Introducing your kids to the exciting hobby of dirt biking is a decision that can result in countless hours of fun, adventure, and good childhood memories. However, understanding and selecting the right dirt bike for your youngster can become an intimidating task, especially when faced with the decision between gas-powered and electric dirt bikes.
Each type has its own set of highlights and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you make an informed choice best accommodate your child and your families’ lifestyle. This blog aims to compare gas-powered dirt bikes with electric dirt bikes, focusing on key considerations such as power curve, weight, noise, parental mechanical knowledge, serviceability, speed and power limitations, and design.

 

Power Curve

The power curve of any dirt bike refers to how the bike delivers its power to the rear wheel across the full RPM (revolutions per minute) range of the motor.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Gas-powered dirt bikes typically have a more traditional power curve, with power delivery becoming stronger as the engine RPM increases. This can provide a more thrilling experience as the bike accelerates, but it can also make them harder to control for beginners. Especially the power surge of two stroke motors at higher RPMs can be intimidating for young riders and may require more skill to handle the bike effectively, including but not limited to clutch control.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric dirt bikes, on the other hand, offer a much smoother and more predictable power delivery. The torque is often available instantly from low RPM, providing a more linear power curve that is a bit easier for kids to predict and manage. This instant power delivery means that electric dirt bikes can be both exciting and manageable, making them an excellent choice for beginners on smaller tracks, backyards and on paddocks. The smooth acceleration helps young riders gain confidence without the fear of sudden power surges.

 

Weight

The weight of the dirt bike is a critical factor, especially for younger children who upgrade from a push bike or electric balance bike. They may be intimidated or even struggle with the handling of heavier bikes.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Gas-powered bikes tend to be heavier due to their internal combustion engines and fuel tanks. This added weight can make them more challenging for kids to manoeuvre, especially when they need to pick up the bike after a fall (it happens more often than you might think). The additional weight can also affect the bike’s handling and balance, making it less forgiving for novice riders. Also consider, when petrol powered bike lay on their side, the internal oil flow and petrol flow is impacted and often you see parents or bystanders rushing kids to help after a fall. This is not because the child got injured, but because parents want to avoid damaging the bike’s engine and pay for repairs. Not often gets the bike more attention than the child after a crash.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

In the contrary, electric dirt bikes are generally lighter than their gas-powered counterparts because they do not have heavy engines and fuel tanks. Usually, the heaviest component is the battery and depending on its chemistry and capacity/size it is rarely heavier than 5-10kg. Lighter weight makes it easier for kids to handle and control the bike, reducing the physical effort required to ride and maintain balance. This can significantly enhance the learning experience and reduce the likelihood of falls. Lower weight also boosts confidence because (with a bit of coaching) most kids can pick the bike up by themselves and can get out of tricky situations by themselves if mums and dads are not always in direct eyesight.

 

Noise

Noise is an important consideration, especially if you live in a neighbourhood that’s close by or noise sensitive or if your child will be riding in a community setting amongst other kids.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Gas-powered dirt bikes are notoriously noisy. The engine noise can be loud and disruptive, potentially causing neighbourhood disputes, council involvement or discussions with rangers or bystanders. This noise can also be intimidating for young children and may detract from their enjoyment of the newfound hobby.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric dirt bikes are much quieter, producing only a soft hum compared to the roar of a gas engine. This low noise level makes them ideal for residential areas and reduces the risk of disturbing others. The quieter operation also allows children to focus better on their riding skills without the distraction of a loud engine.

 

Mechanical Knowledge of Parents

The level of mechanical knowledge required to maintain and repair a dirt bike can vary significantly between gas and electric models.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Maintaining a gas-powered dirt bike typically requires a good deal of mechanical knowledge. Parents need to be familiar with tasks such as oil changes, spark plug replacements, carburettor adjustments, and other routine maintenance procedures. The complexity of these tasks can be daunting for those without prior mechanical experience, potentially leading to higher maintenance costs, frustrations and/or more frequent trips to the service mechanic.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric dirt bikes are generally easier to maintain. They have fewer moving parts, no need for oil changes, and no complex engine components to service. Basic maintenance often involves checking the battery, ensuring connections are secure, chain cleaning and lubrication and occasionally replacing brake pads or tires. This simplicity can be a significant advantage for parents who may not have extensive mechanical knowledge, reducing both the time, cost and tool requirements associated with upkeeping the bike.

 

Serviceability

Serviceability refers to how easy it is to perform repairs and maintenance on the bike.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

While gas-powered bikes have more complex maintenance needs, they are also widely understood by mechanics, and parts are generally readily available. This can make it relatively straightforward to find service for gas-powered bikes, but the cost and frequency of service can be higher due to the complexity of the engine and other components.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric bikes, being simpler in design, often require less frequent servicing. However, finding a mechanic who specializes in electric dirt bikes can sometimes be more challenging, as the technology is still relatively new compared to traditional gas engines. On the plus side, the reduced complexity means that many minor repairs and failure search can be performed by parents themselves, provided they have the right tools and resources.

 

Speed and Power Limitations/Settings

The ability to control and limit the speed and power of a dirt bike is crucial for ensuring the safety of young riders.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Many gas-powered dirt bikes offer limited options for adjusting the power and speed settings. While some models come with throttle limiters or adjustable power bands, these features are not as common or as easily adjustable as those found on electric bikes. This can make it more difficult to tailor the bike’s performance to the novice’s skill level, potentially leading to safety concerns.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric dirt bikes often come with adjustable speed and power settings, making them highly customizable. Parents can easily set limits on the bike’s speed and power output, allowing the bike’s power and speed to grow with the child’s skill level. This feature not only enhances safety but also ensures that the bike remains suitable as the child gains more confidence and experience.

 

Design

The design and aesthetics of the dirt bike can also play a significant role in the decision-making process.

 

Gas-Powered Dirt Bikes:

Gas-powered dirt bikes often have a rugged, traditional look that many enthusiasts find appealing. The sound and smell of the gas engine contribute to the classic dirt biking experience, which can be a significant draw for some families. However, this traditional design can also mean more wear and tear, and a higher likelihood of cosmetic damage over time.

 

Electric Dirt Bikes:

Electric dirt bikes tend to have a more modern and sleek design. They often feature innovative styling and advanced features that appeal to tech-savvy kids and parents. The lack of a bulky engine, cooling and exhaust system allows for more streamlined, skinny and futuristic designs, which can be more visually appealing to young kids. Additionally, the reduced vibration and noise can result in less wear and tear on the bike’s plastic components and a longer overall lifespan.

 

Conclusion: The Case for Electric Dirt Bikes

While both gas-powered and electric dirt bikes have their own sets of advantages and drawbacks, electric dirt bikes offer several key benefits that make them an excellent choice for young beginners. The smoother power delivery, lighter weight, lower noise levels, easier maintenance, customizable speed and power settings, and modern design all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable riding experience for kids.

 

Safety and Confidence:

The smooth and predictable power delivery of electric dirt bikes helps young riders build confidence without the risk of uncontrolled power surges. The ability to adjust speed and power settings further enhances safety, allowing parents to gradually increase the bike’s performance as their child’s skills improve.

 

Ease of Maintenance:

For most parents, the reduced maintenance requirements of electric dirt bikes can become a significant advantage. The simplicity of the electric motor and the lack of complex engine components mean less time spent on maintenance and more time enjoying the ride. This also translates to lower long-term cost savings, as there are fewer parts that require regular attention or replacement.

 

Noise and Environmental Impact:

The quieter operation of electric dirt bikes makes them ideal for use in residential areas and reduces the risk of disturbing neighbours. This leads in most cases to more opportunities for riding. More ride hours mean faster learning and less conflict with those around you. Additionally, electric bikes have a smaller environmental footprint, as they produce no emissions and consume less energy overall.

 

Modern Design:

The sleek design and advanced features of electric dirt bikes appeal to the modern sensibilities of today’s kids. The integration of technology and innovative design elements can make riding more exciting and engaging for young riders.

 

In conclusion, while gas-powered dirt bikes offer a traditional and thrilling experience, electric dirt bikes provide a safer, more manageable, and environmentally friendly alternative that is particularly well-suited for beginners. By carefully considering the specific needs and preferences of your child, as well as your own ability to maintain and service the bike, you can make an informed decision that will lead to countless hours of fun and adventure for your family. So, if you’re ready to conquer the dirt, consider giving electric dirt bikes a closer look – they might just be the perfect choice for your young family.