If you’re a big fan of motocross races, you may have considered owning a dirt bike for yourself. These bikes have the engines of a small moped or scooter, up to 250cc, so you can definitely experience some decent speed while riding. Best of all, you don’t even have to worry about getting a driver’s license to drive one, unless you take it on public roads.

However, this doesn’t mean that everyone can just hop on a dirt bike. Riding a dirt bike requires a certain technique of maneuvering the bike, the way your body is positioned, and operating the clutch.

The best way to master a dirt bike is with a lot of practice. You should also look for a dirt bike that’s beginner-friendly. Here are some of the best dirt bikes for those just starting their motocross career, according to Motocross Advice.

Honda CRF230F

The CRF230F has a 230cc air-cooled four-stroke engine. Dirt bikes typically have two types of engines: two-stroke and four-stroke. Many seasoned riders prefer the two-stroke because of its peppiness and lighter weight. However, the two-stroke engine is far less common than it was in the ’80s, due to the fact that its oil-gasoline mixture of fuel barely passed the EPA’s emissions testing.

A four-stroke engine is better for beginners because of its heavier weight, which means a low center of gravity. This bike also features a steady throttle and clutch, a very comfortable driver’s seat, and a 21-inch wheel in the front for excellent off-the-ground action.

Kawasaki KLX110

This Kawasaki bike has a 110cc four-stroke engine and weighs 168 pounds. It’s lighter compared to a lot of beginner bikes, but still has a low center of gravity due to its larger engine. The wheels are a perfect size for beginners: 14 inches in the front, and 12 inches in the back. This gives riders the best balance between ground clearance and overall speed.

Another appeal of Kawasaki bikes is that it’s highly customizable. You can find many extra parts and plates with different graphic designs to make a bike that truly reflects your personality. If your bike looks cool enough, it may also be easier to sell if you decide to upgrade in the future.

Honda CRF250X

The CRF250X comes with a four-stroke 250cc engine, so it’s one of the more powerful bikes on the market. It weighs in at 254 pounds, which makes it very easy for new riders to control. This beginner dirt bike also comes with a more variable powerband on its motor, so drivers can choose between a wide range of speeds depending on their comfort level. It has an 18-inch wheel in the back and a 21-inch wheel at the front, both of which are easy to control.

In addition to its good construction, a Honda dirt bike is also one of the most popular among beginners because of the brand’s reputation for reliability. Reliability is invaluable when looking at dirt bikes for beginners because you want to spend time riding, not fixing the bike.

A variety of aftermarket parts can be purchased, such as skid plates and fork protectors, to keep drivers as safe as possible while they learn the ropes.

Yamaha YZ125

This is one of the few two-stroke engine beginner dirt bikes that you can still get on the market today, with a 125cc engine. It weighs in at 207 pounds, making it one of the lightest dirt bikes when paired with the two-stroke engine.

It can also reach a top speed of around 60 mph, which makes it appealing to new riders looking for a thrill. Operating a two-stroke engine has a bit of a learning curve because of its snappier nature, but it’s worth it to experience all the power that the YZ125 has to offer.