Hello, parents of future motorcyclists!
Thinking about buying a children's pit bike? You are in the right direction. In this article we will compare mini-equipment from different manufacturers for children aged 4 to 10 years. Let's find out how a motorcycle can be useful for your child and your family as a whole.
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Having your own small but real car or bike is the dream and pride of every boy.
However, among modern girls such a hobby is also not uncommon. And when we talk about a small real bike, we don’t mean a plastic toy, but a real motorcycle, like an adult one, only reduced in size and with significantly less power. Today, every adult, comparing his little self with modern children, will say that 20-30 years ago there was a completely different childhood. And this is not surprising. After all, the world does not stand still - it is rapidly developing in a variety of directions. Today, children have many of the things and opportunities that a few years ago were somewhere in the realm of science fiction. Technological progress leaves its definite imprint not only on the life of adults, but also on the childhood of modern children.
One even gets the feeling that modern children are born adults straight away. Because they very quickly master all the work of home appliances, they begin to skillfully use computers, phones and tablets early. And, besides, they begin to imitate adults early.
Of course, it’s no secret that every child in childhood strives to become an adult as quickly as possible. In this regard, children begin to imitate adults. Boys imitate their dads more, girls imitate their mother. And, the most interesting thing is that today children's stores have all the necessary things for children's games in adult life, which are an absolute copy of many adult accessories, only smaller. So, today you can buy a children’s vacuum cleaner, a children’s washing machine, an iron and ironing board, and even a car or a children’s bike for a child.
Having your own small but real car or bike is the dream and pride of every boy. However, among modern girls such a hobby is also not uncommon.
And when we talk about a small real bike, we don’t mean a plastic toy, but a real motorcycle, like an adult one, only reduced in size and with significantly less power.
Classification of children's motorcycles
Today there is a huge selection of children's motorcycles. The birthplace of the first mini-bike is considered to be the land of the rising sun - Japan. However, they were not at all childish. Such mini-bikes were developed for local racing, and they were also assembled by motorcyclists in their garages. Their distinctive features were maneuverability and dimensions, which made it easy to navigate small narrow streets. All this attracted the attention of teenagers, and therefore, children's motorcycles became in sharp demand. And already in the 70s of the twentieth century, several American companies began producing children's mini-bikes. Currently, such motorcycles are also produced in Europe and Asia.
Children's motorcycles can be gasoline or battery-powered. The latter are suitable for very young children - from two to four years old. Of course, for such kids, mini-bikes are more like a toy with an electrical installation. However, it makes sense, because at this age, on an electronic mini-bike, a child can easily learn to maintain balance, as well as work correctly with the steering wheel and turn his first motorcycle in the right direction. For very young bikers, choose a motorcycle with a two-stroke engine. When a child gets older, he gets four-stroke models.
For children starting from four years old, it is already possible to purchase a motorcycle equipped with an electric drive or even a gasoline one. There are several types of gasoline mini-bikes:
Children's motocross motorcycle
Each type of children's motorcycle differs in its engine size, power, and maximum speed that the motorcycle is capable of developing.
This allows parents, based on the child’s age, height, weight and abilities, to choose a vehicle for their child that will be the safest for him. After all, for parents the most important issue is the health and safety of the child. But despite this, the most popular at present are mini-crosses. The great demand for mini-crosses is due to their maximum safety. Mini-crosses can be purchased for a child when he or she reaches 7 years of age. They have adjustable suspension, “tenacious” wheels and a gearbox, so they can be used off-road. The maximum speed that mini-crosses can reach is 50 km/h.
When purchasing such a vehicle for a child, you need to be aware that, just like an adult bike, a children's mini-motorcycle needs periodic maintenance. This fact should be taken into account when purchasing children's equipment.
Thus, children's mini-bikes are a smaller copy of a full-fledged adult motorcycle. Based on technical characteristics, children's mini-bikes are divided into types, so you can purchase a motorcycle taking into account the age and skills of the child. For younger bikers, there are models with electrical installations, which makes them as safe as possible for children due to the fact that such motorcycles have very little power. For older children, motorcycles with a gasoline engine are purchased, which, accordingly, have much more power and can also reach significant speeds. We can say that the motorcycle grows up with the child.
Features of choosing a children's gasoline scooter
A parent who begins to become interested in the gasoline-powered children's transport market discovers that the assortment and selection rules are not much different from those on the market for bicycles and scooters.
All models of children's gasoline scooters are created taking into account the age characteristics of the child.
Selection by age
The sales consultant only needs the most basic parameters – height, weight, age. All models are created taking into account the age characteristics of the child, the safety and comfortable operation of transport directly depends on this. This means that when you ask a seller for a scooter for 8-year-old children with gasoline, you will receive recommended models that are suitable for the average physical parameters of a child at this age.
If the future driver differs greatly from the age average in some respects, you should not persistently choose the appropriate model for him. There are eight-year-old children who are taller and heavier than ten-year-olds, especially girls. Moreover, a scooter for 12 years old with gasoline will not be suitable transport for all children of this age.
Dimensions and weight of the structure
Pay special attention to this, especially if you have never used a two-wheeled vehicle yourself. A gasoline scooter, especially a teenage version, can have good engine power within the framework of such devices. Power requires appropriate spare parts, which weigh a lot and force the manufacturer to make the body bulky.
It is important to consider whether the child will be able to fully use his or her vehicle, that is, not only ride, but also roll up, lift, etc. Also, the large device requires storage space.
A children's gasoline scooter can have good engine power
Safety and reliability
Definitely the most important parameter. It is for the sake of simplifying control over it that strict age limits for different models have been invented for gasoline scooters. After sitting on a scooter for a teenager, an eight-year-old can get hurt by dangerous accessories, lose control due to the increased power, or fall and be crushed by the weight of the device, unable to get out.
The only thing parents may not worry about is speed. All models intended for independent use by children are equipped with a speed limiter, the maximum value of which can often be set by yourself.
Comfort and convenience
Although a gasoline scooter is for children, it is still transport. It is important to buy a model in which the child will not hunch over or, on the contrary, try to reach the steering wheel. This is not only unsafe, as it deprives the young driver of some of the attention that is intended for the road, but also has a bad effect on health.
Trying to sit comfortably on an ill-fitting scooter, your child will develop poor posture or the habit of hunching over.
In the best case, the child will simply stop riding, constantly experiencing inconvenience, and the parents will waste their money on an expensive toy. At worst, he will continue to ride no matter what, until he starts having back problems or falling due to an inconvenient viewing angle.
An incorrectly selected scooter can have a negative impact on a child’s health.
The best sport and hobby in the world
In any technical sport, be it motorsport, road racing, motocross or enduro, champions become people who start playing their sport in early childhood. But unfortunately, in order to achieve real heights on the world stage, for example, in motocross, it is not enough to have talent or start training from the age of 4-5 years. We also need money. Big money. But every parent can give their child a cool hobby for life. After all, the entry point is not that big. For example, children's motorcycles with gasoline cost only a little more than 20 thousand rubles.
In addition to the fact that motorsports is very interesting and exciting, it is also very useful from a physical point of view. People who are far from technical sports often think that auto or motorsports are easy. Spin the steering wheel and admire the scenery. But no, I assure you, this is not true at all. The same motocross or enduro, very energy-intensive sports. Professional racers are real athletes. In addition to developed muscles, high endurance is also required. But most importantly, it is a hobby and a sport rolled into one. I am sure it will captivate both children and adults. It's really interesting! And by the way, motorcycling is not only for boys and men, but also for girls and girls too. A clear confirmation of this is the Russian athlete Anastasia Nifontova, who finished the legendary Dakar rally marathon on a motorcycle, in a very tough class where riders participate without any technical support!
For children 5-10 years old. 50 cm3, wheels 10/10“
But let's return to children's motorcycles. Today we will talk about gasoline-powered equipment. We'll talk about children's electric motorcycles another time.
Where should you start when choosing motorcycles for a young athlete? It all depends on the age of your child. At the lowest level is the Motoland XT50 and MOTAX Minicross motorcycle. These are children's gasoline motorcycles, also known as minicross or pit bikes. Motorcycles are the smallest in size. The front and rear wheels are 10". Length only 130 cm. Seat height 58 cm. Weight about 25 kg. Designed for children aged 5 to 10 years. Equipped with a two-stroke engine with a volume of 49 cm3 and a power of 3.5 hp. The starter is manual. What is important is that the transmission is automatic – CVT. The child just needs to press the gas and the motorcycle will start moving. This engine has a completely calm and smooth character, which is a necessity considering the age of the rider. The motorcycle picks up speed smoothly and predictably. The maximum speed is about 40 km/h. Front and rear disc brakes with cable drive. The suspension on this vehicle is the simplest, spring, without shock absorbers. But considering the weight and maximum speed, this is enough. Another advantage is that it easily fits into the trunk of almost any passenger car.
Among the disadvantages, before each trip you will definitely have to “shamanize” with canisters, mixing gasoline with oil. The technique is push-pull. It is also worth noting that the weak and not the most reliable point of these motorcycles is the manual starter. Fortunately, it costs around a thousand rubles and can be changed in 5 minutes. Otherwise, this technique is quite reliable and problem-free. Price at the end of 2022 25000 rub.
Major manufacturers of mini equipment
A gasoline-powered motorcycle for a child can be purchased from various manufacturers in China, Japan, and Europe.
Real mini sports equipment is practically no different in price from adult motorcycles. Take, for example, the Austrian 2022 KTM 50 SX. The price of a new KTM mini-motorcycle is around 335 thousand rubles.
There are also simpler Japanese models Kawasaki KLX110, Suzuki DR-Z70, Yamaha TT-R50E, Yamaha TT-R110E. The Honda XR 50 appeared in the late 90s and is one of the very first pit bikes; the rest appeared later. On the official website the price of the Honda CRF 50 is $1,700.
In Russia, Japanese children's models are practically not sold, and if they are on sale, then the price of one trouble-free mini-motorcycle is the same as 2 new Chinese ones with similar characteristics. Therefore, due to their high cost, they are not in demand here.
There are many inexpensive mini-bikes from German and Chinese assortment. You can already get confused with the names of the manufacturers: Nitro Motors, Motax, MotoLand, KAYO, YCF, BSE KIDS, etc.
As you can see, there are plenty of children's motorcycles to choose from. It all depends on your desire and financial capabilities.
For children 7-12 years old. 110 cm3, wheels 12/10″
For older children, there are already more serious models, for example, Motoland CRF10 and Motoland Apex10. These are essentially brothers, differing only in appearance. They are larger than previous models, length 140 cm, saddle height 63 cm. And heavier, dry weight is already 56 kg. Wheel size 12/10. Designed for children aged 7 to 12 years. And this technique, unlike the previous one, is more mature in every sense. Firstly, the engine here is already much more powerful. It is four-stroke, so there is no need to mix oil and gasoline. It has a volume of 110 cm3 and a power of 5 hp. This engine drives even adults quite cheerfully, and children even more so. The good thing is that there is a power limiter on the throttle. And by the way, these motorcycles already have an electric starter. The transmission is also a variator. The suspension is more advanced, although it is overly stiff. Hydraulic disc brakes. The main disadvantage, compared to younger models, is the noticeably increased price, 42,000 rubles.
PS-Sport
This minibike is more sporty and made in Germany. Its main feature is its stylish appearance, but the engine is true to size. Its power was 4 horsepower, but the maximum speed was up to 70 km/h. Air-cooled and 49cc. see this is quite a good model.
It would seem how such a miniature motorcycle can have a speed of 70 km/h even despite weighing 21 kilograms. German quality has a strong impact on the engine, so the bike is quite productive and durable. The maximum load capacity was 90 kg. If possible, parents can set the speed limit to 20 km per hour.
For children 10-15 years old. 125 cm3, wheels 14/12″
This is where pit bikes with 14/12 wheels come into play. These are still children's motorcycles, still with a gasoline engine, suitable for children aged approximately 10 to 15 years. They already weigh 70 kg. As a rule, all representatives have an engine of this size, 125 cm3, with a power of 8-10 hp. There are pit bikes with both an electric starter and only a kick starter. Transmission or semi-automatic, where you need to click through the gears, but do not need to use the clutch, or classic, adult mechanics. The suspensions on such motorcycles have longer travel. By the way, such motorcycles are quite suitable for adults, but short people. Representatives in this size are Motoland XT125 14/12 and Kayo Mini YX125EM 14/12. The price for both is a little more than 50,000 rubles.
The best models and popular brands: description and cost
Like any other product, the gasoline moped market has its leaders, but you shouldn’t rely solely on the brand. If a consultant discourages you from buying the most “fashionable” scooter at the moment and suggests another, knowing the parameters of the future driver, it is better to listen to him. The cost of materials and design are insignificant in comparison with a comfortable and safe ride, long-term operation without problems and wide functionality.
Various improvements are added to make the scooter easier to use
The most popular models:
- Joy Automatic LMOOX-R3-BIKE. A stylish and inexpensive option, capacity is 50 cubic meters, maximum load is 50 kg, so it is suitable for teenagers from 10 to 12 years old. Cost – 16,500 rubles.
- Joy Automatic Spider. The more expensive option (18,500 rubles) with a stylish “spider” print, is more resistant to weight (up to 60 kg), the power is still around 50 cubic meters.
- Joy Automatic LMOOX-R3 80cc. One of the most powerful models in the line - 80 cubic meters, can withstand weight up to 100 kg, designed for older children and those who are ahead of their age. Costs about 17,000 rubles.
- Joy Automatic Moto. The model in the line is average in all respects, but has a folding mechanism. The cost is about 16,000 rubles.
- Motax 50 CC Mini Cross. An “expensive” looking option, the design of which is as close as possible to a real two-wheeled vehicle. Capacity is about 80 cubic meters, withstands weight up to 90 kg. and can serve a child aged 10 to 14 years. Cost – 25,000 rubles.
- Lmoox-R3-Bike 80. Expensive option (28,000 rubles), has steel elements in the frame and an electric starter. Withstands 100 kg of weight, reaches speeds of up to 40 km/h and has a power of 80 cubic meters.
- Lmdb-049h. Medium-priced option (19,000 rubles), capacity 50 cubic meters, withstands up to 60 kg, suitable for children from four years old - an ideal option for introducing a child to transport.
The above models are among the most popular brands on the market. If they do not suit the child’s parameters, it makes sense to ask the consultant to find something similar and suitable in the line.
For children over 13 years old and adults. Wheels 17/14
Pit bikes 125 cm3
Essentially all pit bikes with wheel sizes 17/14 can be placed on this stage. Therefore, further we will divide pit bikes not by size, but by engine capacity.
125 cm3 is perhaps the most popular class of pit bikes. They are already quite adult in size. Suitable for both children aged 13 and over and adults. The maximum load reaches 130 kg. The weight of the motorcycles themselves is around 75-80 kg. Engine 125 cm3, power 8-10 hp. In this category, I like the Motoland CRF125E and its brother WELS CRF 125E. First, they have an electric starter. Secondly, durable aluminum rims and handlebars. And there are also a bunch of milled aluminum elements, which is cool for pit bikes in the inexpensive segment. The price of these pit bikes is a little more than 60,000 rubles.
But I would call the ZUUM PM125 the best in this class. Besides the advantages of its siblings, it has a NIBBI carburetor. But most importantly, the ZUUM pit bike has an extended pendulum for better riding stability and a progressive rear suspension (.) All this makes it unique and very interesting. By the way, I wrote a whole article about it and have a video. It’s a pity that ZUUM doesn’t offer other engines. Price 70,000 rubles.
I would also like to highlight the Motoland CRF125 with larger 19/16 wheels. It's already the size of a small motorcycle.
Pit bikes 140-150 cm3
This is perhaps the most compromise engine option in terms of price and power. It was with a pit bike with a 140cc engine that I once began to understand the world of off-road technology. As they say, extra power is never too much. Motoland has a huge selection of engines with both 140 and 150 cm3 engines. But unfortunately, none of them are equipped with an electric starter, which is not comme il faut at all. So with such engines, I will recommend Avantis Lux 150cc and WELS CRF 140E pit bikes for purchase. They have strong aluminum rims and handlebars, as well as many milled elements, which makes them durable, reliable, and stylish too. The price for both is 72,000 rubles.
Pit bikes 190 cm3
The 190 cm3 engine from Zongshen is the pinnacle in pit bike construction. Power 17-18 hp For a light motorcycle, weighing about 80 kg, this is a hurricane. In addition, the gearbox with this engine is a classic five-speed. Almost all representatives in this class have top-end components. But the most humane price tag, as always, is with Motoland. For example, Motoland CRF190 costs 80,000 rubles. BSE PH 190 is a little more expensive - 85,000 rubles. Avantis Lux 190cc, Wels CRF 190 and KAYO EVOLUTION ZS190E, even more expensive, 90,000 rubles each
The APOLLO RXF Freeride 190 pit bike, with a 19/16 wheel arrangement, stands apart. It's like a small motorcycle, but its advantage over the enduro is its weight of 78 kg. For example, motorcycles such as the Motoland XT250HS or Kayo K1 weigh about 110 kg, which is significantly more. The price of such a unit is 115,000 rubles, which is a lot for a pit bike, but quite normal for a motorcycle.
Pit bikes 250 cm3
This year, newcomers appeared on the scene, these are pit bikes with a ZS165FMM engine with an actual volume of 230 cm3 and a power of 16 hp, from older enduro motorcycles. Unlike pit bike horizontals, this engine has a vertical cylinder. For me, this is a very interesting option for purchase, which will undoubtedly compete with the 190 pits. The weight is almost the same, a little more than 80 kg. The components are also top-notch. For me, its only drawback is its higher center of gravity due to the horizontal cylinder. But its significant advantage is the price! The cost of Wels CRF 250 is an interesting 85,000 rubles. And the Motoland WRX250 PIT has even less. Significantly less! It costs only 72,000 rubles, which is very, very “tasty”
Types of gasoline scooters based on functionality and technical capabilities
Basically, the power of such a “toy” varies from 50 to 80 cubic meters - it depends on the age of the model.
Externally, scooters resemble greatly simplified copies of real mopeds and even motorcycles, but the bodies are never overloaded so that the child can ride comfortably.
For ease of use and maintenance, manufacturers add a variety of improvements that benefit both little owners and their parents - a good example would be a folding gasoline moped, which is convenient to store in almost any conditions. Another noticeable modification that is not installed on every model is the electric starter - it is necessary for easy starting of the device. Some models may come with branded equipment as a gift.
How to choose the right children's gasoline motorcycles or pit bikes?
First of all, if you buy a children’s gasoline motorcycle specifically for your child, you should not buy the equipment “for growth.” It is very important to buy a motorcycle that is the right size. A child sitting on a motorcycle must touch the ground with his feet. When the young racer grows up, it is better to sell the pit bike and buy another, bigger one. When choosing a pit bike, you shouldn’t worry too much about the brand, but rather pay attention to the equipment and price. Preference should be given to equipment with an electric starter. In addition, reinforced aluminum steering wheel and rims are also a definite plus compared to steel ones. And milled elements, such as traverses, hubs and gearbox feet, are not only beautiful, but also generally increase the strength and reliability of the structure. And most importantly, do not forget about safety, especially if motorcycles are purchased for children. In your purchase budget, be sure to include the cost of protective equipment, primarily a helmet and boots. A protective turtle or shell, as well as knee pads, will definitely not be superfluous.
Pitbike Honda CFR125F
Cross-country versions of children's motorcycles are in great demand, and Japanese products are one of the best. The main feature of the bike is that it has child-like characteristics - a carburetor system and a 125 cc engine. It is unlikely that children can be trusted with such a model, but teenagers from 14 years old can begin to master such power.
The minibike in the Big Whell version received a 19-inch front wheel with a hydraulic brake and a 16-inch rear wheel. The price of a gasoline-powered motorcycle for children is also not exactly for children - about $3,000.
Types of children's motorcycles
- Motorcycle wheelchair;
- Battery motorcycle;
- Gasoline motorcycle.
A wheelchair motorcycle is characterized by the absence of various mechanisms. In order to set this vehicle in motion, the child only needs to push off the floor. Intended for children over 2 years old. The cost of this transport is quite low, which allows you to purchase it on the most favorable terms.
Battery powered motorcycles are easier to use. They include an electric drive at the heart of their design, which makes the vehicle move. Can be used for children from 3 years old. The performance of this vehicle directly depends on the battery capacity. The large capacity battery allows this motorcycle to be used for 5 years and older. An electric motorcycle is absolutely safe to use, which allows parents not to worry about the health of their child.
Battery powered motorcycle
Gasoline motorcycles completely replicate a full-size motorcycle, which has an internal combustion engine. This motorcycle is intended for children 8 years and older. This type of equipment requires special maintenance. In order to ensure the safety of the child, it is necessary to conduct at least one lesson with him. This motorcycle is most suitable for children 12 years old, since their age characteristics allow them to be as careful as possible.
Children's motorcycle with gasoline
Key advantages of gasoline scooters
A children's gasoline scooter from 6 years old is just an improved version of a scooter or children's electric transport. As soon as a child masters the skill of riding it, he is completely safe (if he rides in permitted areas). Riding a gasoline scooter onto the road is strictly prohibited, even for teenagers over 12 years old.
An improved version of electric transport - a children's scooter running on gasoline
Why is this transport better?
- thanks to him, the child will be able to quickly and easily learn to ride an adult vehicle - a moped, and then a motorcycle;
- this fast movement will help shorten the journey, especially if the child does not live in a metropolis;
- Such trips develop a little less physically than cycling cross-country, but they develop balancing skills and give the child an unusual hobby.
Of course, before purchasing such a device, a child must be given clear instructions regarding the dangers that are possible when using any vehicle, even for children.
Parents should definitely make sure that the child understands the danger that will threaten him when entering the roadway.
Features of choosing a motorcycle
Choosing motorcycles for a 9-year-old child and any other category must take into account the child’s individual characteristics. For example, motorcycles for a 10-year-old child can be either gasoline or electric. If the child is very mobile and active, then it is best for him to choose a battery-powered motorcycle, which will ensure a high level of safety during its use.
Mini motorcycles are designed for young children. It is designed so that the child is protected from falls and abrasions. For moving on uneven surfaces, it is best to choose a motocross bike. For extreme sports enthusiasts, you can purchase a sports children's motorcycle. A pit bike is a very convenient and safe vehicle.
Which motocross motorcycle is better for a beginner to buy?
“Which motocross motorcycle is better to buy?” – this is the question that arises for everyone who is going to get seriously involved in motorsports. True, it is unlikely that you will be able to get an unambiguous answer to such a question, because everyone has their own ideas about what is ideal, but it is quite possible to get acquainted with the characteristics that make up good indicators. And this publication will help you with this.
Main parameters.
So, when choosing a motorcycle for competition, pay attention to:
- Build quality. Remember that this type of motorcycle will be used for frequent jumping and off-road riding, so a reliable suspension is a guarantee of your safety. It is not always possible to determine its strength by eye, so choose equipment from reputable brands and do not chase cheap prices on dubious sites.
- Manufacturer. The top 5 companies with steady sales growth include Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM. It's better to buy their bikes.
- Price. As mentioned above, low cost is the first signal indicating an insufficient level of quality. The price of a good bike with an engine capacity of up to 50 cc. starts from 40 thousand rubles, up to 125 cc. – from 60 thousand rubles.
