The 9 Best Dirt Bikes In 2023
The popularity of dirt biking continues to grow this 2023 and there are numerous options available when it comes to selecting the best dirt bike. The ideal dirt bike should strike a balance between power, safety, and control.
With a wide variety of models and brands to choose from, making a decision can be overwhelming. To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of the top 9 dirt bikes for 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something on the list that will suit your needs.
What is the Best Dirt Bike?
This guide can help you decide which model is the best dirt bike for you. With a range of features – from power and torque to suspension, weight, and ergonomics – I ensure that you’ll find a top-of-the-line dirt bike that will provide an unparalleled offroad experience. So get ready – it’s time to hit the trail with your perfect dirt bike!
1. Husqvarna TE300
Overview
The Husqvarna TE300 is the best dirt bike for experienced riders. Featuring a powerful two-stroke engine, robust suspension, and lightweight construction, this model provides unrivaled off-road performance. With adjustable ergonomics and state-of-the-art components, it offers a comfortable yet powerful ride that won’t let you down on even the toughest of trails.
Top Features
- Outstanding handling and rider comfort
- Lightweight carbon fiber composite subframe
- WP XPLOR front forks and WP XACT monoshock
- Advanced linkage progression for optimum control and comfort
- Two selectable ignition curves and automatic fuelling adjustment on 2-strokes
- 6-speed gearbox with enduro specific ratios
Pricing
With the price starting at $9,199, this dirt bike won’t disappoint. A durable metal frame paired with cutting-edge technology makes this model an ideal companion for any off road adventure.
My Take
The Husqvarna TE300 is perfect for experienced dirt bike riders looking for a rugged and powerful ride that won’t let them down. With state-of-the-art components, adjustable ergonomics, and advanced suspension, this model provides consistent damping and exceptional handling on rough terrain.
2. Yamaha WR250F
Overview
The Yamaha WR250F is a powerful and reliable dirt bike, packed with features for ultimate off-road performance. Featuring a 250cc 4-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and lightweight aluminum frame, the WR250F offers strong power delivery and agility. The advanced fuel injection system provides consistent fuelling in all conditions, while its high ground clearance and aggressive styling make it perfect for tackling any terrain.
Top Features
- Highly advanced 250cc, liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke engine with enhanced power delivery
- It comes with a bilateral aluminum beam frame for better bump absorption and stiffness
- KYB inverted front forks with speed-sensitive damping system for a smooth ride
- Fully adjustable KYB shock absorber with 317 mm of wheel travel
- 270 mm hydraulic disc brake on the front wheel and 245 mm hydraulic disc brake on the rear wheel
Pricing
The Yamaha WR250F is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable dirt bike. Starting at $8,899, this model won’t break the bank but still delivers plenty of power and agility.
My Take
The Yamaha WR250F is the best dirt bike for those looking for an affordable and reliable ride that can take on any terrain. Featuring a 250cc 4-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and lightweight aluminum frame, the WR250F offers strong power delivery and agility, making it an ideal choice for anyone from beginners to experienced riders.
3. Kawasaki KLX230R
Overview
The 2023 Kawasaki KLX230R is a lightweight and powerful dirt bike, designed for experienced riders. With a 233cc single-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, and modern styling, this model offers superior performance and comfort on the trails. With cutting-edge technology such as traction control and an Advanced Traction Control System (ATCS), this is perfect for tackling any terrain with ease.
Top Features
- Powered by a 233cc fuel-injected single, tuned for low- to mid-range power
- A compact perimeter frame and short wheelbase offer excellent handling
- Featuring 36.4″ seat height (35.4″ on the KLX230R S)
- Long travel suspension with 37mm front fork and Uni-Trak single-shock rear suspension provide comfort and control
- Full-size wheels and front/rear disc brakes for dirt fun
- Spark arrestor silencer allows riding in all 50 states, California green sticker model is available
Pricing
The Kawasaki KLX230R is the perfect choice for experienced riders looking for a powerful and affordable dirt bike. Starting at $4,749, this model offers superior performance and value.
My Take
The Kawasaki KLX230R is the perfect dirt bike for experienced riders looking for a lightweight and powerful option that’s also budget-friendly. With its responsive 233cc engine, adjustable suspension, and cutting-edge technology, the KLX230R is ready to tackle any terrain with ease.
4. Honda CRF125FB
Overview
The Honda CRF125FB is a reliable and powerful dirt bike that packs a punch. Featuring a 125cc single-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, and robust frame design, this model offers superior power delivery and agility on the trails. With plenty of ground clearance and a sleek design, this vehicle is ready for any kind of terrain.
Top Features
- 125cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a smooth power delivery
- High-ground clearance that is perfect for tackling any terrain
- Front disc brake and rear drum brake provide reliable stopping power
- LED indicators for ignition, fuel levels, and PGM-FI status.
- Twin-spar steel frame for lightweight stability.
- Manual clutch and four-speed gearbox promote smooth shifting and control.
- Electric starter and keyed ignition switch for convenience and security.
- Small wheel version available (CRF125F).
- Suspension tuned to deliver excellent response across all riding conditions
Pricing
The Honda CRF125FB is a great option for those looking for an affordable and powerful dirt bike. Starting at $3,399, this model provides plenty of performance and value for the price.
My Take
The Honda CRF125FB is the best dirt bike for those looking for a reliable and powerful ride. With its 125cc single-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, robust frame design, and modern styling, this is perfect for tackling any terrain easily making it an ideal choice for those looking to take their off-road adventures to the next level.
5. Yamaha YZ250X
Overview
The 2023 Yamaha YZ250X is an advanced dirt bike featuring a 249cc two-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and high-performance components. This model provides superior power delivery and handling capabilities on the trails. With its lightweight frame and top-of-the-line features such as traction control, this is the ultimate choice for experienced riders.
Top Features
- Powered by a 250cc two-stroke engine with high-performance components
- High performance suspension system with adjustable settings for a variety of terrains
- Traction control system provides superior grip and handling
- Lightweight aluminum frame reduces overall weight while maintaining durability
- Front and rear disc brakes provide reliable stopping power
- Six-speed manual transmission for smooth and precise shifts
Pricing
The Yamaha YZ250X is the perfect choice for those looking for a powerful dirt bike with advanced features. This model provides great performance and a lot of value, with a price starting at $7,999.
My Take
The Yamaha YZ250X is the perfect dirt bike for those who want a high-performance ride with advanced features. With its two-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and traction control system, this allows riders to take their skills to the next level. Highly recommended for experienced dirt bike enthusiasts.
6. Yamaha TTR230
Overview
The Yamaha TTR230 2023 is a lightweight and reliable dirt bike, with a 223cc four-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and superior grip on varying terrain. This model provides an excellent combination of power delivery, agility, and maneuverability for tackling any off-roading adventure. With its competitive price point, this is a great option for those looking to get on the trails without breaking the bank.
Top Features
- 223cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine with smooth power delivery
- High-ground clearance that is perfect for tackling any terrain
- Rear disc brake and drum brake provide reliable stopping power
- Lightweight steel frame for superior agility and maneuverability
- Six-speed transmission with a heavy-duty clutch for maximum versatility and power delivery
Pricing
The Yamaha TTR230 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable dirt bike at an affordable price. Starting at $4,449, this model provides plenty of performance with budget-friendly pricing.
My Take
The Yamaha TTR230 is the best dirt bike for those on a budget. Its 223cc four-stroke engine and adjustable suspension provide an excellent combination of power, agility, and maneuverability for tackling any off-roading adventure. With its competitive pricing, this is sure to be a hit with both beginners and experienced riders.
7. Kawasaki KLX140G
Overview
The Kawasaki KLX140G is a great dirt bike for both novice and experienced riders. Featuring a four-stroke, 144cc engine five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch, adjustable suspension, and lightweight frame, this bike provides responsive handling, superior grip on any terrain, and reliable stopping power. With its high-performance features, this is a great choice for those looking to upgrade their off-roading experience.
Top Features
- 144cc four-stroke engine with responsive power delivery
- High-ground clearance that is perfect for tackling any terrain
- Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch
- Adjustable suspension system for varying terrains
- Lightweight frame which reduces overall weight while maintaining superior agility
Pricing
The Kawasaki KLX140G is a great option for those looking for a reliable dirt bike with premium features. Priced at around $4,900, this model provides excellent performance and value for the price.
My Take
The Kawasaki KLX140G is the best dirt bike for off-roading enthusiasts who want a reliable and responsive ride. With its four-stroke engine, adjustable suspension, and lightweight frame, this model is sure to provide an enjoyable ride for any rider.
8. Honda CRF150F
Overview
The Honda CRF150F 2023 is the perfect dirt bike for both novice and experienced riders. Its 150cc engine, six-speed transmission and heavy-duty clutch allow it to perform well in variable terrain, while its suspension set up is optimized for comfortable low speed trail riding but can be modified for faster, more aggressive use. It is also upgradeable with a range of engine mods for increased performance.
Top Features
- 150cc four-stroke engine with responsive power delivery
- Six-speed transmission with heavy-duty clutch for maximum versatility and power delivery
- Rear drum brake and front disc brake provide reliable stopping power
- Lightweight frame reduces overall weight while maintaining superior agility
- Soft forks and an adjustable shock absorber to account for personal weight
- Handles well at low speeds and on tight trails with sharp turns
Pricing
The Honda CRF150F is a great option for those looking for dependable performance at an affordable price point. Starting at around $3,799, this model provides plenty of features while still remaining budget-friendly.
My Take
The Honda CRF150F is the perfect dirt bike for novice and experienced riders alike. It has a powerful engine, reliable transmission, and adjustable suspension to suit your needs both on the track and off-road trail. Plus, its upgradeable components offer plenty of potential for more performance down the line. So, if you’re looking for a great bike to take your skills and knowledge to the next level, this is sure to be an excellent option!
9. KTM 250 XC-W
Overview
The KTM 250 XC-W 2023 is the perfect choice for experienced riders who want a premium dirt bike. Featuring a liquid-cooled, 250cc engine with a six-speed transmission and a fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension, this model provides outstanding power delivery and superior agility for tackling any trail or terrain. With its impressive performance and rugged design, this is an ideal choice for riders looking to upgrade their off-roading experience.
Top Features
- 250cc 2-stroke engine with responsive power delivery
- Six-speed transmission with a heavy-duty clutch for maximum versatility and power delivery
- Fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension as standard
- Aggressive styling with superior durability
- Lightweight frame which reduces overall weight while maintaining agility
- Progressive Damping System (PDS) on the rear for lower maintenance, more ground clearance, and less chance of hooking up when climbing logs or rocks
Pricing
The KTM 250 XC-W is an ideal choice for those looking to invest in the best dirt bike on the market. Priced at around $10,799, this model provides superior performance and reliability for a premium price point.
My Take
The KTM 250 XC-W is the best dirt bike for experienced riders looking for a premium off-roading experience. With its powerful engine, adjustable suspension, and lightweight frame, this model provides superior performance and agility on any terrain. The aggressive style and rugged durability make it the perfect choice for tough trails.
What is a dirt bike?
A dirt bike is a motorcycle designed for use on off-road tracks and trails only with a specialized dirt bike helmet. It’s different from a dual sport motorcycle, where you can use it both on-road and off-road. It usually has knobby tires, a long suspension, and a small body to make it lightweight, agile, and powerful. You can also do fancy tricks on it like doing wheelies. The best dirt bike will depend on your budget, experience, the gear available to you, and the terrain you plan to ride on.
What size dirt bike is right for me?
The best dirt bike size for you depends on your height and the type of terrain you will be riding. Generally, riders 5’7″ or shorter should look for a bike with a wheelbase of fewer than 54 inches and an engine size of 250cc or lower. Riders taller than 5’7″ may need a larger wheelbase and engine size. There are also dirt bikes specifically made for kids.
What is the best dirt bike brand?
The best dirt bike brand is subjective and depends on your personal preferences. Popular options include Yamaha, KTM, Honda, Suzuki, and Kawasaki. You can also buy used high-quality dirt bikes if you want to save some cash, as long as you do regular maintenance on it. Research each brand’s models and their features to choose the right fit for you and make sure to read reviews from other riders before making a purchase.
Wrap Up
When it comes to the best dirt bike, there are many options available depending on your budget, experience and terrain. The Honda CRF150F is a great option for those looking for dependable performance at an affordable price point while the KTM 250 XC-W is perfect for experienced riders wanting premium features. Regardless of which one you choose, make sure to do your research and read reviews from other riders before making a purchase.
