Honda 50cc Motocross Bike: The Perfect Start for Young Riders

For many, the journey into the thrilling world of motocross begins with a small, manageable machine. The memory of a first bike, especially a Honda, ignites a lifelong passion for riding. While models like the Honda QR50 and Yamaha PW50 were iconic in their time, today’s young riders have even more capable and refined options to start their two-wheeled adventures. Among these, the Honda 50cc Motocross Bike, particularly the CRF50F, stands out as an ideal entry point, blending user-friendly features with Honda’s renowned reliability.

Honda has long been a leader in youth motocross, and the CRF50F has been a cornerstone of their lineup for years. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its well-engineered design and suitability for beginner riders. It’s a bike that gets the fundamentals right from the start, minimizing the learning curve and maximizing the fun for young enthusiasts eager to hit the dirt track.

2024 Honda CRF50 right side

Powering the CRF50F is a robust and dependable 50cc air-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery, crucial for young riders still developing their throttle control. The inclusion of an automatic clutch paired with a three-speed gearbox simplifies the learning process significantly. New riders can focus on balance and steering without the added complexity of clutch operation, while still gaining valuable experience with gear shifting as they progress. This combination makes the Honda 50cc motocross bike incredibly user-friendly for novices.

The desire to ride often starts young. Many parents, like myself, might initially try to steer their children toward other sports. However, the allure of motorcycles is often too strong to resist. When my son Harvey’s seventh birthday arrived, the excitement of unwrapping a CRF50F was unmistakable. It was the beginning of his motocross journey, a moment filled with the pure joy that only a first bike can bring. This Honda 50cc motocross bike wasn’t just a gift; it was the key to unlocking a new passion.

Harvey Scaysbrook birthday 2024 Honda CRF50

Designed for children aged approximately 4 to 8 years old, the CRF50F is perfectly scaled for young riders. While Harvey, at 47 inches tall, was at the upper end of the size range, the bike’s 21.6-inch seat height is ideally suited for children around 45 inches. This ensures a comfortable and confidence-inspiring riding position, allowing kids to easily reach the ground and control the bike. For parents seeking the right fit for their child’s first honda 50cc motocross bike, height is a key consideration, and the CRF50F is designed with this age group in mind.

Weighing in at 111 pounds, the CRF50F strikes a good balance between stability and manageability for young riders. Its chassis geometry, featuring a 25° rake, 1.3 inches of trail, and a 36-inch wheelbase, promotes stability at lower speeds. This is essential for beginners as they learn to balance and control the bike. As their skills develop, the three-speed gearbox allows them to explore different speeds and terrains, gradually expanding their riding capabilities. The forgiving nature of this Honda 50cc motocross bike helps build confidence and skill in equal measure.

Honda has thoughtfully included a throttle-limiter screw on the CRF50F. This feature provides parents with an added layer of control, allowing them to restrict the bike’s top speed as their child gains experience. However, in first gear, the bike’s speed is naturally gentle enough for most beginners, potentially making the limiter unnecessary in the initial stages of learning. This feature showcases Honda’s focus on safety and control in their 50cc motocross bike design.

2024 Honda CRF50 front wheel

Braking on the CRF50F is handled by reliable 80mm drum brakes both front and rear. While not disc brakes, they provide ample stopping power for the bike’s size and intended use. For young riders learning the basics, these brakes are more than sufficient and easy to modulate, contributing to a safe learning environment on their honda 50cc motocross bike.

During Harvey’s first day riding his CRF50F, he spent hours exploring first and second gear, quickly becoming comfortable with the bike’s capabilities. The robust engine proved its durability, happily running at its rev limiter without issue. Fuel consumption is remarkably low; six hours of riding barely used a fraction of the 0.7-gallon fuel tank. This efficiency is a practical benefit for parents, meaning less time spent refueling and more time riding. The fuel efficiency of this 50cc motocross bike is an added bonus.

While the CRF50F is generally trouble-free, minor issues can occur. In areas with lower quality fuel, carburetor blockages can happen, although these are typically easily resolved with a quick drain. This is a minor maintenance point to be aware of, ensuring the continued smooth running of the Honda 50cc motocross bike.

Harvey Scaysbrook riding 2024 Honda CRF50

The CRF50F’s suspension consists of a 22mm inverted fork with 3.8 inches of travel and a rear shock providing 2.8 inches. This suspension setup is well-suited for beginner riders and the type of riding they will typically undertake. While more experienced youth riders graduating from competitive 50cc bikes like KTMs or Cobras might desire more advanced suspension, the CRF50F is designed as a trail bike, prioritizing ease of use and durability over aggressive motocross performance. It excels at teaching fundamental riding skills, providing a solid foundation for young riders who may eventually transition to more performance-oriented machines. This Honda 50cc motocross bike is about building skills and confidence.

The Honda CRF50F represents exceptional value as a starter bike. With a price point under $2,000, it’s an accessible option for families looking to introduce their children to motocross without a significant financial burden. However, as many parents discover, once the passion for dirt bikes takes hold, as it has with my son Harvey, it can lead to a lifelong and potentially expensive hobby! The CRF50F is the gateway to a world of riding, but be prepared for the exciting journey that follows.

Ultimately, the Honda 50cc motocross bike, specifically the CRF50F, is a fantastic choice for introducing young riders to the joys of motocross. Its user-friendly design, reliable engine, and manageable size make it the perfect starting point for countless two-wheeled adventures. Get ready to ride!

2024 Honda CRF50F Specifications