Here’s How To Easily Make Any Dirt Bike Street Legal
Want to make your dirt bike street legal, but don’t know where to begin? Well, we have decided to make a guide just for you, to help you understand what’s involved in the process from A to Z.
We are going to cover the laws and the parts you’ll need, and we’ll add some tips along with way. The process may seem daunting if you haven’t started yet, but we think you’ll find it’s really not that complicated for riders with moderate mechanical skills and basic tools.
- Universal parts to help you get street legal anywhere
- Upgrading your charging system to handle those parts, and
- Optional parts that are rarely required but are good to have
The best part is, you can do it all yourself!
Legal Issues: Rumors and Facts
There are many myths and rumors that swirl around regarding the legal issues of titling dirt bikes for street use. Some say it can only be done if there was a title issued when the bike was new. Others think you only need to strap on a headlight and a taillight and head out on the road.
The fact is you can title almost any dirt bike, but the process of making a dirt bike street-legal is more complicated than just attaching a couple of lights.
When you’re ready to go street legal, your simplest route is to let the pros at Dirt Legal handle the paperwork side of things for you. Visit our Dirt Bike Street Legal Service page to learn more.
All the Parts You Need
The only thing left for you to do is install the necessary parts to comply with your state’s DOT (Department of Transportation) requirements. Making a dirt bike physically compliant with the operating laws within any state will require some investment of time and money on your part.
Much depends on the model of dirt bike being put into road service, but there are many ways to simplify your build. Check out the infographic above to see the minimum equipment requirements for each state.
Be sure to get familiar with your local laws and regulations before riding a dirt bike on the road. You may not be as street legal as you might think, and this list might not cover everything your area requires.
Headlight
Most states require that motorcycles have a DOT-compliant headlight, which is:
- switchable from high beam to low beam
- lit during the day and night
- is clearly visible but not blinding to drivers
However, a headlight causes a constant draw on your electrical system. One way to keep the headlight’s draw on the battery to a minimum is to install an LED headlight, which requires a fraction of the amps of a halogen light. These lights also enable you to use a battery without a charging system if you wish. We discuss the limitations of this method in the Battery section below.
Be sure you know your local laws about the placement of the high/low switch. Some states have no requirement for this switch, but others are specific. The DOT requirement is that the switch be visible to the rider, and it’s best to place it where it is easily accessible, like the traditional left-hand side of the handle bar.
Tail Light
The tail light, with a working brake light function, enables drivers behind you to see that you are slowing down. It also attracts attention, which is just as important for safety in the daylight as it is in the dark.
Installing the proper taillight can kill four DOT requirements at once!
In some states the light must be connected to a battery, which must be able to remain lit for 20 minutes, and it must be on at all times. Like the headlight, an LED tail light will reduce the draw on the battery, meaning longer battery life and less need for a stator upgrade.
The switches for the taillight must be installed so that the rear brake pedal and front brake lever both light up the tail light when engaged. One common solution is a banjo-bolt switch, which uses the extra pressure in the brake line when engaged to trigger the brake light. Mechanical switch options are also available which are best suited for drum brakes.
There are good taillight bracket-fender combos on the market that solve installation issues with a finished look.
Mirrors
Some states require that a motorcycle have two mirrors in place, but most just require that motorcycles have at least one working mirror.
A functioning mirror allows you to see what is going on behind you. They keep you safe, so be careful using a cheap, shaky mirror if you do a lot of street riding.
Some riders prefer the look of their machines sans mirrors, and will begrudgingly install a single, low-profile mirror for looks. When taking this route, it is wise to invest in a wide-angle mirror, which will do away with the blind spot on at least one side of the bike.
Many bikes that have available dual-sport versions will readily accept classic, threaded, long-stem mirrors. If not, a simple solution is to clamp on bar-end mirrors. They have a considerably lower profile than the stem mirrors, and some provide much better views of what’s going on behind you.
Turn Signals
Many states do not require turn signals, but instead require hand signals to be used.
Even then, it is still wise to install turn signals. The flashing yellow lights get the attention of drivers much better than hands do, especially at night. And they also allow riders to stay in control of their handlebars when making a turn.
That said, if your only stumbling block is installing blinkers, the use of hand signals may allow you to skip this step in many states. Some states have specific requirements regarding the installation of turn signals, but not all. And again, LED blinkers will reduce the draw from the battery vs a bulb.
Tires
The tires on any street-going motorcycle must be DOT Certified.
Dirt bike rims normally accept DOT-rated tires, which contain extra layers of rubber and are highway-speed rated. If they are approved, tires will be marked DOT on the sidewall. It doesn’t matter if the tires are knobbies or not, only that they have the DOT certification.
You may get away with skirting this law, but off-road-only tires are ill suited for the rigors of highway speeds and may come apart at the seams. The smartest and safest approach is to install DOT-approved skins if you do a lot of pavement riding.
An increasingly popular option is to convert a dirt bike into a supermoto by installing 17 inch rims and mounting street tires found on most sport bikes.
We all know and love Supermotos, but where did it all begin? What does the word Supermoto actually mean? To find out, we need to travel way back in time… to the 1960s.
Besides the obvious style points from this mod, sport tires offer increased longevity and maneuverability over knobbies when racking up miles on a road-going dirt bike.
Many sport bike riders have converted to the supermoto life due to the lighter weight of a dirt bike and the easiness of maneuvering it both on and off-road. The conversion will require special supermoto rims usually 17 in the front and rear to accept the sport tires, but kits are available that include wheels, cush-drive hubs, tires and brake rotors for an easy swap.
Horn
This is where we start to get into a bit of a gray area in regulations.
All states require motorcycles to have a working horn, but some allow non-electric horns to pass if an inspection is needed. Other states specify that the horn must be electric for a motorcycle to be street legal. The simplest way through this part of the maze is to just install an electric horn.
Most draw less than 10 amps, so they are no challenge to a properly set up charging system. They are also very cheap starting at around 8.
License Plate Bracket
Motorcycles used on public roads will need to display a license plate.
This rule is the same everywhere, though some states are more particular about the method of display than others. It is best to check with the local DMV to be sure the license plate is properly displayed on your street legal dirt bike.
There are aftermarket license plate brackets available that display plates in a way that is legal in most every state. You may also consider alternative means of affixing the plate, such as zip ties or mounting it beneath the fender for a cleaner look as pictured below. Just be careful that it doesn’t fly off.
In many states, you can also mount the plate vertically if it makes it easier for you. A light will be necessary, but a cheap LED strip mounted above the plate will suffice, and may prove to be a permanent solution. Some states require the plate to be past the rear tire for easy readability, but if it is visible from the rear of the bike then you shouldn’t run into any issues.
Upgrading the Charging System
This often-overlooked aspect of street legal dirt bike conversions can leave you parked on the side of the road.
A battery is not necessary to power lights on a dirt bike if you have sufficient power from the stator. However, to power the required lights for street riding, you will need to convert the AC power your stator is making fire the spark plug to DC power the lights can use.
Powering lights off of alternating current will soon fry them. Although there are lights which can be powered by AC voltage, they usually have a much shorter life. A dirt bike without any of these components should be modified to use them.
The classic motorcycle charging system consists of a stator, a regulator/rectifier and a battery. Some motorcycles utilize alternators like cars do, but this is less common on dirt bikes.
Stator
The stator (or sometimes alternator) generates electricity in a motorcycle, but they do not all produce the same amount of it. A dirt bike without lights or a starter has minimal electrical requirements, and the stator likely produces minimal wattage.
The total draw of all the electrical components to be placed on the street-legal build should leave enough leftover power to charge the battery — 13 to 15 volts. Most kickstart-only dirt bikes will require an upgraded stator to power the added components.
The stock stator can be rewound to generate more power or you can purchase a high output stator online for most dirt bikes. Ricky Stator Is one popular choice to purchase upgraded stators for off-road vehicles.
Regulator/Rectifier
The regulator/rectifier converts the alternating current coming from the stator to direct current that the electrical components can use. It also takes the high voltage coming from the stator and regulates it down to the 13 to 15 volts required to charge the battery.
Some aftermarket companies sell kits with upgraded stators and regulator rectifiers that are meant to work together. Again, do not operate lights directly off of alternating current unless the lights were made to handle it.
Battery
A battery is not necessary on most dirt bikes, but without it, you can only use your lights when the bike is running and the lights may dim while the bike is idling.
There are some small batteries on the market specifically designed for converting dirt bikes to street legal.
Some work as a lone power source for the lights on a bike, and some are designed to work with a charging system. Both styles are discreet, but supply all the DC power these motorcycles require.
However, using a battery as the lone power source will inevitably drain it quickly. It will require frequent charging and will have a short life, but it will do its job until you can perform a proper conversion.
There are bike-specific kits available that contain all three major electrical components, along with wiring harnesses. Wiring harnesses from a dual sport version of your dirt bike may also be available in the used market.
Optional Street Legal Components
Most local areas will not require these components, and while some will, it’s always a good idea to rock them on your street legal dirt bike conversion.
Odometer
An odometer is a luxury on a dirt bike, but is important to have for street riding. It tells you speed, mileage, RPM, and engine temperature.
Currently, it is only legally required on motorcycles in Indiana, so this is an optional part. With a trip meter, you can make sure you never run out of gas again! It’s a very common mistake to run out of gas on a dirt bike seeing as they only carry around 2 gallons of fuel. These are fairly easy to install for the most part. Companies like Trail Tech offer all in one odometers which include everything needed for a DIY installation.
Kickstand
Not many off-road-only dirt bikes have kickstands due to safety concerns of it falling down accidentally.
The safety hazard these contraptions pose on the street is practically nil, however, and trying to live without one in urban use is an exercise in futility. Again, kickstands are not required by law, but they are a simple convenience that many riders overlook in the rush to get a dirt bike on the road, only to later find there isn’t always a place to rest the bike.
Best to have one, don’t you think?
Street Gearing
The front and rear sprockets on a dirt bike are likely intended for slower top speeds than the typical street legal dual sport machine gets up to on the road. They are likely set up for explosive bursts of speed.
A gearing change can make a huge difference in acceleration and top-end speed. Getting a rear sprocket with more teeth will provide better pickup at the cost of top speed, and vice versa.
The opposite is true for the front sprocket, where dropping a tooth will net greater acceleration at a cost of top-end power. Keep in mind that, if your dirt bike has a speedometer, changing the front sprocket will likely make it read incorrectly.
Fan
Most dirt bikes don’t come with a fan, due to the fact that they are not built with streets in mind. They are made to be constantly moving, not sitting at red lights on the way to McDonald’s. If you live in an urban area with traffic, you may want to add a fan to your bike to keep the engine from overheating.
Cush Drive Hub
This is an extremely bike-specific issue.
To simplify, most road-going motorcycles have a dampening system in place to soften the blow of road imperfections on the transmission system. Either the clutch hub or the rear wheel hub may contain rubber pieces for dampening. These “cush drive” hubs allow for some play in the driveline. Dirt bikes rarely have them because the loose terrain allows sliding the rear wheel while shifting.
On the street, cush drives save transmissions from expensive damages and are a wise investment. Due diligence on the part of the bike owner may save tremendous headaches down the line.
There’s Nothing You Can’t Do Yourself!
Converting a dirt bike to be street legal can sometimes seem overwhelming, which is why we offer 24/7 customer service 365 days a year. If you’re having trouble with getting your off-road vehicle road worthy, feel free to contact us.
Take some time to research your own ride and the local laws in your area, determining piece by piece whether upgrades are needed and finding a permanent and high-quality solution to each issue. The time you spend now making sure you get it right will make a huge difference in the quality of your ride down the road.
When you’re ready to get your bike titled and registered, Dirt Legal has you covered. The headaches involved with converting a dirt bike to street use are mostly just good times turning wrenches. You take care of the fun stuff, and we’ll do the paperwork.
Need a license plate? Making dirt bike street legal is what we do.
Let us take on all of the headaches of dealing with the DMV for you. No more playing phone tag or waiting in line at the DMV for hours on end, and no need to spend your evenings researching the laws in your state.
When you’re ready to go street legal, your simplest route is to let the pros at Dirt Legal handle the paperwork side of things for you. The laws governing how to make a dirt bike street legal change from state to state, but we’ve done all the research so you don’t have to. We can register almost any dirt bike, whether it came with a title or MSO from the manufacturer or not.
Visit our Street Legal Dirt Bike Service page to learn more.
From our website, simply choose your vehicle service, then fill out the form with your vehicle information. After your purchase, you will receive a welcome packet in the mail. Complete the enclosed forms and send them back to Dirt Legal in the pre-paid envelope provided, then wait for your tag, registration and/or title to arrive in the mail as fast as possible!
We offer a 100% money-back guarantee if we fail to make your dirt bike street legal.
That’s why Dirt Legal is the most trusted source for this unique service. We have dealt with the most complex situations and can often get a street legal tag and title in your home state, which is something most people struggle to do on their own.
Anyone have an electric Dirt Bike for the kiddos.
Of course I buy a used Razor on Monday, and the Mototec we’ve been waiting on for 2 months comes back in stock on Wednesday.
MotoTec 48v Pro Electric Dirt Bike 1600w Lithium Blue
Dirt Bikes, Ride on toys, Power Wheels, Battery Operated Vehicles, Electric Scooters, Gas Scooters, Go Karts, Pedal Tractors
Murf’n’surf
Jetboaters Admiral
Messages 6,857 Reaction score 5,699 Points 492 Location Naples Florida Boat Make Yamaha Year 2005 Boat Model SX Boat Length 23
Of course I buy a used Razor on Monday, and the Mototec we’ve been waiting on for 2 months comes back in stock on Wednesday.
MotoTec 48v Pro Electric Dirt Bike 1600w Lithium Blue
Dirt Bikes, Ride on toys, Power Wheels, Battery Operated Vehicles, Electric Scooters, Gas Scooters, Go Karts, Pedal Tractors
Water Witch Digital Hour Meters, High Water Bilge Alarm, Dual Group 27 AGM Batts. Located in Beautiful Naples Florida CLICK HERE FOR JETBOATERS.NET STICKERS
Yambers
Jetboaters Lieutenant
Messages 569 Reaction score 960 Points 157 Location Indianapolis, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2020 Boat Model Limited S Boat Length 24
Buy it! Buy them all! It is only money and nobody ever bragged about how much money thay had when they died. lol
2kwik4u
Jetboaters Fleet Admiral
Messages 6,982 Reaction score 8,590 Points 512 Location Georgetown, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2017 Boat Model AR Boat Length 19
2hrs later they’re down to 2 left in stock. Good grief, can’t even get home to discuss it with the finance committee!
Murf’n’surf
Jetboaters Admiral
Messages 6,857 Reaction score 5,699 Points 492 Location Naples Florida Boat Make Yamaha Year 2005 Boat Model SX Boat Length 23
2hrs later they’re down to 2 left in stock. Good grief, can’t even get home to discuss it with the finance committee!
Water Witch Digital Hour Meters, High Water Bilge Alarm, Dual Group 27 AGM Batts. Located in Beautiful Naples Florida CLICK HERE FOR JETBOATERS.NET STICKERS
2kwik4u
Jetboaters Fleet Admiral
Messages 6,982 Reaction score 8,590 Points 512 Location Georgetown, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2017 Boat Model AR Boat Length 19
Spent an hour messing with the dirtbike last night. 10yr old is at grandmas 2-states away and doesn’t know we have it yet, so that let me get some time alone with it to fix a few things.
Initial ride was SCARY. ZERO brakes. Previous owner had them adjust all the way out, or in the case of the front, completely disconnected. Front brakes were so loose they didn’t work at all. It kept cutting out at random times. Couldn’t figure it out at first, but realized the rear brake handle has a safety switch in it so you can’t apply power and brakes at the same time. With no rear brake connected the lever was flopping around and killing power without warning. SO, put it on charge and went in for dinner.
- Tightened/adjusted both brakes. I’m gonna need to get a new rear caliper. Return spring on this one is shot, so it drags a little, and doesn’t pull the level fully back. Front brakes are in great shape, once adjusted it’ll damn near do a stoppie with my 225lb butt aboard.
- Lubed and adjusted chain. It was loud and squeaky and rattly on the first ride. Some Tri-Flow (it’s all I had, I’ll have to get some better stuff) and a light tension adjustment helped tremendously.
- Light washing to remove the last of the graphics on one side. Guess you’re not supposed to use whatever the previous owner did to wash it. Decals were peeling in spots when I got it. Went ahead and removed them to match on both sides, and at least be a consistent color/pattern.
- Adjusted the handle bar position and level position so it actually works. I’ll have to readjust for the 10yr old, but it’s super easy.
- Need to source a new front fork. This one has a damaged bushing or something and has a wobble when transitioning on/off the brakes. Left side needs something. It rattles as well, but I’ve read online they all do that, so I’m not super worried.
- Need to true the front wheel. It’s got a slight wobble to it from side to side. I’m sure I can adjust the spokes a little and get it trued up. I’ve done it in the past on other dirtbikes I’ve had, just didn’t have the time to address it last night.
Also, wouldn’t let the wife take a picture of me on it. I look like a circus monkey I’m sure
oboata
Active Member
If you have time before you see your grandson, it’s easy to upgrade the Razors to a bigger motor. There are lots of videos on YouTube.
For Christmas 2019 we got my youngest, 10 years old at the time, a used Razor and he and I spent January upgrading it together. We upgraded it to 48v and 1800 watt motor. I’m 185lb and easily cruise at 20 MPH by GPS speed app, he’s probably doing 30 MPH.
This was before Covid so I’m sure are higher now, the upgrade was around 300. Bought the motor and controller off ebay for 120, 4 new lead-acid batteries for 110, and charger/switches etc for another 50. If you do the upgrade, look into a lithium battery pack, it’s more expensive but so much lighter. The 4 lead-acid batteries weigh a ton, almost as much as the rest of the bike.
Your grandson will have a blast, it’s so some much fun for young and old alike.
2kwik4u
Jetboaters Fleet Admiral
Messages 6,982 Reaction score 8,590 Points 512 Location Georgetown, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2017 Boat Model AR Boat Length 19
If you have time before you see your grandson, it’s easy to upgrade the Razors to a bigger motor. There are lots of videos on YouTube.
For Christmas 2019 we got my youngest, 10 years old at the time, a used Razor and he and I spent January upgrading it together. We upgraded it to 48v and 1800 watt motor. I’m 185lb and easily cruise at 20 MPH by GPS speed app, he’s probably doing 30 MPH.
This was before Covid so I’m sure are higher now, the upgrade was around 300. Bought the motor and controller off ebay for 120, 4 new lead-acid batteries for 110, and charger/switches etc for another 50. If you do the upgrade, look into a lithium battery pack, it’s more expensive but so much lighter. The 4 lead-acid batteries weigh a ton, almost as much as the rest of the bike.
Your grandson will have a blast, it’s so some much fun for young and old alike.
Yea, if he likes this one and wears it out, we’ll look at upgrades. I’m not sure how much use he’ll get from it at this point, so we went used to gage interest.
I’ve seen some kits for ~450 or so that include the motor, new chain, controller, and all the plugs to make it work. Doesn’t include batteries, so might look into Lithium when the time comes.
2kwik4u
Jetboaters Fleet Admiral
Messages 6,982 Reaction score 8,590 Points 512 Location Georgetown, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2017 Boat Model AR Boat Length 19
Well, he’s doing his best to wear this one out. Been going through 3-4 charges a day on it so far. I can see LiPo battery, motor, and controller upgrade coming this winter. Assuming he doesn’t wear this stuff out before then.
Size turned out to be about right. He’s got this season and maybe next on this frame size. Then we’ll need to either lift it a little, or find the next size up bike.
They’ve started doing laps between the houses and around the block and into the field. His MX500 is a good bit faster than his buddies Indian FTR500. Same motor and battery, so best I can tell it’s rider weight (he’s about 40lbs lighter than his buddy), and back tire diameter (MX500 is a shade taller overall). Either way, they’re having a helluva time so far. Curious how long until the new wears off of it.
2kwik4u
Jetboaters Fleet Admiral
Messages 6,982 Reaction score 8,590 Points 512 Location Georgetown, IN Boat Make Yamaha Year 2017 Boat Model AR Boat Length 19
Another update a week later. Shew buddy it’s been a rough one for him. He turns 10 today, so maybe it’s up from here.
He finally crashed it a few days ago. Tumbled off when the wheel got caught between the grass and the sidewalk. Luckily it was somewhat low speed and he just banged up a knee with some rash and bruised his hand a bit. Ego was hurt more than the bike. He was able to get it up and ride it home. Came in the house wailing like a banshee though. He’s fine now, and back on the thing.
Got, LITERALLY, pulled over by the Sheriff on Sunday night. Lights and everything. Someone called complaining of A bunch of kids riding dirtbikes over in the field. There are two of them, both on electric bikes, mostly riding through the field, between the houses, up the street, and around again. THey’ve developed a loop now and are racing each other. Anywho, Sheriff stopped him about 3 houses down, and I happened to be in the garage and walked out to check on him. Sheriff was super cool about it once he found out it was electric. Said, the person complaining was from the second street, and didn’t say anything about the noise, just though those kids shouldn’t be doing that. We all had a chat, and again, the sheriff was super cool about it all. Gave the boys some tips on how to remain visible to cars if he was on the road, quized him on which side of the road to be on and things like that, and generally made sure he wasn’t acting like a dummy (he wasn’t). Said have a nice night and drove off. I suspect he’ll be by to check on us every so often, but doubt he’ll stop to talk to us again unless the 10yr old does something wrong. Super glad I didn’t go gas powered at this point. Took a shade over a week to get called on. I knew it was coming.
Finally, it broke last night. Lost a bolt that holds the shock to the swingarm. Just rattled out and went away. About dumped him in the grass, but he recovered, got stopped and walked it home from there. No big deal, I’ll grab one from the bolt bin at work, and he’ll be back up and running tonight. I’ll throw the new rear caliper on it while I’ve got it on the bench. I HAVE to find some new front forks though. His are insanely clacky and a little wobbly. Been watching marketplace and craigslist for a spare bike to use as parts. All the forks I can find are sold out online
The Best Electric Dirt Bikes of 2023
Remarkably, only one of them went for the Dirt-E joke.
The motoring world is going electric. And it’s not just fancy, 1,000-horsepower, six-figure electric trucks. Electric motorcycle options have been increasing over the past few years. And even the relatively humble and underpowered dirt bike segment now offers a proliferation of emissions-free options — and we’re here to help you separate the battery-powered wheat from the chaff.
Why You Should Get an Electric Dirt Bike
Helps Save the Planet: Smaller motorcycles are far from the most fuel-thirsty vehicles. But electric dirt bikes still reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and every little bit helps.
Less Maintenance: Electric motors require far fewer moving parts. That means more time riding and less time (and money) replacing parts. You also don’t need to buy things like oil.
Less Noise: Electric dirt bikes do make some noise, but they make less than internal-combustion dirt bikes — noise that can diminish the enjoyment of being in nature for riders and those nearby.
Accessible to New Riders: Like electric cars, electric dirt bikes do not need a manual transmission. This may disappoint some riders looking for a traditional feel. But it’s also way easier to manage while off-road.
Torque: Electric dirt bikes tend to have a lot of torque, and it comes on instantly. This helps them accelerate rapidly and feel quick in everyday riding.
What to Look For
Street Legality: Like combustion dirt bikes, many of them will not be street-legal. And you may live in a municipality that will confiscate and crush them if you try to use them for that — electric or not. There are dual-sport electric dirt bikes (lighter than adventure motorcycles), which can also be used as commuter bikes. But make sure you clarify that before buying.
Battery Range: Range is a significant drawback to any electric vehicle. You want to ensure you have enough range to do the amount of riding you’re planning. expensive electric dirt bikes will have range that can exceed what most drives can handle physically. But that may be costly.
Battery Charging: A nother important factor beyond range is how long it takes to charge the battery. Shorter is better. Manufacturers may offer accessories that improve charging speed. Some dirt bikes can instantly swap in a newly charged battery and return to the trail.
How We Tested
Gear Patrol writers and editors are continually testing the best electric dirt bikes on a variety of terrains to update this guide looking at features like comfort, ease of use and riding characteristics. Our testers have spent time riding the Zero XF and the Cake Kalk INK so far; however, we’ll be updating this guide as we continue to test more models.
Zero’s FX isn’t a one-trick pony; it’s good at a little bit of everything. It’s fast but torque-heavy up front. For comparison, it’s nimble but still about 50 pounds heavier than KTM’s 350EXC-F. And it’s quiet, which anyone who’s ridden a dual sport before knows has distinct advantages and downsides. (Upsides include not disturbing nature as you ride through and saving your eardrums; cons include being unable to announce yourself to other riders on the trail or cars on the street.)
The FX’s ride is very smooth — from city streets to rutted-out trails and even completely off-road in the ungroomed wild. The tires grip well on city streets, even after a light rain. The FX can reach a top speed of 85, but I rarely found myself pushing it above 65 — this is a great cruising bike built for the trails as much as it is for the road. The acceleration feels torque-y until you get the hang of the feeling; I’d recommend starting in Eco until you get a feel for how the bike handles, experienced rider or not.
The profile is lean and mean, just as advertised. Your tester is 5’4” and weigh 110 pounds, and she could handle and maneuver this bike with relative ease, although she did make sure to get comfortable on the bike on uncrowded trails before taking it to the streets. Zero says the charging time is 1.3 hours, but I found it to be much longer than that. the bike was delivered to me with an 80 percent charge, and it took more than two hours to get it full. The range is 91 miles which is a solid day’s ride, but unless you have the means to give the bike a good overnight charge, you’ll be SOL the next day. And that 91-mile range is in the city — if you’re riding on the highway at 70 mph without starting and stopping, it drops to 39 miles per charge.
We’ve been fans of Swedish manufacturer Cake — and Stefan Ytterborn’s helmet/eyewear/apparel brand, POC — for years. Founded in 2016, Cake has consistently put out smooth, innovative electric bikes that offer both gorgeous looks and purpose-built function.
The Kalk class of offroaders, however, is much more about play than work. The street-legal Kalk INK picks up quick thanks to 252Nm of electric torque, while reliable suspension (200mm of travel) and beefy dual-sport motorcycle tires help you keep the shiny side up from the road to the trails.
- Removable battery charges from 0 to 80 percent in two hours, 0 to 100 percent in three
- Three ride modes and three braking modes adapt to your style and environment
- Not exactly the cushiest seat on the planet (or this page)
- You must come to a full stop to adjust ride and braking modes
What Are Dirt Bikes? And How Fast Do Dirt Bikes Go? Dirt Bike Average And Maximum Speed
Dirt bikes are designed for use primarily on rough terrains such as dirt tracks and other unpaved areas. Your expectations for their speed off-road may be high, but how fast do dirt bikes typically travel?
Bsxinsight will look into how fast do dirt bikes go and how different cc bikes compare in this article.
What’s A Dirt Bike?
Off-road vehicles, such as dirt bikes and off-road motorcycles, are intended for usage on terrain that is not paved, including snow, dirt, gravel, and sand.
Their tires are tough and knobby so they can maintain a good traction on surfaces like that. The motorcycles are lighter and more flexible than standard bikes because they have longer suspensions and higher ground clearances.
In addition, the gearing of dirt bikes is higher so that the bikes can produce more torque.
How Fast Do Dirt Bikes Go?
50cc Dirt Bike
The typical top speed for a dirt bike powered by a 50cc engine is between 25 and 40 miles per hour. At this speed, you are not in danger of being hit by a car or truck that is racing down the road.
Kids in the first half of middle school would do well on a dirt bike powered by a 50cc engine because of how easy it is to ride and control.
65cc Dirt Bike
The 65cc class of dirt bikes is the beginner class, with models suitable for riders under the age of 12 who have some experience with dirt bikes and know the basics of what they’re doing.
At its top speed of 62 miles per hour, it is only suitable for riders with some experience.
80cc Dirt Bike
A typical 80cc dirt bike can reach speeds of 45–55 mph.
However, there is a great deal of variety in the engine configurations produced by the dirt bike industry. This means that there are two- and four-stroke 80cc dirt bikes that can travel at speeds of more than 50 mph and even up to 70 mph.
100cc Dirt Bike
The top speed of a dirt bike with a 100cc engine is around 60 miles per hour. However, depending on how the engine is adjusted and whether or not there is a secondary carburetor, the top speed can range from 60 to 80 miles per hour.
At this rate, you’ll be going a lot faster than most cars do on city streets.
110cc Dirt Bike
It’s not uncommon for dirt bikes with a 110cc engine to reach speeds of up to 50 mph, though some of the newest and more expensive models boast speeds of up to 55 mph.
However, in order to achieve top speed, you’ll need tires built for the surface you’ll be driving on, a properly functioning radiator and air filter, and a track in pristine condition.
125cc dirt bike
Compared to the top speed of a dirt bike with a 55cc engine, which is around 55 miles per hour, the top speed of a 125cc dirt bike is closer to 60 miles per hour. A heavy rider can exceed these speeds on downhill roads.
Though, proceed with caution. Manufacturers of dirt bikes strongly advise against stunt riding due to the inherent risks.
125cc 4-stroke Dirt Bike
In spite of their similar engine sizes, not all 125cc 4-stroke dirt bikes are created equal.
The maximum speed of the 125cc 4-stroke motorcycles varies from 35 to 55 miles per hour. Maximum speeds of 12cc 4-stroke dirt bikes vary widely.
150cc Dirt Bike
A dirt bike powered by a 150cc engine can typically reach speeds of around 60 miles per hour.
There are, however, a variety of ways to increase the top speed of a dirt bike powered by a 150cc engine. It will take some practice before you can reach the bike’s top speed when riding a 150cc dirt bike.
200cc Dirt Bike
One can travel up to 60 miles per hour on a dirt bike with a 200cc engine. An enormous improvement over the 50cc dirt bike.
Bikes with a displacement of 200 cc or more often feature four-stroke engines with a high horsepower output, making them more difficult to steer. A 200 cc engine is adequate for racing because of its efficiency and power.
250cc Dirt Bike
The top speed of a motorcycle with a 250cc engine will range from about 70 to 80 miles per hour, depending on the specific model.
A 2- or 4-stroke motorcycle will have a slightly higher top speed, but only by 5 or 10 mph. The top speed of a dirt bike powered by a 250cc engine is highly variable and dependent on a number of factors.
400cc Dirt Bike
The top speed of dirt bikes with a 400cc engine varies widely between different models, but on average, these bikes can reach 87 miles per hour.
When comparing top speeds, the Suzuki DR-Z and Honda CRF have the largest gap, with 17 mph. Increasing the engine size to 400cc makes a noticeable difference in velocity.
450cc Dirt Bike
450cc dirt bikes can havethe speed up to 90 mph and occasionally higher before they reach their limit. Dirt bikes of this type are the most popular choice for riders who weigh approximately more than 160 pounds.
The top speed will change based on the bike’s modifications, the rider’s weight, the engine’s stroke, and other factors like wind resistance, gear ratios, and the surface area covered by the bike.
Electric Dirt Bike
An electric dirt bike’s top speed typically falls between 12 and 22 miles per hour. Smaller electric dirt bikes are great for kids, while larger ones are better suited for grownups. However, there are limits to how fast an electric dirt bike can travel in public places according to the law.
Factors Affecting Dirt Bike Speed
Variety Of Engine
Both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines can be found in dirt bikes. If you ever see a 2-stroke dirt bike, you’ll probably see a lot of white smoke and a dirt bike moving away from you.
In the modern world, manufacturers can only make 4-stroke engines because of strict emission standards. This means that the 2-stroke engine will soon be a thing of the past.
If you have an older 2-stroke engine, you have more power than if you have a 4-stroke engine, because the combustion process only takes place in two steps instead of four.
They also have more torque at higher RPMs, which is an advantage for the rider. People in the bike world talk a lot about the improved engine platform, but it all comes down to what a rider wants.
Some people like the quick power boost of a 2-stroke engine, while others like the reliability of a 4-stroke engine when putting the power down. In the end, it comes down to what the rider wants and what they want the bike to do.
Most motorcycles are cooled by air, but dirt bikes can also be cooled by water. Your bike’s top speed is directly affected by how well it cools.
Vehicle Brand
Dirt bike manufacturers are an important element of the market. There’s a chance Honda could be recognized as the firm that popularized off-road motorcycles.
However, many motocross racers swear by Yamaha dirt bikes since they are among the best available. The top speed of a 150cc dirt bike is determined by a variety of factors, including the type of bike and its design.
- Dirt bike construction necessitates a great degree of know-how and skill.
- Funding for scientific research and development
- Functionality-enhancing supplies
All of the aforementioned criteria have an impact on the performance of a bicycle. In the case of motorcycles, for example, peak speed would suffer if the manufacturer did not have the means to invest in RD to make the bikes lighter and faster.
Furthermore, if the manufacturer chooses to save money by employing heavier or less expensive materials, the bike’s performance may suffer.
Personal Demographics
Many human factors can influence the peak speed of your dirt bike. Many people share your enthusiasm for riding your dirt bike off-road. However, we are not all constructed the same way as individuals.
The following factors may have an impact on the peak speed of your dirt bike:
- The rider’s height and physique
- Bicycle utilization
- Budget for buying the bike
How fast a bike can go depends heavily on the rider’s size and weight. Simply simple, heavier weight equals slower speed. As a result, your physique, as well as your seating position, will have a considerable impact on your speed.
Top Fastest Dirt Bike In The World
KTM 450 SX-F
KTM has always produced motorcycles capable of contending with the world’s fastest two-wheeler. The 450 SX-F dirt bike has a 449cc engine and weighs only 237 pounds.
KTM 450 motorcycles will win sprinting dirt bike races with the right rider. Nothing less than 450 pounds can compete with a top speed of 123 mph, so “drop the hammer.”
Aprilia RXV 5.5
The Aprilia RXV 5.5 is a strong motorcycle that weighs only 303 pounds. The 549cc engine, which produces 55 horsepower, accounts for the majority of its weight.
This bike outperformed 100 mph on multiple occasions, reaching 113 mph. Its weight had no effect on the bike’s acceleration, as it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.16 seconds. While this bike is available in heavier versions with more power, the RXV 5.5 is the most cost-effective option.
Beta 450RS
Surprisingly, this smooth dirt bike is street legal throughout the United States. Although many individuals in the United States are unaware with Beta, it has earned a reputation.
With a top speed of over 111 mph, it offers more speed than you could ever want. If you want a fast bike that can tear up trails while still cruising down the road, the Beta 450RS is a no-brainer.
ATK Intimidator
The limited edition ATK Intimidator has long been regarded as the world’s fastest dirt bike. The 700 boasts a 685cc two-stroke engine producing of 78 horsepower yet weighing only 238 pounds.
With the right modifications, an ATK Intimidator would have a clear advantage over the fastest dirt bikes tested. The 700 Intimidator has been clocked at speeds in excess of 110 mph by racers.
BMW G650 XChallenge
You definitely don’t image yourself blasting down trails on a dirt bike when you think of BMW. In contrast, the BMW G650 XChallenge dirt bike can easily compete with other classic bikes.
This bike has all the power you’d expect from BMW, with a top speed of 104 mph. This bike is perfect for keeping things simple in the trials.
FAQs
Does the speed of a dirt bike matter?
When looking for a quick dirt bike, consider the power of the dirt bike. In general, speed is not the most crucial thing to consider when off-roading.
Other factors to consider are powerful gears, smooth and quick handling, lightweight, and a powerful engine that plays a significant role.
How can you get the most speed out of your dirt bike?
Giving extra gas will not allow you to ride a dirt bike quicker than ever before. You must understand how your body position influences the input of a dirt bike.
You must know the technique, be familiar with the terrain, and avoid riding in first gear. These three factors will accelerate you regardless of the type of dirt bike you ride.
Conclusion
While there are many different types of dirt bikes, the cc usually defines how fast they can go. Although dirt bikes are not designed to be fast, some of them can achieve speeds of 90-100 miles per hour.
The greatest speed you can achieve on a dirt bike is controlled by several factors, including the surface you’re riding on, the engine, the amount of horsepower it provides, and the suspension.
Thanks for reading! You can find out more about healthy lifestyles, fitness equipment, and how to do various things with your bikes. What you think off might be having on our website.