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Women in Sports: Getting Started With Dirt Bikes

10/25/2024

Getting ready to hit the trails for the first time? Stepping into the world of dirt biking can be as intimidating as it is thrilling, especially for women who are taking the plunge into this high-energy sport for the first time. With a multitude of options out there, finding the right dirt bike can seem confusing. Here's what you need to know.

Pre-Ride Considerations

As you start your dirt biking journey, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure you get the most out of your experience:

  • Confidence on the Bike. Choosing a bike that you feel comfortable and confident on is vital. A bike that's too powerful or big can be intimidating and may hinder your ability to learn and enjoy the sport.
  • Foot Accessibility. Being able to touch the ground with both feet gives you stability, especially in situations where you need to balance at low speeds or when stopping. This is crucial for building confidence and ensuring safety as you navigate different terrains and obstacles.
  • Electric Start. A bike with an electric start simplifies the process of getting going, especially for beginners who might find kickstarting challenging. It's a convenient feature that can save time and energy, allowing you to focus more on riding and less on starting the bike.
  • Engine Type. A 4-stroke engine is generally more beginner-friendly, offering a smoother and more predictable power output. This type of engine is also easier to maintain since it uses straight gas, avoiding the hassle of mixing fuel as required in 2-stroke engines.
  • Lifting the Bike. Inevitably, you will drop your bike at some point, so it's important to choose one that you can comfortably lift by yourself. This ensures you can independently manage your bike in all situations, which is empowering and practical.
  • Speed Handling. When you're starting out, you'll likely be riding at slower speeds, so a bike that handles well at a slower pace is ideal. A bike that's too fast or powerful can be overwhelming and less forgiving for beginners learning the basics of bike control.

Top Beginner Dirt Bikes for Women

So, what are some of the best beginner dirt bikes for women? Here’s our handpicked selection of bikes that can best meet the needs and preferences of female riders:

person riding Kawasaki KLX140R dirt bike
Image credit: www.kawasaki.com

Kawasaki KLX140R/L/F

The Kawasaki KLX140R series stands out with its varied seat heights, catering to different rider sizes. The entry-level KLX140R is the smallest, with a seat height of 30.7 inches and a weight of 205 lbs, perfect for those looking for something lower and easier to handle. The KLX140L is a middle option with a height of 31.5" and weight of 209 lbs., while the KLX140F is the tallest at 33.9" and heaviest at 2018 lbs., suitable for taller riders.

Each model comes with a smooth 140cc 4-stroke engine and the convenience of an electric start. The advanced braking system with front and rear disc brakes offers an edge over models with rear drum brakes, like the CRF125 and TTR125.

person riding Yamaha TT-R230 dirt bike
Image credit: www.yamahamotorsports.com

Yamaha TT-R230

The Yamaha TT-R230 is a great choice for beginners, particularly for those who need a slightly taller bike, featuring a seat height of 34.3 inches. The TT-R230 is powered by a 230cc 4-stroke engine, which offers a smooth and predictable power delivery that's perfect for beginners who can handle its physical size.

Though it has a rear drum brake, which might feel underpowered for its size, the bike's overall ease of use makes it a solid choice. The TT-R230 is still carbureted, so you might need to adjust the idle screw, choke, and fuel switch occasionally.

person riding Honda CRF125F dirt bike
Image credit: www.powersports.honda.com

Honda CRF125F/FB

The Honda CRF125F and its variant, the CRF125FB, stand out as popular choices among beginner dirt bikes. These models strike an excellent balance between lightweight design and manageable power. The CRF125F is the smaller of the two, featuring a 29.1-inch seat height and weighing 198 lbs. Its larger counterpart, the CRF125FB, offers a 30.9-inch seat height.

Both bikes are powered by a 125cc 4-stroke engine that delivers low-key power, making them ideal for beginners who want confidence when twisting the throttle, but also enough power to enjoy the ride.

person riding Kawasaki KLX230R S dirt bike
Image credit: www.kawasaki.com

Kawasaki KLX230R S

The KLX230R S is ideal for taller or larger beginners. It's the tallest option here, with a seat height of 35.4", and weighs 254 lbs. The 230cc 4-stroke engine provides predictable, smooth power, and the bike boasts excellent braking with front and rear disc brakes. While it doesn't have a backup kickstart, its competitive pricing makes it a strong option alongside the CRF250F and TT-R230.

person riding Suzuki DR-Z125LS dirt bike
Image credit: www.suzukicycles.com

Suzuki DR-Z125L

The Suzuki's DR-Z125L is an exceptional option for younger or shorter riders. The bike's 32-inch seat height makes it accessible for those who might find taller bikes intimidating. Its 124cc engine, combined with a relatively light 196-pound weight, allows for easy handling on trails.

The bike's simplicity is a double-edged sword: its carbureted engine makes troubleshooting fueling issues straightforward, but it relies on a kickstarter, which could be a challenge for some riders.

Get Ready to Ride!

As you get ready to start your dirt biking journey, remember that the bike is just the beginning. You need the right gear to maintain your bike and ensure your safety. Black Widow Pro has everything you need to hit the trails, ensuring you're prepared for every thrilling dirt bike adventure ahead.

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