5 Best Dirt Bike for Trail Riding

Best dirt bike for trail riding—your exploration of the world of dirt bikes is incomplete without looking into the best models for trail riding. Although not initially designed for off road riding, there’s no reason why a dirt bike can’t conquer the trails with just as much success as a commuter bike, 50cc scooter, or beginner motorcycle. Almost any mx bike can be used for woods riding, but a small-displacement, single-cylinder machine is best suited for navigating uneven terrain and challenging terrains. Riders prefer trail-specific bikes, such as the CRF250X or WR250F, over motocross bikes for trail riding. With this guide, we’ve rounded up the top trail bikes for trail riding that are perfect for your next outdoor adventure.

Let’s quickly do a run-down of the five best dirt bikes for trail riding:

1. Honda CRF250X
2. Coleman CT200U Trail Bike
3. Honda CRF150F
4. Yamaha TTR-230
5. KTM 250 XCF-W

 1. Honda CRF250X

If you’re an intermediate rider, perhaps the most common group across the globe, choosing the Honda CRF250X as your trail riding dirt bike will be a great decision. At this level, you’re ready to experience riding on tougher terrain and develop your skills even further. The CRF250X is an excellent trail bike, a step up from beginner options, and ideal for off-road moto adventures.

This model is powered by a single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 249cc-sized, liquid-cooled, OHV motorcycle engine with both an electric and kick starter—perfect for tackling obstacles. Its robust build makes it a dependable choice for trail riding enthusiasts. Skid plates help protect the underside of your dirt bike from obstacles on the trail, ensuring durability during rugged rides.

With an MSRP of $7,599, it features a 5-speed transmission and a 1.9-gallon tank for extended rides through nature. The CRF250X sports wide aluminum wheels, wrapped in Dunlop tires—80/100 R21 at the front and 100/R18 at the rear—ensuring reliable traction on tight tracks and rocky road paths.

You’ll also appreciate the inverted fork front suspension and the Twin Sided Swing Arm rear suspension, which offer impressive control on challenging terrains. Front and rear disc brakes ensure stopping power even when the terrain gets unpredictable.

Pros

• Wide and sturdy aluminum wheels
• Fuel efficient
• Brakes for stopping power
• Perfect trail riding dirt bike

Con

• No extra seat for a passenger 

2. Coleman CT200U Trail Bike

How do you feel riding a dirt bike with a small mower engine mounted on a rugged frame? It may sound a bit silly, but this model delivers solid results on challenging terrains, especially for the new rider. The Coleman CT200U is a trail bike that surprises with its simplicity and reliability on uneven terrain.

With hand guards included, your riding through woods or tight trails gets even more comfortable. Hand guards can protect your hands while riding in wooded areas, shielding them from branches and debris. Its max speed is 24 mph—suitable for leisure riding or camping. If you’re into mods, removing the governor can boost the speed up to 34 mph, although doing so could affect engine lifespan.

The CT200U is a cheaper, low-maintenance option with a pull start, which may occasionally be hard to start. It’s not built for long-distance off road riding, but ideal for fun day rides in nearby tracks or locations.

Pros

• Adjustable speed
• Suitable for camping bike
• Very affordable
• Simple frame

Cons

• Pull start
• The clutch dies out easily

3. Honda CRF150F

The Honda CRF150F holds up the brand’s reputation for durability and performance. It’s a versatile bike, perfect for beginner riders, families, and even those looking to practice racing skills on a trail. Whether you’re hitting a race track or a trail with your friends, this model is a worthy purchase.

There are two versions: the standard CRF150 and the roomier 150F. While the standard version is better for racing, the 150F is more suited to family trail rides and shared experiences. It features an electric start for convenience but lacks a kick starter.

Weighing in at 233 lbs, it’s a bit heavier than some alternatives, but its balance and control over uneven terrain make it a great pick. The 33-inch seat height accommodates a wide range of riders, from newbies to taller trail veterans. Designated trails provide a more manageable experience for beginner riders, making this bike a versatile choice for all skill levels.

Pros

• Comfortable
• Great for a family ride
• Electric starter

Cons

• Small for casual riding
• Heavyweight

4. Yamaha TT-R230

If you’re a new rider looking for a friendly, all-purpose trail riding dirt bike, the Yamaha TT-R230 is an outstanding choice. This beginner bike offers a great balance of power, control, and endurance. It’s perfect for cruising through nature, tackling obstacles, or even catching air over small jumps.

This bike is durable and capable of everything from leisure woods riding to tight technical terrain and even moderate use on a race track. It’s not the lightest bike, but the suspension and weight distribution make it ideal for mastering riding techniques and improving your comfort level off-road. A larger displacement bike, like a 450, is more appropriate for wide open, fast trails, but a 250 is better for tight trails, offering better control and maneuverability.

It features an electric starter, which is great for cold mornings or remote locations. The seat may feel less padded than some other trail bikes, but overall, the Yamaha TT-R230 delivers an enjoyable and confidence-building riding experience.

Pros

• Great for beginner riders
• Cruise well on trail terrain
• Perfect for all season
• Electric start

Cons

• Less comfortable seat height 

5. KTM 250 XCF-W

You can’t mention top dirt bike brands without including KTM. Known for performance and quality, the KTM 250 XCF-W is one of the most advanced trail bikes you can get. Whether you’re kicking through dense woods or tearing through tight trails, this enduro-style machine is built for action.

Designed for serious off road riding, this model blends unmatched power with a lightweight, agile chassis. Built with an elite race-inspired frame and suspension, it handles obstacles, jumps, and rugged terrain like a champ.

It’s well-suited for both competitive racing and weekend trail adventures, offering impressive traction, balance, and a lightweight feel on the track or trail. Skid plates protect the underbody, while durable tires keep you moving in any condition. A tail light can be added for increased visibility on public trails or city edges. Enduro bikes are designed for extended off-road races and offer high-performance features, making them a top choice for serious riders.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Agile chassis
• Perfect for trail riding.

Cons

• None for now

Trail Riding Techniques and Tips

Users are looking for advice on how to effectively ride dirt bikes on trails, including safety tips, essential gear, and riding techniques to enhance their experience.

A backpack hydration system is recommended for hot conditions while riding.

Bringing a tool roll for trail-side repairs is advisable when trail riding.

Trail Riding Experiences

Users are seeking information on what to expect when trail riding, including the types of trails, the enjoyment of nature, and the overall adventure of riding dirt bikes.

AMA-sanctioned trail rides focus on enjoyment of scenery and the challenge of off-road terrain.

Riding on trails allows you to enjoy nature while experiencing the thrill of speed and agility.

Are 2-strokes or 4-strokes better for trail riding?

Regarding trail riding, it’s better to engage your 4-stroke engine dirt bike than its 2-stroke counterpart. After all, the trail rider wants vast comfort while covering the long distance on his bike. This is especially valid for beginner riders who must ride on a more fuel-efficient dirt bike. And 4-stroke motorcycles do precisely what you want in trail riding, including comfort, fuel efficiency, and capacity to weather the storm while on tough trail terrain. Wearing full protective gear is essential when trail riding to ensure safety and reduce the risk of injury.

What is the difference between a dirt bike and a trail bike?

As mentioned earlier, a dirt bike, or motocross bike, isn’t meant for trail riding. They’re typically made as lightweight bikes, much lighter than trail bikes. Again, being bikes that are often not street legal, they aren’t often fit for those long trail runs. However, a trail bike has a softer suspension and more torque but less max power.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to trail riding dirt bikes, there’s no shortage of choices. Whether you’re looking for something fun, affordable, or high-performance, these five options offer something for everyone. From beginner bikes to more advanced models, each bike here delivers on power, control, and durability. Trail riding offers experiences that combine adventure with scenic views of nature, making it a rewarding activity for riders of all levels. So grab your gear, find a location, invite your buddy, and join the world of off-road riding—you’re bound to have a great time on any of these trail bikes!

• Average Dirt Bike Cost: 20 Different Models Examined
• 10 Best Dirt Bike Brands You Can Buy
• Average Max Speed of 125cc Dirt Bike (With Examples)
• Best Dirt Bikes For Short Riders (Low Seat Heights)
• Yamaha TTR 125 Review: The Ultimate Guide
• Best Motorcycles Under $10,000: A Buyer’s Guide