What is the best size off road bike for a 10 year old?

Question

Any advise welcome, im looking for a second hand field bike for my 10 year old daughter, there are so many different options, but it does seem that the what are called " child bikes" seem to have a seat height of around 24 inches. Can anyone recommend and ideal size that is not too big but will last a few years

Answer 1

well stated slipknot!!!

xr or crf 70 / 80 / 100 depending totally on her height and inseam.  should be able to easily touch with both feet when she is sitting on the bike.  this will enable her to gain balance and confidence while learning how to ride.

easiest thing is go to a bike shop and have her sit on several different models and sizes... then watch local newspaper classified, Craigslist in the area(s) you are willing to drive to.  you should be able to find a decent used 4 stroke that will last a long time with low maintenance.  then merely trade up as she grows.

as slipknot stated, drz, klx (both virtually same bike, even parts interchange on most), ttr would all be reliable bikes.  there are 2 stroke race bikes in the same size ranges (50/60/80/85/100) but these are typically higher strung racing bikes but they will also have higher performance engine, brakes, suspension and lighter weight.  

Answer 2

it would help to know her height and weight...

but i'm going to guess like a honda xr/crf 80 maybe an xr/crf 100

the best way is to go to a dealership and have her sit on the bikes and see which is right (she should be able to sit on it and have both feet flat on the ground, at this age, this is something you DO NOT want to ignore... as she gets older having both feet flat wont' be as much of a problem)

she's in the 80-100cc range (for four strokes) some other models would be kawasaki klx, suzuki drz, or yamaha ttr

Answer 3

As the others mentioned the XR or CRF 70 or 80 should be perfect. If she is a little tall for her age the 100 may work also. he XR and CRF are basically the same bikes, Honda just changed from XR to the CRF naming convention somewhere around 2000. The 70 has an automatic clutch and the 80 has a manual clutch. These bikes are bullet proof.