Dirt bike enthusiasts are a unique breed of riders. They are drawn to the most challenging terrains globally, equipped with machines that demand pure skill and rider connection, rather than relying on electronic aids. These specialized motorcycles, commonly known as dirt bikes, are engineered for toughness, power, and exceptional durability, setting them apart from typical road bikes. While Japanese manufacturers dominate the dirt bike market, European brands like KTM and Husqvarna have carved out significant niches with their high-performance offerings.
Drawing from the latest manufacturer data, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten four-stroke motocross bikes available today. These machines represent the pinnacle of off-road engineering, designed to deliver thrilling experiences for riders of all skill levels.
10. Yamaha TT-R230
Base Price: $4,699
Yamaha TT-R230 – A reliable four stroke motocross bike for beginners and intermediate riders, showcasing its trail-ready design and Yamaha branding.
The Yamaha TT-R230 is a trail-focused motorcycle that takes design cues from Yamaha’s renowned YZ motocross series. Its 223cc, four-stroke engine is known for its predictable power delivery and broad torque curve, making it an excellent choice for riders ranging from beginners to intermediate levels. Specifically engineered for trail riding, the TT-R230’s flat seat and tank junction enhance rider mobility, while its long-travel suspension provides an impressive 11.6 inches of ground clearance, ensuring versatility across varied terrains. Equipped with motocross-style 21-inch front and 18-inch rear knobby tires, it offers superior traction in off-road conditions. The four-stroke, SOHC engine ensures consistent and smooth power, easily brought to life with an electric starter. The bike’s suspension features a 36mm front fork and an adjustable rear shock, delivering 9.4 inches and 8.7 inches of wheel travel respectively. This robust suspension setup provides excellent damping and instills confidence and control in handling.
Specifications
| Engine | 223 cc, air-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed constant mesh |
| Fuel System | Carburetor |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) |
| Curb Weight | 251 pounds |
9. Kawasaki KLX230R
Base MSRP: $5,049
Kawasaki KLX230R – A full-size four stroke motocross bike with fuel injection and motocross-inspired styling, displayed in a dynamic off-road setting.
The Kawasaki KLX230R is a full-sized trail bike from Kawasaki, boasting motocross-inspired ergonomics and aggressive styling. Its long-travel suspension and 11.8 inches of ground clearance make it a highly capable machine for challenging off-road adventures. The 233cc, fuel-injected, four-stroke engine delivers smooth, responsive power and quick acceleration when needed. The combination of electric start and fuel injection ensures easy and reliable starting in various temperatures and altitudes. The chassis design, influenced by motocross bikes, allows for enhanced rider movement and provides superior knee grip and overall chassis control. Large 240mm front and 220mm rear petal disc brakes offer substantial stopping power at any speed, while full-size knobby tires provide excellent traction across diverse terrains.
Specifications
| Engine | 233 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Fuel System | DFI with 32mm Keihin throttle body |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | TCBI electronic advance |
| Curb Weight | 253.6 pounds |
8. Honda CRF250R
Base MSRP: $8,299
Honda CRF250R – A high-performance four stroke motocross bike featuring Honda's signature build quality and advanced motocross technology, shown on a motocross track.
The CRF250R stands as a prime example of Honda’s expertise in motocross engineering. It embodies Honda’s renowned build quality and reliability, incorporating advanced technology and engineering features designed for competitive performance. To minimize clutch slippage during intense racing conditions, Honda equipped this model with a nine-plate clutch assembly, enhancing durability and torque transmission. On the technology front, the CRF250R comes standard with HRC launch control, a system designed to optimize acceleration from the start line by minimizing wheel slip and maximizing power delivery. An electric start system ensures quick restarts, crucial in maintaining momentum during races. The high-revving DOHC, four-stroke engine features a fuel injector positioned at a 60-degree angle, which facilitates a cooler and denser fuel supply to the engine, resulting in improved power and torque output.
Specifications
| Engine | 249 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, four stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | Programmed fuel injection system (PGM-FI) |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 229 pounds |
7. Honda CRF450R
Base MSRP: $9,699
Honda CRF450R – A lightweight and agile four stroke motocross bike known for its responsive handling and powerful 450cc engine, pictured in a dynamic riding position.
The Honda CRF450R is built with a light and narrow frame, enhancing the bike’s responsiveness and agility, particularly in tight corners. Despite its powerful 450cc, four-stroke engine, Honda’s engineers have managed to keep the motorcycle remarkably slender and lightweight, weighing in at under 250 pounds. This low weight is a significant advantage for motocross, improving maneuverability and rider control. It features Honda’s first hydraulically actuated clutch in a motocross bike, providing a light and consistent lever feel. The 450cc Unicam engine boasts a high compression ratio and includes an automatic decompression system that prevents stalling at low RPMs, improving rideability. Riders can select from three engine power delivery modes to tailor performance to different riding conditions. In addition to engine modes, Honda has integrated Selectable Torque Control, allowing riders to adjust torque levels to match available traction, further enhancing control and performance.
Specifications
| Engine | 450 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | Programmed fuel injection system (PGM-FI) |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 245 pounds |
6. Yamaha WR450F
Base MSRP: $9,999
Yamaha WR450F – An enduro-focused four stroke motocross bike inspired by the YZ450F, emphasizing its off-road capabilities and Yamaha's racing heritage.
The Yamaha WR450F is an enduro motorcycle derived from the YZ450F motocross model. It features a compact and lightweight engine, premium suspension components, and a lightweight aluminum beam frame, all engineered to deliver winning performance across a variety of off-road scenarios. The 450cc, four-stroke engine provides exceptionally smooth and controllable power, especially at higher RPMs. To adapt to varying track conditions, riders can choose from selectable power maps. Notably, the WR450F is the first enduro bike to offer wireless engine tuning via Yamaha’s Power Tuner smartphone application, allowing for convenient and precise engine adjustments.
Specifications
| Engine | 450 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed constant mesh |
| Fuel System | Mikuni Fuel injection |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | TCI |
| Curb Weight | 262 pounds |
5. Kawasaki KX450X
Base MSRP: $10,599
Kawasaki KX450X – A competition-ready four stroke motocross bike with Ergo-Fit adjustability and smartphone engine mapping, highlighting its race-focused design.
The Kawasaki KX450X is meticulously engineered to excel in off-road competitions and is built to be a leading contender in its class. The bike features a slim and lightweight chassis with a finely balanced aluminum perimeter frame designed to minimize weight. It also incorporates Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit adjustability, offering four handlebar positions and two footpeg positions, providing a high degree of customization to accommodate a wide range of rider sizes and preferences. The fuel-injected 449cc, four-stroke engine delivers potent power and a flat torque curve, resulting in rapid acceleration. The new Rideology smartphone application eliminates the need for a separate KX FI calibration kit for engine map adjustments, streamlining the tuning process.
Specifications
| Engine | 449 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | DFI with 44mm Keihin throttle body |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Digital CDI |
| Curb Weight | 235.8 pounds |
4. Husqvarna FC350
Base MSRP: Undisclosed
Husqvarna FC350 – A versatile four stroke motocross bike suitable for both amateur and professional riders, showcasing its lightweight design and Husqvarna's performance styling.
Dirt tracks are enjoyed by both professional racers and amateur enthusiasts, and the Husqvarna FC350 is designed to cater to both. It provides predictable yet impressive performance along with superior handling characteristics, giving it a competitive edge. The exceptionally light 350cc, four-stroke engine, weighing only 59.9 pounds, centralizes mass and optimizes the anti-squat behavior of the chassis, enhancing overall handling and stability. The handlebar offers two-position mount customization, including a rubber damp mount for reduced vibration and a fixed mount for enhanced front-end feedback. For added convenience and performance, the bike is equipped with a hydraulic Brembo clutch, which provides a lighter lever pull and requires minimal maintenance. The FC350 also includes advanced rider aids for superior performance, such as two selectable engine power maps via a handlebar-mounted switch, as well as standard traction control and a quick shifter.
Specification
| Engine | 349 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 224 pounds |
3. KTM 450 SX-F
Base MSRP: Undisclosed
KTM 450 SX-F – A championship-winning four stroke motocross bike with advanced suspension and selectable power modes, pictured on a motocross jump.
The KTM 450 SX-F is a proven champion, having secured five AMA 450 Supercross titles, and continues to be refined with the latest upgrades for 2024. Alongside a lightweight frame, mass-centralized engine configuration, and ergonomically optimized rider triangle, the new 450 SX-F features a hand-adjustable suspension setup, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. KTM claims that the robot-welded, hydro-formed frame is engineered with precisely calculated longitudinal and torsional flex characteristics, enabling the frame to effectively absorb shocks and enhance rider comfort and control. Easily selectable power modes allow riders to switch between predictable power delivery and a more aggressive, explosive power output, adapting to different track conditions and riding styles.
Specifications
| Engine | 450 cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 226 pounds |
2. KTM 350 XC-F
Base MSRP: Undisclosed
KTM 350 XC-F – A versatile cross-country four stroke motocross bike designed for lightweight performance and easy handling, shown in a cross-country riding environment.
The KTM 350 XC-F is a cross-country motorcycle engineered to be lightweight, powerful, and highly versatile. It is equipped with a class-leading 350cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine, along with a lightweight chassis and suspension system tuned for both high-speed performance and agile handling. The bike also incorporates user-friendly maintenance features, such as a tool-free air filter access and tool-free suspension adjustment. To enhance rider focus and performance, the XC-F features clutch-free upshifts via a quickshifter. Launch control assists in achieving optimal starts by minimizing rear-wheel traction loss. Riders can easily select between two power maps using a handlebar-mounted switch, adapting engine characteristics to riding conditions and personal preferences.
Specifications
| Engine | 349 cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 230 pounds |
1. Husqvarna FX350
Base MSRP: Undisclosed
Husqvarna FX350 – The top-ranked four stroke motocross bike, an enduro model known for its versatility and premium components, pictured in an action enduro setting.
The Husqvarna FX 350 is a highly versatile enduro motorcycle suitable for a broad spectrum of riding conditions, making it a top choice among Four Stroke Motocross Bikes. Its 350cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine is housed within a lightweight chromium-molybdenum steel frame and paired with a six-speed transmission. The bike features a new lightweight chassis with refined geometry to enhance handling and stability. It is equipped with a new closed-cartridge, fully adjustable WP XACT fork and WP XACT rear shock, providing premium suspension performance. The FX 350 rides on high-quality Dunlop Geomax tires, ensuring superior grip for cornering and versatile performance across varied terrains, solidifying its position as a leading four stroke motocross bike.
Specifications
| Engine | 349 cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4-stroke |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection |
| Starter | Electric start |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition |
| Curb Weight | 230 pounds |
