Pitbike vs motocross motorcycle: main differences and similarities

If you want to go on long trips, choose a highway bike or, in the case of motorcycles, a cruiser. For moving through the forest or fields - enduro.

But when a user is just getting acquainted with motorcycles, it is at least wrong to take a heavy and powerful tourist. For such cases, it is better to look towards motocross motorcycles, or better yet, pit bikes.

They have a lot in common. Light weight, compact dimensions, traffic regulations restrictions. But making the final choice is extremely difficult. To do this, you need to understand the main features of each type.

Common features of both types

Due to its low weight, even a child can handle this technique. The photo shows a beginner cross-country athlete.

The first and most important thing is light weight. If during the learning process you drop (or lay down) such a bike on the asphalt, it is easier to pick it up than a large tourist.

Cross bikes are made from lightweight materials, and a pit bike is a mini-motorcycle.

The second parameter is the comparable power of both types. While the former needs this to participate in competitions, the latter is only prevented from gaining speed up to 100 km by the pilot’s skills.

Cross versions are mainly 250 cc and two-stroke. Two-strokes produce more power and are more reliable.

The next parameter follows from the first two. This is the engine size. It's no secret that new engine models are being developed for racing motorcycles or existing ones are being boosted. The project is created in such a way as to produce high power with minimal volumes. You also rarely see a liter engine on a pit bike.

One more feature can be distinguished from the previous one. Less volume, less fuel consumption. You need refueling less often and you can travel more.

Distinctive features

But the classes have many more distinctive features. In addition to the fact that in terms of speed indicators they are at opposite poles, a number of other parameters are distinguished.

For this purpose, classes are considered separately. And you can start with a cross-country one.

What is characteristic of a motocross motorcycle?

A typical representative of the junior cross-country type is the HONDA CRF 125.

Cross-country motorcycles are designed for racing and moving around the city on one is not very convenient. A racing track is like a stadium. There are stands for spectators, a central field (often this is where team garages and all kinds of official equipment are moved) and running tracks, or in the case of motorcycles, driving tracks. Only, unlike the stadium, the latter are not paved.

In order to participate in races, any motocross motorcycle must meet the requirements of racing, which bear little resemblance to traffic rules.

The motocross motorcycle has:

full-size spoked wheels;
tires that are similar to those used in enduro, but the requirements for cross-country tires are an order of magnitude higher;
large working stroke of the pendulum and fork (200-300 mm).

Cross-country motorcycles are characterized by an inverted fork. There, less dirt gets into the rod.

The latter is most often of an inverted type, for better handling.

In addition, the characteristic features of such bikes are the reduced size of the steering wheel and a loud exhaust due to a lightweight and sometimes completely absent muffler.

Now, by the way, cross-country racing on pit bikes is gaining popularity.

But the main thing is that although such a bike does not require a license, operating it requires special skills.

What is inherent in a pit bike?

Unlike a cross bike (this is how “cross motorcycle” is abbreviated), you can ride a pit bike in the park, at the dacha, or even on the playground (naturally for a child).

Kayo classic 125 pit bike.

Pitbike Irbis TTR 125 in standard coloring.

This “transport” has:

compactness and light weight;
ease of control;
low cost upon purchase;
easy and inexpensive maintenance.

But this also includes small wheels and safety. Children's cars are also distinguished by a greater possibility of customization to suit the level of vehicle ownership and understanding of control features.

000_moto_0812_056

HIGHER, BIGGER, STRONGER. Let's start with a short excursion into the short history of the class. Pit bikes appeared in the late 90s in Southern California (USA). Then they quickly began to gain popularity in other states and spread throughout the world. Historically, pit bikes are understood not as any small cross bike, but as a device with a four-stroke “horizontal” engine, similar to a Honda “Cub”. Actually, the Honda XR50 (later CRF50F, CRF70F) was the reference “pit” and the starting point of the evolution of this class. At first, other members of the “magnificent four” took up the initiative - Kawasaki KLX110, Suzuki DR-Z70, Yamaha TT-R50E, Yamaha TT-R110E appeared. Former motocross champion Guy Cooper “added fuel to the fire”: in 2003, his company Xtreme Motor Corp. began upgrading branded devices with Chinese components, and later importing already completed clones. Other American companies also emerged, for example, a small company from Utah importing minibikes from China, USA Motortoys, began selling them in 2004 under its own Pitster Pro brand. Today this brand is well promoted; It is also present on our market.

Moreover, Chinese motorcycle manufacturers, contrary to custom, did not blindly clone the proprietary and rather primitive design of the Honda XR50 (CRF50F), but poured in “fresh blood”. In fact, they gave impetus to the evolution of children's pit bikes into fully combative “adult” devices for entertainment and full-fledged sports. So, if the first “pitas” (and even the modern Honda CRF50F and Yamaha TT-R50E) have a short frame, 10-inch wheels with drum brakes, three gears and short-travel suspensions, then the new generation of “Chinese” is different. It has “grown up” significantly, so it will be suitable for an adult. The wheel sizes have grown to 17 inches in the front and 14 in the rear, powerful disc brakes have appeared, and the travel of the adjustable suspensions has increased to 180-190 mm. A “manual” clutch develops the skill of driving a real sports motorcycle; the gearbox has four speeds (albeit with a not very successful shift pattern - “neutral” at the bottom). The maximum speed of the flagship pits with engines of 150-160 cm³ exceeds 100 km/h.

BRAND MASKING. We have motorcycles both from original Chinese brands (BSE, Kayo, Mikilon) and from third-party brands, for example the American Pitster Pro. But most of all you will see under “ours”: Armada, C.Moto. Forsage, Irbis, JMC, Patron and others. Although every sandpiper praises his swamp, the picture emerges that the most advanced from the Middle Kingdom is KAYO (Jinyun KAYO Motor Machinery Co. Ltd.): the company has been specializing in this technology since 1999, has its own engineering department and a cross-country training ground on the territory of the plant. Annual production is about 30,000 units, about 25 models, exported to all continents, including the USA (under the already mentioned Pitster Pro brand). Another company worth mentioning is BSE (Zhejiang Bosuer Motion Apparatus Co., Ltd.). She has been in business since 2002, producing a dozen and a half models of “pits”.

In general, a brand, if it is not Chinese, does not say much: the line, as a rule, contains products from different factories, different levels of equipment and, accordingly, prices. It is better to subdivide pit bikes not by manufacturer or dealer brand, but by purpose (entertainment or sport) and engine capacity. According to world sales statistics, out of every ten devices sold, eight belong to the first, entertainment group, and only two belong to the second, sports group.

How to determine the purpose of a pit bike? There can be a lot of external “bells and whistles” and catchy stickers... Perhaps the main thing is the powerful spatial frame that covers the engine and pendulum, and in the lower rear part there are “shoots” to which the driver’s footrests are attached. In simple “pits” the frame usually has the form of a thick pipe, bent in one plane, and the footboards are attached with four bolts to the bosses of the engine crankcase. This frame is less rigid, and the footpeg mounts may not withstand long jumps and damage the crankcase. Other signs of a “pro” are suspensions: long-travel, fully adjustable with a linkage system at the rear, light-alloy reinforced wheel rims, tires from well-known “local” brands (Maxxis, Kenda). You should not get hung up on global brands of suspensions and brakes; you need to understand that design and workmanship are more important for driving. The bike may have an unnamed fork, which from the same Chinese factory goes to other buyers as a product, for example, Marzocchi. Often, devices “sharpened” for racing are not equipped with side stops - they are replaced by “temporary bars” made of a steel rod, inserted into the provided socket. This is inconvenient for “everyday” trips, but for them you need a different bike... In addition, “athletes” do not have lighting equipment (instead, a plate for the starting number) and an ignition switch. Accordingly, it is not recommended to leave such a device unattended.

There is also specialization in sports - devices for motocross, enduro racing and motards. The last two types are equipped with the simplest lighting technology; motards, moreover, have wheels of the same diameter “shod” in road or track tires.

Don't think that motorsports in China are in their infancy. They race there too, and the numbers are such that we never even dreamed of it. There is a category of domestic races and championships in which only domestic (i.e. Chinese) motorcycles are used, including pit bikes. The leader among manufacturers is KAYO; about 90% of athletes ride these motorcycles. This one appeared in our editorial office - read the first impressions on p. 40.

Difference in engines

Standard view of the engine of a Chinese pit bike. The photo shows our Regulmoto 125 cc.

Pit bikes mostly come with a 4-stroke engine, it is easier to maintain, but under serious loads it is more fragile than a 2-stroke cross bike.

Cross-country models are equipped with separate oil cooling, while pit bikes have only air cooling. This all affects the price. Well, the more parts, the greater the likelihood of breakdowns!

Most pit bikes have only air cooling.

You can see the additional cooling on the motocross bike. You can’t go anywhere without it, the loads are too big.

Dimensions and weight

Pitbike. The length rarely exceeds 1900 mm, width - 850 mm, wheelbase - 1300 mm, weight - 80 kg. The most popular wheel sizes are 14/12″ and 17/14″ (the rear wheel is smaller than the front).

Motorbike. Even lightweight enduro models typically have a dry weight of over 100 kg. Road motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 400 cm³ usually weigh between 130 and 200 kg. The heaviest motorcycles are touring motorcycles; their weight can reach 400 kg. In terms of dimensions, a small-capacity motorcycle is not much larger than a pit bike: on average, it has a length of 2000 mm, a width of 750 mm and a wheelbase of 1300 mm. The most popular wheel diameter is 17/17″.

Features of the scooter

The main difference between a scooter and a pit bike, or a motocross motorcycle, is that it can be ridden on the roads absolutely legally.

To complete the picture, let’s also take into account the scooter.

Many will say that the capabilities of a pit bike and a scooter overlap. This is true, but the scooter has a number of differences.

Landing. The driver sits as if on a chair. On a motorcycle, he squeezes the fuel tank with his knees (the passenger on the scooter actually sits as well).
Rights. In the latest editions of the traffic rules there are categories A1 and M. Both relate to scooters. In some circles there is talk about requiring a vehicle inspection ticket, as well as compulsory motor vehicle liability insurance - but this is in the future. And if your scooter is less than 50 cubic meters, then OSAGO and registration are not required.
There are restrictions in the traffic rules, but among them there is no ban on driving on public roads.

There are other features, but they are not significant for the article.

Review of pit bikes. Affordable holidays

Pit bikes first appeared in the United States in the 1950s. They were used by maintenance personnel to move around the pit lane in preparation for racing - hence the name. And in 1999, Honda engineers developed a pit bike prepared for mini-motocross - it became the Honda CRF 50.

But those pit bikes that will be discussed below are produced in China - they are the most popular and accessible in Russia. All of them are united by engines that are identical in their architecture - analogues of the Honda Cub engine, spine-type frames and a small wheel radius - from 10/10 to 19/16. All of them are brought to Russia as sports equipment, so they don’t need “rights,” but you can’t ride pit bikes on public roads. At the same time, traffic police officers can either simply let you go or evacuate your pit bike to an impound lot, from where it will be very problematic to pick it up.

Pit bikes cost relatively little money: from 45 thousand rubles you can already find a device for yourself or your child. It is worth noting that this is a very good option for teaching a teenager to ride a motorcycle.

Most often, such equipment is taken for cross-country skiing, in which case you can spend 60 thousand rubles. There are many offers in this category on the market. But it’s worth highlighting two of the best pit bikes: Kayo KRZ 125 and BSE MX 125.

BSE Ph20 MX.

Kayo KRZ 125.

Both pit bikes are time-tested and have proven themselves well, despite the fact that both have small flaws from the factory in the form of an easy-to-stretch chain, a relatively easy-to-bend steering wheel, and they, like all Chinese pit bikes, require threaded connections to be tightened. It would be a good idea to re-arrange the electrical wiring.

Fundamentally, these models differ only in the length of the wheelbase. They are capable of faithfully serving for several seasons of active skiing in the country, especially if they are serviced in a timely manner.

Both models have modifications with a different, larger engine, and this affects their price accordingly. Their power varies from approximately 9 to 11 hp. pp., which at first may seem insufficient, but in practice they drive very cheerfully. Such models are unlikely to be suitable for serious cross-country trails, since the frame and suspension may not withstand them, but for the dacha and surrounding forests they are just right.

The next step is pit bikes, which are ready from the factory for competitions on the track and very aggressive cross-country riding. They cost around 100 thousand rubles. They are equipped with many lightweight milled aluminum parts, a more powerful engine, a reinforced frame and adjustable suspensions. Such models are Kayo KRZ 160 Pro and BSE 160 Pro.

BSE Pro 160.

Kayo KRZ 160 Pro.

Their most important difference is the engines. The Kayo has a regular 160 cc engine, while the BSE has a forced version. It is, of course, more powerful, but also requires more frequent maintenance. Therefore, if you need to go all out on the races, then you should choose the BSE, and the less demanding Kayo - for regular rides.

There are many companies claiming to be the “best”. But, according to many pit bikers, the highest quality Chinese pit bikes are produced by YCF. It is worth noting that this company itself develops components, the reliability of which is tested in sports competitions.

YCF, like the companies listed above, produces pit bikes for both children and adults. On the top models of the Bigy and SP lines, this company installs Daytona engines - the most powerful on the Russian market.

YCF 50.

YCF Bigy 190.

YCF Factory SP2.

Unlike most manufacturers who install unprotected zero-resistance filters on their equipment, YCF use filter boxes, which allows you to protect the filter element from water.

Accordingly, this brand is one of the most expensive on the market. The disadvantages of YCF motorcycles include the fact that, at a fairly high price, most of their bikes do not have oil coolers and mudguards for rear shock absorbers, which are very important for extending the life of the rear shock absorber and engine. This problem can be solved by an additional investment of 4–5 thousand rubles.

Pit bikes are similar to each other in many ways, but there is another company that produces equipment that is easy to distinguish from the rest. This is Apollo. Like YCF, it has French roots, but production is now in China. Apollo recently launched an all-new RXF line with the largest 19/16 wheel radius of any pit bike and a longer wheelbase. Models from this line violated the unspoken traditions of “pit bike building”, but still compete with the YCF Bigy. New Apollo models also come with a filter box.

Apollo RXF.

Having made their way from an accessory for workers to an almost full-fledged motocross motorcycle, pit bikes entered the Russian motorcycle market and are attracting an ever-larger audience every year.

5koleso.ru

What to choose for a child?

When a child on a pit bike meets a traffic police inspector, there will definitely be problems!

Despite all of the above, parents may still have questions - what is the best gift for their child (from the classes described)?

The answer is actually simple. A beginner can only be offered one thing - a pit bike. Why?

It will be easier for you to customize it to your child's skill level. There are models on the market where the gearbox can be reconfigured. From fully automatic, when you don’t need to worry about shifting, the electronics will do everything for the child, to conventional - sequential, when gears are changed with your foot.
On some models you can lock the upper speed limit. A good pit bike can reach up to 100 km/h. It's unlikely to be a good idea to let a little guy who only got behind the wheel yesterday drive at such a speed. (In the traffic rules, by the way, there is a point - if your driving experience is less than 2 years - do not exceed the speed above 70).
Easy to start.
It may be difficult for a child to hold the bike, hold down the brake, not touch the gas, and at the same time swing the kick starter foot with his foot. The main starting option used on pits is the starter button on the instrument panel. On a cross bike, you can remove the battery, lightening the weight, and start it with your foot. Most pit bikes are equipped with an electric starter.
From the point of view of the surface of movement, the pit bike is universal. It can be used both on an asphalt playground and on a grassy clearing in a park/forest. Light off-road conditions will not be an obstacle either. On asphalt, of course, it is better to change tires from mud to road, otherwise they will quickly wear out and become unusable.
The speed of a serious cross-country motorcycle, for example the flagship Yamaxa R1, lies far beyond the 200 km mark. Whether a child needs a speed of two hundred kilometers is up to parents to decide.

The history of motor vehicles

The first production of motorcycles began in 1901. At that time, the Werner brothers thought about whether it was possible to install a motor on a two-wheeled vehicle. Despite the fact that even before them, engineers tried to come up with something similar, it was they who patented their own development. The Werner motorcycle turned out to be a heavy, clumsy machine, which almost immediately became popular among postmen and couriers. A four-stroke power unit running on gasoline was installed between the wheels. The power was only 0.75 horsepower. But this was quite enough to develop a decent (for those times) speed of 35 kilometers per hour. After several years of modernization, they began to use an electric ignition system. In the first year after Werner motorcycles went on sale, three and a half thousand copies were sold. It was from this time that the long history of the motorcycle industry began.

What should an adult choose?

Only the adult himself knows the answer to this question. Examples have already been given in the preface - for long-distance travel they take a tourist, for the forest - an enduro, for commuting to work... In the video below, my uncle at the age of 32 rode a motorcycle for the first time, and it was a PIT BIKE!

But when choosing, you should remember a few rules:

Both pitas and crossbills are prohibited in urban areas. You can go to a village store if you don’t drive past the prosecutor’s dacha.
Thanks to the development of this class, competitions, motocrosses, and races are also held on pit bikes. So riders don’t have to buy a motocross bike at all.
Do you want to do stunts on motorcycles? A pit bike is more suitable for training. It’s lighter, the plastic can be removed, and it’s mentally easier to drop a cheap motorcycle!
If the user has just opened the motorcycle, it is also better to start with the pit.
And one last thing. Pit bikes have one serious drawback. Since the suspension was developed for a mini-motorcycle, the pilot’s weight should not exceed 80 kg. This parameter may not be indicated in the price lists, but if you want to use a pit bike for more than one season, you must definitely clarify the issue with the equipment seller. That is why it is recommended to take pitas new. For comparison, prices for a rear shock absorber start at 3,000 rubles, which is where the heaviest load is placed. Then the support bearings suffer.

Top 5 best pit bike manufacturers

Fundamentally analyzing the market for small-capacity cross-country equipment, we can identify the main global players, namely the factories: BSE, KAYO, APOLLO and YCF. We do not take into account equipment branded by Russian companies, made at the SYMOTORS and UPBEAT factories.

It definitely occupies a certain market volume, but does not provide any fundamental technical value, which means it is mediocre and not interesting within the framework of a review article. So we distributed the places as follows!

Founded by Yannick Coquard, a national motorcyclist who practiced on pit bikes, especially in winter; and Dimitri Bera, a French expatriate technician living in China. They joined forces in 2004. Today they sell pit bikes in fourteen different countries. To achieve this level, YCF has assembled its own research and development department and has its own factory in China since 2009.

If we talk about the disadvantages: YCF will be the most expensive pit in Russia, while YCF tends to break down just like all other equipment. Spare parts are also not the most budget-friendly. During assembly, a lot of problems always arise, since the plastic often does not fit, the holes for the legs are poorly drilled and everything has to be completed with a file in hand, but such questions arise not only with YCF. | ycf-riding.com

Progasi is a company born in Spain, Catalonia. Specializes in the production of cross-country equipment. Second place only because the brand is new and has yet to prove its excellence.

The slogan perfectly conveys the essence; — “Attention to detail” is the main concept of the company’s development. The well-known Italian company Acerbis, specializing in the production of components for motocross bikes, became Progasi’s partner - the level is immediately visible! Quality is important, not quantity.

Electronic instrument panel, all-LED headlight (low/high and side lights "eyelash"), Progasi light-alloy aluminum rims with 36 spokes shod in "evil" Kenda tires, Progasi aluminum exhaust, enlarged fuel tank, original Molkt carburetor, full-power engines YX paired with a reinforced monocoque frame, the first Smart 125 and Smart 150 models received this and much more.

At the same time, Progasi specialists tried to maintain a fair price for equipment and spare parts, making motorsports truly affordable! If we talk about our country, then at the beginning of 2022, minimotocross on pit bikes was recognized as the official motorsports discipline of Russia! This is really important. When raising young champions today, you need to immediately choose the right and worthy technique! In the best traditions of Gas-Gas, with fundamental experience in production in Asian factories, and possessing an ardent Spanish character, Progasi takes second place in the ranking.

In summary: Progasi effectively combines high quality, innovation and an affordable price. Progasi's pricing policy, combined with performance, definitely puts this product in the Top. | progasi.com

Apollo positions itself as a French brand, but we did not see a single European at the stand in Guangzhou. Just like at the stand of the manufacturer of motorcycle helmets LS2. But judging by the quality of its global distribution organization, the company is at a high level.

Models worthy of attention start at $1,200, but they will not have headlights and an electric starter; for this option you will have to add another $300. Also on the Russian market in 2022, “gray” imported copies of Apollo with Lucos oil graphics were noticed. Be carefull.

Just like the Progasi, the Apollo is equipped with original MOLKT carburetors. In general, Apollo looks smart, like the son of Zeus - Apollo, nicknamed Phoebus (ancient Greek - “radiant, shining”) in whose honor this brand was named.

I would also like to note that Apollo uses components from its sister brand, Volt. Developing your brand is undoubtedly the right thing to do, since tacky Chinese replicas on a bike are bad manners.

In summary: Decent pit, poorly represented in Russia, there are questions about spare parts. There are fakes. | apollomotors.fr

Common features and features of pit bike and enduro

These two representatives of motorcycle technology really have a lot in common. Both the pit bike and the motocross motorcycle are distinguished by their compact dimensions, relatively small engine capacity (a large one would simply look ridiculous) and low weight. Both were originally created for driving on rough terrain and off-road and have some restrictions from traffic regulations. Yes, you can’t drive such “iron horses” onto public roads, but you don’t need a driving license either. However, they are not intended for trails.

The control system is quite simple in both cases. Thanks to this, “pits” and “crosachs” have earned considerable popularity as children’s and teenage vehicles.

Enduro motocross bike BSE J1/J2

Enduro Features

The purpose of a motocross motorcycle is to race on short closed tracks 1.5-3 km long. The vehicle confidently copes with driving over rough terrain, overcomes obstacles, and is ready to make jumps and hard landings.

To fully justify its purpose, enduro is distinguished by the following points:

the most lightweight design;
disc brakes;
full-size spoked wheels;
tires made of low-profile cross-country rubber;
lightweight suspension with monoshock absorber;
smaller steering wheel;
increased travel of the fork and pendulum;
front inverted fork;
water cooling system;
using a kickstarter instead of an electric starter;
high speed engine;
rear wheel diameter 19 inches;
there are no headlights and brake lights (due to the scope of application, they are not needed).

A cross-country motorcycle is equipped with a lightweight muffler or does not have one at all, so it produces very loud exhausts. And on public roads it is unacceptable.

Features of the pit bike

The very first pit bikes began to appear in the middle of the last century in the USA. It is noteworthy that they “descended” from bicycles. They, like the “crossers”, were actively introduced into the practice of racing competitions. To this day, this type of transport, which has already evolved considerably, is rightfully popular:

does not take up much space;
unpretentious in maintenance;
simple device, theoretically fewer and fewer breakdowns;
easily teaches riding and tricks;
powerful engine with a relatively small cubic capacity;
rear wheel diameter no more than 12 inches;
air cooling system.

Pitbike BSE Ph20-125E

Benefits of Enduro

A suitable route for enduro is dirt and gravel roads, paths along slopes, mountain rivers, and all this in any weather.

As for enduro, the price for them starts from 1 thousand dollars, which in itself not everyone can afford.

Although there is also a reason for this - enduros are not intended for city riding, so in this segment of motorcycles, this price is quite justified.

Enduro bikes allow you to feel incredible drive , because the competitions themselves involve high-speed riding over obstacles, and this is one of the most spectacular and memorable activities for a biker.
The model range includes both enduro for professional competitions and motorcycles for long tourist routes , which will definitely be appreciated by lovers of long walks through natural attractions.

Pit bike or enduro: what to choose?

Before making your final decision, pay attention to the following subjective points that are relevant to you.

Driving conditions

In off-road conditions, a motocross motorcycle rides more confidently. However, a pit bike performs better on hard mud - there is less chance of getting stuck in it. Therefore, if you plan to ride through forests and fields, gravel, slopes, and overcome water obstacles, it is better to choose enduro.

Nature of travel

If you plan to make long trips on difficult roads, you should take a closer look at a pit bike. “Krosach” is still more suitable for not very long-distance high-speed rides, sports and stunt rides.

Speed

If this is a fundamental parameter for you, please note that pit bikes are somewhat inferior to motocross motorcycles in this regard. The latter accelerate to 160 km/h, while the former accelerate to 100 km/h.

Driving skills

If you are just starting to get acquainted with two-wheeled motorcycles, it will be more confident and safer to first “tame” a pit bike. He is a good teacher and coach! To ride a dirt bike, you still need to have some experience and skills.

Who's driving?

Pit bikes can withstand loads of up to 130 kg. But motocross motorcycles prefer lighter loads. Even if otherwise is not stated in the product passport, keep in mind that if the driver weighs more than 80 kg, the driving characteristics of the enduro will deteriorate.

Price issue

The cost of motocross motorcycles starts from approximately 100,000 rubles and above (if the product is a popular brand, for example BSE J1/J2, Racer SR-X1 Cross X1).

A pit bike is a more affordable means of transportation. The price range starts from 50,000 rubles (BSE Ph20-125E, Motoland PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E).

In the catalog of the Sport-Extreme website, motorcycle fans can expect a large selection of pit bikes, cross-country bikes and other types of motorcycles. We have models from brands that enjoy well-deserved trust all over the world: Yamaha, Motoland, BSE, Racer, etc.

You can order a vehicle along with delivery within the Russian Federation online at gavane.ru in just a few minutes.

Get expert advice on choosing and operating a bike by phone.

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Choosing a pit bike to buy

Pit-bike is a small motorcycle with a 4-stroke horizontal engine. Due to the complexity of the classification of motorcycles and the low popularity of brands, in particular on the Russian market, it is often difficult for buyers to decide which pit bike is best to buy.

The history of the appearance and improvement of pit bikes

Pit bikes were first designed in Southern California in the 90s. The first standard was the Honda XR50, then other Japanese motorcycle manufacturers picked up the idea. The buyers liked the first motorcycles, and their popularity grew quickly. Guy Cooper, a former motocross champion, in his company Xtreme Motor Corp began to upgrade branded products with components from China, then a small American company located in Utah, which imported Chinese minibikes, began selling them under its Pitster Pro brand. Then Chinese motorcyclists evolved children's pit bikes into serious sports machines. The bikes have been “grown” to suit an adult athlete, the wheels have increased from 10 inches to 17, and disc brakes have been added. Usually a 4-speed gearbox is installed, the speed reaches above 100 km/h.

Which pit bike should a beginner and a professional choose? Let's look at different factors that will help you decide what exactly you expect from a motorcycle:

frame type;
engine type, volume;
wheels and steering wheel;
shock absorbers;
manufacturer;
price.

Frame type

The frame is the basis of the design of a pit bike; the appearance of the bike and the driver’s position depend on it. Conventionally, frames can be divided into three groups. The popularity rating looks like this.

1. CRF50 / CRF70.

The basis of this frame is the Nonda CRF50 design. Features: straight pendulum, plastic body kit, 3.5-liter tank, longitudinal shock absorber mounting. Equipped with increased ground clearance and a comfortable fit for tall people.

2. KLX.

The design is based on the Kawasaki KLX110. Features: straight pendulum, characteristic plastic body kit.

3. TTR.

Based on the design of Yamaha motorcycles. Straight swingarm with internal frame mounting, 5-liter tank, progressive rear suspension, highest seating position.

In addition, there are frames that are specially designed to order.

Frames are most often made of steel. Aluminum ones are less common, they are more expensive and lighter.

Engine

When deciding how to choose a motorbike, be sure to take a closer look at the engine. Reliable, powerful - this is YX. Able to withstand a good load, for example, minimotocross, durable, easy to find spare parts, repairs do not take much money or time.

Sometimes engines are equipped with a semi-automatic transmission. Shifting all gears occurs normally, but there is no clutch handle, the spring itself depresses the clutch, the main thing is to change them in time. A very convenient option for students learning to ride, children, and girls. Very reliable, no less than a regular clutch.

We do not recommend purchasing engines with electric start; they often break down, drain the battery, and it is difficult to find spare parts for them.

Children's models with a cubic capacity of 50–125 are smaller, lightweight, and easy to start. Even an adult can ride these if they adjust the shock absorbers to the weight. Models with a semi-automatic gearbox are especially appreciated.

For teenagers we recommend the 125–500 cc versions. They are also good for adults, this is the golden mean. If you wish, you can later equip it with expensive spare parts for serious motocross training. The engines produce 9–16 hp. With.

Motorcycles above 150cc are for experienced people, they are expensive, but you will immediately buy a well-equipped motorcycle on which you can safely jump from 10-meter jumps. Such large-capacity motors are manufactured by three main manufacturers: Yinxiang (YX), Zongshen (ZS), Lifan (LF). The most common engines are the first of those listed - in almost every third Chinese motorcycle. The engines are produced without electric start.

Wheels and steering wheel

Budget pit bikes have steel rims and bushings. They are heavy and require frequent maintenance. More expensive and practical - aluminum. A thick-walled aluminum steering wheel is also recommended, which is lighter than steel, stronger, and straightens out after a fall.

Be sure to pay attention to the tires. Cross-country versions are intended only for driving on the ground. High-standing tires on asphalt roads wear out within a week. It’s better to install road tires or enduro tires - they are more durable.

For trail training, 12x14 wheels are recommended - they are universal, suitable for everything, ideal for the track. Thanks to their small size, they are durable and comfortable for drivers of short or average height. Large diameter wheels will turn your bike into something like a scooter.

The classics of this type are 10x10 or 10x12 wheels - this is exactly how the pit bike was conceived. The size is convenient for children's version, street, fan, camp. The most durable wheels, bikes with them are light and can withstand a normal weight of 100 kg.

17x14 wheels are made in Russia for driving in forests, wilds, swamps, fields. They bring pit bikes closer to cross-country motorcycles. They also make the pit comfortable for tall motorcyclists.

Shock absorbers

Adjustable shock absorbers are installed on expensive models; for a beginner, we do not recommend taking complex equipment; standard non-adjustable ones are quite enough, but at budget prices. The most famous brands here are Fastace, DNM, GPX.

The best models of famous brands

Honda

The founder of the pit bike class is the CRF50F. Combination of automatic clutch, 3-speed gearbox, inverted forks, electric starter.
For adults - version CRF70F, characterized by a traditionally installed fork.

Kawasaki

The most interesting pit bike is the KLX110, often used as a basis for tuning. A small drawback is the 3-speed basic gearbox.

Suzuki

The well-known company tried to enter the pit bike segment by releasing the DR-Z70. Not currently produced.

Yamaha

Very similar to the basic Honda model of the Yamaha TT-R50E pit bike. It is also equipped with a 3-speed gearbox and automatic clutch.
4-speed gearbox in the TT-R110E model. Rarely seen bike.

Polini

XP4 Street is a version of a European-made pit bike, powerful (up to 15 hp), quite expensive.

Children's pit bikes

These models are the easiest to operate, lightweight, and small.

The BSE CF50A is similar to the CRF50F from Honda, equipped with an automatic clutch, 1st gear, and electric starter.
KAYO CRF Mini is the smallest pit, modeled after the brand ones. A Lifan engine with an automatic clutch is installed.
The BSE CF70AT is a 4-speed bike with an automatic clutch for more experienced riders.
Forsage 100 Сross is a model from the Izhevsk manufacturer: durable frame, fiberglass lining. Motocross requires chassis tuning.
Irbis TTR 110 is a children's version with a good engine capacity. Beginners will like the 1-speed transmission and electric start.

The best high-end racing models

Recommended for racing, and especially for training in motocross, as the design is simpler, the cost of spare parts and repairs is lower.

The BSE TT150XL pit bike is equipped with an adjustable inverter, the rear suspension is designed with a lever system and an adjustable monoshock absorber.
The budget version is BSE CS150XL with long-travel suspensions.
A relatively inexpensive good competition bike is the Pitster Pro LX5 155L MX. Motor Zongshen.
Medium-sized KAYO CRF801 7L with a YX engine, small wheels and a rigid frame.
An excellent racing model KAYO HK 160R - a combination of an excellent Zongshen engine, energy-intensive suspensions, a very strong frame, and large wheels.
The lightest JMC 003 is distinguished by a frame with a pendulum made of solid aluminum, high-tech, highly adjustable suspension. It reaches speeds of up to 108 km/h and is quite expensive.

Price

The price of a pit bike mainly depends on the engine: the more powerful the engine, the more expensive the motorcycle. Accordingly, the price depends on the number of aluminum components that lighten the weight of the motorcycle, and the quality of the suspension.

Branded components are undoubtedly of high quality, but you will have to pay a lot for the brand. Excellent pendants are produced by Fox, Marzoсshi, Оhlins. For high-strength steering wheels, you should turn to ProTarer, Renthal, the latter also has chains and sprockets. You should ask for the best carburetor from the companies Keihin, Mikun, and look for bearings in NTN, SKF. For intake systems, it is recommended to go to Akrapovic, Doma, Leovince, FMF. A pit bike with such an assembly will be of excellent quality, but expensive.

Of course, everyone doesn’t mind buying a cheap bike, but remember that it will last you less. Although an expensive bike is not always more durable and better. We recommend following the golden mean. The optimal option costs approximately 50,000 rubles. With this you can just go to the dacha, drive on the highway, or take a walk in the forest. Children's versions can be purchased cheaper, they do not need a large load capacity, for 30–35 thousand.

Remember: design and quality are important, not global branding.

www.motoshkoli.ru

What is the difference between a pit bike and a motorcycle?

Updated article from: 12/03/2020

For fans of motorcycles, various types of vehicles are produced, developed for specific purposes and conditions of use. For long trips and travel, manufacturers create touring cruiser bikes. Motocross motorcycles are perfect for motorsports and competitions on prepared tracks. Enduro bikes are adapted to overcome difficult routes. A separate category includes mini-motorcycles of the cross-enduro type - pit bikes.

Motor vehicles impress with the variety of road and racing models, tourers and choppers, dragsters and cruisers. The classification of bikes is quite arbitrary - many models combine features of several classes, and even within one type there are highly specialized subtypes. Therefore, it can be difficult to visually determine the class of a bike. Next, we will look at the differences between pit bikes and motocross motorcycles.

Cross motorcycles

This type of transport is used for driving races over rough terrain, along a closed track 1.5-3 km long. Cross bikes are not afraid of harsh operating conditions, road obstacles and lack of roads; they easily perform jumps and landings. This is their element. But to drive such a vehicle, you need to regularly train and hone your skills.

Cross bikes are characterized by:

Maximum lightweight design - due to the use of lightweight materials;
comfortable seat that extends over the fuel tank;
reduced size steering wheel;
full-size wheels with powerful lugs and durable spokes;
motocross tires - for precise control;
simple disc brakes - they are well suited for cross-country driving;
solid power;
excellent driving performance;
lightweight suspension with monoshock absorber;
inverted front fork with significant travel - for efficient suspension operation;
single cylinder engines;
water cooling;
loud exhaust;
high-mounted exhaust pipes;
often a kickstarter instead of an electric starter, so as not to use a battery.

Pitbikes

Pitbike is an amazing mini-motorcycle that appeared as the fruit of the evolution of the bicycle. Initially, this vehicle was used during racing to provide maintenance to competition participants. But later the pits became full participants in minimotocross and minisupermoto races. This type of transport is often chosen by novice motorcyclists in order to gain the necessary riding skills with a minimum of risks and without overload.

This type of transport is also good for teenagers. Using a pit bike as an example, a novice motorcycle enthusiast learns to change gears, feel the clutch and brake safely, hone control on different surfaces, and understand the operation of all components and systems. Adrenaline fans also love pit bikes, because such vehicles are optimal for honing various tricks.

Main characteristics of pit bikes:

compactness;
lightness;
powerful motor of small cubic capacity - 50-150 cm3;
versatility - the ability to drive both on regular roads and beyond;
ease of transportation and storage;
can be used by young and adult motorcyclists weighing up to 130 kg, including novice riders;
small diameter of the rear wheel - within 12 inches;
ease of use and maintenance.

Disadvantages of ATVs

The main disadvantage is their cost. This is a fairly expensive hobby if you consider the ATV only as a means of entertainment. The average cost is 150-250 thousand. Simpler models can be purchased for 70-80 thousand. However, there are options, the price of which reaches up to 1 million rubles. The engine capacity is more than 900 cm³, and the speed is over 90 km/h.

The second is the low level of security. Therefore, when driving a vehicle, especially a powerful one, it is necessary to have motorcycle protection. Beginners often roll over on sand and gravel. Children and teenagers can operate the all-terrain vehicle only under adult supervision.

Another significant drawback is high fuel consumption. Almost 10 liters of gasoline are consumed per 10 km of travel. Such consumption will not surprise the car owner, but it will make the owner of light motorcycles think. The weight, dimensions and technical characteristics of these vehicles are different. Everything is explained simply - the special design of the ATV engine is “tailored” for off-road driving.

The ATV has quite a high fuel consumption

The functionality of all-terrain vehicles is also not that high. To transport large cargo you will have to purchase a trailer. And these are additional costs.

The last thing worth mentioning is the lack of protection from changing weather conditions. The ATV is not equipped with a roof or protective glass, so it is inconvenient to ride it in rain and strong winds.

And lastly, to drive you need to obtain a category A driver's license.

What is the difference between a pit bike and a motocross motorcycle?

When analyzing the differences between a pit bike and a motorcycle, it makes sense to consider models of 4 groups: motocross motorcycles and pit bikes with a fuel engine, electric pit bikes with a motor-wheel and with a central electric motor. A comparison of these types of transport is presented in the table:

Comparison criterion	Cross bike with fuel engine	Pitbike with fuel engine	Pit bike with central electric motor	Electric pit bike with motor wheel
Usage	Sports racing on special tracks, off-road rides.	Active leisure, everyday trips, tourism, recreational trips, acquisition of riding skills and performing tricks.	Active leisure activities, tourism, everyday trips, extreme skating, performing tricks.	Traveling around the city, acquiring motorcycle riding skills.
Motor type	Single cylinder	Usually - four-stroke, with at least a pair of cylinders, open, horizontal.	Brushless carriage electric motor with permanent magnets.	Brushless permanent magnet wheel motor.
Suspension	Rigid - designed for riding in a standing position on the pegs, for driving rides, jumps and landings.	Soft - for riding in a sitting position.	There are different ones to choose from.	There are different ones to choose from.
Exhaust	Loud	Ordinary	No	No
Cooling	Water or dry sump	Air and oil	Water or air	Air
Wheels	Large	Small, rear - 10-12 inches	Standard	Standard
Brakes	Simple disc wheels, for off-road driving	Improved	Hydraulics	Hydraulics

conclusions

When choosing between a pit bike and a motocross motorcycle, the main role is played by the buyer’s goals and preferences. But according to many experienced motorcyclists, it’s better to start getting acquainted with motocross with a pit bike. It is safer to use, great for honing skills, developing skills and performing tricks.

Previously, our blog published an article about the best electric bicycles of 2020.

conclusions

What type of bike to buy is a matter of taste, preferences and individual needs of each person, but experienced representatives of motorsports recommend starting your acquaintance with two-wheeled transport with a pit bike - it will allow you to master the basics of driving and learn the basics. And some true bikers, on the contrary, consider the Pitbike to be nothing more than a toy!

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I'm the person who writes reviews. I have been interested in motorcycle technology since childhood. Now I prefer ENDURO, since it is simply impossible to preserve it for the winter. It's always open season for me!

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