Choosing the right motorcycle for your child in 2025 means balancing safety, size, performance, and fun. Whether your kid is just learning to ride or already tearing up the track, the options today are better than ever. From beginner-friendly 50cc bikes to race-ready 112cc machines, this guide covers the best motorcycles for kids in 2025, helping parents make smart choices based on age, experience level, and riding goals.
The 50cc dirt bike category remains the gold standard for young riders starting their journey on two wheels. Designed with simplicity, safety, and fun in mind, these pint-sized machines are the perfect way to introduce kids to the world of motorcycling. With automatic clutches, low seat heights, and manageable power, these bikes allow young riders to build confidence while learning the fundamentals of throttle control, braking, and balance.
1. 2025 Yamaha PW50
MSRP: $1849Seat Height: 18.7 in.
The PW50 is a legendary starter bike that’s been a family favorite for decades. With a fully automatic transmission, shaft drive (meaning no messy chain maintenance), and an ultralow seat height, it’s ideal for the youngest and smallest riders.
2. 2025 Honda CRF50F
MSRP: $1799Seat Height: 21.6 in.
The CRF50F offers a slightly more advanced setup with a three-speed gearbox and automatic clutch—perfect for kids ready to learn the basics of shifting without needing to operate a clutch lever.
3. 2025 Yamaha TT-R50E
MSRP: $1899Seat Height: 21.9 in.
Similar in concept to the CRF50F, the TT-R50E includes a three-speed transmission with an automatic clutch. What sets it apart is its electric start, making it easy for kids (and parents) to fire it up with a push of a button.
4. 2025 KTM 50 SX
MSRP: $4949Seat Height: 25.7 in.
If your child is already eyeing the motocross track, the KTM 50 SX is a race-ready machine. With a 49.9cc two-stroke engine, fully adjustable suspension, and premium components, it’s built for performance.
5. 2025 GasGas MC 50
MSRP: $4849Seat Height: 25.7 in.
The MC 50 brings the performance of the KTM cousin at a slightly lower price point. It’s built with the same platform and parts but wears its own vibrant red styling and offers competitive capability straight out of the box.
- Transmission Type: Automatic or semi-automatic is ideal for beginners.
- Seat Height: A lower seat helps kids touch the ground easily and build confidence.
- Weight: Lighter bikes are easier for kids to handle.
- Throttle Limiter: Useful for parents to set safe speed limits.
- Electric Start: A great convenience feature for new riders.
When it comes to introducing kids to the world of motocross or trail riding, 65cc dirt bikes hit the sweet spot. These bikes offer just the right balance of size, power, and handling for young riders—typically between the ages of 7 and 12—who have some riding experience and are ready to level up.
1. 2025 KTM 65 SX
MSRP: $5749
Seat Height: 28.1 in.
The KTM 65 SX is arguably the most race-ready 65cc dirt bike on the market. Known for its high-performance engine, lightweight frame, and WP Xact suspension, the 65 SX is built for kids who are serious about motocross.
2. 2025 Yamaha YZ65
MSRP: $4499
Seat Height: 29.7 in.
Yamaha’s YZ65 is a strong competitor with a smooth powerband, excellent suspension, and a durable build. It comes with a Keihin PWK28 carburetor and a race-proven chassis.
3. 2025 Kawasaki KX65
MSRP: $4249
Seat Height: 29.9 in.
The KX65 is one of the most affordable 65cc racebikes, and it’s been a staple in youth motocross for years. It may lack some of the premium components of KTM or Yamaha, but it’s reliable, fast, and perfect for learning the ropes of racing.
4. 2025 Husqvarna TC 65
MSRP: $5849
Seat Height: 28.7 in.
Husqvarna, owned by KTM, brings premium build quality and similar engineering to the TC 65 as seen in the KTM 65 SX. This bike features high-end WP suspension and a strong two-stroke motor with serious race potential.
5. 2025 Cobra CX65
MSRP: $5998
Seat Height: 30.0 in.
Made in the USA, Cobra motorcycles are purpose-built for youth racing. The CX65 features custom suspension, aggressive power delivery, and race-ready ergonomics. It’s a strong contender in amateur motocross circuits.
- Skill Level: 65cc bikes typically have a clutch and gears, so your child should already be comfortable riding a smaller automatic or semi-auto bike.
- Purpose: Are they riding for fun or gearing up for racing?
- Budget: Racebikes come with premium parts—and price tags. Make sure to factor in maintenance and gear costs.
- Fit: Seat height and overall bike size are critical. Always ensure your child can safely touch the ground and manage the bike’s weight
For young riders ready to take their motocross game to the next level, the 85cc class is where things get serious. These bikes are a big step-up from 65cc models, offering more power, taller seat heights, and more advanced suspension systems. Ideal for experienced riders typically aged 11–15, the 85cc dirt bikes are designed for competitive racing or high-level recreational riding.
1. 2025 KTM 85 SX 17/14 & 85 SX 19/16
MSRP: $6749 (17/14); $7049 (19/16)
Seat Height: 33.3 in. (17/14); 34.3 in. (19/16)
KTM’s 85 SX is widely regarded as the top dog in the 85cc class. It’s packed with race-grade components, a strong and smooth two-stroke engine, and a top-tier WP Xact suspension. The bike comes in two wheel sizes—17/14 (standard) or 19/16 (big wheel)—to suit rider height.
2. 2025 Yamaha YZ85 & YZ85LW (Large Wheel)
MSRP: $4999; $5199 (LW)
Seat Height: 33.1 in.; 34.8 in. (LW)
Yamaha’s YZ85 has a long-standing reputation for being competitive and reliable. With features like a fully adjustable KYB suspension, aluminum subframe, and aggressive power delivery, it’s built to win. The YZ85LW offers larger wheels (19/16 inches) for taller riders.
3. 2025 Kawasaki KX85
MSRP: $4949
Seat Height: 32.7 in.
A favorite for its smooth handling and dependable motor, the KX85 features adjustable suspension, a race-proven chassis, and good ergonomics. It’s a strong midrange option for both up-and-coming racers and weekend warriors.
4. 2025 Husqvarna TC 85 17/14 & TC 85 19/16
MSRP: $6949 (17/14); $7149(19/16)
Seat Height: 32.9 in. (17/14); 33.9 in. (19/16)
Husqvarna’s TC 85 is nearly identical to the KTM 85 SX but with its own styling and slightly different ergonomics. It boasts a light chromoly frame, high-end WP Xact suspension, and a powerful engine.
- Rider Height and Experience: These bikes are taller, heavier, and faster—ideal for riders with solid experience.
- Racing Versus Recreational Use: If your kid’s racing competitively, invest in top-tier models with high-end components.
- Maintenance: Two-strokes are easier to rebuild than four-strokes, but they still need regular maintenance.
- Parts and Dealer Support: Choose brands with good parts availability and local dealer/service options
When it comes to getting kids started with off-road riding, 110cc motorcycles strike the perfect balance between size, power, and safety. They’re ideal for young riders who’ve outgrown smaller 50cc dirt bikes but aren’t quite ready for full-size models. These bikes offer manageable power, beginner-friendly features, and sturdy designs, making them great for building confidence and skills on the trail or track.
1. 2025 Honda CRF110F
MSRP: $2699
Seat Height: 25.9 in.
Honda’s CRF110F is one of the most popular and reliable 110cc dirt bikes on the market. Known for its bulletproof engine and smooth performance, it features fuel injection (no carburetors to worry about), electric start, and a backup kickstarter.
2. 2025 Yamaha TT-R110E
MSRP: $2449
Seat Height: 26.4 in.
The TT-R110E is Yamaha’s answer to a dependable, kid-friendly trail bike. It has a very similar setup to the CRF110F but is a favorite for its smooth ride and quality suspension.
3. Kawasaki KLX110R & KLX110R L
MSRP: $2899; $3099 (L)
Seat Height: 26.8 in.; 28.7 in. (L)
This bike is a classic starter for young riders who want a bit more pep. The KLX110R comes in two versions: the standard model and the KLX110R L with a taller seat and manual clutch for kids ready for more.
- Seat Height and Fit: Make sure your child can comfortably touch the ground.
- Clutch Versus Auto-Clutch: Beginners may benefit from automatic clutches before learning manual.
- Brand and Parts Availability: Well-known brands often offer easier access to parts and service.
If your child is aging out of the 85cc range but not ready for a full-size 125cc, a 112cc bike offers a sweet middle ground, especially for motocross training or junior competition classes. This is an excellent fit for serious young racers.
1. 2025 Kawasaki KX112
MSRP: $5649
Seat Height: 34.3 in.
This is a competition-ready mini motocross bike built for serious young riders. It’s an evolution of the KX100, now with more displacement and torque, designed to dominate the 85cc–112cc class in youth motocross.
2. 2025 TM MX 112 Junior
MSRP: $7545
Seat Height: 30.7 in.
The TM MX 112 Junior Supermini is a high-performance motocross bike designed for young riders seeking a competitive edge in the Supermini class. Manufactured by TM Racing in Pesaro, Italy, this 112cc two-stroke machine offers advanced features typically found in full-sized racebikes, making it a standout choice for serious youth racers.
When choosing a 112cc dirt bike, look for a lightweight, well-built machine, adjustable suspension, and responsive hydraulic disc brakes. Make sure the seat height and overall fit match the rider’s size and skill level, especially for younger or growing riders. Also, consider parts availability and whether the bike is built more for racing or casual riding.