can go for them, if your kid is experienced and can control dirt bikes with higher engine power.

Max Speed

The max speed of a dirt bike shows its performance and power. Generally, you should go with a dirt bike with a lower top speed (up to 40 mph) for young riders. But if your kid is experienced and can handle a bike at a high speed, you can buy a dirt bike with 85 mph of top speed.

Seat Height

Different dirt bikes come with different seat heights, usually ranging from 20 to 34 inches. You should consider your kid’s height and choose a dirt bike that your kid can easily control by putting their feet on the ground.

Tire Size

The tire size of dirt bikes can also vary from model to model. So, what size dirt bike you should buy for the 13 years old age group?

Bigger tires allow riders to overcome bigger obstacles, which is especially important for dirt bikes. However, controlling a dirt bike with bigger tires is more difficult than small dirt bikes. So, choose a tire size wisely that your kid can easily control.

Bike Weight

Generally, the weight of dirt bikes varies from 40 to 150 pounds. The heavier the bike, the more difficult it’ll be for your kid to control. Make sure that you buy a dirt bike that your kid can easily manage to avoid unwanted injuries.

Max Load

Some dirt bikes can easily manage up to 300 pounds of rider weight while others are rated for only 80 pounds. Measure your kid’s weight and choose a dirt bike that has significantly higher max load ratings. Not only will it protect your kid’s dirt bike, but it’ll also ensure future-proofing.

Safety Features

The most important thing to consider in the safety feature of a dirt bike is the performance of its brakes; you must never compromise on that. We recommend you opt for a dirt bike that comes with a high-quality and responsive braking system. Features like a kill switch and speed throttle are the best way to ensure your kid’s safety.

The kill switch or the engine cut OFF’ switch or emergency switch on a motorcycle is made to optimize the rider, as it helps to switch the engine on and OFF’ without lifting hands from the throttle.

Motocross vs Trail vs Pit Bikes

Think of it this way: trail bikes are the cross-country runners and motocross bikes are the sprinters.

Motocross bikes are engineered for short, intense bursts of speed and braking making them adept on a motocross track, but difficult to handle on a winding trail through the woods without making unwanted high-speed contacts with trees, boulders … or a cliff edge.

Trail bikes have larger gas tanks for traveling further than motocross bikes, are heavier, and are easier to control when it comes to acceleration and braking.

Pit bikes, however, are usually inexpensive, lower-performing bikes used by kids to ride in the pit areas of motocross tracks. We have only included one of those in our review (the Taotao DB17).

For your reference, we have clearly indicated whether each of the following bikes is geared for trail, pit, or motocross riding.

Top 24 Dirt Bikes for 13 Years Old

The following are the 24 best dirt bikes for 13 years old kids along with their features and pros and cons.

1. Husqvarna TC85 (Motocross)

The Husqvarna TC85 is a great dirt bike that bridges the gap between full-sized and junior-rank motorcycles. It features the latest chassis and engine technology that the company offers and provides young riders with the confidence to push harder.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

2. KTM 85 SX (Motocross)

KTM 85 SX is an excellent gas-powered dirt bike for junior riders and motocross competitors. While it’s designed for 11 to 15 years old kids, it comes with enough power to compete with bigger bikes. It comes with different sports riding modes, an anti-theft alarm, and a pass switch, which makes the riding experience safe and exciting.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

3. Yamaha YZ85 (Motocross)

Yamaha YZ85 is a powerful and durable dirt bike that comes with a 2-stroke engine. Its 6-speed gears allow young riders to compete in the motocross world effectively. It offers excellent ergonomics like a slimmer side cover, narrow tank design, flatter seat, and symmetrically sized radiator shrouds.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

4. Honda CRF250F (Trail)

The Honda CRF250F is a great option for experienced young kids who need a powerful race bike. It offers a comfortable suspension and a smooth-riding experience and can even hold adults because of its high max load limit, which is 220 pounds.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

5. Kawasaki KLX 110R L (Trail)

Kawasaki KLX 110R L is a great option for young kids who are interested in dirt track biking. It’s one of the best beginner dirt bikes that comes with great off-road riding capabilities. It features an electric start functionality, which is a great way for young riders to learn as it keeps them from dealing with the kick-starting mechanism.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

6. Apollo DB-X18 (Motocross)

This dirt bike comes with a 125cc 4-stroke engine that allows it to reach the top speed of 55 mph. It’s a great option for tall kids because of its 36-inch seat height and its 17-inch front tire also allows it to cover obstacles easily.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

7. Honda XR-100 (Trail)

If you’re looking for a new dirt bike for your 13 years old kid, Honda XR-100 could be your best choice. It delivers buttery smooth performance and a soft kick-start to suit kids who are still learning to ride a dirt bike.

Update: Honda has discontinued the XR-100; however, the Honda CRF100 is essentially the same bike and is still well-suited for kids ages 10-13.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

8. Yamaha TTR230 (Trail)

Yamaha TTR230 is a great option for taller riders because of its seat height and maximum load capacity. It’s also a cheap dirt bike that offers reliable performance and power to make your kid’s dirt biking experience engaging and exciting.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

9. Kawasaki KX85 (Motocross)

Kawasaki KX85 is equipped with a race-ready 85cc engine and it’s easy to control. It comes with a long and comfortable seat and adjustable handlebar for a smooth dirt biking experience.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

10. Suzuki RM85 (Motocross)

Suzuki RM85 is one of the smallest dirt bikes out there that comes with a 2-stroke engine with 6-speed transmission. It’s a track-oriented bike that offers a great combination of price and features.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

11. Honda CR85 (Motocross)

Honda CR85 is specially designed for young riders who want to race. It’s a little harder to control than many other dirt bikes because of its hard-hitting powerband. So, it’s best suited for kids who already know how to ride a dirt bike.

Update: Honda has discontinued this model; however, there are many pre-owned options out there that may suit your purpose … and save you money!

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

12. Kawasaki KX65 (Motocross)

Kawasaki KX65 is one of the best dirt bikes for kids who already know how to ride a motorcycle. It has a comfortable seat and powerful engine but because of its 6-speed transmission and 2-stroke engine, it’s not a good idea for beginners.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

13. Yamaha TT R50E (Trail)

Yamaha TT R50E can be the best choice for your kid who doesn’t know how to ride a dirt bike. It has a strong frame and attractive color scheme and it’s also very easy to maintain. Some other features such as lower top speed and seat height make it ideal for beginners.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

14. Suzuki DR-Z125L (Trail)

Suzuki DR-Z125L is a perfect dirt bike for a 13 years old kid because of its simple design and light overall weight. It’s easy to control and offers enough power that a young rider will enjoy.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

15. Taotao DB17 (Pit)

Taotao DB17 is a great option for people who are looking for cheap dirt bikes for kids. While it comes with a 4-speed transmission and 125cc engine, its top speed of just 37 mph makes it a perfect beginner bike.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

16. Honda CRF230F (Trail)

Honda CRF230F is one of the best dirt bikes in terms of speed and performance. It’s equipped with a 230cc engine and 6-speed transmission that allows it to reach the max speed of 65 mph.

Update: This is another discontinued model by Honda. Perusing preowned sites such as cycletrader.com might score you some hits.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

17. Razor Dirt Rocket SX500 McGrath (Electric)

It’s an electric dirt bike that comes with large knobby tires and a 500-watt motor. The maximum speed this bike reaches is just 15 mph, making it one of the safest electric dirt bikes for kids.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

18. Kawasaki KX100 (Motocross)

Kawasaki KX100 is among the best dirt bikes for kids because of its advanced technology engine and good looks. It flaunts a solid build quality and offers a smooth and engaging biking experience.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

19. KTM 65 SX (Motocross)

KTM 65 SX is designed for 8 to 13 years old kids and it comes with quality components and excellent dynamics. If your kid wants to move to the next level of dirt road racing, this bike can be your best option.

Features and Specs

Pros

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20. Yamaha TT R110E (Trail)

Yamaha TT R110E is a solid dirt bike that features a durable frame and a relatively small form factor. It’s designed for beginners and looks amazing with its white and blue color scheme. It features the electric start function and offers drum brakes for better control, making it one of the best dirt bikes for 13 years old kids.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

21. Honda CRF 125F (Trail)

Honda manufactures the most dependable bikes and the CRF 125F is no exception. It comes with a maintenance-free battery and electric starter for convenience and you can buy it for your kid regardless of their skill level.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

22. Razor MX350 (Electric)

The Razor MX350 will be the right dirt bike for your kid if you want something safe and easy to ride. That’s because the max speed of this bike is just 14 mph and it features knobby tires for better control. In addition, it has a 350-watt motor that will allow your kid to ride this bike for 30 minutes continuously.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

23. Razor MX650 (Electric)

Razor MX650 is one of the most powerful electric dirt bikes for a 13 years old kid. It comes with a 650-watt motor that allows it to reach the top speed of 17 mph. A single charge allows its 36-volt rechargeable battery to run for 40 minutes continuously.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

24. KTM 250 SX-F (Motocross)

A powerful bike, the KTM 250 SX-F is one of the fastest dirt bikes on this list that comes with a 250cc, 4-stroke engine with 5-speed transmission. Therefore, it shouldn’t be your kid’s very first dirt bike. It’s also a good option for people who are looking for reliable yet cheap dirt bikes.

Features and Specs

Pros

Cons

Safety Considerations for 13 Year Olds on Dirt Bikes

If you’re planning to buy a dirt bike for your 13 years old kid, keep the following safety considerations in mind.

Wrapping Up Best Dirt Bikes for Kids

The best dirt bike for kids age 13 will be the one that meets their requirements such as skill level, body weight, and height. While riding dirt bikes is a great outdoor activity, safety is still the number one priority. We hope this list of the top dirt bikes will help you choose the best product depending on your kid’s unique requirements.

Joshua Davis

Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!