So, you’re ready to buy your first dirt bike. If you’re wondering where to start looking for one to suit your height and weight, you’re not alone. Today, we’re giving you a quick rundown of what to consider so you can ride comfortably and safely.
What is the right dirt bike seat height for beginners?
As a novice rider, most experts would agree that seat height is one of the key factors of choosing your first dirt bike.
What surprises many people is that the correct seat height has more to do with your in-seam length (as in inner leg) rather than your height, as some people of the same height have long legs, and others shorter legs. There are some formulas to help calculate seat height, but as motorbike and seat width can vary and rider weight impacts the bike’s suspension, sitting on the motorbike itself and feeling the ergonomics often makes a lot more sense, especially when starting out.
The first thing you need to look at once you hop on is whether you are able to reach the ground comfortably with both feet. Depending on your age, skill level and confidence, you may prefer to reach the ground with both feet flat footed. However, as your experience builds, often a solid stance on the front of your feet is sufficient, with many highly experienced riders touching the ground with their toes or with one foot only. The reason for this is that a taller bike tends to be more forgiving when doing jumps when taking into the account the force on the suspension and other design factors.
The weight of the bike itself is also another important consideration when looking at how much foothold is needed, as a heavier bike is going to require more effort to hold up when stationary. If you don’t have the appropriate level of control when holding your bike, it could fall and get damaged or, worse still, you could get injured.
It is also important to not purchase a bike with too much power for the rider’s skill level as this can lead to loss of control and accidents. Our e-bikes and children’s dirt bikes have easy to set governors to limit the amount of power the rider can access.
Here at Crossfire, we highly recommend speaking with one of one of our authorised dealers who can discuss your needs and point you towards the most appropriate Crossfire motorbike options, particularly IMPORTANT when it comes to junior riders.
Which motorbike to choose for your body weight
Before shopping for a motorbike, you should weigh the rider first as each bike has a maximum rider weight in order for it to handle and work efficiently.
You also need to think about your clothing, whether you’re likely to be carrying anything, like a backpack if out on an adventure, and what the combined weight may be.
When it comes to carrying passengers, dirt bikes are NOT designed for passengers and luggage, as this will upset the weight distribution and safety. You also need to be aware that quoted carrying capacities can sometimes be dry or wet, i.e. is fuel and other factors considered in the equation.
Can the height of a dirt bike seat be adjusted?
Generally not. When researching dirt bikes, you may come across online instructions to make your dream bike fit. These generally involve making changes to the seat itself and suspension. Although it may work in lowering the seat height, here at Crossfire we do not recommend making these types of modifications as you could well ruin your bike’s integrity, safety and handling. It’s much better to select the correct size from the get go.
As another option, if you are wanting to squeeze in a teeny extra bit of in seam length, riders have been known to use a thicker soled boot to ride in. Believe it or not, this is a popular rider hack. Naturally, do consider if this is something you can do safely.
The importance of riding safely
No matter which bike you choose, or how well it fits, riding safe is paramount. Make sure you invest in a quality helmet and the right safety equipment and clothing. You’re not only going to tear up the trails with greater confidence, you’re reducing the risks to yourself. Lessons from a reputable dirt bike trainer are also worth looking into to help make sure safety and riding fundamentals are instilled.
Other tips for buying your first dirt bike
- Don’t be taken for a ride by cheap imitations. Make sure the brand you’re choosing is going to give you the reliability, performance and value you deserve. Here at Crossfire, for instance, we are an Australian company renowned for affordable, high quality motorbikes since 2008, with our range especially suited to beginner and intermediate riders.
- You also want your dirt bike to have the styling and attitude that makes you excited and proud to ride. At Crossfire, our dirt bikes look great, and some can even put out one hell of a roar when you want to flex and can be tamed when you don’t want to upset neighbours.
Ready to take the next step?
Get in touch with your local authorised Crossfire dealer. Your dealer will explore the options with you and steer you towards the ideal Crossfire to get you started in this fun and action-packed sport.
Happy riding and we look forward to seeing you on the trails.
