When it comes to fast two-wheelers, motorcycles predominate, although some dirt bikes may compete in terms of speed. Granted, other characteristics of dirt bikes, like suspension and the strength of the gears, are ranked more highly than speed.
When you are outperforming leaps and climbs on dirt roads, you might be tempted to test your model’s speed in order to make the experience more thrilling. Think about the following options if you want an extremely quick dirt bike:
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13. Honda CRF (450cc, 142 km/h; 87 mph)
Despite the fact that it is not the quickest vehicle on this list, the Honda CRF 450R is a legendary motocross vehicle. It has a top speed of 87 mph (142 km/h), which is not bad.
Since the CRF 450R received a thorough refurbishment in 2017, Honda has continued to make a few adjustments to it. For instance, the 2019 model includes improvements to the exhaust, brake pads, clutch lifter, HRC launch control, and pistol oil jet.
The modifications and improvements have improved the upgraded model’s power and balance. For better balance and a lower center of gravity, the battery box has been installed 28 mm lower into the chassis.
The new Selectable Torque Control from Honda also incorporates the company’s notion of traction control.
Given how well it transfers power to the ground, the Honda CRF is one of the greatest 450-class bikes available.
12. 250cc Yamaha WR (142 km/h; 88 mph)
Thanks to its exceptional on- and off-road performance, the Yamaha WR is relatively well-known in the dual-sport market. The designation “WR” designates it as a wide-ratio gearbox, enabling it to provide a suitable balance of off-road and on-road performance.
Although it is not a particularly fast bike, the model has a top speed of 88 mph, and devotees like its lightness and agility. To obtain high speeds, you will need to wind it up quite tightly.
The engine can comfortably propel the bike at speeds of 110–120 km/h, making it the perfect vehicle for long-distance travel.
The model looks like a race bike thanks to the aluminum chassis that was forged into shape. As the seat is 36.6 inches in height, shorter people may need to use upholding blocks.
The entire display is modest, however, there is a low-fuel light.
Even though the Yamaha WR costs more than the competitors, it offers a fuel-injected motor, an aluminum frame, and a fully adjustable suspension.
11. 350cc KTM SX-F (158 km/h; 98 mph)
The KTM SX-F models for 2019 and 2020 are expected to have more power on the road. The bike gives you access to the torque of a potent engine, such as 450 cc, but on a smaller, more manageable scale.
A compact 350 cc engine with a maximal rpm range of 13,400 is present in the 2019 model. Using the 57 horsepower of the engine, you may go at a top speed of 98 mph.
For further user-friendliness, the bike also has a cutting-edge Keihin engine management system. The bike takes a bit less clutch work and has a faster engine recovery time than the 2019 model.
Due to its solid frame, the bike can maintain a straight line while speeding out of extended sweepers, and its rear end never loses contact with the pavement.
The Pankl also makes transmission exceedingly smooth; all it takes is a simple upward or downward foot action.
Users may simply adjust the model to suit their riding style and skill thanks to substantial adjustments KTM made to the bike’s suspension settings in 2020.
By all means, this dirt bike is a racing model. The motor accelerates more quickly the more you crank it, and because it’s light, it’s pleasant for extended rides.
10. Kawasaki KX (450cc, 143 km/h; 89 mph)
In motocross, the Kawasaki KX450 is a popular model. It is loaded with various technologies that make riding it thrilling as well as enjoyable.
The body, frame, and suspension on the 2019 Kawasaki KX model have all been improved. It revs out louder than earlier models and is considerably simpler to ride.
The dirt bike offers three power delivery options: Standard, Soft, and Hard depending on the terrain.
The adjustable handlebar mounts and peg mounts enhance rideability, and it is remarkably stable on rough terrain.
The bike has Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires, which perform incredibly well on the racetrack. Its shock can comfortably withstand hard landings, and you may adjust it with adjustments to the low- and high-speed compression damping. Although there is some hard bottoming, especially on difficult G-outs.
The Kawasaki KX’s four-stroke engine is capable of 89 mph top speed. It is a reliable racing bike for any fan thanks to its remarkable performance in motocross competitions.
9. 650cc Kawasaki KLR (158 km/h; 98 mph)
The Kawasaki KLR is a dual-purpose motorcycle that excels in off-road terrain. The model has exceptional resiliency as well, having endured the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s.
Therefore, the reason why its technology feels somewhat analog is that it is a few decades old.
The Kawasaki KLR weighs 432 pounds and has 42 hp. The bike’s instrumentation is basic, and the orange gauge needles make you nostalgic for the 1980s.
There are square indication lights on the stiff, mechanical throttle. Since the gauge displays are appropriately positioned above the bars, users can clearly see them. The fairing is made of solid plastic, and the fender will keep dirt from getting in your face.
The dirt bike has a 651 cc four-stroke engine and a top speed of 98 mph. Thanks to the bike’s dependable capacitor-discharge (CDI) ignition mechanism, it will start the first time.
The constant-velocity carburetor simplifies engine maintenance.
Despite remaining low-tech, the Kawasaki KLR is extremely suitable for off-road use.
8. 510cc Husqvarna FE (163 km/h; 101 mph)
In the world of motorcycles, the Husqvarna FE 501 is a reputable and competitive model. Off-road fans who desire a serious vehicle with exceptional engine performance will find it suitable.
Even though the 510-cc engine weighs only 29.4 kg, it performs admirably on any surface. It has a 6-speed wide ratio gearbox, a standard electric start, and electronic rider amenities like traction control. The dirt bike may be easily adjusted by users to suit their skill levels.
The gearbox promotes precise and fluid shifting, while the gear lever’s construction discourages dust accumulation. The bike has a ton of cutting-edge technology to make riding more comfortable.
For instance, the Dampened Diaphragm Steel (DDS) clutch has very little clutch pull. Additionally, the model’s built-in dampening mechanism allows you to benefit from increased traction and durability.
The Husqvarna FE 501 has a top speed of 101 miles per hour (163 kilometers per hour). With a peak horsepower of 58 and acceleration times of 4.5 seconds from 0 to 60 miles per hour, the 501FE is extremely impressive.
This motorcycle is a true off-road beast but still has essential street-legal features. Your travels through the elements will be powered by its 2.2-gallon tank, which you may customize to your riding preferences.
7. 660cc MuZ Baghira (164 km/h; 102 mph)
A dual-purpose product with the excellent build quality is the Mz Baghira. The seat on this bike is exceptionally tall, which is the first thing to notice.
The 930mm seat height gives the ground clearance and suspension travel needed to navigate unpaved routes. The bike’s large handlebars and footpegs make it comfortable to ride when standing up.
The Yamaha 650cc four-stroke engine powers the motorcycle with 37 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM. With a dirt bike that can withstand any terrain, you may easily reach speeds of 102 mph (164 km/h).
The Dual Overhead Cam configuration of the five-valve cylinder head has a 9.2 compression ratio. The engine also has a counterbalancer, an electric starter, and water cooling.
Large Grimeca brakes are included with the MuZ Baghira. The front wheel features a single 11.1-inch hydraulic disc brake, while the rear wheel has a 9.65-inch hydraulic disc brake.
The bike’s sophisticated suspension system can ride on tarmac and over pebbles and stumps with equal ease.
The dirt bike, which has enough for two passengers, is perfect for weekend mountainside exploration.
6. Honda 650cc XR (177 km/h; 110 mph)
Honda’s XR 650L line continues to be produced despite receiving few updates since it was first debuted in 1993. The Honda XR continues to be one of the most well-known dual-sport motorcycles on the market even after many years.
The 650cc air-cooled engine of the motorcycle has a maximum speed of 110 mph (177 km/h) and roughly 40 hp.
You also have enormous ground clearance and appropriate off-road tires, and the suspension is just as capable as it was when the bike first came out. The bike functions admirably on trails, streets, and dirt roads despite having components that are many decades old.
5. Beta 430RR-S 110 mph (177 km/h)
Beta 430RR-S High-Speed Engine, 4-stroke, 110 mph (or 177 km/h).
Beta is Italy’s strong rival to KTM in the dirt bike market.
The 430RR-S is a powerful off-road bike with a quick, street-legal frame.
Although these bikes have the potential to be converted into dual-sport models, they perform more like dirt bikes than anything else.
You can’t go wrong with the 430RR-S on the trail.
A handy Trail Tech GPS is included with the 430RR-S to make sure you always know where you are and where you’re going.
Thanks to Beta’s emphasis on using the best quality motor components and control systems, overheating and stalling are a thing of the past.
In the event of a calamity, the 430RR-seat S’s may be immediately removed and taken off to make simple maintenance possible.
One of the first dual-sport dirt bikes, the 430RR-S helped to resurrect the dirt bike sector. It has also motivated other businesses, including Honda and Yamaha, to emphasize their dual-sport motorcycles.
having good features and being street legal Given its pricing, it’s not surprising that the Beta 430RR-S can compete with many other twin-sport motorcycles.
4. 300cc Husqvarna TX (180 km/h; 112 mph)
The Husqvarna TX 300cc stroke is a lightweight, quick, and contemporary motorcycle with off-road characteristics. The structure of its engine’s shafts is intended to concentrate oscillating mass, while a counterbalancer shaft lessens vibration.
For safety, there is an electric starter right underneath the engine. The Li-Ion battery utilized is 2.2 pounds less than a typical battery to match the engine’s small size.
The bike’s off-road style is perfectly complemented by a 6-speed wide ratio gearbox. The 38mm Mikuni TMX carburetor, which gives smooth delivery over the whole RMP range, is another admirable aspect of the TX 300. The bike can travel at a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
3. Aprilia RXV 5.5 (549cc, 182 km/h, 113 mph)
Despite weighing 303 pounds, the Aprilia RXV 5.5 rides very lightly. This model chooses a v-twin engine instead of the single-cylinder configuration used on the majority of dirt bikes.
Its 549cc engine, which has a 55-horsepower output and a top speed of 113 mph (182 km/h), serves as its power source. The time required to reach 60 mph is 4.16 seconds.
Although its unconventional qualities failed to make it a commercial success, its small and slender body makes riding it on dirt roads enjoyable.
2. Suzuki DR-Z (400cc, 183 km/h; 114 mph)
The Suzuki DR-Z400SM is the company’s Supermoto model in the DR-Z range. It performs admirably on dirt roads if you’re devoted to replacing the tires, but it has better on-road characteristics than off-road.
The bike is distinguished by a thin frame and a light chassis. The chromium-molybdenum alloy used to create the thin-walled tubing gives the bike resilience as it travels through the environment.
The model is propelled by a 398cc liquid-cooled engine with four-valve heads that are operated by the DOHC system. The combustion chamber can be opened completely thanks to the 29mm exhaust and 38mm intake valves.
The engine has a maximum torque of 25 lb-ft and 39 hp. Although the bike’s top speed is 114 mph, it is most comfortable traveling at 94 mph.
The bike’s acceleration is especially noteworthy because it takes just 4.54 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph.
The bike leans more toward on-road use, making it better suited for city traffic.
1. KTM 450 SX-F (449cc) (198 km/h / 123 mph)
Most famously, Ryan Dungey won the Motocross championship with the help of the KTM 450 SX-F. Although it weighs only 237 pounds and has a potent 449cc engine, it can reach top speeds of 123 mph.
The model is equipped with cutting-edge innovations that will only intensify your riding. A 44mm throttle body and electronic fuel injection are both supported by the Keihin management system.
On the road, you can count on the engine operating at its peak efficiency and responding quickly.
The KTM 450 SX-F is considered the industry standard for dirt bike enthusiasts looking for power and performance.
What Elements Affect a Dirt Bike’s Speed?
It’s possible that not all 10 riders riding the same 650cc dirt bike will reach the same top speed. On dirt bikes, some riders will accelerate past 100 mph more quickly than others, while others won’t. This is due to the fact that a dirt bike’s speed is influenced by a number of additional elements. Among these elements are:
Manufacture Company
Several dirt bikes, like KTM, have more performance upgrades than other top brands on the market, thus they can easily defeat them. This is the fundamental justification for why a Honda XR with a 650cc engine can’t compete with a 450cc KTM 450SX-F.
The highest speed of the Honda XR is 110 mph, compared to the KTM 450’s top speed of 123 mph.
Size and Weight of a Dirt Bike
The dirt bike’s weight has a significant impact on its speed. This is the primary factor that makes 4-stroke dirt bikes unsuitable for motocross. A 450cc dirt bike with a bigger engine may move more slowly than one with a lighter engine.
4-Stroke Against 2-Stroke
Despite being heavier, 4-stroke engines typically outperform 2-strokes at high speeds. However, 2-stroke motorcycles are ideal for motocross competition.
Max speed for a 250cc 4-stroke engine is 80 mph, whereas a 2-stroke can reach roughly 85 mph. The 4-stroke bikes’ added weight is a major factor in the reduction of their speed. The 4-stroke dirt bikes, however, are simpler to maintain than the 2-stroke models.
Rider’s Height and Weight
Being overweight can slow down your bike and make it challenging to accelerate. Taller riders, in contrast, have a larger body area that must be pushed against the wind. Accordingly, tall riders may also find it difficult to accelerate quickly. Therefore, riders that are lighter and shorter have a better chance of setting speed records.
FAQs: Riders Also Ask
What Speed Can A 500cc Dirt Bike Reach?
The top speed of 500cc single-cylinder dirt bikes is roughly 100 mph. So, if you need to ride faster than 100 mph, choose a dirt bike with a 600cc engine.
Which 2-Stroke Dirt Bike Is The Fastest?
The ATK Intimidator has kept the title of fastest dirt bike for a few years, regardless of whether it has a Maico 700 or 620 engine. 78 horsepower is generated by the 685cc, 2-stroke engine of the 700 engine intimidator. On dirt, this bike is easily capable of over 110 mph.
Can A Dirt Bike With 250cc Be Faster Than One With 450cc?
Because a 450cc engine is larger than a 250cc engine, it can accelerate and reach higher speeds more quickly. A 250cc bike cannot be quicker than a 450cc bike because the highest speed of a 250cc bike is 75 mph while the maximum speed of a 450cc cycle is over 130 mph.
Final Thoughts
The quickest dirt bike available is still the KTM 450 SX-F. This list also prominently features other brands including Yamaha, Husqvarna, Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki.