One of the best things about dirt bike riding is that there is so much to do, with different types of riding and events. That means there really is something for everyone, and whether you like the hustle and competition of motocross racing or like to challenge yourself against nature on long enduro rides, we all find the one that appeals the most.
But what we do on our bikes is only part of the journey to finding the best riding experience, the bike itself is just as important. With so many makes, models and styles of bike out there, finding the perfect one for you can seem almost impossible. But it doesn’t have to be, and the journey begins with understanding what types of dirt bike are out there for you.
What types of dirt bikes are there?
There are four main options when it comes to dirt bikes, each offering a unique blend of power, maneuverability and different features. Finding the right option means you are well on your way to enjoying the right bike.
Motocross bikes
If you asked someone to picture a dirt bike in their head or sketch one out on paper, chances are they’d draw a motocross bike. That’s because motocross bikes are the most iconic and instantly recognizable style in the off-road world. They’re purpose-built machines designed strictly for racing on closed circuits filled with jumps, berms, whoops, and all kinds of technical obstacles. What sets motocross bikes apart is their stripped-down, no-frills design. You won’t find headlights, mirrors, kickstands, or even basic instruments – everything that’s not essential to racing is left out to save weight and maximize performance.
These bikes are incredibly lightweight, agile, and responsive, equipped with high-revving engines and suspension systems tuned for aggressive riding. They’re made to handle the brutal demands of competition and deliver razor-sharp performance lap after lap. However, that race-bred performance comes with a trade-off – motocross bikes typically require more frequent maintenance than other types of dirt bikes. The high-strung engines, stiff suspension, and minimal protective features mean they need regular attention to keep running at their best.
If your main goal is to race competitively and push your limits on motocross tracks, then a motocross bike is exactly what you need. But if you’re more into relaxed trail riding, want something street-legal, or are still building your confidence on two wheels, then a trail or enduro bike might be a more practical and enjoyable choice. Motocross bikes are amazing at what they do, but they’re not always the most forgiving for casual riders or beginners.
Trail bikes
While motocross bikes may steal the spotlight, trail bikes are often the unsung heroes of the dirt biking world – especially for beginners and casual riders. They’re built with versatility and ease of use in mind, making them perfect for exploring winding forest paths, cruising down fire roads, or even commuting on the street in some cases. Unlike motocross bikes, trail bikes usually come equipped with practical features like headlights, taillights, kickstands, skid plates, and even basic instrumentation. These additions make them more user-friendly and better suited for longer rides that might involve variable terrain or occasional on-road sections.
Trail bikes tend to be heavier and less aggressive than their motocross counterparts. Their engines are tuned for smooth, predictable power delivery rather than maximum output, and the suspension is softer and more comfortable, allowing for a more forgiving ride over rough ground. While you won’t be clearing huge jumps or shredding berms like a pro racer, you’ll get a stable, confidence-inspiring bike that’s fun to ride and easy to live with. Maintenance requirements are also generally lower, making trail bikes an excellent choice for riders who want to spend more time on the trails and less time in the garage.
If you’re just getting into dirt biking or want a reliable all-rounder for weekend adventures, a trail bike is a solid starting point. It won’t dominate a racetrack, but it will give you a balanced, enjoyable ride in a wide variety of off-road conditions. For many riders, especially those not focused on competition, trail bikes are the perfect mix of performance, practicality, and comfort.
Enduro Bikes
Enduro bikes sit somewhere between motocross and trail bikes, offering a unique balance of high-performance capability and long-distance comfort. They’re purpose-built for off-road endurance events and technical terrain – think mountain trails, river crossings, steep hills, and rocky descents. Enduro bikes typically use engines and frames similar to motocross machines but are modified for durability, fuel range, and all-day riding. They often feature larger gas tanks, softer suspension setups, and essential extras like headlights, taillights, and sometimes even electric starters to handle a wide range of conditions.
While not quite as nimble or explosive as a pure motocross bike, enduro bikes still pack serious performance. They’re designed to be ridden hard, just over longer distances and more rugged terrain. Their gearing is often adjusted for better low-end torque, helping riders navigate tight, technical trails with ease. However, unlike trail bikes, enduro models still lean toward the race side of the spectrum, meaning they do require more maintenance – especially when pushed to their limits.
If you’re an experienced rider who’s looking to take on natural terrain and more demanding off-road challenges, an enduro bike might be your ideal match. It’s built for adventure and endurance, not for casual cruising. These bikes offer a fantastic middle ground: more power and capability than a trail bike, with more real-world usability and range than a motocross machine. If you love the wild side of off-road riding, an enduro bike is ready to go the distance with you.
Supermoto Bikes
Supermoto bikes are a bit of a wildcard in the dirt bike world. Originally developed for a unique style of racing that combines dirt and pavement in one course, supermotos are built for versatility and urban agility. They typically start life as dirt bikes – often enduro or motocross models – but are outfitted with 17-inch street wheels, road tires, and upgraded brakes for better performance on asphalt. The result is a machine that can corner like a sportbike, hop a curb like a BMX, and still handle mild off-road sections with ease.
What makes supermoto bikes stand out is their ability to blur the line between on-road and off-road riding. With street-legal features like lights, mirrors, and turn signals, most supermotos can be ridden on public roads. At the same time, their dirt bike roots keep them lightweight, flickable, and insanely fun to ride through twisty backroads, tight city streets, or even the occasional gravel trail. Suspension is typically stiffer than a trail bike to handle the demands of pavement, and the riding position gives you excellent control and visibility in traffic.
If your riding includes a lot of pavement but you still want that dirt bike style and agility, a supermoto could be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s not the best choice for hardcore off-road use or motocross tracks, but for riders who want a fun, all-purpose machine that thrives in urban environments and still isn’t afraid of a little dirt, supermoto bikes offer the best of both worlds – with a side of style.
Bike sizing
Choosing the right dirt bike isn’t just about the style or brand – it’s also about getting a bike that fits you properly. If the bike is too tall, too heavy, or too powerful for your size or skill level, it can turn every ride into a frustrating challenge. But when the fit is right, everything feels easier – handling improves, confidence builds, and riding becomes a whole lot more fun.
Let’s start with physical size. A general rule of thumb is that if you’re taller than 5’6” (167 cm), you’ll likely feel comfortable on a full-sized dirt bike, which typically has a seat height around 34 to 38 inches. For shorter riders or kids, bikes with a lower saddle height are the better choice. You want to be able to touch the ground with at least the balls of your feet while seated—this gives you better control, especially in tight or slippery situations.
But bike sizing isn’t just about seat height. Engine size plays a big role too. A more powerful engine doesn’t just mean more speed – it also means more weight. Heavier bikes can be harder to handle, especially off-road where maneuvering through ruts, rocks, or hills requires body control and balance. In general:
• 150cc bikes are great for smaller adults or teenagers under 5’6”.
• 250cc bikes are the sweet spot for most adult riders – plenty of power, manageable weight, and great versatility.
• 450cc bikes are best suited for larger or more experienced riders who want extra torque and speed, especially for motocross or high-speed trail riding.
Of course, your riding experience and intended use also matter. A beginner doesn’t need a 450cc powerhouse- it’ll likely feel like too much bike and kill confidence early on. Meanwhile, an experienced rider may find a 150cc underpowered for the kind of riding they want to do. It’s all about balance.
One last thing to consider is the engine type. In the past, riders had to choose between 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines. These days, most modern dirt bikes- especially new models – are 4-stroke, as manufacturers have largely moved away from 2-strokes for environmental and performance reasons. If you’re shopping for a used bike, though, you might come across 2-strokes. Just keep in mind that while they’re generally lighter and more powerful for their size, they also tend to be louder, require more frequent maintenance, and can be harder to control for beginners. If you’re considering one, make sure the price reflects those extra challenges.
Ultimately, the best bike for you is one that fits both your body and your riding goals. Don’t just go for the biggest engine or the flashiest model- focus on what feels right when you sit on it, how you plan to ride, and what will help you grow your skills. That’s the real key to enjoying every moment on two wheels.
So, what is the best bike for you?
There’s no single “best” dirt bike that works for everyone – it all comes down to your riding style, experience level, and what kind of terrain you plan to ride on. The right bike for a motocross racer isn’t going to be the same as the right one for someone cruising forest trails on weekends. But once you know what kind of riding you want to do, the choices start to narrow- and the perfect bike becomes a lot easier to spot.
If you’re just getting started with dirt biking, the Honda CRF250F is one of the most beginner-friendly bikes out there. It’s known for its rock-solid reliability, smooth power delivery, and forgiving ride. It’s relatively affordable brand-new, and there are always plenty of used options on the market too. With its electric start, low-maintenance four-stroke engine, and comfortable ergonomics, it’s the kind of bike that helps you build confidence while having a blast on the trails. For younger or smaller riders, Honda also offers smaller versions in the CRF line, so there’s something for everyone.
If you’ve already got serious riding experience and you’re focused on pure performance – especially for motocross- the KTM 450 SX-F is hard to beat. This is a full-blown race machine, built to win. Lightweight, razor-sharp handling, and loaded with one of the most powerful 450cc engines in the game, it’s the go-to choice for pro-level riders who want every ounce of competitive edge. KTM has been dominating the motocross scene for years, and the SX-F is a big reason why.
Now, if you’re an experienced rider but not into full-on motocross, and instead want something for more general off-road use – trail rides, rugged terrain, maybe a bit of everything – the Suzuki RM-Z450 deserves a closer look. It’s often overlooked compared to the big names, but it offers serious power, responsive handling, and impressive durability. It stands out not just for its performance, but also for its value – you’ll usually get more for your money compared to equivalent models from the more popular brands.
At the End of the Day, It’s Your Call
The best bike isn’t the one with the most power, the flashiest plastics, or even the best looking dirt bike graphics – it’s the one that fits you. Your body, your experience, your goals. An enduro bike won’t make a great motocross racer. A motocross bike won’t feel right on paved roads or laid-back trail rides. And a bike that’s too tall, too heavy, or too aggressive will take the fun out of riding before you even get started.
Take the time to understand your riding goals, test different bikes if you can, and make sure the one you pick fits both your riding style and your budget. With so many great models available today, there’s a perfect dirt bike out there waiting for you – you just have to find the one that feels right when the helmet goes on and the throttle opens up.
You might be interested in reading our article about How to get into motocross racing as well!