Modern bikes

Bicycle High Gus Hafidz

Cool bike Hafidz

Dirt Bikes Getting Smaller in The Latest Trend - Pit Bikes

It seems in every magazine I look in I am seeing more and more ads for pit bikes. For those of you that don't know, pit bikes are smaller versions of larger dirt bikes. Pit bikes have gained a lot of popularity in the past few years. There are many reasons for this, so let's discuss a few.

Back in the day no one but little kids rode mini bikes. It all started when some pro riders began bringing these little dirt bikes into the pits to get around between races. Hence the name, pit bikes. Well pros love to compete so they started tricking out their little bikes and racing around.

It didn't take long to catch on with other people as they started riding pit bikes also. Pit bikes are cheaper, and in many cases more fun to ride than larger dirt bikes. When you get older like me you don't want to try 100 foot jumps anymore. It really starts to hurt when you crash. When you ride a pit bike the size of everything changes and makes riding quite a bit less dangerous.

Now I have fun riding pit bikes with my friends and racing around. We do smaller tabletop jumps and small double jumps. When I crash I am going at a much lower speed and doing a much smaller jump. I can also do many more tricks on my pit bike because it is so light and easy to ride.

Pit bikes are cheaper and easier to fix than full size dirt bikes. I recently bought a Thumpstar pit bike for $1600 and this thing came all ready to ride. It came with an upgraded suspension, and a great motor. Most pit bikes look really cool too.

When pit bikes first hit the scene many of them were junk, which gave them a reputation as being unreliable. Well now they have come a long way and are much more reliable. It is also becoming easier to find parts for pit bikes online. In the old days when your pit bike broke you were out of luck, but now things have changed. Pit bikes have become a big industry. Because of this they are naturally improving, and getting better all the time.

I love riding pit bikes with my friends and just goofing off. Now that you can buy a cheap reliable bike I would highly recommend getting one. They are great for the kids and the whole family. So check out some pit bikes and have fun riding this summer!

Are Thumpstar Pit Bikes Reliable?

There was a time when the only small sized motorcycles also now known as pit bikes were made by Japanese companies such as Honda and Kawasaki. In the past few years these pit bikes have become more and more popular, which has created quite a demand for them. Well now the Chinese manufacturers and others are stepping in to fill the void. So called knock off bikes such as Thumpstar pit bikes and Sikk pit bikes are built with Chinese engines and frames. The big question is can these bikes stand up to the old faithful Honda and Kawasaki models?

Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki have been the staple when it comes to dirt bikes for years, and rightfully so. These motorcycles are very competent and reliable. Recently a host of Chinese made motorcycles have entered the scene in the form of mini bikes or pit bikes. Why would people buy a motorcycle from China when they can't be sure on the reliability? The reason is simple, they are much cheaper than their Japanese counterparts.

You can buy a completely tricked out Thumpstar pit bike for around $1500 brand new. When it comes to the new CRF100 tricked out by BBR you are looking at around $5500. This is quite a difference in price. There are many other brand names of so called knock off pit bikes such as Pittster, Sikk, Thunder Pro, and the list goes on and on. All of them are priced similarly and the quality is about the same depending on who you ask. I currently own 2 Thumpstar pit bikes, and I know some people who have the other so called knock off brands such as Sikk so I can speak personally on the quality of these motorcycles.

Are they as good as a Honda or Kawasaki? The simple answer is no. These bikes still have quite a way to go to stand up to the quality and performance of the Japanese brands when they are all tricked out. There is only one problem. When you buy a Honda 50cc, it comes bone stock. You need to upgrade everything from suspension, exhaust, tune the motor and this will add up to thousands of dollars. Well I don't know about you, but I am not spending $5500 on a tiny pit bike. This is the reason why bikes made with Chinese parts such as Thumpstar pit bikes have become so popular. They come stock with a nice race exhaust, the suspension is better than stock Honda, some even now come standard with Japanese Mikuni carburetor. I personally think most of the knock off bikes look much nicer than the Honda or Kawasaki as well. As time has gone by these motorcycles have become better and better.

Isn't it impossible to find parts for pit bikes with Chinese parts? Surprisingly not. There are many suppliers now supporting these motorcycles, and with the internet it has become easier to find parts for nearly anything. There are many places to find aftermarket parts and upgrades for Thumpstar pit bikes and many others.

So how have my 2 Thumpstar pit bikes stood up to the punishment of a hard riding season? Well I have to say that they have been just great. The engine was a pleasant surprise delivering smooth power through all 4 gears. The suspension although quite stiff was still better than stock so I was happy with that. The frames have been durable, and overall the bikes have been very reliable. The only problems I can say I had were that the chain dug the swingarm in the back of one of my Thumpstars, some bolts rattled off, I replaced the levers, and some plastic cosmetic damage. The engines run a little hot so I am currently looking into getting oil coolers for my Thumpstar pit bikes, I have seen a number of them for sale online.

If you are currently in the market for a pit bike it is up to you. Do you want to pay $5500 for the very best or would you rather pay around $1500 for a comparable motorcycle? It was a no-brainer for me. I'm sure the shelf life for my Thumpstar pit bike is less than a Honda, but who cares I'll just get another one in a few years and still have spent less money!

How to Buy a Pocket Bike

A pocket bike is getting to be more and more popular for people. With so many of the manufactures bringing new ideas to the bike trend, there are so many bikes to choose from to fit your style. When you are buying a pocket bike, you have to do a little research before you agree on one certain kind.

One of the most important facts about buying a pocket bike is to find a high quality product at a great price. You want to get the most for your money and have a bike that will last a long time for anyone to have. There are gas and electric pocket bikes to choose from. You need to determine what style and brand that you want and then do the shopping to find the best prices around.

Do not let anyone pick your pocket bike for you. This is something that you want to use and you should pick the right one for you. You want to check how powerful the bike is going to be. If the bike is for you or another adult, then the more horse power the better. If it is for a child, then you may want to tone it down a little bit more for safety. Think about how heavy the rider is going to be and where they will be riding it. The atmosphere is so important to the size and the kind that you decide on.

Make sure that the bike is made from durable materials and put together in sturdy way. You should inspect the bike thoroughly so that you do miss any imperfections or mistakes. You want your ride to be as safe as possible.

You should also check the store where you are buying he pocket bike. Think about their creditability and how safe it is. If you are buying online, you should do a lot of research on the company to make sure that you are buying from a store that has a good reputation. Also check the return policy of the store where are buying the pocket bike. Make sure that you can return the pocket bike if it does not meet your expectations. You should ask about this policy before you decide to purchase the bike. Understand all of the fees that you may be responsible for if you do decide to return the bike.

Check to make sure that you are allowed to ride the pocket bikes in your area. Do this before you purchase your bike because it may not be legal for you to ride your pocket bike and you will not be able to return it later for this reason.

You will have to decide on the bike that you want. Do not buy one just because it is the cheapest one for you. You should make sure that you are happy with the bike so that you can enjoy as much time on the pocket bike as possible. This is your investment and you will be the only one to determine the one that you want. Once you choose the perfect pocket bike for you, you will have nothing but fun riding it.

Bike Insurance

Bike insurance offers the coverage of the damages occurred to the motor bike and the bike rider. There are different kinds and different types of bike insurances that come with different package plans and coverage. Bikes are a kind of investment that a person makes in life and it is equally essential to make that investment a really secured one. Bike insurance provides you with this fair chance to make your investment a much secured one.

There are different types of riders who ride the bike. Some do it for transportation purposes and some like to race with their bikes. But all of these bike riders have quite an investment in their motor bikes and this is the reason, they need to protect it from certain types of damages and accidents. There are different types of insurance policies meant to cater the bike riders so that they can choose the one most befitting to their needs and requirements. The room for customization is always there in those bike insurances but generally there are those types of insurance that cover the damages being done to the bike, to the rider and in some cases being done to the other party being involved in a bike accident.

There are generally three types of specific bike insurances under which come many others which tend to be a sub part of these main categories. There is this collision bike insurance where the bike owner pays the specific amount of premium and as a result of some accident, the injuries being done to him and the damages being done to the bike get to be covered. There is this comprehensive type of bike insurance where certain collisions, damages and even thefts get to be covered. And then there is liability bike insurance which allows for the coverage of the injuries and damages being done to the other party involved in the bike accident. It is generally being sought in order to avoid the legal formalities if the other party insists so.

There are many other factors that are being checked before getting into a deal of a bike insurance. As, these factors tend to influence the amount of the premium to be paid for the bike insurance policy. Age of the bike, the history of accidents, for how long the bike rider is owning a bike riding license, age of the bike rider, brand of the bike, for what purpose the bike is being used etc are different factors that play an important role in the calculation of the insurance premium.

Bike insurance is very important despite of the fact for whatever purpose; you are going to use your bike.

How to Select the Right Dirt Bike

When the market for a new dirt bike, do not rush the decision. Ensure you find an appropriate bike at a reasonable price. Here are some tips to help with that purchase:

Shop Around for Best Price

Model of Bike

Size of Bike

Level of Experience

Shop Around for Best Price: The market for dirt bikes is very competitive, so if you want to get the best price for your new dirt bike it is wise to shop around. Take some time and visit a few dealerships, and you will see that dirt bikes are probably priced differently at each location. You should also check the dealership prices on the internet because many times you can receive a discount just for shopping online. It is a good idea to have a budget amount in mind for your new dirt bike before setting out to compare prices, makes, and models.

Dirt bike sales are very competitive, so it is a good idea to shop around, and find the dealership that offers bikes around your budget amount.

Size of Bike: Probably the most important factor for selecting the right bike is being certain that the bike is the right size for you. Bikes come in various sizes for different riders, some are larger and some smaller. Obviously the larger the bike the more it will weight as well, and you will have to be able to maneuver the weight of the bike effectively. So when you are sitting on the bike you should make sure your feet can touch the ground without standing up, and you can manage the weight of the bike with little effort.

A dirt bike should fit the body size of the rider so they can effectively manage the height and weight of the bike.

Model of Bike: Dirt bikes have as many makes and models available as automobiles, so get an idea of what is available before making a selection. You might think that all dirt bikes are created equal, but in fact, there is a wide array of differences between bikes. If you are not familiar with the types of makes, models and features available. Don't worry though you can get a pretty good idea of the range while you are visiting dealerships. Each dealership is going to carry many different models, with different features, so pay close attention to the differences.

Not all dirt bikes are created equal, so while shopping around it is vital to pay attention to the differences, and select the model that is right for you.

Level of Experience: Finally, when you are trying to find the right bike for yourself, consider the engine size, or the amount of power the engine can produce. The power is measured in (cc's), or cubic centimeters, and is usually displayed in the model number. For example a 500cc dirt bike has an engine that is less powerful then a 900cc engine. This is important because your level of experience, age, and body size will play a factor in how much power you can manage. Talk to the dealer, who is usually an experienced rider, and listen to their suggestions before selecting a specific bike.

Selecting the ideal dirt bike will take into account your level of experience, and how much power your can safely control while riding.

Pit Bikes - How to Decide Which One to Buy

A pit bike differs from the dirt bikes and the mini motos in the size of their engines and the power packed in their engines. A pit bike usually has a larger engine and comes fitted with a manual gearbox and gears whereas minimotos come packed with automatic transmission and a centrifugal clutch.

The average maximum speed for most of the Pit bikes available readily in the market is anywhere between 40-50mph, but if you add a few accessories to your bike, you can surely get a lot more fire and power from your engine.

It is because of these performance enhancing parts, which are now becoming readily available and the otherwise constant improvement in the performance of the bikes that people have started taking a lot more interest in these bikes. It has also resulted in the setting up of various Pit Bike races and shows on international level. The popularity of this bike is going the dirt bike way. Leagues and international venues are being setup in a fashion similar to the way in which dirt biking was promoted.

Dirt bikes and dirt biking became a fashion and a sport for the adventure lovers in the 90s. There appeared a lot of leagues and similarly sponsors around that time. Dirtbiking stars suddenly became famous overnight and names like Destry Abbot, Jeremy McGrath, Derek Costella and Ryan Ambrigo became idols of dirtbiking enthusiasts.

These pro dirtbikers are a regular appearance at the famous races and shows at Las Vegas each year. These people are now also promoting pit bikes and have been spotted at various pit biking events.

Pit bikes of late have found a lot of manufacturers, both those manufacturing out of their own garage and the large companies involved in the manufacturing of other bikes as well.

Pit bikes are available in the market upwards of $500 and the price increases with the engine power, and the make. For a Pit biking enthusiast a good choice would be MonsterMoto's 125CC bike. This bike has a 4 stroke air cooled engine and the maximum power that it can generate is roughly 9HP @ 8500 rpm. The compression ratio is about 9.6:1.

This is a good value buy because the engine is made by a company that also supplies engines to Honda, which manufactures sports bikes for events like Moto Grand Prix (Moto GP)

You can also customize your Pit bike like people do to their dirt bikes. While you can add a few parts to enhance the look of your bike, you can add a few to increase the bike's performance. You can buy a coloured muffler to enhance you bike's look for about $90 and you can also buy a BBR style exhaust, a stainless steel exhaust for increasing the performance of the bike.

You can similarly buy different fuel systems, carburetors etc. to improve the efficiency of the bike and also buy various accessories like alloy wheels to enhance the bikes looks.

Truly speaking, Dirt bikes and pit bikes are here to stay and will continue to rush adrenaline through the blood of all those who love adventure sitting on two wheels.

Pit Bikes - 6 Components That Enhance Their Safety

Many pit bikes are inherently unsafe. If you are considering buying a pit bike, the first thing you must insure is that the bike you purchase is safe in all respects. There are six key components that can compromise the safety of your pit bike, if not paid attention to. You can choose to ignore them at your own peril, literally.

1. Frame:

Many pit bikes in the market use single beam frames which break easily. This happens even if you use them off-road only occasionally. A frame that breaks while you are on the bike could cost you your life!

The solution is to use a pit bike equipped with a frame that has a twin beam design. Also, make sure that the frame has a cradle to support the engine from below and preferably made of Chrome Moly tubing which is stronger and lighter. Such a frame is more likely to stand up to the rigors of extreme off-roading.

2. Engine:

In a bid to keep costs down, many pit bike manufacturers experiment with engines that have not passed the reliability test, over a number of years of use. As a result, they have high failure rates, and could cost you a fortune in maintenance expenses. An engine that's prone to failure would also compromise your safety while on a busy road, or even while off-roading on rough terrain Lifan Motor Sport and YX Motosport engines have proved to be very reliable .The YX Motorsport engine is also easy to tune to extract more BHP out of the engine.

Avoid a bike with a cheap engine, which would prove costly to maintain or replace. Look for a pit bike which uses an engine that has proved the most reliable over many years, and has a proven low failure rate. Insure that the engine is fitted using superior quality bearings. Such a bike would not need much maintenance, and would start easily, even if you hadn't ridden it for a long time.

3. Wheels:

Many pit bike manufacturers do not equip their bikes with SDG wheels. Such bikes are prone to wheel failure, especially in the rear. The reason is that non SDG wheels have poorly constructed rims and hubs. This makes these wheels weak and fragile, causing them to fall apart. Another life-threatening situation, if you are on the saddle when that happens! Not to mention the cost involved in replacement.

Choose a pit bike that comes equipped with SDG wheels. You are not only assured of stronger rims and hubs, but also sturdier spokes. That will insure a maintenance-free pit bike that you can enjoy riding over a longer period of time. Make sure the manufacturer offers you a combination of sizes to choose from.

4. Chains:

Watch out for pit bikes that use cheap chains from China that stretch and break easily. This happens even on a bike that does not have a powerful engine. A chain breaking while you're riding the bike can not only damage the bike but also cause you physical harm.

Increase your bike's safety and yours by opting for a pit bike that has a KMC chain. These are not only better than cheap Chinese chains, they require less maintenance as well.

5. Tank:

Many pit bikes use cheap materials for fuel tanks. These are relatively cheap to buy, but prone to failure, with the attendant dangers to life and limbs.

Go for a pit bike which has a tougher polymer resin type of tank. They are much safer, though more expensive. But always remember that your life is priceless!

6. Throttle & Clutch Cables:

Many pit bike manufacturers compromise your safety by using a host of throttle & clutch cables sold on the market, manufactured by several nameless factories. They don't bother to check on the quality of the products nor on the reputation of their manufacturers. Most of these inferior cables are prone to snapping within minutes of use, taking you a step closer to your grave.

Buying a Used Dirt Bike

When buying a used dirt bike there are many things which you must look out for. Firstly, find out where the bike is coming from. Many competition bikes are never registered so therefore proving somebody is the owner can often be difficult. Ideally the current owner will have receipts for the bike but this is unlikely if you are purchasing an older bike.

Ask questions about the bike, see if the person selling it to you knows anything about it or whether he is just trying to shift a stolen bike. If you are sure that the bike you are buying is not stolen then give the bike a good check over.

Off road bikes obviously have to withstand a lot of hard use, whether they've been taken off huge jumps or ridden aggressively off road they are bound to have some wear and tear. There are many checks you can do to the bike in order to make sure you are buying a dream bike rather than a costly trip to the garage.

Obviously check the overall condition of the bike. What are the panels like? If they are cracked or marked badly then this could show signs of misuse. Check what oil the bike has been run on, if it is the cheaper oil then it is likely that the person you are buying the bike off doesn't care about the bike, or doesn't have a clue about them. Try to get as much information as you can about the current owner as this could give you a great insight as to how the bike has been treated and whether it is likely to continue running.

There are also a few other checks to perform before you jump into buying a used dirt bike. Check the main wear and tear spots. These are:

Forks - Check the movement of the front forks. Push them up and down to see if they move smoothly and do not jerk. Check for leaks on the forks, these could be indicators that the forks are on their way out which means money will need to be spent on them.

Head bearings - check the handlebars move smoothly and the wheel has no play when off the floor. These are indicators that head bearings could have had it.

Rear swing arm - Check for movement in the back wheel, if it can be moved around and is loose, then this is an indicator that it may need new bearings or a problem with the swing arm.

Rear shocks - push down on the back of the bike, if it does not come back up in a smooth and controlled manner then the bike has lost its dampening properties. Also check the condition of the shocks, you can tell if they look healthy or not by taking a good look. If they are not looking too good then you may have to shell out on new shocks, which can cost between £200-£400 depending on the type of shock you have. (Twin shocks are usually cheaper and you may find one at around £80.

Engine - Obviously the engine must be checked, make sure you test ride the bike to see if you think it is running well. Also make sure you get to try to start the bike, often signs of a tired bike are shown when starting. Also go through the gears and make sure the bike has a maintained engine rev to ensure the clutch is not slipping.

Exhaust - These are important, especially for two stroke bikes, check there are no dents or holes in them as this will greatly affect the bikes ride and performance.

Any other stuff such as paperwork if the bike is registered. In the UK if the bike is registered then you will need a V5 (registration document), and also an MOT certificate if the bike is to be ridden on the road.

What Dirt Bike Should I Buy For My Kid?

Are you thinking about buying a dirt bike for your kid but don't know which bike to choose or look for? Well, this will give you info about the name brand bikes for kids and help you make a decision. Choosing the right bike for your young rider can be very important, especially if they've never ridden before. Kids start riding as young as three years old, so basically once they are able to ride a bicycle without training wheels they should be capable of riding a dirt bike.

And please don't put training wheels on a little dirt bike, that just defeats the purpose. There are a few factors that come in to play when finding the right dirt bike for a kid. Age, experience, size, and where you are going to ride all come in to play when looking for a bike. There are 50, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 125, and 150cc four-stroke dirt bikes that are mostly meant for off-road and trail riding. For the smaller two-stroke dirt bikes, there are a couple different 50s, 65s, and 85cc bikes. These are used for motocross racing.
Off-Road Bikes

50cc

There are a few different 50cc dirt bikes, but the most common is the Honda CRF50F/XR50R. This is where dirt biking starts for every little kid that has never ridden before. These things are almost bullet proof if you maintain it properly. If you are looking for a first bike for a kid that is under 7 then this is probably the best choice, unless they are bigger/taller than the norm. There is also the Suzuki JR50, Kawasaki KDX50 and Yamaha PW50; all of which are oil-injected 2-strokes that are very light and perfect for the smallest of riders, and the Yamaha TTR-50 which is about the same as the CRF, so it just depends what color you like best.

70 & 80cc

Honda made the CRF/XR70 and 80cc bikes for kids that are just starting, but a little too big for a 50cc. The 70 has a taller seat height with a little more power than the 50, but the 80 has a clutch which is perfect for training the little ones without letting them ride on a fast bike.

100/110/125/150cc

Honda has been known for their XR/CRF100 which reaches to a variety of riders. It has a clutch and is just right for the older kids to learn on if they are too big for the CRF80F. The 100 is a great trail bike because it has just enough power, and it's also big enough for an adult, so this bike should be easy to find used, and cheap I might add. Kawasaki and Suzuki decided to make the ultimate pit bike for kids and adults. The KLX110/DRZ110 (Parts are interchangeable) has become popular because of how much power it has, or is able to put out, for its size. The 110 is an automatic, so it's great for smaller riders that want more power than a 70 without going to a clutch yet. Yamaha also has a bigger off-road bike for kids, the TTR-125.

The TTR-125 is a popular model for bigger kids just starting out. It has a clutch with enough power to haul riders around, young or old. Honda also has the CRF150F for riders that want more power and a taller ride height than the 100. Although the set-back for the 150 is that it weighs about as much as a full-size motocross bike. These mid-sized off-road bikes are popular for a reason, and this means that they have usually been ridden a lot and probably abused. So if you're looking at buying a used one then make sure it is clean, it has somewhat low hours, and has been well maintained.

Motocross Bikes

50cc

There are a couple different name-brand 50cc motocross bikes for kids, and they are both KTM two-strokes. KTM has the 50 SX Mini, which is for the smallest beginning racers. There is also the 50 SX which is bigger and suits a little taller beginning racer. These bikes both have a one-speed automatic transmission and are liquid-cooled. KTM 50s are expensive, but they are perfect race bikes for your little kids that are ready to tear up the tracks. There are also Chinese companies with 50cc motocross bikes, such as LEM, Cobra, and others.

65cc

KTM and Kawasaki are the only name brand companies that still make a 65cc two-stroke motocross bike. KTM has the 65 SX which is more expensive and usually the racers that are serious buy them. Right from the factory KTM puts aftermarket parts on their bikes, such as VForce reeds on the two-strokes, handlebars, and Brembo brakes. The Kawasaki KX65 is what riders that just want to race buy because they are so cheap. That does not mean that they aren't fast, they just aren't always as reliable and don't have a very high re-sale value. Both are great race bikes for intermediate younger riders in around the age 7-10 that have been riding for some time. These bikes are usually not used for trail riding because they are not as easy to ride and lug around as a four-stroke is.

85/105/150cc

85cc motocross bikes are the start for a young teen aged racer. They have more power than most any kid could use, which makes these bikes a blast for adults or adrenaline-junkies as well. KTM, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Yamaha all make an 85cc two-stroke mx bike. Honda put a stop to their two-stroke inventory after 2007, but people still buy their late model bikes. Instead, Honda wanted to start a revolution for mini-bikes with their all new 150cc four-stroke motocross bike. It was well talked about, but once it came out it died slowly. They are powerful bikes and are easier to ride than an 85, but the weight and cost lost it for them. Usually these CRF150R's (Big and small wheel) were bought by racers with money because they also needed quite a bit of maintenance.

If you have money and your kid loves the easy ride-ability of a four-stroke then this would be a good race bike to buy. If you don't have a deep pocket, then an 85 or 100/105cc two-stroke stroke is a great choice. Your kid will love you for getting them one of these bikes; before they flip it at least once, that is. If you find someone selling a used 85 that hasn't been flipped, then you're either lucky or they're lying. 85s are pretty much race-only bikes. I've trail-ridden with one, and it was not very fun because of the lack of power down low. The Honda CR85R and Yamaha YZ85 hit harder and are more snappy than the others because they don't have a power valve. KTM's 85 SX comes with aftermarket goodies from the factory like all of their other bikes, so it's probably the fastest out of the lot.

Kawasaki's KX85 and Suzuki's RM85 are very similar and are used by many riders that are on a budget because of how cheap they can be. Honda and Suzuki both have a larger wheel 85, which helps those taller kids that quite aren't ready for a 125 or 250f. Kawasaki and KTM have a big-bore 85 to compete in the supermini class (86-112cc). Kawasaki's KX100 is a big wheel and has plenty of power for any young racer. KTM has a 105 SX which is one of the best power-to-weight ratio bikes you can buy, and also has larger wheels. When it comes down to choosing an 85,100/105, or a 150cc four-stroke motocross bike for your kid, it depends how big your pocketbook is, what fits your kid, and what color you like best. Thanks for reading, and good luck buying the right bike for your kid.

What Dirt Bike Should I Buy?

One of the most common questions I hear when people start getting interested in dirt bikes is, "What dirt bike should I buy?" This is a very good question, but the answer can vary greatly. The decision doesn't necessarily depend on your age, although you don't really want to stick a 6 year old on a big 450cc motocross bike. These are the main deciding factors on which bike you should buy.

Two or Four stroke?

The first question that I would ask is, "Do you want a two or four stroke?" It is important to some people because they might have grown up on one or the other and only want that specific stroke.

Age

Now like I said before, age does not matter as much, but it does matter a little bit more if you are a kid. Riders from 3-5 will probably want to start out on a 50cc. All of the name brand companies make a 50cc bike. Riders older than 15 will usually start riding full-size bikes.

Riding Purposes

The next big question would be, "What kind of riding are you going to do?" Will it be motocross, trail-riding, desert, dual-sport, or a little of everything? This is the fork in the road where you pick the type of dirt bike you want to ride.

Motocross

If you are going to be riding motocross most of the time, then you have several options. For big bikes you can choose a 125cc two-stroke, 250cc two or four-stroke, or a 450cc four-stroke. If you are a beginner in motocross then the smaller bike is always going to be better, and if you want to learn the basic techniques and good riding skills then I suggest a 125cc two-stroke motocross bike. These are the best training bikes because they teach you how to ride a bike faster, smoother, and they require more skill to ride fast. Intermediates will usually choose 250cc bikes, and expert riders will often choose the 450cc four-stroke, but that's not always the case.

Trail Riding

There are many bikes that are great for trail riding. All of the name brand companies have four-stroke trail bikes that are usually 250cc and 450cc. Kawasaki, KTM, and other European companies have two-stroke trail bikes that range from 125cc to 300cc+. If you aren't going to be doing night riding and are a beginning rider, Honda has a great line of small-bore four-stroke trail bikes. They have a CRF100F, 150F, 230F(which is rumored to be discontinued soon), and then there is the liquid-cooled CRF250F enduro with lights that is similar to a motocross bike. KTM has 125, 200, 250, and 300cc two-stroke trail bikes that are all great and have excellent power. If you want to be a better rider and have a little more fun then a two-stroke would be a great choice, but if you want a full-size four-stroke trail bike then a 250cc would be a good bike too, because they have plenty of power and are able to be street legal.

Dual-sport

Like I mentioned before the 250cc and the 450cc are capable of being street legal(You can also get a two-stroke legal for the street, but it might be a little more difficult). They are both great bikes, but a novice rider should start out on the smaller bike. Every name-brand company has a 250cc liquid-cooled four-stroke bike and are all comparable. Suzuki has a DRZ400 which is more street-oriented with a few more options than the other bikes. Honda has the XR250R, 400R, and 650R/L that can be street legal, but are also great off-road. I wouldn't suggest getting the big 400, 450, or 650cc bikes if you are new to riding because they have a lot of power and torque.

Desert

Desert riding may not be common to most riders, but out in Phoenix, California, and other desert areas, riders go out and ride there all of the time. The bigger the engine, the easier it will be to get through the sand. The Honda XR650 is a very good bike if you are a better rider and like to go on trips to the desert because of all the torque it has. The smallest bike that you would want out there is a 125cc two-stroke, otherwise the sand will just eat you up.

Choosing the right dirt bike can be tough. There are many bikes to choose from, so make sure you pick the right bike. But that doesn't mean that you can only buy one. Another way to find out what bike you want is to try out some friends bikes and see if you like it or not, and the more bikes that you try the better you will know what you want. If you find out what you like before you buy one then you are on track to getting a bike that fits your needs. Thanks for viewing, and remember to check back soon for my new post titled, "How To Buy a Dirt Bike." Thanks!

Tips For Buying a Dirt Bike

There are several factors that you should consider when buying your first dirt bike. It is sometimes difficult determining the best bike for any individual since the dirt bike manufacturers offer many choices. It is important to research the different types of dirt bikes available so you can purchase a bike that is well-suited for your skill level.

Will your dirt bike be used for recreational purposes or do you plan on racing?

Some manufacturers offer bikes that are more specific for your choice of riding. If you plan on riding your dirt bike as a leisure activity, you should decide if you would like to ride trails, tracks or both.

Honda, for example, offers trail and motocross bikes. The CRF family of bikes offers R class, F class and X class motorbikes.

• The R class is a pure motocross bike that is designed with motocross tracks and competition in mind. 
• The X class is offered up as a CRF250X and CRF450X. These bikes are used in factory racing in the Baja 1000 and Baja 500. They are like their brothers in the R class but the X class bikes come with a headlight and are geared and tuned with trail riding in mind. 
• Honda also offers F class bikes that are made more for the weekend warrior or for riders looking to spend time riding and not so much time working on their bikes. The F class bikes are a little more "cushy" with their electric start and more plush suspension. The F class bikes are perfect for the family to get out to enjoy; and give the kids a break from the video games!

Honda isn't the only manufacturer that offers this wide variety, so you should research each manufacturer before you buy

If you plan on racing, you might also attend some local races and ask riders why they prefer a particular dirt bike manufacturer over another.

Age, Size and Experience of the Rider

Age and size of the rider are other factors to consider and also the experience level of the rider should be taken into consideration. Don't be Superman and buy a bike beyond your skill level. Riding over your head can happen on the track as well as with choosing the size of your bike. It is better to ride well on a bike that fits your experience level than to look cool on a bigger bike that is too powerful for you.

New Bike vs. Used Bike

Which is better for you? If you are new to dirt bike riding you might consider buying a used dirt bike first because it is a significant investment to purchase a new dirt bike only to discover that it may not be your thing after trying it a time or two. A new dirt bike's resale value drops as soon as you leave the store with your new toy. If you decide that you don't like riding your dirt bike, it is more difficult to get a good return on your investment if you would like to sell it right away.

If you purchase a used dirt bike, you can typically sell it for around the same price that you paid for it if you decide after trying it once or twice that dirt bike riding is not for you. Also keep in mind that a used dirt bike is like a used car-- you just don't know what you are getting. It helps if you are a bit mechanically inclined so you would have the ability to troubleshoot and repair a used dirt bike if something should break soon after your purchase.

New dirt bikes are awesome as you should most likely get some kind of warranty and new bikes don't require as much maintenance early on. There's also something exciting about buying a used bike and making it new, if you like to work on your bike.

Whether you choose to buy new or used, your bike will eventually be taken apart and put back together, either by you or an experienced mechanic. When you maintain your bike yourself it is a lot easier to fix problems at the track or wherever you ride. No matter how well you maintain your bike, something will eventually break! Having some spare parts handy, such as spark plugs, and a toolbox filled with the appropriate tools is always helpful.

When purchasing a used dirt bike, your goal as a buyer is to appear knowledgeable and ask the seller several questions, such as:

• Has the dirt bike been raced?
• How many owners has the bike had?
• Can you tell me about the service history of the bike?
• What has the bike been used for and where has it been ridden?

Two Stroke vs. Four Stroke

Once again what are you planning to do? If you are just riding for fun a two-stroke is cheaper as far as maintenance. Four-strokes have valves and less time between tune-ups. Two strokes with the proper oil and gas mixture will last a long time. You may be thinking "They both have valves," and they do but two-strokes have reed valves and four-strokes have valves that work in unison with a camshaft and need to stay in time with the crank shaft and piston so they don't hit each other. If they are over-revved and they make contact, a valve will bend or break and that will be very costly.

If you've done all of the research and you are still not sure which is the best choice, you could just pick your favorite Supercross rider's manufacturer; or you could start with your favorite color and make a trip to your local motorsports store and have a salesperson share what they know on a particular bike.

The"Big Five" and Popular Supercross Racers include:

• Red: Honda, Kevin Windham
• Green: Kawasaki, Ryan Villopoto
• Orange: KTM, Justin Brayton
• Yellow:  Suzuki, Chad Reed
• Blue:  Yamaha, James Stewart

Once you decide on the perfect dirt bike according to your preferences, make sure you have all of the proper safety gear before taking your bike out for your first exhilarating ride around your favorite track or trail. Ride Safe!

Types Of Mini Bikes

Mini bikes are the latest craze throughout the world, with more and more people getting involved in the mini bike scene. So are you wondering whether or not to get a mini bike? Well there are several factors which must be taken into account beforehand.

Firstly, do you know exactly what a mini bike is? Mini bikes are miniature replicas of larger motorcycles, most have a petrol engine, and are usually 39cc or 49cc although many of these pocket bikes are now being produced with a higher engine displacement, in some cases up to 200cc. Mini bikes are capable of very high speeds, with the slowest bikes still being able to easily reach 35-40mph.

Well now you know what a Mini bike is it is time to decide whether or not they are for you. If you think you would love the feeling of riding at 40+ mph, inches from the ground then you have found your ideal sport! Mini bikes are a great way of getting into motor racing, as they are relatively cheap with all the spills and thrills of racing larger bikes.

If you are still interested in buying a mini bike then you must ask yourself what you want from it. For example are you buying a mini bike to ride around with your mates? Or are you buying it to become the next Valentino Rossi? Well whatever your needs, there are certain regulations which must be taken into account.

Mini bikes are illegal when ridden in a public place, and can be crushed if used illegally. So if you do not have any private property or a track which you can go to then maybe you should rethink buying one.

If you are still up for getting into the craze, then you are ready to decide what type of bike you want to ride. There are so many different types of mini bikes available so you may get lost. So what do you want a mini bike for?

If you want to race the bikes in a league then the mini bike you buy must comply with regulations and must therefore be a race certified mini bike, these are usually more expensive than other bikes on the market but are far greater quality with more parts and performance bolt ons available.

If racing these mini bikes is not for you then you can look at the more affordable mini motorbikes, these are just as much fun, but do not come with the large price tag. These bikes however must be used on private property, with the owners permission, or you could face prosecution. Alternatively there are open races set up where bikes like this will be allowed to enter.

There are many different types of mini bikes available for you to buy so selecting the correct style depends on what you want the bike for. The most common style of mini bike is the small road style mini bikes, also known as pocket bikes or mini motos. These have road tires and look like road racing bikes. Usually these bikes do not come with any suspension and a very low ground clearance so make sure if you want a bike like this then you have a smooth, flat surface to ride on.

The next style of mini bike is the mini dirt bike, these are smaller versions of larger dirt bikes, they are built for going off road with larger wheels and more suited tires, as well as a more robust build. So if you want a mini bike which you can ride around a field all day then a mini dirt bike is probably the best choice.

If you want a comfortable bike with a 'cool' image then I think it is fair to say that the best mini bike for you will be a mini bike chopper, these look great with the looks of the larger choppers available today. These are commonly seen at bike shows, with a lot of the bigger bikes and do not look out of place.

Finally, if you do not feel too steady on two wheels then maybe a mini bike quad is the answer, these are tiny quad bikes, about the same size as a mini bike but with four wheels. These also usually have the same engine as most smaller mini bikes. These are great if you prefer riding quads over motorbikes.