Thread: Starter bike for 10 & 14yo

Looking to get a bike to start the boys on. The issue is the age and size gap, ideally I'd like one bike to start with, but it will probably be to the detriment of one of them. Either too small or, too big. 10yo is 4ft 5, 14yo is 5ft 3

Other thing I'm undecided on Is bike choice, low maintenance low performance 4 strokes such as the Drz 125 or more performance orientated ktm85, crf150 etc.

CRF 150 is a sure choice

Id shy away from a 85cc 2 stroke if they've not ridden before, I think it'd be easier to learn on a lazier 4 stroke engine,

I'll throw in another vote for a CRF150f, should be plenty easy to learn on, although it does have a 830mm seat height compared to the 780mm of the crf125 so depending on how tall you're kids are you might find the CRF125 will be better,

Once you get them hooked then maybe look into the larger bikes or the 2 strokes,
Fwiw I started on a 70's ct125 trail then moved to an XR200R, I think that progression worked quite well and both being simple air cooled hondas I never had any issues with them,

although that all goes out the window if you're planning on setting them on a MX track, then I'd say go for the 2 strokes, probably a KX or YZ85, can always big bore them when they grow into it to get a bit more power.

Jr80 dont look past it. 2 stroke yes but with an oil reservoir so no mixing gas. Plenty of low end torque for a 2 banger so easy to learn on but plwnty of pep at the top end to keep them inerested. Low seat height ect. And cheap.

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My 12yo have DRZ125L (Big Wheel) and its a tad to high for her leg even at the lowest spring/seat setting,
I feel DRZ125 (Small wheel) is a better option for her considering her height and the terrain/bushes that we ride in.
I quite like DZL125L, its light, small-ish bike that I can pick up and control easily.
We also have CRF and it feel heavier and has more grunt, you cant go wrong with either one.

Thanks all.

Ideally I'd like to get the crf150, but there is no way my youngest would be able to even one foot it, as he's cursed with his mum's height. Therefore I'm leaning towards the DRZ however will keep trying for 2

Lower the front forks and wind the rear shock down

Klx110L would be good for your young one, it’s a higher version of the standard 110.

Stay right away from race style 2 strokes until they’ve had quite a bit of time learning to ride. Lazy four strokes are the best for learning, they can concentrate on cornering etc rather than worrying about powerband, or just gassing it on the straights thinking they’re good riders because the bikes screaming.

Buy second hand, you’ll lose hardly anything when you go to sell it again.