Dirt Bikes for 11-Year-Old Kid
Choosing the right dirt bike for your kid is one of the most important factors when it comes to safety on the track. Your young one should feel comfortable riding and should be able to control the bike at all times, regardless of the conditions. This means that the bike should be designed to fit the rider’s height, which adds to the feel-good factor in the first place and ensures a secure stance while cornering.
So, which dirt bike should you consider for your 11-year-old?
Usually, a dirt bike with a displacement of 125cc is ideal for your kid this age, this is because at this age, riders will try to practice air jumps and participate in beginner level competitions. Moreover, the handlebar, seat height, and the riding posture of a 125cc dirt bike is perfectly aligned for this particular age. Plus, in order to accommodate the rider’s needs, the power on these bikes is available in lower revs as well, making it much easier for beginners as well as seasoned riders.
In fact, couple of years back, 125cc dirt bikes used to be the best-selling machines for beginners. While this has changed, the 125cc segment is still a thriving subculture in America’s motocross community.
Lately, you can get a lot of good bikes for your money while choosing for an 11-year-old, so let’s take a look at the most brilliant ones that will help your kid step into the amazing world of motocross.
Best Dirt Bikes for 11-Year-Old
Honda CRF125F
As a perfect entry-level dirt bike, the new Honda CRF125F is ready for action. Inspired by the original CRF450R, you will find the design and the bodywork to be very striking.
The four-stroke engine is extremely economical in maintenance, delivers incredible power control, and features a 4-speed transmission with a manual clutch. In addition, it includes an electric starter to make it even more convenient for beginners to get going. In combination with optimized suspension system, the frame guarantees a stable delivery of power. At the same time, the bike’s handling and braking performance have been significantly improved.
The twin-spar-type steel frame and swingarm offers the perfect balance of stability and smooth cornering. This allows young riders to enjoy while simultaneously encouraging the more experienced riders to hone their riding skills. Following the same line, the integrated design of the intake airbox, light weight body, and sealed internal battery contribute to a slim design while maintaining a low seat height.
Featuring a 31mm telescopic fork, the CRF125F is equipped with more pronounced compression springs with 5.2 inches of travel. These suspension elements further optimize handling on rough trails and cross-country tracks, absorbing not only impacts and bumps but even touchdowns after high-speed jump. And thanks to Pro-Link® single-shock with 5.5 inches of travel, the rear suspension performs optimally through its progressive linkage.
With the aim of delivering stability and optimum traction for off-road use, engineers at Honda coupled the 17-inch front tire with a 14-inch rear tire. At the front a 220mm disc brake guarantees reliable stopping power and good responsiveness at all times together with a 95mm drum brake at the rear. Furthermore, to accommodate all the kids in this age group, an adjustable handbrake lever has been incorporated as standard.
Like the big motocross models, the seat geometry has been carefully thought out and optimized for optimal comfort in all situations. The riding position allows your kid to maneuver freely at any speed, even during a jump. Further, the stylish gas tank features a total capacity of 1 gallon at its disposal.
Looking for a little larger size? Check out CRF125F Big Wheel; the exact same bike, but better suited for taller riders.
Altogether, the CRF125F offers everything that an 11-year-old could wish for as a beginner in the world of extreme dirt biking. This bike is literally very easy to control, irrepressibly fun to ride and technically simple to maintain.
Base Price: 3,249.00 USD
Highlights:
- Curb weight: 88 kilograms
- Seat height: 29.1 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start / Electric
- Displacement: 124.9cc
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Clutch: Manual clutch
- Transmission: Four-speed
KTM 125 SX
The KTM 125 SX is an absolute delight to ride. It is amongst the most compact and lightweight models in the 125cc segment. At the same time, the combination of ultralight chassis and a powerful 2-stroke engine has opened up new avenues for young riders who are looking to break new ground in the motocross arena. More responsive than ever, this 2-stroke engine allows your kid to work on his skills and gain more confidence.
Utilizing the latest technology and quality standards, the KTM 125 SX is an amazing dirt bike that has been designed to be extremely user-friendly and compact. This bike is characterized by a high-quality construction, ensuring effortless operation.
With its excellent power-to-weight ratio, low cost and simplicity, the 125 SX is the most efficient and competitive engine in this class. Thanks to KTM’s technical expertise, this compact and durable 17.2 kg engine delivers great power across the entire rpm range. It is both responsive and robust, allowing the rider to set excellent lap times and achieve better results.
For the ultimate riding experience, KTM has engineered a high-quality chassis to match your little one’s expectations. A state-of-the-art frame that is capable of being responsive not only to the commands, but also to the movements, enabling the rider to make the most of his abilities and to get the most out of the bike. The frame and rear suspension of the 125 SX are designed to support the aggressive riding styles that are typical of the 125cc class.
It features chromium-moly steel hydroformed steel tubes, welded together by means of an automated process, guaranteeing the utmost quality standards. The frame’s strength has been specially optimized to guarantee superior maneuverability.
In order to ensure a smooth power transfer, an optimal engine temperature is essential. This is why the 125 SX is complemented by redesigned cooling unit, thanks to which the engine is much more efficient and more economical than before. Further, the center of gravity is lowered and the ergonomics are more refined, thanks to the new spoilers.
Specifically engineered exhaust system gives the engine a soft and vibrant character that is hard to match by any other dirt bike, whilst adhering to the required regulations.
The 125SX features cutting-edge braking performance with Brembo brakes both at the front and rear, combined with light-weight wavey discs. Its narrow body with a comfortable seating position allows a comfortable riding posture and improves overall riding pleasure. And thanks to the sophisticated shock absorbers and suspension systems, your kid will enjoy a stable ride with smooth handling.
Base Price: 3,249.00 USD
Highlights:
- Curb weight: 87.5 kilograms
- Seat height: 37.4 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start
- Displacement: 124.8cc
- Engine: 2 Stroke
- Clutch: Wet multi-disc DS clutch
- Transmission: Six-speed
Yamaha TT-R125LE
Yamaha have some really good smaller bikes in their lineup that we have already discussed (50cc dirt bikes for kids), and for the intermediate riders, they have many great options as well both in 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines.
The TTR 125LE, where the L stands for large wheel (19-inch front tire & 16-inch rear) and E stands for electric start, has been around for many years and is an absolute masterpiece from Yamaha.
Yamaha actually had multiple versions of this bike when they first started making them back in 2000. They had the 125 (17-inch front and a 14-inch rear tire) and the 125L (big wheel) both featuring an electric start. However, in 2009 the standard 125 was dropped from the lineup and Yamaha continued to upgrade and revamp the 125L.
Offering young riders a thrilling trail riding experience whilst simultaneously allowing them to master the art of dirt biking, the TT-R125LE is a perfectly balanced off-roader and an ideal companion for your 11-year-old!
Fueled by solid Japanese engineering, the TT-R125LE is powered by an air-cooled, 125cc, four-stroke, 2-valve engine that’s dynamic and delivers much of its torque in the mid-range, just where it is needed to tackle steep inclines and bumps.
Featuring a sub-32-inch seat height that ensures accessibility to the majority of young riders, the TT-R125LE offers more than 11 inches of ground clearance and long-travel suspension at both ends that makes it a reliable trail bike in this segment. Moreover, its sturdy frame construction boasts a long wheelbase to accommodate larger riders, all while maintaining lightning-fast off-road maneuvering. Further, the single rear shock delivers adjustable compression and rebound with 6.6 inches of travel for a responsive handling and control.
Base Price: 3,349.00 USD
Highlights:
- Wet weight: 90 kilograms
- Seat height: 31.7 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start / Electric start
- Displacement: 124cc
- Engine: 4 Stroke
- Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch
- Transmission: Five-speed
Husqvarna TC 125
Introducing the top contender in the Husqvarna motocross lineup, the new TC 125. With a compact weight and respectable power, this 2-stroke moto crosser stands out on the track with its superior handling and trailblazing performance.
With excellent ergonomics, lightweight chassis, and a high-performance engine, Husqvarna TC 125 is built for the most challenging and demanding dirt bike events. Featuring the double-cradle-type frame construction, sporty seat, and ProTaper handlebars that offer fatigue resistant grips and self-cleaning footpegs, the TC 125 is made to offer superior rideability and pleasure. On top of it, the stylish yellow, white and blue color scheme completes the bike’s aggressive appearance.
In addition, the Husqvarna TC 125 is equipped with a sophisticated engine that delivers an uninterrupted power flow regardless of the rev. Weighing just 17.2 kilograms, this engine is designed to deliver exceptional power, making it ideal for both seasoned as well as amateur riders.
At its heart, the TC 125 houses a lightweight chrome-moly steel frame, offering an optimal fit for the bike’s compact engine and suspension components. Further, the frame is finished with a premium blue coating that ensures superior durability and reliability.
On the latest model, the Austrian manufacturer has focused primarily on improving suspension performance and overall handling. The standard WP XACT fork is equipped with encapsulated air spring and pressurized oil chamber for uniform damping. Further, the new mid-valve system promises a more comfortable ride and exceptional feedback even on demanding tracks. The WP XACT shock absorber, which is also standard, complements the suspension system with more direct feedback from the rear wheel.
Particularly pleasant is the extremely smooth engine of this 2-stroke dirt bike due to its integrated crankshaft, which hardly causes any vibrations on the handlebar. At the same time, the component is precisely positioned so that the rotational mass hardly affects the riding experience of your young one.
This year, the hydraulic clutch has been upgraded to a new high-performance system from Brembo, which ensures perfect modulation at all times. As a result, the clutch is literally maintenance-free and exhibits uniform wear throughout operation. In addition, the play is constantly compensated so that the pressure points remain identical in both cold and hot conditions. As a result, riders can practice for countless hours on the track without worrying about deterioration of any kind, as all of the components are exceptionally reliable.
Base Price: 7,899.00 USD
Highlights:
- Dry weight: 87.5 kilograms
- Seat height: 37 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start
- Displacement: 124.8cc
- Engine: 2 Stroke
- Clutch: Wet multi-disc DS clutch
- Transmission: Six-speed
Yamaha YZ125
So, the Yamaha YZ125 features a superb engine with excellent characteristics, as well as an optimized frame with a streamlined construction. Its handling, ergonomics and powerful braking performance are the primary advantages, making it ideal for young emerging riders. Moreover, the technical specifications underline the brand’s commitment in delivering outstanding performance to help your kid overcome any kind of anxiety right from day one.
This little dirt bike weighs only 94 kilograms, which makes it playful and very easy to handle.
However, one should not underestimate this dirt bike! Featuring a 125cc two-stroke powertrain, coupled with a set of redesigned performance enhancing component, there is no shortage of power. In addition, the engine’s longer stroke makes it much easier for riders to overtake on the track.
The cylinder, piston and head have been rebuilt from the ground, along with a new combustion chamber. There is a new electronic exhaust valve as well that further increases the operating range, together with a Keihin PWK38S carburetor equipped with a TPS position sensor.
Further, the YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System), which controls exhaust timing to achieve smooth torque characteristics throughout the entire range, has been updated to new specification.
As for the intake system, a backward linear intake system that introduces outside air in a straight line from the rear of the side cover has been adopted to achieve increased responsiveness at high rpm. In addition, throttle position sensor and 3D map control CDI unit is employed to achieve optimum rideability.
Along with the improved engine performance, both front and rear brakes have been redesigned to provide superior stopping power. The aluminum frame specially designed for the YZ125, boasts a solid reputation for delivering dynamic controllability, and has been re-balanced with a new suspension bracket to suit the new engine.
Besides, KYB suspensions (front and rear) not only absorbs impact, but also assists in cornering and traction performance. Having a longer connecting rod and a heavier crank also contributes to the engine’s more powerful output due to greater inertia.
Right from the redesigned intake system with reduced air resistance to the modern exhaust pipe, and the transmission with a seamless 6-speed gearbox, a whole new world of possibilities awaits. Plus, the rider can enjoy a flat seat that facilitates movements.
Base Price: 6,899.00 USD
Highlights:
- Wet weight: 94.8 kilograms
- Seat height: 38.6 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start
- Displacement: 125cc
- Engine: 2 Stroke
- Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch
- Transmission: Six-speed
Beta RR 125 2T
Most of us have practically switched from the conventional 2-stroke engine to the 4-stroke engine. However, this isn’t always the best solution when it comes to beginner level dirt biking, as these are more demanding in terms of maintenance. Of course, the 4-stroke engine now accounts for 90% of sales, but companies such as Beta are continuing to invest in the 2-stroke segment by manufacturing the RR125.
Beta Motors is one of the few companies that has never abandoned the 2-stroke segment and offers a wide range of bikes including motocross, enduro and scramblers. The most popular is the RR 125 2T; an all-rounder featuring high level of engineering, perfectly adapted for both dirt bike trails and off-road terrains.
The Beta RR125 2T is a perfect dirt bike for an 11-year-old kid who desires a powerful and efficient 2-stroke engine. Its lightweight and robust frame construction makes it unbeatable and incredibly fun.
The engine is the true strength of this machine, with its 124.8cc of displacement, the RR125 outputs a great torque, making it fun to ride as well as very easy to handle. Moreover, the feedback from this engine is very practical, making it suitable for young riders who want to compete in racing events.
The frame of the RR125 (with a wheelbase of 1477mm, saddle height of 930mm and ground clearance of 325mm) features a molybdenum steel construction with a double cradle over the exhaust port: a frame dedicated to the 125cc that, compared to the one used for the quarter cubic models, wraps this single-cylinder engine much more snugly, especially at the front.
As for suspensions, the new hydraulic USD fork with 4mm shaft has a dedicated tuning system. In other words, the compression, rebound and preload settings are located on the upper cap of the fork and are therefore easily accessible without any additional tools.
All in all, this little dirt bike has everything your kid desires when it comes to serious dirt biking. And if you want to use it in a competitive environment, there is seriously nothing lacking in this bike either that will restrict your kid to ace!
Base Price: 7,999.00 USD
Highlights:
- Dry weight: 94 kilograms
- Seat height: 36.6 inches
- Starting mechanism: Kick start
- Displacement: 124.8cc
- Engine: 2 Stroke
- Clutch: Wet multi-disc with reverse opening
- Transmission: Six-speed
Bottom line
So, these were some of the best dirt bikes that are currently available in the market for your 11-year-old. Hope this edition was insightful and helpful in making an informed decision.
In case you feel that these 125cc displacement bikes are too big for your young one, you can also check out our article on dirt bikes for 10-year-old.
But before choosing one, keep in mind that dirt biking requires a lot of commitment and is a discipline that demands a lot of practice as well. Your kid can face injury if you let him ride unsupervised and without proper safety gear. There are dirt bikes that offer more control, whilst others are more aggressive that could pose serious problems for inexperienced young rider. This is why, it is important to start with the right bike, one that is easily manageable and the one that is capable of being used as a means of learning the ins and outs of this spectacular discipline.
However, if you are looking for a slightly powerful engine, you should check out our detailed guide on dirt bikes for 12 year old.
That is all for now. Have a great day!
