Do you want to give your kids a nerve-wracking experience with dirt bikes? To enjoy this thrilling sport, your top priority should be safety and performance. Here is everything you should know about the best dirt bikes for 8-year-old kids, including some top models to choose from.
Read on.
What seat height is best for a typical 8-year-old kid?
A seat height of 18-26 inches is a good match for your 8-year old kid. When you visit the dealership, you can test whether they can safely touch the ground.
Wheel size for a typical 8-year-old kid?
The recommended wheelbase for an 8-year old rider is 20 inches. You can increase the size when the kid becomes a confident rider.
2-stroke vs 4-stroke for 8 year old kids
If your kid is new to dirt bikes, you may find yourself at the crossroads of either choosing a 2-stroke or 4-stroke dirt bike. Generally speaking, 2-stroke dirt bikes carry a lot of combustion and the little one may have a problem controlling the bike. On the other hand, a 4-stroke bike ensures a steadier and predictable experience for the rider.
Clutch vs Automatic
Any experienced dirt bike rider will tell you a manual clutch is a way to go. While choosing a manual or automatic clutch boils down to skill type and level of experience, an automatic bike can be great for novice riders.
Your little rider does not have to worry about throttle timing or gar change – he only concentrates on riding. With an automatic transmission, the kid doesn’t have to learn about the intricacies of a manual transmission.
Safety
The best dirt bike should be from a reliable manufacturer. You can opt for a small engine size or look for an automatic transmission. Plus, you should ensure the kid has the right safety gear – long pants, helmet, goggles, long sleeves, etc.
Top 3 best dirt bikes for 8-year-old kids
Honda CRF50
Honda CRF50 offers the best features to make your kid a confident rider. It comes with a four-stroke engine to ensure a smooth ride. In addition to that, the three-speed transmission system uses an automatic clutch, so the little one will learn to shift without stalling.
This model comes with keyed ignition and an adjustable throttle limiter. Therefore, the kid will control the amount of power the dirt bike puts out. Other key specs include:
- Ground clearance – 5.8 inches
- Fuel capacity of 0.7 gallons (0.2 reserve)
- Curb weight – 110 pounds
- Seat height – 21.6 inches
- Weight capacity 110 pounds
- Top speed – 25mph
- Seat height- 21.6 inches
- Horsepower – 3.1 HP
The average price for Honda CRF50 is $1,545. This model also allows for training wheels to gradually work the rider until he becomes confident.
Yamaha TTR50
The TTR50 model is the perfect dirt bike for learning and playing. It boasts of a 49 cc 4-stroke engine that feeds power to the 3-speed automatic clutch. And just like other TT-Rs, this bike features a push-button electric start. The responsive power ensures crisp and throttle maintenance.
With a seat of only 21.9 inches, which is the perfect size for 8 year old kids. Even better, this model comes with an advanced suspension system for great handling. The robust final drive ensures minimal maintenance. Other features worth mentioning include:
- Wheelbase – 36.4 inches
- Top speed – 32 mph
- Weight limit 30-50kg
- Ground clearance 135mm
The average price of Yamaha TTR50 is $1,699.
Kawasaki KLX110L
Kawasaki KLX110L is a dirt bike that features a playful 122cc, 4-stroke engine. It serves a bigger rider with an automatic clutch for easy handling. Your little one will enjoy a smooth ride with a four-speed transmission clutch and longer suspension travel. And because the start button is located on the left-handgrip, the bike allows for throttle use during startup.
But what makes this model unique is the incredible capability when on trails, easy-to-ride character, and low maintenance. Furthermore, the high-tensile frame helps the rider to enjoy different terrains.
The KLX110L comes with a seat height of 26.8 inches that can be helpful in a natural progression as the rider grows in stature. Other key specifications are:
- A weight limit of 168 lbs.
- Fuel capacity 1.0 gallons
- Wheelbase 42.3 inches
- Front suspension – 30mm
- Rear suspension -non-adjustable
You can attach safety wheels to this dirt bike. The adjustable wheel height allows for 5″ ground clearance. Of course, you can raise them as the child builds confidence.
The best safety wheels come with lock collars that can be helpful if the rider hits something.
The price of the KLX110L model is $2,299.
Nothing compares to the excitement and thrill of watching your little one ride a dirt bike. With the above models, you can now make a wise investment decision.
If you found this guide “best dirt bikes for 8-year-old kids” interesting, then read some of our other guides:
Best dirt bike for 7-year-old kids
Best dirt bike for 9-year-old kids
