What is the difference between a pit bike and a motocross motorcycle: which is better to choose?

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.

Traffic rules and motocross motorcycles with pit bikes

This is an Irbis TTR 125 pit bike - one of the most common models of pit bikes. It cannot be driven on public roads.

First of all, it is worth noting that the traffic rules prohibit both types from traveling on public roads.

It is interesting that for each type the ban is dictated by radically opposite reasons. Nevertheless, it is so. If you don’t want to have problems with the traffic police, you can’t ride these bikes on city roads .

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.

Do you need a license for a pit bike?

No. A pit bike in the Republic of Belarus and Russia is considered sports equipment, which means that you do not need a driver's license or state license plate to ride it. However, this is if your pit bike has an engine power of less than 50 cubic cm. If it is more, and this is actually the entire line of Avantis pit bikes, you need a category A license, which is not so difficult to obtain.

Also, there are a number of specific restrictions on places to drive, obtain a license, etc. Very soon we will prepare extended material on this topic, where experts will answer all the tricky questions about riding pit bikes and endurance bikes.

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.

Yamaha YZ250 motocross motorcycle.

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 REGULMOTO 125

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.

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.

Is Chinese technology poor quality?

Indeed, the Avantis is made in China. But where did this stereotype come from, that “if it’s Chinese, it’s junk”? The price range of Avantis motorcycles is much lower than that of their Austrian, Swedish and Japanese counterparts, and the quality is far from worse.

Moreover, many American motorcycle manufacturers have been assembling their equipment in China for many years. Yes, and the Avantis is also no stranger to this market for a long time and has gained a reputation as a reliable pit bike with an acceptable price for the Republic of Belarus.

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 are 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.

Quality options for professionals

WELS CRF 250

A durable option suitable for professional use. The model is made of durable materials that can withstand high loads. A nice addition is the electric starter, which makes starting the pit bike easier. A steel frame is installed, which is highly durable. Fuel tank capacity – 4 liters.

The average cost is 90,000 rubles.

WELS CRF 250

Advantages:

High-quality assembly;
Durable frame;
Convenient control;
Attractive design;
Efficiency.

Flaws:

Not found.

BSE PH 190e STUNT

A durable option suitable for adults. The model is able to withstand heavy weight and not deteriorate from high loads. The engine guarantees trouble-free operation for a long time. The frame is made of reliable and impact-resistant material. The carburetor is equipped with an air filter. The gearbox is mechanical.

Sold at a price: from 75,000 rubles.

BSE PH 190e STUNT

Advantages:

Good build;
Life time;
Simple repair;
Efficiency;
Withstands severe loads.

Flaws:

Not found.

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 block 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.

Review of the most interesting models for children from 12 to 14 years old

The birth of a motorcyclist. Or maybe a famous athlete in the sport of motocross.

In addition to Chinese-made models, the market offers Japanese and German versions. Manufacturers' lines include versions for both younger age groups and children 12–14 years old. The release of new models continues, and their contents may be the envy of other motorcyclists.

There is also:

disc brakes;
good shock absorbers on both wheels;
a powerful engine allows this vehicle to quickly cut through sidewalks.

Riding on the rear wheel (wheelie) performed by a child.

The list of new and updated options is constantly growing. As a rule, the models are new, have a warranty and a year or three of service.

BSE EVO 110

Among Chinese pit bikes, two manufacturers can be distinguished, whose equipment has an optimal price-quality ratio.

This model is too big for very young teenagers.

The first one is BSE. Since the concern produces not only children's products, versions for children have the word Kids (younger age category) or Evo (for children over 10 years old) in the name.

Tire size 12/10. In our opinion, this model is the best in terms of price and quality.

In 2016, for older children, the Chinese offered the BSE EVO 110 model. In addition to the engine capacity of 110 cubes, the machine boasts:

4-speed gearbox (n-1-2-3-4),
maximum power in 6.9 hp,
A now classic layout. This is exactly what the engines on all modern pit bikes look like.
disc brakes (diameters 190 mm ),
3.5 liter fuel tank .

The role of the front suspension is played by a telescopic fork, and at the rear there is a pendulum on a monoshock absorber.

Depending on the configuration, the model looks like a real ENDURO motorcycle and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h . According to the developers, this is a toy, but when buying it, they recommend purchasing at least a motorcycle helmet, and at most a full outfit.

Gearbox and wheel drive chain.

Side view.

Front view

Rear wheel, size 10.

The price of a bike depends on the store and can vary by several orders of magnitude from 40,000 to 55,000 rubles.

KAYO MINI LF 110 E 12/10

The price of a new one is from 48,000 rubles . Height up to 145 cm.

KAYO MINI LF 110 E. Wheel size 12/10. The version in the photo is a semi-automatic transmission.

Another representative of the Middle Kingdom whose technique is worth paying attention to. If it is sometimes difficult for the first representative to understand that this is a children's or a standard pit bike, then the developers of this brand have divided their models into several categories.

This is the adult equivalent. Kayo is a legend among Chinese pit bikes, but now they say that the quality has dropped. The photo shows KAYO CLASSIC 125 cc and its owner (Me).

From Mini with a 50-110 cc engine to standard - 170 cc.

The developers position the first one for beginner riders, but the range of opportunities it provides to the pilot will interest both the youngest and older riders.

Beginner rider. Remember that motorsport is a very dangerous thing!

The 110 cc engine is capable of developing power up to 8 hp. With .
A 4-speed semi-automatic transmission will allow you to learn how to use the engine's capabilities in a variety of conditions.
An electric starter and electronic ignition will allow the young rider to take off without assistance.
A telescopic fork with a working stroke of 500 mm will allow you to realize your wildest fantasies.
Disc brakes and a chain guide ensure safety and quick stopping.
3-liter fuel tank will allow you to refuel less frequently, and the 4-stroke engine will help maintain clean air ( Euro-3 ).

KAYO mini LF 110 e 12/10

Side view.

Another perspective. In a different coloring of plastic.

The speed achieved is sufficient to make you think about equipment, and a unified product labeling system will not pose any problems when choosing a bike for a child.

PS-Sport zx50r

The German concern Nitro Mors, little known to Russian consumers, is also ready to please the young rider.

The PS-Sport ZX50r model follows the contours of a real racing bike, but at the same time it is assembled taking into account the needs of a child.

4-horsepower engine is capable of reaching speeds of up to 70 km .
Redesigned hydraulic disc brakes feature a 2-piston caliper for reliable stopping power. Steel frame. Good shock absorbers (double at the rear).
We also took care of training opportunities.
Switching one button locks the speed up to 20 km .
Unfortunately, in an effort to achieve complete sportiness, the developers have provided the ability to start only via a kick starter. Mentors will have to explain how it works.

The model, having an engine of 49 cubic meters , is capable of outperforming Chinese versions with 110 cubic meters or more .

Honda CRF50

This model is suitable for full training on the track. Not quite a pit bike, but not a motorcycle yet.

This Japanese cannot be classified as a pit bike in the classical sense, but over the 10 years of production of this motorcycle, the developers have created a model that is as convenient as possible for a novice rider. The three-speed gearbox has three settings.

Standard, like on a motorcycle, semi-automatic, and also fixed. While the former will be convenient for older riders, the latter is designed for those who don’t even know how to shift yet. In the model settings you can fix any speed and adjust the throttle valve to a certain power.

The child masters the Honda.

When the child gets more comfortable, you can use the second option, semi-automatic . This type will allow you to get acquainted with the box, get the basics and understand the principle of its operation.

For the suspension, the developer used an inverted fork + a single rear shock absorber on the pendulum.

It’s interesting that Honda appealed more to girls. In their opinion, “the best motorcycle for learning, although the sensitivity of the brakes is such that I was afraid of flying over the handlebars, so I will master the front one separately.”

50cc motor develops a power of 3 hp. With .
Electronic ignition system.
Both axles have drum brakes with a diameter of 80 mm .
3 speed gearbox.
In addition to the brakes, the disadvantages also include the need to start the engine only with a kick starter .
“Even though it weighs only 50 kg , not everyone can hold it, open the throttle and launch it with their foot.”

Honda CRF50 side view.

On the lift.

On a lifting stand.

A child is kneading dirt.

A teenager on a Honda CRF50 pit bike.

To the surprise of the developers, this children's motorcycle is bought not at the age of 12–14, as predicted, but already from 8. At the same time, they note that the new motor is practically indestructible , so their machine will last not only 8 years (up to 16), but also much, much more.

According to the tradition of pit bikes, the plastic gas tank holds 3.5 liters .

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.

What kind of gasoline to put in a pit bike

This issue is usually covered in the instructions when the buyer is about to buy a pit bike. Manufacturers recommend using gasoline no lower than AI-92. However, it is necessary to determine the brand of gasoline in more detail based on the parameters of the compression ratio. In pit bikes with an engine capacity of up to 140 cm3, 92-octane gasoline will be just right. But for engines above this volume it is recommended to use A95. In some models with a large engine capacity, it is better to use A98 gasoline. Typically, this gasoline is suitable for pit bikes with a compression ratio above 11.0.

Reviews from pit bike owners in most cases indicate that the A92 is the universal choice, since when using 95 or 98 grade gasoline, the engine begins to operate with extraneous noise and jerking. However, it is these brands of fuel with additives that are much more effective at cleaning valves and the fuel system.