If a scooter is too boring for you, and a motorcycle is too cumbersome, but you want to ride something two-wheeled, fast and compact, you should pay attention to a pit bike. Light (weighing just over a hundred kg) and powerful, they were originally used to serve motorcycle competitions, and are now considered a separate type of transport.
We will tell you how and which pit bike to choose for an adult, depending on your goals.
For sport or for road trips: the main difference between the two categories of pit bikes
The main feature of pit bikes and the first thing you should pay attention to is the category of vehicle (vehicle). As a rule, a pit bike is considered sports equipment. It does not have a vehicle passport, it cannot be driven on public roads and it does not need to be registered.
But there are also pit bikes that belong to “regular” transport: they have a title, and they need to be registered, and they also need a driving license (category A). And they cost a little more than sports equipment.
The conclusion is simple: you should immediately decide how you will use the pit bike. If you are using it as a vehicle for traveling through traffic jams in the city, then choose a model only with a title. If it’s for sports, then you can do without it.
The best pit bike models
Budget
Among the budget pit bikes, we should highlight Plister Pro LX5 . Characterized by a powerful engine. The price is about 50,000 rubles.
If you are on a limited budget, it is also recommended to pay attention to the BSE CS150 XL , which features a long-travel suspension. The average price is 40,000 rubles.
This video explains how to choose a budget pit bike:
Medium and high price category
Many people advise purchasing a Honda CRF50 F. Characterized by an automatic clutch system, electric start engine, inverted fork. The average cost is 90,000 rubles.
Kawasaki KLX110 is often the basis for further tuning. The main negative point is the 3-speed gearbox. The price is about 70,000 rubles.
The Yamaha TT- R50 E is also noteworthy . Features a 3-speed automatic transmission. The average cost is 85,000 rubles.
Polini XP4 Street pit bike is produced in Europe and has high power ratings, about 15 horsepower. It has a high cost - 130,000 rubles.
What characteristics to consider when choosing a pit bike
Size
Typically, a pit bike has a low and small frame (single seat, of course) and small wheels - 12 or 14 inches. An adult in a saddle calmly touches the ground with his feet. This landing is specifically designed so that you can push off when driving through particularly dirty areas.
If you are going to ride not on dirt, but on regular roads, the easiest way to choose a model is this: divide your height by 2. The resulting number is approximately the saddle height that will suit you.
Engine power and displacement
Most pit bikes have an engine capacity of 125 or 150 cc and power from 9 to 15 hp. With a dry weight of around 100 kg, this is enough to accelerate to 100 km/h.
There are also more powerful models: 190, 200, 220, 250 “cubes”, producing on average up to 27-30 “horses”. And the most powerful are pit bikes with 300-450 cc engines and 45-50 hp. This equipment is designed for motocross, has large wheels (21/18 inches), and is produced in a very small assortment.
If you are choosing a pit bike for sports, you can look at models with any engine size. If you need a PTS, most likely, you will only be able to find 125-250 cc bikes, because higher-power engines are usually installed either on rarer models for professional sports, or on “regular” motorcycles.
checkpoint
Most pit bikes have a manual transmission, since off-road it is more efficient to change gears manually rather than rely on an automatic transmission. But there are models with both automatic and semi-automatic transmissions - there are simply fewer of them. If you like to drive an automatic, when choosing, pay attention to what kind of transmission the model has.
Suspension
Its stroke is also important for its ability to be adjusted. The longer the move, the more comfortable it will be to jump over bumps and make jumps. If you are going to drive on asphalt or do not plan to jump over jumps and potholes, you don’t need to focus on the suspension travel.
Japanese "monkey" (PITbike)
It was with the solution to the problem of fast movement along the pitline that Japan began to actively develop the first export models. Honda became the flagship.
This is a Honda Monkey. It has been in production for 50 years. Of course, there have already been modifications, but this 2021 model can be proud of its history.
Its version, Super Cub 50, appeared in the early 60s. The idea turned out to be successful, and for 30 years one of the conveyors - this is how mechanics dubbed pit bikes because of the purely monkey-like fit on this vehicle.
This is what the first pit bikes looked like. This is a 1987 Honda super cub 50.
Replacing 2-stroke with 4-stroke was also tested on this bike. Almost all modern models are built according to the same concept that Honda implemented. A low-power, short vehicle that does not require expensive maintenance for moving around the pit line.
In the video, the uncle, at 32 years old, masters his first pit bike. This is his very first motorcycle!
Choice by price
Since a pit bike is a relatively simple technique, prices for it start at 100 thousand rubles. In the range from 65 to 100 thousand there is a rather large selection of pit bikes with an engine capacity of 125 cubic meters. For example, the BSE brand has 8 models that fit within this budget.
The largest selection is in the range from 100 to 200 thousand: the range includes dozens of models from different brands. Light 125 cc pit bikes generally cost 100-120, 150 cc - from 110, and 250 cc - from 130-150 thousand.
Equipment more expensive than 200 thousand will most likely be either the most powerful, or the highest quality and reliable, or the most sophisticated in terms of configuration. Also, new models with a title (for example, the BSE M2 Y model with a volume of 250 “cubes”) usually cost significantly more than 200 thousand.
When is a pit bike better than a motorcycle?
Purchasing a pit bike is an excellent opportunity to acquire motorized transport for those who cannot afford to buy a motorcycle. The latter means of transportation is significantly more expensive. In addition, in our country, driving a mini-motorcycle does not require category rights. And you also don’t have to register your pit bike with the traffic police. In fact, it has the status of sports equipment that can be used by people of any age in accordance with their goals. The following versions are available for sale:
- urban (for example, BSE PH10-190E);
- sports (for example, BSE PH10-190E PRO);
- children's (for example, Motoland PWR Racing FRZ 50);
- teenagers (for example, Motoland PWR Racing FRZ 125 14/12).
Selection by brand
Despite the fact that pit bikes appeared in the USA and the term itself also originated there, now they are produced mainly in Asia and a little in Europe.
Let us briefly list the popular manufacturers:
- Kayo. One of the most famous brands of pit bikes, launched in the 2000s. His equipment does not particularly stand out: it is simple, reliable and cheap, and since it is widespread in Russia, it is also easy to maintain (parts are easy to find, as are repairmen).
- YCF. A young French brand with a rather large range of models, mainly in the middle price segment. The reviews do not complain about quality, but in our country these pit bikes are poorly represented.
- BSE. Another large Chinese brand founded in 2002. Closest competitor to Kayo. It has a large assortment of pit bikes of different sizes and capacities, and also produces models with a title for highways. It is already quite widely known in Russia and has every chance of breaking into the top sales of pit bikes (despite the fact that it started selling here later than Kayo).
- Progasi. The Spanish brand, which appeared several years ago, assembles its equipment in China. He approaches design very responsibly; he selects components, if not the best, then some of them. The downsides are the above-average price tag, a small number of models, the absence (possibly temporary) of models with PTS, and very poor distribution in the Russian Federation.
- Motoland. Not a manufacturer, but a distributor: under this brand various motorcycles from different Chinese and Taiwanese factories are sold. It has been operating since the mid-2000s, but pit bikes with this logo appeared in our country not so long ago. They are inexpensive and the selection is average. The disadvantages are the same as those of other models that have recently appeared in the Russian Federation: they are not sold everywhere, and they are not easy to service.
Previously, pit bikes were produced by others, including more well-known brands like Yamaha and Kawasaki. They can be found on sale secondhand. You can also see other brands, mainly from China - for example, BRZ, Wels, Apollo. They are not sold everywhere and they are not very well known here, so we present these names just so that you are aware of the approximate assortment.
What is a pit bike?
A pit bike is one of the subtypes of a motorcycle. It is suitable for motocross enthusiasts. Many people recommend a pit bike for those just learning to ride a motorcycle, including teenagers.
Characteristic features for this vehicle:
- reduced geometry;
- small wheel size;
- in most cases a four-stroke engine.
A pit bike is easier to control than a motorcycle. It is considered a safe and cheap option. This vehicle allows you to experience motorsports without the hassles of a full-size motorcycle.
The pit bike has evolved from a regular bicycle to a simplified small-sized motorcycle. In translation, the meaning of the word “pitbike” stands for “bicycle for technical boxing.”
Previously, pit bikes were a type of bicycle used as transport for movement, as well as for racers in the pit lane. Despite the transformation of the pit bike, the name remained the same. A smaller version of the motorcycle appeared in the 50s of the 20th century in the United States. Characteristic differences were small dimensions, high speed and maneuverability.
ZiD-150-23, from 63,000 rub.
ZiD-150-23 pleases its customers with its build quality. It is assembled from Chinese parts at a factory with a military component, so the quality is strictly monitored. Many people note that this pit bike picks up speed very smoothly and pleasantly. It is easy to drive and brake.
It has few disadvantages. For example, buyers criticize road tires, which are completely bare after the factory, which reduces its cross-country ability, but can be changed3 later. And also the high cost of repair, since it is not common in Russia and the parts can be very expensive.
BSE PH10-125e, from RUR 66,000
BSE PH10-125e is a model released in 2014 from BSE. Its differences: non-adjustable suspension, a more rigid frame (compared to the previous year's version), lighting technology and fashionable plastic, which the company copied from the Honda CRF110 model.
The battery is located in the back and is protected from dirt. Having an electric starter is very useful, but you need to get used to using it.
Among the shortcomings of this pit bike, you can notice the tail section without an amplifier and poor protection in case of falls.
PBC 800kW, from RUB 50,000
PBC 800kW is a small electric pit bike, you can even call it a toy. But on the other hand, it has a high load capacity (almost 100 kg) and easily overcomes any terrain.
Another pit bike that does not need refueling, and for it to go, you just need to charge the battery. This affects the speed, since its maximum speed is 28 km/h, which, in theory, is enough for a pit bike, but some indicate it as a disadvantage.
The best pit bikes from 100,000 rubles
Apollo RXF Freeride 190E
The models can be recognized by their V-shaped frame. The manufacturer has completely redesigned the frame to fit the size of the wheels used. It is also worth noting that the distance from the footpegs to the saddle is quite large, due to this it will be convenient for the rider to ride in a standing position.
The Apollo RXF Freeride 190E suspension features forks and shock absorbers that can be adjusted for rebound. The engine capacity of this model is 190 cc and its power is 17 horsepower. Also in the Apollo RXF Freeride 190E, the manufacturer increased the fuel tank, now it can hold 6.5 liters of gasoline. And for greater reliability, the pit bike is equipped with a filter box. Now the carburetor is not afraid of either moisture or dirt. There is also plastic protection on the brake discs, and a mudguard on the rear wheel.
The average cost is 115,000 rubles.
Apollo RXF Freeride 190E
Advantages:
- High power;
- Reliable braking system;
- Stylish design;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- Small people will find it uncomfortable.
Kayo Pro Daytona 190 17/14 KRZ
This model was born in 2021. Unlike its predecessors, this pit bike has an ergonomic frame. With such a “comrade” you can perform well in competitions or just ride off-road.
"Kayo Pro Daytona 190 17/14 KRZ" has an adjustable suspension, which is presented in the front in the form of a telescopic fork, and in the rear in the form of an aluminum pendulum with a monoshock absorber. The wheels have a diameter of 17 and 14 inches; for a more comfortable ride, the manufacturer installed towbars and linings. The four-stroke engine has a displacement of 190 cc and its power is 20 horsepower. Thanks to this, the bike can easily gain high speed.
The average cost is 170,000 rubles.
Kayo Pro Daytona 190 17/14 KRZ
Advantages:
- Ease of management;
- High power;
- Availability of filterbox;
- Ergonomic frame shape;
- Design.
Flaws:
- High price.
YCF Factory SP2 F150
This model is in great demand among both professional athletes and motorcycle enthusiasts.
The four-stroke engine is air-cooled and has an electric starter. Its volume is 150 cc and its power is 16 horsepower. Thanks to this, the YCF Factory SP2 F150 can easily reach high speeds. The wheels of this model have a diameter of 14 and 12 inches, and for a better ride they are equipped with powerful cross-country tires. There are also towbars here. In addition, the YCF Factory SP2 F150 has the ability to adjust the height of the steering wheel.
The average cost is 150,000 rubles.
YCF Factory SP2 F150
Advantages:
- Suitable for competitions;
- Powerful engine;
- Powerful tires;
- Improved brake lever.
Flaws:
- High price.
The best pit bikes under 100,000 rubles
Motoland 125 Apex125
This model is perfect for driving on off-road and dirt roads. "Motoland 125 Apex125" has a striking design, where the design of the product emphasizes its sporty character. Here the manufacturer combines durable plastic with metal. Moreover, you should not be afraid of the word plastic, it is quite durable and will not break when bent.
The front suspension of the Motoland 125 Apex125 is a non-adjustable telescopic inverted type. Thanks to this, the driver can easily overcome potholes, obstacles and cope with uneven roads. The rear suspension has a monoshock absorber. The handlebar size is 22 mm, while it has a high rise and crossbar so that users of different heights feel comfortable. The diameter of the front wheel is 17 inches, and the rear one is 14. They are spoked, and the manufacturer used aluminum for manufacturing.
"Motoland 125 Apex125" is equipped with a four-stroke engine with a power of 9 horsepower and its volume is 125 cc. cm. Thanks to this, the pit bike can easily accelerate to 90 km/h. There is a headlight to make it comfortable for the driver to drive in the dark or in poor visibility conditions.
The weight of the Motoland 125 Apex125 is 75 kg, and it can withstand a load of up to 150 kg. The height of the saddle is 80 cm.
The average cost is 60,000 rubles.
Motoland 125 Apex125
Advantages:
- Overcomes obstacles without difficulty;
- Power;
- Not whimsical in maintenance;
- Reliable braking system;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Kayo Mini KMB-E 10/10
This model will be an ideal option for children who love motorcycles. Unlike conventional models, the manufacturer installed an electric motor here. Its power is 500 W, and it receives power from a battery. The battery capacity is 8 Ah. Since it uses a lithium-ion battery, it won’t take much time for the young rider to charge the battery. The charger comes with the pit bike.
The Kayo Mini KMB-E 10/10 steering wheel is made of aluminum, thanks to which it will not weigh down the overall design of the product. The wheels have a diameter of 10 inches, and for a comfortable ride the manufacturer installed off-road tires. Thanks to disc brakes, the rider can quickly reduce speed at any time. Also, for greater safety, additional wheels can be installed on this model.
The average cost is 50,000 rubles.
Kayo Mini KMB-E 10/10
Advantages:
- Fast battery charge;
- Possibility to install additional wheels;
- Bright design;
- Reliable braking system.
Flaws:
- Additional wheels must be purchased separately.
BRZ X4
Fans of aggressive off-road driving will appreciate this model. With the help of such a pit bike you can easily conquer any peaks.
The BRZ X4 has a twin-tube frame and wheels with a diameter of 17 and 14 inches. To ensure a smooth ride, the manufacturer equipped this model with a 400 mm shock absorber, which has free movement and progressive stiffness. At high speeds, the rider gains stability due to the increased wheelbase. The exhaust pipe has a powerbomb to get more power at high speed.
The BRZ X4 engine displacement is 125 cc and its power is 11 horsepower. The fuel tank allows you to fill 6.5 liters of gasoline, so the rider does not have to worry about refueling his comrade for a long time.
The average cost is 73,000 rubles.
BRZ X4
Advantages:
- Ease of Management;
- Powerful engine;
- Excellent performance when driving off-road;
- Enlarged fuel tank;
- Positive customer reviews.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E
This model was born in 2021, but has already won the hearts of many motorcycle enthusiasts.
“PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E” has a strong frame, thanks to which the user receives rigidity. Now controlling turns has become even easier, since the bike provides excellent resistance to loads. Do not ignore the presence of a filter box. With its help, the carburetor will have reliable protection from moisture and small particles. Now the rider will have confidence on every ride. The manufacturer also changed the rear hub. This model has the same hub as expensive motocross bikes. It is also worth noting the rear suspension “PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E”. It has a progressive lever system, which ensures good traction between the wheel and the road surface.
"PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E" has a four-stroke engine with an air cooling system. The engine capacity is 125cc and the power is 8 horsepower. The fuel tank holds 6 liters of gasoline.
The average cost is 83,000 rubles.
PWR Racing FRZ 125 17/14 E
Advantages:
- Availability of filter box;
- Withstands any load;
- Fuel tank volume;
- Quickly picks up speed.
Flaws:
- Heavy weight.
SSSR SSR Atom 125 17/14 from 56,000 RUR
SSSR SSR Atom 125 17/14 - has nothing to do with the USSR or even modern Russia. This model is a completely Chinese development. The suspension of this pit bike is considered one of the best, as it is very soft.
Its main drawback is that there is no electronic starter, that is, you can only start the pit bike with a pedal, which can create difficulties on the track. It seems childish, but is as powerful as others - it can easily cope with the race track and rough terrain.
2. MOWGLI-SIMPLE-1210, from 46,500 RUR
MOWGLI-SIMPLE-1210 is a pit bike that was developed specifically for children. This is an ideal technique for a teenager. Among its obvious advantages, it is worth noting a powerful (for a children's pit bike) engine, an electronic starter and small-diameter wheels. All this goes along with making driving easier and safer.
It can easily carry a weight of up to 90 kg, which makes it possible to use it by adults or two teenagers at the same time. But this pit bike is not so safe in case of a fall; it does not have protective guards.
Some parents note the possibility of limiting the speed as a significant plus when purchasing this particular pit bike.
