What Is the Best Dirt Bike for Trail Riding in NZ?
Trail riding is about comfort, reliability and control more than outright power. The best trail bike is the one you can ride all day without it riding you.
Trail bike or motocross bike?
A motocross bike is built for short, hard, fast efforts on a prepared track. Trail and enduro bikes are built for long days, with softer suspension, a wide-ratio gearbox, a quieter exhaust, and often an electric start and a lighting kit. We compare them in motocross vs trail bikes.
What to look for
- Electric start: saves energy and makes restarting on a hill much easier
- Manageable weight and seat height: you will be picking it up, and paddling it through tough sections
- A flexible engine: smooth, tractable power over a wide rev range, rather than a peaky race engine
- A decent fuel range for longer rides
- Good suspension for rough ground
Engine size
- 125 to 150cc: light, easy and good for newer or smaller riders
- 200 to 250cc: the most popular range for a good balance of power and weight
- 300 to 350cc and over: for larger riders, steeper terrain and open country
Two-strokes are light and very capable on technical tracks, and four-strokes are easier on the clutch and more predictable. See 2-stroke vs 4-stroke.
Popular brands
Trail and enduro choices come from every major maker. Browse KTM, Yamaha, Husqvarna, Honda and Suzuki, and see how they compare in our brand guide.
Do not forget the kit
For trail riding you will want a good helmet, boots, a hydration pack and a puncture repair kit. GearShed has the helmets, boots and tyres for the job, and a guide to choosing tyres for your terrain.
Questions to ask before you buy
- How big is the rider, and how experienced?
- Is the terrain steep, tight or open?
- Is it for work on a farm as well as fun?
- Does it need to be road legal for linking sections?
Answer those and the choice narrows quickly. We are happy to talk through it, just get in touch.
Looking for one? See our dirt bikes in stock, or the used dirt bikes in Hamilton.
ShowShed is a Hamilton dirt bike and quad dealer, back to the home page or browse every bike in stock. Gear for the ride is at our sister store GearShed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 250cc big enough for trail riding?
Yes. A 250cc is one of the most popular trail sizes for adults, offering a good balance of power and weight.
Do I need electric start for trail riding?
It is not essential, but it is very useful on hills and in technical terrain where restarting is hard work.
Can I ride a trail bike on the road?
Only if it is road legal and you are licensed. See our road-legal guide.