Dirt Bike Price: New, Used & Ownership Costs

A dirt bike can cost less than a used car or more than a small motorcycle, and the spread comes down to rider size and purpose. A small bike for a child learning to ride is priced very differently from a full-size motocross machine built for racing.

The prices here are manufacturer's suggested retail prices for Honda and Yamaha, the two brands most buyers shop first. They are listed by model year as published by the sources, and they leave out taxes, setup fees, and gear.

Honda's CRF line runs from a child's starter bike to a competition motocross model. The 2027 CRF50F is the least expensive at $1,899, and the CRF110F costs $2,799. The CRF125F, a step up in size, is priced at $3,599.

Trail riders usually look at the CRF300F at $5,099. Motocross racers look at the CRF250R at $8,599 or the CRF450R at $10,099.

Honda also lists a destination charge on the CRF450R of $600. That fee covers shipping to the dealer and is added to the MSRP, so the real sticker for that model is higher than the base figure.

Yamaha's off-road lineup splits into the TT-R trail bikes and the YZ motocross bikes. The TT-R50E costs $1,899, the TT-R110E costs $2,449, and the TT-R125LE costs $3,599.

The YZ models are built for racing. The YZ125 is listed at $7,199, the YZ250F at $9,099, and the YZ450F at $10,299. Those figures come from Yamaha Motorsports.

The least expensive bikes are the 50 and 110 class machines, which are made for young or beginner riders. The Honda CRF50F and the Yamaha TT-R50E are listed at the same $1,899 price point, so brand preference and local dealer support can decide between them.

Moving up to a mid-size bike such as the CRF125F or TT-R125LE costs more, and the same is true for each step into a full-size adult bike. A child who is growing quickly may outgrow a bike within a few seasons, so a used bike in good condition can make sense for the first one.

Trail bikes like the CRF300F and TT-R models are designed for casual riding, with features that make them easier to live with. Motocross models like the CRF450R, CRF250R, and the YZ line are designed for track use. They are more powerful and usually need more maintenance, and they cost more to buy.

If you plan to ride mostly on trails or at an off-road park, a trail bike is the cheaper choice and is generally more forgiving. Check whether a motocross bike is legal for the places you intend to ride, since many are not street legal and may not be allowed on every trail.

The MSRP is only the start. Plan for these extra costs.

• Destination and setup. Dealers may add shipping, preparation, and documentation charges.
• Taxes and registration. These depend on your state and on where you plan to ride.
• Riding gear. A helmet, boots, gloves, goggles, and body protection are essential, and they are bought separately.
• Transport. A trailer, truck rack, or ramp may be needed to get the bike to the trail.
• Maintenance. Oil changes, air filters, chains, tires, and brake pads wear out faster than many first-time owners expect.
• Insurance. Some riders add coverage for theft or liability. Ask an insurance agent what applies in your state.

A used dirt bike usually costs less than the MSRP of a new one. The tradeoff is condition. A hard-raced bike can have a worn engine, tired suspension, and a bent frame, none of which are obvious from a photo. If you buy used, ask for maintenance records, inspect the bike in person, and consider having a mechanic look it over.

For a beginner, a lightly used trail bike often costs less than a new race machine and is easier to handle. A new bike gives you a warranty and a known history. Check the warranty terms with the seller, because off-road and racing use can be treated differently from casual riding.

Never ride without protective gear. At minimum, wear a helmet that meets current safety standards, eye protection, gloves, boots, and body armor suited to the type of riding. Beginners should consider a riding course. Rules on age, supervision, and helmets vary by state and by riding area, so check local regulations.