I have been a seasoned dirt bike rider and I’ve always been drawn to the thrill and excitement of riding off-road. There’s nothing quite like hitting the dirt and feeling the rush of adrenaline as I navigate through challenging terrain.
However, as much as I love riding dirt bikes, there are times when I need to be able to ride on the street as well. This is where street legal dirt bikes come in.
For those who aren’t familiar with street legal dirt bikes, they are essentially off-road motorcycles that have been modified to meet the requirements for street use. This means that they are equipped with headlights, taillights, turn signals, and other necessary equipment that make the dirt bikes street legal.
Street legal dirt bikes are a great option for those who want to be able to ride on both paved roads and dirt trails without having to switch between different motorcycles.
Street legal dirt bikes have been around for quite some time, and their popularity has only grown over the years. They offer a unique combination of power and versatility that makes them a favorite among dirt bike enthusiasts.
Not only do they offer the ability to ride on the street, but they also provide the agility and performance necessary for off-road riding.
There are many types of dirt bikes but in this review, I’ll be sharing my insights on the best street legal dirt bikes one can get. I’ll also be discussing the factors to consider when purchasing a street legal dirt bike, such as engine size, weight, suspension, and price.
I believe by the end of this reading, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the perfect street legal dirt bike for your needs. So let’s get started!
Factors to Consider When Buying a Street Legal Dirt Bike
When it comes to buying a street legal dirt bike, there are a number of factors that you should consider before making a purchase. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
- Engine Size: The size of the engine will have a big impact on the bike’s performance. A larger engine (usually more cc and 4 stroke) will generally provide more power, but it will also be heavier and harder to handle. On the other hand, a smaller engine will be lighter and more agile, but it may not have the same level of power.
- Weight: The weight of the bike is another important factor to consider. A lighter bike will be easier to handle and more agile, but it may not be as stable at high speeds. A heavier bike will be more stable and may provide better traction, but it may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Seat Height: The height of the seat will affect how comfortable and how easy it is to control the bike. A lower seat height will be easier to reach the ground, making it more comfortable for shorter riders. A higher seat height will provide more ground clearance and better visibility, but it may be more difficult to control for shorter riders.
- Suspension: The suspension is an important component of any dirt bike, and it will have a big impact on the bike’s performance. A good suspension system will provide better control and handling, especially on rough terrain.
- Tires: The tires are another important consideration. Off-road tires are designed to provide better traction and stability on dirt and gravel, while street tires are designed for smoother pavement. A good compromise is to choose dual-sport tires that provide a balance of off-road and street performance.
- Lighting: Street legal dirt bikes require lighting for safety reasons. Make sure the bike you choose has headlights, taillights, and turn signals.
- Exhaust: The exhaust system can affect the bike’s performance, sound, and emissions. Make sure the bike you choose meets your needs in these areas.
- Brakes: Good brakes are essential for any motorcycle, and they are especially important for a street legal dirt bike that will be ridden on both pavement and dirt. Make sure the bike you choose has a good braking system that provides plenty of stopping power especially for fast 2 stroke dirt bikes.
- Price: Finally, consider the price of the bike. A more expensive bike may have better performance and more features, but it may not be necessary for your needs. Set a budget and choose a bike that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Top 5 Best Street Legal Dirt Bikes
After considering the factors to keep in mind when buying a street legal dirt bike, it’s time to take a look at the top 5 best street legal dirt bikes. These bikes have been selected based on their overall performance, handling, and value for money.
1. KTM 500 EXC-F
The KTM 500 EXC-F is a powerful and versatile dirt bike that is equally at home on the street as it is off-road. It features a 510cc fuel-injected engine that produces a massive 58 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful bikes on this unbiased listing.
The bike also boasts a lightweight design, making it easy to handle and maneuver, even in tight spaces. The suspension system is top-notch, with adjustable rebound and compression damping, making it perfect for aggressive off-road riding.
On the street, the KTM 500 EXC-F is comfortable and stable, with a smooth ride that makes long journeys a breeze. It has a seat height of 37.8 inches, making it a good option for taller riders, and the dual-sport tires provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
The bike also comes with a number of advanced features, including traction control and an electronic fuel injection system.
2. Honda CRF450L
The Honda CRF450L is a popular choice among dirt bike enthusiasts who need a bike that can handle both off-road trails and the street. It features a 449cc liquid-cooled engine that delivers a maximum of 41 horsepower, providing plenty of power for off-road riding.
The bike is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
On the street, the Honda CRF450L is comfortable and easy to ride, with a smooth suspension system that absorbs bumps and rough surfaces with ease.
The seat height of this dirt bike is 37.1 inches, making it a good option for tall people, and the dual-sport tires provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces especially on tarmac.
The bike also comes with LED lighting, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, which are some the things required for a dirt bike to be street legal.
3. Husqvarna FE 501s
The Husqvarna FE 501s is a high-performance dirt bike that is designed for off-road riding, but is also street legal. It features a 510cc engine that delivers a maximum of 58 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful bikes on this list.
The bike is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.On the street, the Husqvarna FE 501s is comfortable and easy to ride, with a smooth suspension system that absorbs bumps and rough surfaces with ease.
The bike has a seat height of 37.8 inches, making it a good option for taller riders, and the dual-sport tires provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
The bike also comes with a number of advanced features, including a six-speed transmission and a slipper clutch.
4. Beta 500 RR-S
The Beta 500 RR-S is a powerful and versatile dirt bike that is designed for off-road riding, but is also street legal.
It features a 498cc liquid-cooled engine that delivers a maximum of 46 horsepower, making it a good option for both experienced and beginner riders. The bike is also lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
On the street, the Beta 500 RR-S is comfortable and stable, with a smooth ride that makes long journeys a breeze. The bike has a seat height of 36.6 inches, making it a good option for shorter riders, and the dual-sport tires provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces include tarmac.
The bike also comes with a number of advanced features, including a fuel injection system and a six-speed transmission.
5. Yamaha WR450F
The Yamaha WR450F is a high-performance dirt bike that is designed for off-road riding, but is also street legal.
It features a 449cc liquid-cooled engine that delivers a maximum of 57 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful bikes on this list.
On the street, the Yamaha WR450F is comfortable and easy to ride, with a smooth suspension system that absorbs bumps and rough surfaces with ease.
The bike has a seat height of 37.6 inches, making it a good option for taller riders, and the dual-sport tires provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
The bike also comes with a number of advanced features, including fuel injection and a wide-ratio five-speed transmission.
All five of these bikes are excellent choices for riders who want a high-performance dirt bike that is also street legal. However, it’s important to keep in mind that each bike has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Comparison of the Top 5 Street Legal Dirt Bikes
Now that we’ve taken a closer look at each of the top five street legal dirt bikes, it’s time to compare them and see how they stack up against each other.
Here is a side-by-side comparison table of each bike’s specifications and features:
| Bike |
Engine | Horsepower | Weight | Seat Height | Suspension | Price |
| Honda CRF450L | 449cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke | 43 hp | 289 lbs | 37.1 in | Showa suspension | $10,399 |
| KTM 500 EXC-F | 510.9cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke | 58 hp | 238 lbs | 37.8 in | WP Xplor suspension | $11,699 |
| Husqvarna FE 501s | 510.4cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke | 42.8 hp | 242 lbs | 37.4 in | WP suspension | $11,399 |
| Beta 500 RR-S | 478cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke | 43 hp | 244 lbs | 36.8 in | Sachs suspension | $10,999 |
| Yamaha WR450F | 449cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke | 57 hp | 262 lbs | 37.6 in | KYB suspension | $9,999 |
As you can see, each bike has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.
The KTM 500 EXC-F is the most powerful bike on this list, with a maximum horsepower of 58. It’s also the lightest bike, weighing in at just 238 pounds, which makes it extremely agile and easy to maneuver. However, it’s also the most expensive bike on this list, with a price tag of $11,699.
The Honda CRF450L, on the other hand, is one of the more affordable options on this list, with a price tag of $10,399.
It’s also a bit lighter than the Yamaha WR450F, which makes it a good option for riders who want a bike that is easy to handle. However, it has a slightly lower horsepower rating than some of the other bikes on this list, which may be a drawback for some riders.
The Husqvarna FE 501s is a good all-around bike that is suitable for both on and off-road riding. It has a decent horsepower rating of 42.8, and its suspension system is well-designed to handle a variety of terrains.
It’s also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to handle. However, it’s one of the more expensive bikes on this list, with a price tag of $11,399.
The Beta 500 RR-S is a well-rounded bike that is designed for both on and off-road riding.
It has a decent horsepower rating of 43, and its suspension system is designed to handle rough terrain. However, it’s slightly heavier than some of the other bikes on this list, which may make it a bit more difficult to handle in certain situations.
Finally, the Yamaha WR450F is a good all-around bike that is suitable for both on and off-road riding. It’s one of the most powerful bikes on this list, with a maximum horsepower of 57, and its suspension system is well-designed to handle rough terrain.
It’s also one of the more affordable options on this list, with a price tag of $9,999.
Overall, the right bike for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a bike that is powerful and easy to maneuver, the KTM 500 EXC-F may be the best option for you. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable bike that is still capable of handling a variety of terrains, the Yamaha WR450F may be the better choice.
When choosing a street legal dirt bike, it’s important to consider your riding style, skill level, and the terrain you’ll be riding on. If you’re an experienced rider who enjoys pushing the limits, a bike like the KTM 500 EXC-F or Yamaha WR450F may be a good fit.
If you’re a newer rider or just looking for a more leisurely ride, a bike like the Honda CRF450L or Husqvarna FE 501s may be a better option.
It’s also important to consider the cost of the bike, as well as the cost of maintenance and repairs. While some of the more expensive bikes on this list may offer better performance, they may also require more frequent maintenance and repairs, which can add up over time.
It’s important to factor in these costs when making your decision.
In addition to the specifications and features of the bike, it’s also important to consider the reputation of the manufacturer.
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Choosing a bike from a well-respected and established manufacturer can help ensure that you’re getting a high-quality product that is backed by excellent customer service and support.
Ultimately, the best street legal dirt bike for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your riding style, skill level, budget, and personal preferences.
By taking the time to carefully evaluate your options and consider these factors, you can find a bike that meets your needs and allows you to enjoy the thrill of off-road riding while still complying with local laws and regulations for street legality.
Closing Remarks
Street legal dirt bikes offer an exciting way to explore off-road terrain while still complying with local laws and regulations.
When choosing a street legal dirt bike, it’s important to consider factors such as your riding style, skill level, and the terrain you’ll be riding on. It’s also important to factor in the cost of the bike, as well as the cost of maintenance and repairs, and to choose a bike from a reputable manufacturer.
Based on my experience and research, the top 5 best street legal dirt bikes are the KTM 500 EXC-F, Honda CRF450L, Husqvarna FE 501s, Beta 500 RR-S, and Yamaha WR450F. Each of these bikes offers a unique set of features and specifications, making them suitable for different types of riders and riding styles.
The KTM 500 EXC-F is a high-performance bike that is well-suited for experienced riders who enjoy pushing the limits. The Honda CRF450L is a versatile bike that offers a balance of power and maneuverability, making it a good choice for a variety of terrains and riding styles.
The Husqvarna FE 501s offers excellent handling and suspension, making it a great choice for more technical terrain. The Beta 500 RR-S is a reliable and versatile bike that is suitable for riders of all skill levels. Finally, the Yamaha WR450F is a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance and versatility.
No matter which street legal dirt bike you choose, it’s important to always ride safely and responsibly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet and protective clothing, and be aware of local laws and regulations governing off-road riding.
With the right bike and the right mindset, you can enjoy the thrill of off-road riding while still staying safe and compliant with the law.