How fast does a 50cc dirt bike go? A typical 50cc 2-stroke dirt bike built for kids or beginners usually reaches a top speed between 25 and 40 miles per hour. This speed changes based on many things like the bike’s exact model, who is riding it, and where they are riding. These small bikes are made more for learning and having fun off-road than for going very fast.
When people ask about the speed of these bikes, they often think about racing speeds. But for a 50cc 2-stroke, especially models used by young riders, speed is not the most important thing. These bikes are designed to be light, easy to handle, and safe for children learning to ride.
They use a small engine. 50cc means 50 cubic centimeters. This is the size of the engine’s cylinder. A 2-stroke engine works differently than a 4-stroke engine. 2-stroke engines are simple and powerful for their size, but they need a mix of oil and gas. They also tend to be louder and rev higher.
The speed a 50cc 2-stroke dirt bike can hit depends on many things. We will look at what makes the speed go up or down. We will also see what the 50cc dirt bike top speed might be for different models. And we will talk about what speed means for beginner dirt bike speed and youth dirt bike performance.
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What Changes the Speed?
Many things can affect how fast a 50cc mini dirt bike speed can be. It is not just about the engine size. Think of these like different ingredients in a recipe. Each one changes the final result. Knowing these things helps you understand why two 50cc bikes might go at different speeds.
Rider’s Weight
This is a very big factor. A heavier rider makes the bike work harder. The engine has to push more weight. This means the bike will go slower. A light child will go faster than a heavier child or an adult (even though adults are usually too big for these bikes anyway). This is why the maximum speed 50cc 2-stroke will be highest with the lightest rider.
Type of Ground
Where you ride makes a big difference.
* Riding on hard, flat dirt is easy for the bike. It can go faster.
* Riding in sand is hard. The wheels sink. The engine struggles. The bike goes much slower.
* Riding up a hill is also hard. The speed will drop a lot.
* Riding on grass or muddy ground can also slow the bike down.
The surface changes how much grip the tires have and how much drag there is. These factors affecting 50cc dirt bike speed are very important.
Bike’s Condition
Is the bike new and well cared for? Or is it old and maybe not fixed up right?
* A bike that is well maintained will run better.
* Tires need to have the right amount of air. Flat tires make the bike slow.
* The chain needs to be clean and oiled. A dry, dirty chain creates drag.
* The engine needs clean air and fuel. The carburetor or fuel injection system must work right. A dirty air filter chokes the engine.
* The exhaust pipe also needs to be clear.
A bike in bad shape will not reach its potential youth dirt bike performance. It will go slower.
Bike’s Design
Not all 50cc 2-strokes are exactly the same.
* Some bikes are made for racing. These might have better engines, lighter parts, and better suspension. They might go faster.
* Some bikes are made just for fun riding in the yard. These might be simpler and not built for speed.
* The gears on the bike matter too. Some bikes have different gear ratios. This changes how the power gets to the wheel.
A bike made for racing will likely have a higher 50cc dirt bike top speed than a non-racing model.
Engine Tuning
For racing bikes, the engine can be adjusted. This is called tuning.
* Changing the carburetor settings can change how the engine runs.
* Changing the exhaust pipe can change how the engine breathes.
* These changes can make the bike faster. But they need someone who knows what they are doing. Poor tuning can hurt the engine.
Most beginner bikes are not tuned for maximum speed. They are tuned to be easy and smooth to ride.
Weather
Wind can slow a bike down. Riding into a strong wind makes the engine work harder. This lowers the speed. Riding with the wind can make it go a little faster. Very cold air can sometimes make a 2-stroke engine run better, but it also depends on tuning.
These are the main factors affecting 50cc dirt bike speed. They all work together.
Looking at Real-World Speed
So, what is the actual speed? The average speed 50cc dirt bike goes depends heavily on the rider and the place. But we can talk about ranges.
For a typical recreational 50cc 2-stroke dirt bike, like models from Yamaha (PW50) or Honda (CRF50F – though mostly 4-stroke now, older 2-stroke versions existed), the speed is usually low.
- PW50: This is a very popular beginner bike. It is known for being super reliable and easy to ride. It often has a speed limiter that can be adjusted. With the limiter on, it might only go 10-15 mph. With the limiter off, it might reach 20-25 mph. Some people make small changes, but it is not built for high speed.
- Older Honda/Suzuki/Kawasaki 50cc 2-strokes (if you find one): Similar speeds, likely in the 20-30 mph range depending on the exact model and age.
Now, let’s look at racing 50cc bikes. These are built for competition. They are much faster.
KTM 50 SX Speed
The KTM 50 SX is a very popular 50cc 2-stroke dirt bike. But it is not a slow, simple beginner bike like the PW50. It is a real racing machine, just smaller. These bikes are made for kids who want to race motocross.
The KTM 50 SX top speed is much higher than a simple recreational bike.
* Riders report these bikes can reach speeds of 35 mph to over 45 mph.
* Some skilled riders on tuned bikes might even push close to 50 mph on the right ground.
Why is the KTM 50 SX so much faster?
* Better Engine: It has a higher-performance engine designed for racing. It makes more power.
* Better Parts: Lighter frame, better suspension, better brakes. Everything is built for performance.
* Clutch: Unlike the Yamaha PW50 which has a simple shaft drive and no gears, the KTM 50 SX often has an automatic clutch and gears or a sophisticated single-speed automatic system that works more effectively at higher speeds.
* Tuning: These bikes are often tuned for racing right from the factory or by owners.
So, when you hear about a maximum speed 50cc 2-stroke, you need to know which 50cc bike people are talking about. A KTM 50 SX is in a different league than a Yamaha PW50 regarding speed and performance.
What Speed Means for Beginners
For someone just starting out, speed is not the main goal.
* Beginner dirt bike speed should be slow enough to learn control.
* Learning to balance, steer, use the throttle smoothly, and brake safely is much more important than going fast.
* A slow speed lets a new rider make mistakes without big crashes.
Bikes like the PW50 are great because they are slow and easy to handle. The low speed builds confidence. As skills grow, a rider might move to a slightly faster 50cc or a different size bike.
Thinking about speed too early can be dangerous. Kids need to learn the basics first. Skills come before speed.
Comparing 50cc and 65cc Speeds
Once a rider outgrows their 50cc bike, the next step is often a 65cc bike. These bikes are also 2-strokes, but they are bigger and faster.
Here is a simple comparison of speeds:
| Bike Size | Typical Speed Range (mph) | Type of Bike |
|---|---|---|
| 50cc | 20 – 25 mph | Simple Beginner |
| 50cc | 35 – 45+ mph | Racing Beginner |
| 65cc | 40 – 55+ mph | Youth Racing/Next Step |
As you can see, there is some overlap between a fast 50cc racing bike and a slower 65cc. But generally:
* Comparing 50cc and 65cc dirt bike speeds, the 65cc is usually faster.
* 65cc bikes have more powerful engines.
* They often have manual clutches and gear shifts (usually 6 gears). This gives the rider more control over power and speed.
* They are built for riders who already have skills from a 50cc bike.
Moving from a 50cc to a 65cc is a big step in speed and how the bike works (clutch and gears). It is not just a small jump in speed. It is a jump in performance and skill needed.
Youth Dirt Bike Performance – More Than Just Speed
When we talk about youth dirt bike performance, speed is just one part. For young riders, other things are very important:
- Handling: How easy is the bike to steer and turn?
- Suspension: Can the suspension handle bumps and jumps (even small ones) smoothly? Good suspension makes riding safer and more fun.
- Brakes: Do the brakes work well and are they easy for small hands to use?
- Reliability: Does the bike start easily and keep running?
- Size and Fit: Is the bike the right size for the rider? Can their feet touch the ground? Can they reach the handlebars and levers?
- Weight: Is the bike light enough for the rider to pick up if it falls over?
A bike might have a high 50cc dirt bike top speed, but if it is hard to handle or unreliable, it is not good performance for a young rider. Youth dirt bike performance is a mix of speed, handling, safety features, and reliability that matches the rider’s skill level.
Keeping Your 50cc Running Well
To get the best performance and speed out of a 50cc mini dirt bike, keeping it in good shape is key. Simple maintenance helps the bike run smoother and safer.
Check the Tires
- Look at the tires before every ride.
- Make sure they have enough air. The right air pressure is usually written on the tire or in the owner’s manual.
- Tires with too little air make the bike hard to turn and slower.
- Check for cuts or damage.
Clean and Oil the Chain
- A dirty chain creates drag. It slows the bike down.
- Clean the chain regularly. Use a brush and chain cleaner.
- After cleaning, put chain lube on it. This helps it move smoothly.
Air Filter
- The engine needs clean air.
- The air filter stops dirt from getting in.
- A dirty air filter makes the engine run poorly. It will lose power and speed.
- Check the air filter often. Clean or replace it when it is dirty. This is one of the most common reasons for a 2-stroke to lose power.
Engine Oil (for 2-strokes)
- Remember, 2-strokes need oil mixed with the gas. Or some bikes have a separate oil tank that mixes it automatically (like the PW50).
- Always use the correct type of 2-stroke oil. The manual tells you which kind.
- Make sure the mix is correct (if you are mixing gas and oil). Too little oil is bad for the engine. Too much oil can make it smoke a lot and run poorly, losing speed.
- If it has an oil tank, make sure it is full.
Spark Plug
- The spark plug makes the spark that starts the engine.
- A dirty or old spark plug can make the engine hard to start. It can also make it run rough or lose power.
- Check the spark plug now and then. Clean it or put in a new one if needed.
Clean the Bike
- Washing the bike after riding is good.
- Dirt and mud add weight. This extra weight slows the bike down.
- Cleaning also helps you see if any parts are loose or broken.
Regular care makes the bike last longer. It also makes sure the bike performs as it should, reaching its expected average speed 50cc dirt bike.
Can You Make a 50cc Faster?
People often ask about making their bikes faster. For a 50cc, especially a beginner model, big speed changes are usually not a good idea.
- Why not? These bikes are designed for young riders. Adding a lot of speed changes the handling and makes the bike harder to control. This increases the risk of crashes.
- Small Changes: For racing models like the KTM 50 SX, people do make changes to get more speed for competition. This might involve changing the exhaust, adjusting the carburetor, or changing sprockets. But these changes are for racing and done by people who know a lot about bikes.
- For Beginners: For bikes like the PW50, the best way to get a little more speed (after removing any limiter) is simply to keep it in perfect running condition. Make sure tires are right, chain is clean, air filter is clean. These simple steps ensure the bike runs at its best possible speed for its design. Trying to add big horsepower changes is usually not safe or helpful for a learning rider.
The focus for a 50cc should stay on learning skills, not chasing a higher maximum speed 50cc 2-stroke.
Safety First with Speed
No matter the speed, safety is the most important thing when riding a dirt bike. This is especially true for young riders on a 50cc mini dirt bike.
- Proper Gear: Always wear a helmet, goggles, gloves, long pants, long-sleeve shirt, and dirt bike boots. This gear protects the rider in case of a fall.
- Riding Area: Ride only in safe places where dirt bikes are allowed. Avoid riding on streets or busy areas.
- Adult Supervision: Young riders should always be watched by an adult.
- Learn Skills: Before trying to go faster, learn how to stop, turn, and handle bumps. Take a riding class if possible.
- Know Your Limits: Riders should only ride at speeds they feel comfortable controlling. Do not try to keep up with faster riders if you are not ready.
Even at 25 mph, falling off a dirt bike can cause injuries. Speed is fun, but safety must always come first, especially with youth dirt bike performance.
Different 50cc Models and Their Speed Focus
Let’s look at how different 50cc models are built and how that relates to their speed.
- Yamaha PW50: Built for extreme reliability and ease of use. Single speed, automatic clutch, shaft drive (no chain). Very low seat height. Speed is low, designed for the very first time rider. Speed limiter is a key feature. Beginner dirt bike speed is the focus.
- Honda CRF50F: (Note: This is a 4-stroke, but often compared). Also very reliable and user-friendly. Has gears but usually no clutch lever (automatic clutch). Speed is low to moderate for learning.
- KTM 50 SX / Husqvarna TC 50 / Cobra CX50: These are racing bikes. Powerful 2-stroke engines, better suspension, better brakes. Automatic clutch systems are more complex for performance. Lighter frames. Designed for speed and handling on a race track for skilled young riders. 50cc dirt bike top speed is much higher on these. Youth dirt bike performance here means race performance.
Understanding which type of 50cc bike you have is important for knowing what speed to expect and what its main purpose is. You wouldn’t expect a PW50 to keep up with a KTM 50 SX on a track, and you might not want a KTM 50 SX as a very first bike for a tiny rider just starting out.
Deciphering Average Speed
The term average speed 50cc dirt bike can be misleading. It is not like the average speed of a car on a highway. It depends entirely on the rider, the terrain, and the purpose of the ride.
- A child learning in a yard might average only 5-10 mph.
- A child riding on easy trails might average 15-20 mph.
- A child racing a KTM 50 SX on a track might average higher speeds on the straight parts, maybe hitting their 50cc dirt bike top speed briefly, but the average speed around the whole track will be much lower due to turns and jumps.
So, when thinking about how fast does a 50cc dirt bike go, it’s better to think about the range of speed it can achieve under ideal conditions (its top speed) and the much lower average speed it will travel during a typical ride, which focuses more on control and fun.
Grasping Engine Size and Speed
Why is a 50cc engine small?
* “cc” stands for cubic centimeters. It measures the volume the piston sweeps inside the cylinder.
* 50cc is a small volume. A car engine might be 2000cc or more. A large dirt bike might be 450cc.
* Smaller engine volume generally means less power. Less power usually means lower top speed.
However, how that power is made and used is also key. A 50cc 2-stroke racing engine makes power differently than a simple 50cc 4-stroke or a recreational 50cc 2-stroke.
* Racing 2-strokes make peak power at very high engine speeds (RPM).
* They need to be ridden in a specific way to get that power out.
* This is why a KTM 50 SX top speed is high – its engine is designed to rev very high and make maximum power for its size, combined with a lightweight frame and good parts.
So, while 50cc is a small size, the design of the engine matters a lot for speed.
Final Thoughts on 50cc Speed
To sum it up, how fast is a 50cc 2-stroke dirt bike? It depends on the bike!
- Simple beginner bikes (like PW50) go about 20-25 mph.
- Racing 50cc bikes (like KTM 50 SX) can go 35-45+ mph.
- The rider’s weight, the ground, and the bike’s condition change the speed.
- Speed is not the main point for most 50cc bikes; learning and safety are.
- 50cc dirt bike top speed is less important than control for new riders.
- Comparing 50cc and 65cc dirt bike speeds, 65cc bikes are generally faster and more complex to ride.
- Proper care keeps a bike performing at its best possible speed.
These bikes are an excellent way for kids to start riding off-road. The speeds they reach are suitable for learning and having fun safely. Chasing high speed should wait until a rider is older, more skilled, and on a larger bike designed for faster riding. The average speed 50cc dirt bike on a typical fun ride is quite modest, allowing for smiles, skill-building, and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How fast can a 50cc dirt bike go?
A: It depends on the bike. Simple ones go about 20-25 mph. Racing ones can go 35-45 mph or more.
Q: Is a 50cc dirt bike fast enough for a beginner?
A: Yes! The speeds (20-25 mph range) are perfect for learning. Too much speed is dangerous for new riders.
Q: What is the top speed of a KTM 50 SX?
A: The KTM 50 SX top speed is usually between 35 and 45+ mph, as it is a racing bike.
Q: Can an adult ride a 50cc dirt bike?
A: Adults are usually too big and heavy for 50cc bikes. They might fit on some models, but they will go very slowly, and the bike parts are not made for adult weight.
Q: How can I make my 50cc dirt bike faster?
A: For beginner bikes, the best way is good maintenance (clean air filter, good tires, clean chain). Big engine changes are not recommended for safety and are costly. Racing bikes can be tuned, but this needs expertise.
Q: Are 50cc 2-stroke or 4-stroke bikes better for beginners?
A: Both can be good. 4-strokes (like Honda CRF50F) are often easier to ride with smoother power. 2-strokes (like Yamaha PW50) are simple, light, and still great for learning. Racing 50cc bikes are almost always 2-strokes for more power.
Q: What age is a 50cc dirt bike for?
A: This varies, but they are typically for riders aged 4 to 8 years old, depending on the child’s size and skill. Always check the bike’s size and the child’s ability.
Q: Do 50cc dirt bikes have gears?
A: Some do, some don’t. The Yamaha PW50 is a single speed with no gears to shift. The Honda CRF50F has gears but an automatic clutch. Racing 50cc bikes often have automatic clutches but may have a simple single-speed transmission optimized for racing or multi-speed manual transmissions on larger youth models (65cc+).