A Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) is one of the best ways to explore rough trails. But most of them run on unleaded fuel, aka gasoline. I wanted to find one that would be powered by an electric battery. So, I did some research into what the best options were. Here is what you need to know when buying an electric UTV.
There are a few companies that make exceptional electric UTVs. The Polaris Ranger EV is one of the most well-known electric UTVs. But you might also want to consider manufacturers like Hisun, Textron, and Nikola.
Many brands might make an electric UTV. But do they have quality offerings? Let’s look at some of the best electric UTV manufacturers on the market and the models they offer.
Does Polaris Make an Electric UTV?
Polaris is a large, well-trusted manufacturer in the side-by-side arena. They have spent several years proving that they know how to construct an exceptional UTV. They do manufacture an electric UTV. This is called the Polaris Ranger EV.
This is one of the few electric models that is made by a major manufacturer. To give you a better sense of whether it’s a good choice for you, let’s look at some of the features that it offers.
How Fast Does a Polaris Ranger EV go?
If you’re planning on getting a UTV, you want to be able to travel quickly. You might be using it for hunting and need to keep up with the game. You might be a farmer who needs to get a back paddock urgently. But, for most of us, we like to go fast because it’s fun.
The Polaris Ranger doesn’t disappoint in the speed department. It’s capable of going at around 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour). That’s pretty good, considering that the average UTV will travel at 45 miles per hour. Remember that things like the amount of weight you are carrying might affect the top speed that you can achieve.
What is the Range of a Polaris Ranger EV?
One of the most important considerations when choosing an electric vehicle is the range. You don’t want to get stranded in the middle because you ran out of battery life. To drive a Polaris Ranger EV, you’ll need to use eight batteries. These are placed under the seat.
Once you’ve charged them up, the batteries should last for around 25 to 30 miles. The display lets you track how far you will be able to travel with a single charge. Generally, this will mean that you’ll be able to drive the EV for between one to two hours.
To keep them working for a long time, you’ll need to take care of the batteries. Before you start using them, make sure that the new batteries have been fully charged. At the end of each day, fully recharge the battery. If you can do this, the batteries should last for four years. If you need to replace them, consult your Polaris dealership.
Does Honda Make an Electric UTV?
Honda has earned a great reputation in the UTV world. Generally, their products are built to last for a long time and deliver exceptional performance. Naturally, they were another stop on my quest to find an electric UTV.
Currently, Honda doesn’t offer an electric UTV. However, they do have plans to create one in the future. At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Honda launched a range of new technologies. One of the most exciting was a battery. This would be able to work with multiple devices, from UTVs to appliances in the home.
To help show off this concept, the Honda team showed how these batteries would work in a Honda Pioneer. This presentation shows that the UTV would be powered by two batteries, in the side of the vehicle. Though it’s unclear when you can expect to purchase one, it’s a very exciting announcement. It shows that Honda is actively considering an electric UTV.
What Other Manufacturers Make Electric UTVs?
While Honda and Polaris might be some of the most well-known UTV manufacturers, there are plenty of other companies that produce these vehicles. Many of them are embracing electric UTVs, feeling that they could represent the future of the industry.
Hisun
Hisun offers an electric UTV, called the Sector E1. This offers fairly good performance. For example, you’ll be able to get 45 miles of range per charge. It will take about six hours for these batteries to be fully recharged.
There are a few other features that will come in useful when you are on the track. For example, you’ll be able to get a powerful winch. It will be able to tow up to 1,500 pounds. Because of this, this can be a very versatile UTV.
Textron
Another company that is starting to explore the electric UTV world is Textron. This company is uniquely positioned to take control of the industry. This is because they have been making some powerful partnerships, including Arctic Cat. The electric UTV that they have made is the Off-Road Prowler EV iS.
This UTV has several interesting features. The battery is expected to last for between eight to 12 hours. This will usually depend on how you are planning on using it. It’s a four-wheel drive, so you won’t need to worry about muddy tracks. It’s capable of towing up to 1,000 pounds.
Nikola
Nikola is a high-profile company that makes an electric UTV, called the Nikola NZT. Recently, the company has been getting a lot of attention because some people speculate that it could be the next Tesla. However, Nikola is focused more on developing electric trucks.
Their UTV offering has a suitably futuristic design. It also delivers excellent performance, with one of the biggest battery packs on the market. You should be able to get around 125 miles before you need to recharge. The battery can be recharged in two hours. It also comes with the ability to tow 3,000 pounds. The biggest issue, though, is the price. It will set you back $80,000.
What is the Future of Electric UTVs?
As we’ve seen, there are a few manufacturers that are starting to produce electric UTVs. It’s likely that this is a trend that will continue for the long-term. It’s also likely that components, like batteries, will grow cheaper making these UTVs more accessible.
However, one of the biggest reasons why the electric UTV will continue to grow in popularity is continued research. There will be plenty of new technology developed. This will have a big impact on the UTV. We can expect to see batteries becoming more powerful, increasing the range of these vehicles. It’s also likely that the weight will continue to drop. As this happens, they will grow more competitive with petrol-powered models.
There are a few other factors to consider. First, battery power makes driving a UTV more environmentally sustainable. This is increasingly important to buyers. Also, a battery-powered UTV tends to be quieter. This can be a huge advantage to hunters, allowing them to sneak up on their prey. Other people prefer a quieter engine because it allows them to enjoy the peace of the outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Finding a great electric UTV doesn’t need to be difficult. There are plenty of great models available for you to choose from. Each of these will deliver exceptional performance. It’s best to investigate several options before you decide which one will be best for you.
Young people have always had a fascination with things that go fast, and dirt bikes are very much no exception. In recent years, more and more manufacturers have been switching towards making electric dirt bikes. But who is winning this arms race?
When choosing an electric dirt bike for your kid, make sure to get it from a trusted brand. Important things to consider include seat height, power, speed, brand, and safety features. You should always tailor which bike you buy to the specific needs of your child.
In this article, we will be discussing what kind of things you should think about when choosing an electric dirt bike for your kid, before comparing different makes and models to see who is making the best bikes on the market today. Let us begin!
Why Choose Electric?
Before we get into particular models of bike, it is worth looking more generally at the difference between petrol and electric bikes. There has been an explosion of new electric dirt bikes in recent years, and the reasons for choosing one over a bike with a traditional engine keep mounting! Here are a few reasons to choose electric:
Less Maintenance
This is perhaps the best reason to choose electric. Checking the tire pressure and adjusting the chain are just about the only bits of maintenance you need. With an electric bike, you no longer need to change the oils, spark plugs, or coolant. Plus, you no longer need to worry about the engine itself breaking down. If you are having a problem with the battery of an electric dirt bike, you can simply swap out the battery for a new one.
Lower Running Costs
Aside from not needing to change things like oil and coolant, which can be quite expensive, electric bikes are just generally cheaper to run. That is largely because you do not have to constantly fill them with petrol, which is becoming more and more expensive thanks to dwindling supplies and climate change legislation.
Another benefit of having no petrol is that you can lay the bike down on its side without worrying about petrol spilling all over your trunk.
Better for the Environment
In general, electric vehicles have a much smaller toll on the environment. According to the WHO, approximately 4.6 million people die from air pollution each year! A significant amount of that air pollution comes from the exhaust pipes of petrol vehicles. Plus, electric vehicles are responsible for far fewer CO2 emissions, which are the primary driver of climate change.
All in all, electric bikes are a big step up when it comes to environmental health.
Performance Advantages
Were you dreading having to kickstart your kid’s bike every few minutes? Electric dirt bikes have the advantage of starting at the simple flick of a switch. On top of that, electric motors can deploy all their power instantly rather than having to warm up to it like a petrol motor. That means acceleration is always going to be better on an electric bike.
Perhaps the biggest performance advantage (especially for parents) is that electric bikes make no noise.
What to Look for in a Dirt Bike for Kids
Now that we have hopefully convinced you of the merits of electric vehicles, let us move onto more general considerations about what to look for in a dirt bike for kids. One important point to make right at the beginning is that you should try to tailor the bike to your kids’ needs rather than just buying the best one on the market. That said, things like the build quality and safety features are also very important.
Here are a few things to think about:
Height
The size of the bike is one of the most important things to consider before buying. Your kid should be able to rest their feet flat on the ground and be able to get on and off the bike with ease. If the bike is too tall, they will struggle to stay upright when they come to a stop. Too small and they will be hunched over and not develop proper riding techniques.
MudBike.com has created a handy table to help you decide what the right height is for your kid.
Another good tip is to get a bike that is nearly too big for your kid. So long as the seat/suspension can be adjusted to the right height, a bike that is nearly too big will stay with your kid for longer, since they will not grow out of it as quickly. Of course, be careful not to get one too big as this can be dangerous for the child.
Power
This one is a bit of a no-brainer, but it is worth mentioning that the power the bike has available should be tailored to the age of the kid. A child of 5-7, for example, should not have a bike that is more than the equivalent of a 50cc engine. It is also worth noting that there are plenty of bikes available that have speed limiters, which means you can change a setting, then sit back and relax in the knowledge that the bike cannot reach dangerous speeds.
Choosing the Right Brand
One reason why you should think about the brand before buying a bike is that, in all likelihood, you will want to sell the bike in a few years. Not only will your kid get too big for the bike, at some point, they will become desperate for more power. The reputation of the brand, then, becomes an important factor in how much you will be able to get for the bike when the kid is done with it.
It will also, of course, impact the reliability and build quality of the bike.
Now that we have gotten the more general considerations out of the way, it is time to look at some specific brands and models to see how they compare. Remember, even if one of these bikes looks great, you have to make sure that it also suits the specific needs of the kid like their height, weight, experience level, and age. A great bike is no good if it is too small or, worse, too fast. Let us get stuck in!
While it is quite expensive, the SX-E 5 is one of the best electric dirt bikes on the market today. It has a throttle limiter with 6 different settings, which means that you can start your kid out slow, then gradually increase the available power as they become more comfortable with the ride. The height and shape of the bike can also be adjusted, with 6 different seat heights and adjustable handlebars.
This bike is in the 50cc category, which means it will be perfect for a child of around 4 to 7 years old. It is a very versatile design that will suit everyone from a beginner to the more advanced kids in the 50cc category. The SX-E 5 has a battery that can be charged from 0% to 80% in just 40 minutes, which will then last for between 25 minutes and 2 hours depending on how hard the bike is being ridden. That is a very competitive battery life!
Still in the 50cc equivalent range, this bike is significantly cheaper than the KTM, while still retaining excellent build quality. The first thing to say about this bike, however, is that the recommended age of 13 is simply misleading. Most reviews say that there is no way a 13-year-old would be small enough to fit on this bike. For a 4 to 10-year old, however, this is still a great bike.
The Dirt Rocket is essentially a perfectly scaled-down version of an adult motocross bike. While it may be a serious step down from the likes of the KTM SX-E 5, it is also approximately a tenth of the price. We all know that kids can move onto new things at the drop of a hat. If you are worried about that, maybe it is a better idea to buy something in this price range then move up to something more expensive if your kid takes to the sport.
This is another pretty top-of-the-range bike, despite being Husqvarna’s first ever electric dirt bike. While it will cost a fair bit more than the Razor, you will get what you paid for in terms of build quality, safety features, and durability. Like the SX-E 5, this bike comes with a power limiter so parents can decide what kind of speeds they want their kids to be able to reach.
This bike also has great adjustability. With a bit of work, you can set the seat height anywhere between 26.9 and 21.9 inches (68.3 and 55.6 cm). It will suit a child anywhere between about 4’ 2” and 4’ 8” tall. The EE 5 has a very similar range to the SX-E 5. Husqvarna claims that it will last up to 2 hours with a beginner in the saddle, although that drops to about 25 minutes in race conditions.
This one falls into a price range between the likes of the Husq and the KTM, coming in at around $800. One big issue with this bike is that there is no display, which means you do not know how much battery is left until you run out. One big plus, however, is that this is a fantastic-looking bike. Your kid will be so happy with how it looks, and they might not even notice that the range and speed are not the best.
The top speed is, however, adjustable. The absolute top speed is 15mph, but that can be limited to either 7mph or 4mph using a switch on the battery compartment.
It also has disk brakes, which have far superior performance to other types of brakes like rim or drum brakes. Disk brakes have better stopping power, do not heat the rims as much, have better traction, and can be used with any type of tire, which means you can change them without worrying.
No list of electric dirt bikes would be complete without an entry from OSET, who has been one of the leaders in the field for quite some time. The MKII is a sturdy, reliable bike for kids of about 8 and up. With an adjustable seat and handlebar height, however, your kid should be able to keep using it for years to come.
This bike has a super lightweight battery and a serious range. It can last up to 3 hours of aggressive off-roading, making it one of the longest-range bikes out there. It is also significantly cheaper than many other high-end bikes like the SX-E 5 or MX350, coming in at around $3,600.
Parents also have the option to adjust the speed, responsiveness, and power characteristics of the bike, so you can set the bike to be as powerful as you think is safe.
This is a really great bike, and it can be bought at a really great price. It is hard to go wrong with a bike which is available for just $499.95. The range on this bike is between 14 and 20 miles depending on the weight of the rider. It has 2 speed modes, one at 8mph and one at 17mph. That means it is great for a beginner, but it also has the option to be cranked up to a power level more suited to an experienced rider.
This bike, which is primarily aimed at teens, comes with both a lithium-ion battery and disc brakes, which translates to fast charging, high range, and all the benefits of disc brakes listed above. Many customers are very impressed with the handling and suspension too. Again, if you are looking for a solid starter bike that is not going to break the bank, you may have just found your man.
As the name might suggest, this is the MX350’s big brother. This one’s for older kids, although again, you can adjust the speed to something a bit more suited to younger kids. Like the Burromax, it has a top speed of 17mph. That does not, however, tell the whole story. At around double the price of the Burromax, this is a seriously well-built bike. Build quality is what you are really paying for when you choose Razor.
Another great feature of the MX650 is the sound. Despite its formidable power, this bike is as quiet as they come and can be driven even in a busy neighborhood. It also has large, knobby tires that are perfect for gripping loose dirt when you are off-roading. This is one of the best-rated electric dirt bikes out there. It is not too expensive, and it is guaranteed to be of great quality and do everything you need.
Safety Tips on Dirt Bikes
It can be a very difficult thing to accept that your kid wants to get into such an action-packed sport as dirt biking. It just looks dangerous. There have, however, been many advancements in the area of health and safety on dirt bikes in recent years. Plus, electric dirt bikes are generally safer than their petrol-powered cousins.
For one, there is no chance of the kid burning their leg on the hot exhaust pipe or engine. Here are some helpful tips for keeping your kid safe:
Your kid should always wear protective equipment, including helmets, goggles, gloves, boots, arm and leg pads, and long sleeve shirts.
Children of 15 or younger should never be left to drive a dirt bike unsupervised. It may be pretty safe already, but you can never be too careful.
It is a good idea to stay away from paved roads or tightly packed mud. These bikes are designed for off-roading. Plus, you do not want your child to take a tumble onto the pavement.
Summary
Dirt biking can be a very enjoyable activity for people of all ages. Not only do electric bikes make it safer, but they also make it cheaper and better for the environment. However, before you buy a bike, make sure that your kid is genuinely interested in the sport. You do not want to spend a few thousand dollars on a bike only to find out that your child is a ballet dancer at heart.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to decide which bike is best for your kid. Remember, it is very important to make sure that the bike is the right height for your kid, and that it runs at a speed which is safe for a child of that age.
Now you are ready to buy a bike and to bask in the never-ending enjoyment your kid will get from it. Enjoy!
The electric dirt bike and the gas dirt bike are very similar, but with a few key differences. Whether you’re a beginner buying your first dirt bike or an expert looking for an upgrade, it’s important to know the difference between these bikes to know what’s right for you.
An electric dirt bike is powered by a lithium-ion battery and therefore saves on operating costs, whereas a gas dirt bike is powered by either a two-stroke or a four-stroke engine and has more power. Electric bikes tend to be more expensive, but are easier to maintain than a gas dirt bike.
This article will discuss the differences between gas dirt bikes and electric dirt bikes, as well as their similarities and some things to take into account when purchasing a dirt bike or maintaining one that you already have.
Know Your Environment
Before you make a choice about the right dirt bike for you, you should develop a clear picture of how and where you’ll want to use the bike. Most bikes can be used in multiple kinds of environments, but you’ll find that knowing what environment you’ll be riding in will help you find a bike that is especially well suited to your needs.
There are two main kinds of dirt biking: motocross and off-roading. Within motocross, there are three primary forms of competition: racing, freestyle, and supercross. There are also competitive forms of off-roading, with the main being enduro.
Motocross takes place on an outdoor track that is groomed for bikers. You’ll know what to expect as you take laps around the course and move through the preset ramps and turns. Motocross is both a recreational activity and a competitive sport.
Motocross Racing
During an official motocross race, about 25 to 30 riders ride around the course for a certain number of laps, and the first to finish is considered the winner. In championship events, the fastest riders compete in a series of rounds leading up to a final race.
Freestyle Motocross
Freestyle motocross is like motocross racing in that it is performed on a set motocross course, but instead of being judged based on speed, riders are judged based on acrobatic stunts as they complete laps.
One kind of freestyle motocross is big air, where the riders are given two major jumps covering a distance of 75 feet in which they can perform a stunt. In this kind of event, judges consider originality and difficulty and give a rating on a scale of 100.
Another kind of freestyle motocross, simply called freestyle, involves two routines, each lasting 14 minutes and 90 seconds. During this time, the rider takes laps around the motocross course, performing a series of jumps at different lengths and at different angles. In this case, judges also evaluate the skill and originality of stunts and give a rating on a scale of 100.
Supercross
Supercross is an indoor form of track racing that is very similar to motocross but technically considered its own sport. These courses are shorter than motocross courses and involve steeper jumps and harder obstacles, which are less similar to the natural terrain. Supercross tracks are also shorter than motocross courses.
Off-Road Dirt Biking
Off-roading, or trail riding, takes place on natural trails that span hundreds of miles and have endless unknown obstacles: rocks, holes, steep slopes, and tight corners. Off-roading bikes need to have bigger tires with more rubber padding and softer suspension to be able to handle these obstacles.
Off-roading is also more doable with a push-button start than a kick start because you’ll need to start and stop the bike more often. These bikes are also often heavier than racing bikes because they have bigger gas tanks (if applicable) and more features built for comfort.
However, all kinds of dirt bikes can be ridden for motocross or for off-roading. Different models simply have better performance in different areas.
Enduro
Enduro racing happens on off-road courses, and are given points based on the rider’s timing. The race takes part in stages, and riders are allowed to re-fuel or service their vehicles at certain stops along the way. If they do not keep to this schedule for stops, they can be penalized and lose points.
Endurocross
EnduroCross is a mix between enduro racing and supercross, and is usually conducted on indoor tracks. Riders are judged based on both the time that it takes them to finish the course, like in enduro, and based on how well they navigate course obstacles, like in supercross.
In EnduroCross, obstacles generally resemble outdoor obstacles, including rocks, boulders, fallen tree trunks, water, and mud, as well as giant tires and other obstacles.
Gas Dirt Bikes
History
Gas-fueled bikes have been used since the 1800s, and racing came soon after. Motorcycle racing became popular in the early 1900s. These events all occurred on rough, open terrain, and races became official by the 1920s in the UK, funded by factories like BSA, Norton, and Matchless.
By World War II, motorized bikes took a lighter form with less rigid frames, better shock absorption, and suspension, looking more like the dirt bikes that we see today. The speed and power of these bikes improved due to these and other innovations in engineering.
By the 1960s, motocross became popular internationally, both in the United States and Japan. Major auto manufacturers Suzuki and Honda began producing dirt bike models designed for off-roading.
Since then, the engineering of motocross bikes has developed to improve speed and overall performance, but the basic design of the gas dirt bike has remained the same.
Maintenance
Gas dirt bikes require regular maintenance of the engine, as well as the exterior of the bike. This includes washing and drying the bike and keeping a close eye on its performance, as well as changing the oil and air filter like you would for a car.
The following steps are important to take for a gas dirt bike. Some of these are the same as what you’d do for an electric dirt bike, and some are unique. Generally, a gas dirt bike will require more steps in the maintenance routine.
Gently wash your bike after every ride, using brushes and water, but avoiding getting water or dirt into the engine. You can, however, use a powerful stream of water, even a power jet.
Dry the bike before checking for hardware problems. You can use a leaf blower to make the drying process faster.
Check for oil leaks.
Check for leaks in coolant and brake fluid.
Clean dirt from the chain and let it dry.
Inspect the chain for weak points or tension issues
Lubricate the levers and cables, any moving parts.
Inspect and tighten bolts.
Check for frayed or bent control cables.
Check your throttle for twisting issues.
Make sure your air filter is clean and coated with oil.
Check your tire pressure after every ride.
Change your oil at least after every 8-10 hours of riding.
Grease your engine to seal out water and dirt.
Technology
A gas dirt bike engine comes in two varieties: two-stroke and four-stroke. Both are internal combustion engines with pistons, cylinders, fuel, exhaust, and a crankshaft, although the four-stroke varieties operate more similarly to large vehicles like buses and cars.
The dirt bike engine works by igniting a combination of fuel and air to move pistons up and down inside the cylinder, turning the crankshaft, which then turns the rear wheel of the bike. The clutch and the transmission allow you to control the rate and intensity at which this happens.
Most gas dirt bikes are classified according to the size of the combustion chamber, measured in ccs. 1,000 cc is equal to about 0.22 gallons, and most engines are somewhere in the range of 250-350 cc. You may also find bikes classified according to the number and shape of cylinders, like in cars.
It’s important to note that the lubrication process is different between a two-stroke and a four-stroke engine. A two-stroke engine mixes oil and fuel, and so either needs a fuel pre-mixed with oil or needs oil injected into a reservoir that combines with fuel on intake.
Having an oil reservoir means that you don’t need to worry about measuring the proper ratio of fuel to oil, but if something breaks in the pumping system, your engine can undergo serious damage.
The four-stroke engine is only ever lubricated through the use of an oil reservoir, which does not mix oil with fuel.
Electric Start Gas Bikes
Some gas bikes have an electric start mechanism, making them hybrids mostly reliant on engine power but with a small battery and some electric features. The push-button start is the most common electric feature and allows the bike to start more quickly and smoothly.
Built for kids, Aluminum big wheel, 2 stroke engine
Electric Dirt Bikes
History
Electric bikes were invented first in the 1890s, then evolved throughout the 1900s along with gas-powered bikes. However, very few electric bikes were available on the market for purchase at this time, even though they had been invented. It wasn’t until the late 1990s and early 2000s that electric bikes really became available to consumers.
During this time, electric bikes moved through a heavy lead-acid battery design to a lighter lithium-ion battery design, which made for more lightweight bikes. This led to speed improvements and extended the range that the bikes could go before needing to be charged.
Maintenance
Electric dirt bikes require regular maintenance to prevent failure and injury, and to keep you from having to pay for repairs. Make sure to wash your bike after every ride, and to inspect components for hardware issues before they become a problem on the track or trail.
The following steps are important to take for the maintenance of an electric dirt bike:
Very gently wash your bike after every ride, using brushes and water, but avoiding any powerful streams of water. It is very important not to get water into the electrical components.
Dry the bike before checking for hardware problems. You can use a leaf blower to make the drying process faster.
Check for leaks in coolant and brake fluid.
Clean dirt from the chain and let it dry.
Inspect the chain for weak points or tension issues.
Lubricate the levels and cables, any moving parts.
Inspect and tighten bolts.
Check for frayed or bent control cables.
Check your throttle for twisting issues.
Check your tire pressure after every ride.
Don’t store your bike in direct sunlight, or anywhere that the battery might overheat.
Avoid opening electrical components, as they are difficult to seal and susceptible to water damage.
Recharge the battery.
Technology
Most electric dirt bikes today are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can be charged by removing the battery pack from the bike, turning it off, and plugging it into a general power outlet. Some bikes come with a spot for the charger on the bike so that you’re sure to have it when and where you need it.
Most electric bike batteries will charge within 2 to 6 hours, depending on their range. Some charge at a rate of about 15 miles per hour, while others charge faster, at a rate of 25 miles per hour. Generally, the bigger the range, the faster the battery will charge.
Some more expensive models charge the battery as you ride, transferring energy each time you use the brakes. This can extend the life of your battery by 5-10%, although it also makes pedaling more difficult.
Batteries last longest if they are charged before they run out of power, and so you’ll want to recharge the battery after every use if possible. There is no harm in unplugging the battery before it is fully charged.
Many bike owners carry an extra battery so that they can make long trips and extend their range without worrying about stopping to charge. Without recharging, an electric bike will generally make it to about 22-56 miles, although some can go for over 70 miles.
You can extend the life of your battery by using the appropriate gears for different speeds and situations and by using a lower assistance setting on the bike.
Lithium batteries tend to last 500 charging cycles before losing much of its power, and up to 1200 cycles on some bikes. This translates to about 10,000 to 30,000 miles of total bike usage.
An electric bike can usually reach about 20 miles per hour, although some can go up to 28 miles per hour.
Best on the Market
Electric dirt bikes have become more advanced in recent years, now including high-quality brakes and suspension systems. These are ten of the best electric dirt bikes currently on the market:
Similarities Between Electric Dirt Bikes and Gas Dirt Bikes
History
Both electric and gas-powered bikes were invented in the 1800s and improved in performance and style throughout the 1900s.
Maintenance
Both gas and dirt bikes require regular maintenance to keep performing well and prevent the occurrence of mechanical failures, which can cause major accidents and injuries. All dirt bikes are also expensive to repair, so maintenance is also important from a cost-saving perspective.
No matter which kind of bike you have, it’s important to wash and dry it after every ride, and make sure that no liquids are leaking, no matter whether or not oil leaks are a concern. There is also coolant and brake fluid to consider, which both kinds of bikes have.
Both kinds of bikes also have chains that need to be checked and cleaned, as well as bolts and control cables. Tire pressure and brake liquid levels should be maintained in either case, too.
Technology
Both gas and dirt bikes are powered and need to be re-supplied with energy from time to time, and work through the use of a clutch and transmission. For this reason, the experience of riding and guiding a bike is generally similar between an electric and gas bike.
Differences Between Electric Dirt Bikes and Gas Dirt Bikes
History
Although gas and electric bikes came onto the scene at roughly the same time, gas bikes were available to consumers at a much earlier time and were at the heart of early motorized racing. It wasn’t until about a century after their invention that electric bikes became purchasable and usable for racing purposes.
Maintenance
Electric dirt bikes are easier to maintain than gas dirt bikes because they do not require engine maintenance. Oil changes and leak checks, air filter cleanings, and engine maintenance are all unnecessary or not relevant to an electric bike, but are necessary for the owner of a gas dirt bike.
However, the electrical components of an electric dirt bike are very sensitive to water and overheating, so it’s very important to be careful washing the bike with water and to keep the bike in temperature-controlled environments.
Technology
Where electric bikes are fueled by a lithium-ion battery, gas bikes are fueled by either a two-stroke or four-stroke combustion engine. Generally, the battery-powered model will have a longer range before needing a new supply of power, but the gas engine will top out at higher speeds.
Cost
Although both electric dirt bikes and gas dirt bikes come in a range of prices, depending on the model, electric dirt bikes will usually be more expensive. However, gas dirt bikes involve more maintenance expenses, and so the cost can also build over time.
How to Choose a Bike
When choosing which dirt bike to purchase, there are a number of factors you’ll want to consider. First, make sure that you understand the context you’ll be riding in. You should know what kind of terrain you’ll need to be ready for, how long you expect to ride, and how fast you need to be able to go.
If you are a beginner purchasing your first dirt bike, you’ll likely want to choose a secondhand bike with a gas engine, which is easier to find and generally cheaper for the amount of power that you get.
If you have some experience riding and want a bike that will go longer distances and be easier to maintain, and have the money to spend, you’ll likely be happiest investing in an electric bike.
Consider these factors as you look through your options, whether you choose gas or electric.
Bike Size
Your height, weight, arm length, and leg length are all relevant in picking a bike, and so the best way to find a good fit is to sit on the bike and see how it feels. Notice how heavy the bike feels, whether your feet can sit flat on the ground and whether you can reach the handlebars with a straight back and 90-degree angle in your elbows.
You should have room to reach the pedals without more than a slight bend in the knees, without being cramped.
Tire Size
Dirt bikes are made with a smaller wheel in the rear, which helps with fast acceleration, and a larger wheel in the front, which allows you to ride smoothly over rocks and other rough terrains.
If you’re hoping to spend more time off-roading, find a bike with smaller wheels and more rubber, which can take more of a beating from rocks and other obstacles.
In general, larger wheel sizes means for a more comfortable ride for beginners.
Motor Size
If you’re choosing a gas bike, check for a value measured in cc, like 250cc or 450cc. This stands for cubic centimeters and will tell you how big the dirt bike’s cylinders are. Higher numbers and larger cylinders mean that the bike will have more power, while lower numbers and a smaller cylinder size means less power.
Note that high and low cylinder sizes do not always go along with the size of the bike itself. A smaller bike can have a larger engine, and a larger bike can have a smaller engine. Other factors, like ground clearance, can be a reason for differences in bike sizes.
Two-Stroke vs. Four-Stroke Engines
In gas bikes, you will have the choice between models with a two-stroke engine and models with a four-stroke engine. Two-stroke engines will speed up more quickly, whereas four-stroke engines will have more consistent power and more reliable motors.
Electric dirt bikes and gas dirt bikes are very similar in function, but are different in that electric dirt bikes tend to have less power but are easier maintenance and are more environmentally friendly. Electric dirt bikes also tend to be more expensive, and so are better for riders with more experience than for beginners.
Are you thinking of hitting the trails? If yes, you may be looking for a bike that will deliver the best performance on rough terrain; thus, ditching the manual clutch for an automatic machine may sound like the perfect plan. After all, this dirt bike should be easier to handle, right?
Most dirt bikes are not automatic since automatic transmissions are unsuited to the wide variety of terrain that dirt bikes ride on. But with a manual transmission, a clutch allows you more control over rough, rocky, or muddy terrain. So, your choice depends on the intended use and your preference.
The main difference between automatic and manual dirt bikes is that manual dirt bikes sport a manual gearbox. Stick around to find out how both types work, which is better for you, and how to maintain your dirt bike.
Automatic Dirt Bikes
In general, the term refers to an automatic motorcycle designed for off-road riding. It comes equipped with long-travel suspension, off-road tires, and other related accessories ideal for improved riding across rough terrain.
An automatic dirt bike doesn’t require you to change gears using a conventional manual clutch. What this means is that power is transferred from the engine through an automatic gearbox. To start moving, you only need to twist the throttle.
While most experienced riders believe that automatic transmissions are an oddity, the younger riders prefer them. This is due to their various advantages, as we shall see below. Automatic dirt bikes are:
Pros
Easy to operate
Agile, stable, and offer smooth gear shifting
Offer a smooth and comfy riding experience
Ideal for long rides since you don’t have to change gears
Versatile – you can use them on the streets, dirt roads, trails, and on rough terrain
Still, these bikes have their disadvantages:
Cons
Not very popular
An automatic transmission is heavier than a manual one
Not powerful
Automatic dirt bikes are suitable for newbie bikers, especially kids. This is because they are not powerful and strong compared to manual dirt bikes, and they also require minimum effort. Still, there are semi-automatic dirt bikes available, and these are much more powerful.
Manual Dirt Bikes
A manual dirt bike is a motorcycle that is designed for off-road riding. Manual dirt bikes dominate the market, but most inexperienced riders are very intimidated by these bikes because of one thing – the clutch lever.
A manual dirt bike requires you to pull in the clutch when shifting between gears, which calls for skill and lots of practice. Similar to a manual transmission car, you have to find a balance between letting out the clutch handle and twisting the throttle to ease into each gear. Below is a video explaining how to ride a manual dirt bike:
Dirt bikes feature rugged tires, suspension, and a small, light frame since they are designed for mobility and jumping. The spring shocks and hydraulic tubes also allow the bikes to better absorb shock on the rough tracks and jumps.
The fuel tank on a manual dirt bike is small since these bikes hardly venture out very far. Besides, a big tank would mean extra weight for the dirt bike.
Below are the positive and negative sides of manual dirt bikes:
Pros
Powerful
Offer high speed
Large in size and have a big engine
A manual clutch allows for efficient use of engine power and technical maneuvers based on instant power delivery
Cons
It takes more effort to learn how to ride one
Pricier than automatic dirt bikes
The manual gearbox is heavy, thus making dirt bikes heavier than the automatic ones
How Do Automatic Dirt Bikes Work?
Most automatic bikes use a Dual-Clutch Transmission system, DCT. This system uses two clutches; one to control the even gears while the other clutch controls the odd gears.
This system doesn’t require you to pull any clutch lever or manually shift gears. This is because onboard computers control the system. They sense when the gears need to move up or down and make it happen, leaving you free to concentrate on riding your motorcycle.
Today’s DCT technology has evolved into a system that offers you a fully automatic experience, but with manual gear change too – on selected models. While you can opt for the latter, bear in mind that the gear changing is unlike that of a fully manual motorcycle. Rather, it’s more similar to vehicular paddle shifters.
Automatic dirt bikes are easy to operate. As mentioned earlier, power comes directly through an electric motor, and all you get to do is twist the throttle and move. Due to the automatic transmission, there are no gears to adjust to match the terrain. Hence, if you want to increase speed, you only have to twist.
Riding an automatic dirt bike has its pitfalls. For one, your braking is different. While some modern bikes have in place a conventional foot brake for the rear, most have the rear brake mounted on the handlebar. As such, you have the choice of going fully automatic or the option of using an upshift and downshift button to control the gears.
Next comes engine braking. On a conventional motorcycle, downward gear shifting allows for more controlled braking, but this disappears with an automatic transmission.
Is an Automatic Dirt Bike the Best Choice for You?
So then, which option is better; manual or automatic transmission?
While biking diehards prefer the traditional dirt bikes with a manual transmission, the new and upcoming riders lean towards automatic dirt bikes.
The thing is, it depends on your preference and level of experience. As such, an automatic dirt bike would be an ideal choice for you if:
You are a beginner trying to familiarize yourself with two wheels
You would prefer a clutchless bike
You are looking to move from one place to the next and not concerned about perfect gear change execution
You are looking for a long-haul tour without the additional stress of shifting gears
However, if you enjoy the thrill of controlling the clutch and shifting gears much more, then a manual dirt bike is the way to go. Better yet, you may be an expert rider looking for a thrilling experience, to enhance your skills, and take advantage of the massive power generated by a manual dirt bike.
How to Maintain Your Dirt Bike
Whatever type of bike you finally settle on, the following tips will prove very useful in making the best use of your dirt bike:
Lubricate your chain periodically
Clean the air filter often and change the oil after riding for 8 hours
Check your air pressure frequently
If you are a beginner, don’t buy a dirt bike with too much power as it will be challenging to control
Finally, remember that dirt bike riding is dangerous; always wear protective gear. This is especially so if you are riding a manual dirt bike since it delivers more speed and higher performance.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. While not all dirt bikes are automatic, automatic dirt bikes are more of adventure bikes, ideal for when you want a different kind of experience. Manual dirt bikes, on the other hand, are suited to off-road pursuits.
Automatic bikes are also clutchless and feature an automatic transmission, while manual dirt bikes come with gears and a clutch. They also require you to shift the gears manually.
For the experienced biker, a manual dirt bike offers more sporting fun than an automatic dirt bike – not to mention super fast speed and acceleration. Many expert riders would get very bored riding an automatic dirt bike.
Yet both options are fantastic, so whatever your choice, go for the dirt bike that best suits your needs and riding style.
