Choosing the right dirt bike is the most important part before starting riding a dirt bike. It is because if you are not comfortable with the bike, you may not be able to go further and give an unsatisfactory riding experience. So, before selecting a dirt bike, you will have to consider some factors such as size, correct seat height, height, etc., which we will discuss in this article.
A lot of people don’t know the exact way to select a bike. Instead, they tend to go for the brands such as Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki etc. without measuring the height and size of the bike. As a result, most dirt bike enthusiasts end up buying the wrong dirt bike.
So, what dirt bike size should you get for your height?
We will look for the answer through some fact checks. Read on to know the suitable bike size you need for your height.
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Factors to Consider to Choose the Dirt Bike Size
When you are ready to hit the track, it is always better to have your own bike instead of renting from someone. However, choosing the right bike is the tricky part as you will need to consider some features before selecting the bike. Some critical stuff you must consider are-
Your Experience or Skill Level
This is the first thing you need to know. You will have to judge yourself or take advice from an experienced person about your skill set. So, if you are at beginner level and have no experience riding a motorbike, you may go for the 100-150 cc range. However, if you are experienced rider, you can start with a 110 cc mini bike.
Your Body Weight
Your weight has an impact on your dirt bike as you will have to cope up with bump, jump, and obstacles. So, you have to choose the suspension depending on your weight.
If your weight is less than 150 pounds, you should start with a bike under 250cc. However, if you weigh heavy, it is better to ride a 250-450cc dirt bike as this range has enough suspension to hold your weight.
Your Height
Apart from weight, height is also a crucial factor, which also correlates with your physical strengths too. So, if you are not strong enough, a two stroke 250cc dirt bike might be too powerful for you.
On the other hand, if you are taller and stronger, you may go for the high range. Also, check the seat height of the bike, whether it is adjustable or not.
The Purpose
Why do you want to buy a dirt bike? What is your purpose? Do you want to learn dirt bikes professionally for motocross or supercross? Do you want to add a trail?
These are some simple questions to find out your dirt biking purpose; you may ask yourself other questions too. However, make sure you consider the type of riding you will do most. For example, you always ride on a single track or trail, so having a motocross bike will not be a good idea.
So, find your purpose and decide if you need a track, trail, or dual sports bike.
For your information, truck bikes are usually geared at the lowest as high speeding is not the purpose of this bike.
The trail bikes have a little gear as it is used for less riding over the obstacles. If you want to a bike for regular riding, road bike will be a best choice for you.
On the other hand, a dual sports bike is totally the opposite of these two bikes we just mentioned. Dual bikes are specially made for racing events, and high speed is the key. However, the dual bikes have the full features of a racing bike, such as a trip meter, speedometer, warning lights, fuel gauge, and odometer.
Budget
Here comes another crucial factor. When you go bike shopping, you will find many attractive bikes that go beyond your budget, and you may end up buying expensive bikes through financing.
So, stick with your budget and determination. Do your research properly before heading to the shop.
Stroke
Decide whether you need two-stroke or four-stroke bikes. However, in recent years two-stroke bikes are being replaced by reliable four-stroke bikes.
Four-stroke bikes are quiet and have more power, while two strokes are louder and light. But, 2 strokes are easier to maintain.
On the other hand, 4-strokes bikes are ideal for novice riders as the engines are strong and durable. However, it needs more maintenance.
As two strokes are going out of the market, we would recommend buying the four-stroke dirt bikes.
Start Procedure
Do you want the bike to have a kick start or automatic electronic start? It is totally your call, and both are fine. However, recent technologies make the e-start powered bike handy.
Dirt Bike for Beginners?
Experts advise that the beginner dirt bikers should get a used bike instead of buying a new one. It is because beginners will fall down, slam, and have the tendency to break the bike while learning. So, buying a new one would end up a loss for you if you break it.
What Size Dirt Bike Should I Get for my Height?
There is no specific rule that proportionate your height with the dirt bikes size. The best way to select your bike size according to your height is by sitting on the bike and see if you can touch the ground.
So, when you sit on the bike, make sure your foot cushions can touch the ground, and at the same time, your heel doesn’t touch the ground and stays up, which is essential to prevent any potential foot injury.
However, you can still do your research before going to shop by looking at the height chart we have provided below.
Dirt Bike Size Chart
It is hard to say what dirt bike seat height is perfect fit for your actual height. It is because some people have taller upper body and some people have longer legs. However, the following chart will give you an idea of what seat height you need? And the dirt bike size for your height.
| Height | Dirt Bike Seat Height |
| 6′ (182cm) and taller | 37.5″ or taller seat height |
| 5’10” (178cm) | 35 to 39″ |
| 5’8″ (172cm) | 34 to 38″ |
| 5′ 6″ (167cm) | 34 to 37″ |
| 5’4″ (162cm) | 33 to 36″ |
| 5’2″ (157cm) | 31 to 35″ |
However, adjustable seat size will get you access to most of the bikes; even it is bigger than your recommended size. So, make sure your bike offers an adjustable seat so that you can adjust it for any unavoidable conditions.
Dirt Bikes For Kids
Kids dirt bikes are different from an adult person’s bike. Again, you have to follow the same rule as the adults while choosing the bike for kids, which is sitting on the bike. However, kids’ height is not stable, so it is better to buy them a bit bigger bike so that they can cover the growth. Also, the adjustable seat size is a must for the kids. You may see the following table for bike size chart for kids to determine the size for your child.
| Age | Dirt Bike Seat Height |
| 10 to 12 years old kids | 26 to 31″ |
| 8 to 9 years old kids | 24 to 28″ |
| 3 to 6 years kids | 50cc dirt bike |
How Is Dirt Bike Size Measured?
Usually, the dirt bike dimensions are measured from front tire tread to all the way back tire tread. However, the average length for adult dirt bikes is 82.8 inches, and for the kid’s bikes, the size is 52.9 inches. The height of regular dirt bikes ranges from 35 inches to 38 inches, with the dirt bike engine ranging from 230cc to 450cc.
On the other hand, the height for a kid’s typical dirt bike is 18 inches to 34 inches with 50cc to 150cc engine ranges.
Conclusion
A perfect sized dirt bike will give a riding experience that is full of thrills. So, make sure you measure the size before choosing a bike. However, you may follow the guideline we have mentioned earlier to get the initial idea.
But, the best way to get the perfect dirt bike for your size is by sitting on the bike and seeing if you feel comfortable with it. Additionally, you may go for a test drive if the dealer allows you.
Also, take some advice from your coach or anyone you know. The more research you do, the perfect bike you will be able to buy.