Mini Bikes were first manufactured by Japan, followed by the Italian manufacturer, Polini and other Mini Bike Manufacturers such as ATM Vittorazi, Bi-ZetaBlata Pocket, Zocchi Sport Racing, ZPF Mini Bikes, GEM and others. As the sport spread to other parts of the world, innovative, high performance Mini Bikes came into production, which includes the Mini Dirt Bike.

Mini Dirt Bikes, though small in size, are not as cheap as some people thought it would be. For example, the Pitster Pro 125cc can cost you around 2,095 dollars. However, Mini Dirt bikes with less engine power, normally less than 90cc, are quite affordable with price ranging from 200 to 600 dollars only.

A Mini Dirt Bike has all the working parts and features of a normal Dirt Bike. It only weighs less, is much smaller and has a lot less power (about 49cc on average). Most Mini Dirt Bikes are built with a two-stroke engine, and since they are also designed to hold only half a gallon of gas on average, you also don?t have to spend much on fuel.

With hundreds of models choose from, the popularity of these little but comparatively powerful machines is still growing among children and adults alike. It is a fact that thousands of Mini Dirt Bikes are sold every year around the world, and the number is increasing.

Since these Mini Dirt Bikes can run up to 75 mph or so, precautions should be taken while riding them, especially for younger kids. Wearing helmets should be made compulsory and children should not be allowed to ride these vehicles on a speed of more than 40 mph. If you are an adult and plan to buy a Mini Dirt Bike for yourself, make sure that it fits you and supports your weight.

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There are few companies that can rival the products of Yamaha Dirt Bikes–known for its quality and superior work, this company consistently creates what the public wants. And, of course, its dirt bikes are of no exception. The Yamaha brand is one of power and precision and is a constant favorite of professional and amateur alike.

What astounds many riders, however, is the company’s odd origins. Few can wrap their motocross minds around how a brand known for its dirt bikes could originally stood for music.

In 1888, Torakusu Yamaha founded the Yamaha Musical Instrument Company. It was a great success and, after only ten years, he joined with other like-minded businessmen to create the Nippon Gakki Company. Though Yamaha died in 1916, his company was able to stand natural disasters, labor problems and even World War Two. Of course, the company’s production had changed to fit the times–what was left of war time machinery was used to create a new product: motorcycles.

Since then, Yamaha Dirt Bikes has become a leader among the field, creating quality products.

Now, dirt bikes are leading the Yamaha way and, of course, there are many to chose from. Whether you ride professionally or simply enjoy the thrill of racing your friends on back trails, there is a Yamaha dirt bike perfect for you.

Yamaha Dirt Bikes – Off-Road

WR450F: Perfect for the serious rider, the WR450F features a two position handlebar for higher adjustment range, new enduro computer and reinforced swingarms for better handling. It’s priced at $6,799.

WR250F: With a 249cc, four-stroke engine and improved fuel flow for strong reliability, this Yamaha dirt bike is the essence of quality. Priced at $10,449, the WR250F is for the serious racer.

TT-R250: Even the most casual rider can appreciate this easy-to-handle, yet very powerful, offering. The CD ignition system never needs maintenance and the frame is designed for high impact. Priced at $4,499.

TT-R230: Created for superior handling and strength, the TT-R230 is excellent for any competition. Lightweight but stout, this bike will go wherever you need. Priced at $3,299.

TT-R125L/LE: At an affordable $2,749, this is the bike for the every-man. With excellent breaking abilities and stiffer suspension, it’s one of the most safe on the market.

TT-R125E: Yamaha totes this as the “small but mighty” bike and with good reason. Created with novice riders in mind, this has pushbutton starting and drum brakes. It’s listed at $2,449.

TT-R90E (mini): Ever felt you were too short to compete? Think again. This bike features a pushbutton electric start and a low seat height for added ease with shorter legs. The TT-R90E is priced at $1,699.

TT-R50E (mini): Want to give you child a dirt bike? This is a definite contender. Easy to maintain and even easier to use with a 49cc engine and a frame perfect for smaller riders, this $1,149 could be for you.

PW80 (mini): For riders looking to transition to a new bike, this could be perfect. The PW80 has a 79cc two-stroke engine and semiautomatic 3-speed transmission. Priced at $2,389.

PW50 (mini): With a 49cc two-stroke engine and a fully automatic transmission, the PW50 is a powerful but dependable dirt bike. Priced at an affordable $1,899, this is a guaranteed hit.

Yamaha Dirt Bikes – Motocross:

YZ450F: Built to race, the YZ450F is the ultimate lightweight contender, with new upgraded suspension and handling. The price ranges from $6,899 to $7,099, depending on the style you buy.

YZ250 (2-stroke): With a price tag of $6,199, this bike stands for power. It’s already a winner of multiple competitions and with good reason: speed sensitive system and power-valve-equipped ripper.

YZ250F: For the racer in your family, consider this dirt bike. With increased mass centralization for better balance and suspension reinforcements in the front and back, this $5,999 is a promise in perfection.

YZ125 (2-stroke): Named the 125cc Shootout Winner by “Dirt Rider”, “Dirt Bike” and “Transworld Motocross”, this dirt bike has a mighty heritage and ever mightier features. Priced at $5,499.

YZ85 (2-stroke mini): Compact and lightweight, this bike is designed for sharp handling and superior maneuverability. Novices will appreciate its simplicity and its affordable price tag: $3,099.

Whatever your experience or riding style, Yamaha Dirt Bikes have something for every enthusiast.

About the Author: Mark Sturge is the webmaster at http://www.dirtbike-action.com A site where visitors can find information on Honda dirt bikes and other ranges such as yamaha dirt bikes as well as useful hints and tips for dirtbike enthusiasts.

Sales of BMX bikes are increasing faster than almost any other type of bicycle. BMX bikes can be seen on every street, sidewalk and even in their natural habitat, off-road. Even if you never leave your house you’ve certainly seen such bikes on TV. Sure, you probably know what a BMX bike is, but what you probably don’t know is what exactly differentiates a BMX bike from other bikes. We’ll tell you how they’re different.

We’ll start with their origin. It’s quite simple, really. Bikes remained pretty much the same for many decades after they were invented, but the popularity of off-road motorcycle racing, or motocross, during the 60′s changed that. Kids saw the pros racing around on their dirt bikes and taking them off dirt ramps. They wanted to be like their heroes so kids imitated them on their bikes, which, at the time, weren’t made for such rough-housing. It didn’t take long for bike manufacturers to catch on and start manufacturing bikes made specifically for the rigors of racing and jumping off-road. Soon there were sanctioned bicycle motocross (BMX) all over the country. The BMX segment of the market grew and grew and continues to expand today. And of course most the kids (and adults) you see on these bikes don’t ever race and probably don’t jump them off anything more daring than a curb. Still though, BMX bikes are made to take a beating.

Now, to discuss the physical attributes of the BMX bike which makes it different from other bikes. The particular features can be narrowed down to the frame, the wheels/tires, the brakes, and the gears.

The frame on BMX bikes is designed to be very light so it can be easily maneuvered and very strong so it can withstand the stresses of jumping and racing. The light weight of a BMX frame is also important because a lighter bike can save you valuable seconds in a close-fought BMX race. Aluminum and chrome-moly steel are the two materials most favored by BMX’ers. Regular bikes are usually made from cheap grades of steel prone to rusting or even breaking when put under a lot of stress.

Another distinguishing feature of BMX bikes are their wheels and tires. Most BMX bikes have 20″ rims, of course they can also be purchased in other sizes. There is the 12″ size for young children just learning to ride. These days kids are learning to ride bikes before they learn to read! The next size up is the 16″ wheel. These bikes are mostly used by kids from the ages of 8 to 12. Once they enter the teen years, most kids ride the 20″ bikes. This is the size favored by many adults and pros, as well. There are BMX bikes with even larger wheels or in-between sizes but they aren’t as popular.

The tires on BMX bikes are different from conventional road bikes. They’re knobby to give them excellent traction on dirt trails and tracks. In fact, they’re very similar to mountain bike tires, just smaller.

Speaking of mountain bikes, such rides often have as many as 21 gears! Road bikes and beach cruisers typically don’t have that many but they do range from 3 to 18 speeds. BMX bikes, on the other hand, have just one gear. They have one sprocket up front and one on the back wheel. That’s it, they use just one gear because they’re made for all-out sprints and to have precise control for freestyle tricks.

Another feature which differentiates BMX bikes from conventional bikes are their brakes. BMX bikes often have just a rear brake. Having a front brake increases the likelihood of accidentally using just the front one and causing an accident. Plus, racers don’t need the extra braking power because they don’t want to slow down! A BMX bike made for doing tricks will have a front brake, though.

BMX bikes also usually come with pads to protect the rider during accidents and wrecks, which can happen a lot during races. Most racers don’t bother with pads, though, they’re too cool for that. If the bike does have pads, they’re usually on the top bar, handlebar clamp, and the handlebar crossbar.

BMX bikes are a booming business, and their popularity has increased across almost all segments of the market. You can often see BMX riders on televised competitions and commercials. BMX bikes are being ridden by all sorts of people, from professional riders to five year olds just having fun, adults who never grew out of them, and everyone in between.

BMX bikes are available in a range of sizes to accommodate all types of riders and all ages. They also have many specialized features to suit a variety of uses. There are, of course, a wide range in prices, too. If you are considering buying a bike for yourself or someone else, your best source of information are the people at your local bike shop. There’s also tons of reliable information online. The two main issues you need to consider are how the bike is going to be used and how much you are willing to spend. From there it’s up to you.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as cycling gear at http://www.bicyclepartsandclothing.com.

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There are dirt bikes, and then there are Honda dirt bikes. A Honda represents speed, power and maneuverability (making it obvious why they are the top-sellers). Quality is its ultimate trademark, however, and a Honda dirt bike never fails to please.

And, with a wide range of choices, you are sure to find one tailored for your racing style–whether professional or amateur, you will see and feel the difference of Honda dirt bikes. It’s not just riding or racing; it becomes an experience.

And, to fully enjoy that experience, you should understand all aspects of what makes Honda dirt bikes… well, a Honda dirt bike. Don’t cringe. Some history lessons are worth knowing.

Honda is a name that summons respect in the biking world, though no one would have guessed that from its dubious beginnings and low sales. When Soichiro Honda opened the first store in Los Angeles in 1959, the reception was tepid at best. The American people were already devoted to their Harleys and Triumphs. Honda tried, in vain, for that first year to sell his products, but was only able to come up with 1700 units. The American market refused to let him in.

Overseas, however, things were different. In Japan, Honda was the number one selling bike (an estimated 500,00 units sold). Throughout Europe, the bikes were starting to win races and garner attention. Honda was the top-player.

But, in America, they were nothing: just funny looking bikes that didn’t seem powerful enough to fit the image motorcycles had crafted.

That was about to change.

Soichiro was not about to give up on the American and decided to change the perceptions linked to bikes. They were no longer for hulking men with beards and dirty leather jackets; they were for anyone who just wanted a ride around town.

Honda began a campaign of happiness, blanketing the market with everyday men and woman riding his bikes, all grinning and cheerful. The result was a new way to look at bikes–Honda’s were seen as the better choice, the every-man choice.

They’ve remained that way ever since.

And the reason they’ve remained on top? They offer great selection and great quality.

Now, if you’re purchasing one of your first Honda dirt bikes, you need to see which part of that great selection works best for you. There are many bikes to choose from and you want to pick perfection. So, first decide what it is you intend to do–are you looking to start racing professionally, or are you just wanting something solid to ride the trails with? Whatever your scenario, there is a Honda dirt bike built for you.

Honda dirt bikes – Motocross Division:

CR125R: A constant winner in races, the CR125R is a lightweight and easy to handle bike. With a 125cc engine, it’s also a powerful one. Sporting a price tag of $5,449, this is not for the casual racer.

CR250R: Few can think of champions without thinking of this Honda selection. Toted as the “best 250-class two-stroke that’s ever been”, the CR250R is ideal for racing. It typically runs at $6,399.

CRF250R (4-stroke): Extremely lightweight and fast, this is a 250cc with a four-stroke and is already being hailed as the bike to beat in competition. Its price tag is affordable, being set at $6,199.

CRF450R (4-stroke): A retuned version of an old favorite, this bike features tighter suspension and enhanced engine performance. Honda is pushing this as one of their best and, at $6,899, it should be.

Honda dirt bikes – Off-road:

CRF250X: Named the ‘Best Bike’ by Dirt Rider, the CRF250X is a marvel of off-road ability. Light, agile and blessed with a four-stroke, this will take you wherever you want to be. Priced at $6,399.

CRF450X: A coupling of Honda’s most popular features, this bike has it all: greater torque, wider gear ratios and more supple suspension. At $7,199, the CRF450X is the ultimate off-road bike.

XR400R: At $5299, this reliable bike is a bargain, and the favored choice of 90 percent of rental companies. It’s guaranteed quality and ability.

XR650R: A champion of unrivaled proportions, the XR650R is aluminum framed bike that will leave everyone speechless. At a relatively low $6,299, this bike represents winning.

Honda dirt bikes – Mini dirt bikes:

CR85R (2-stroke): Smaller than most of its competitors, this bike still causes fear wherever it rides. Fast and blessed with Honda’s reliability, this $3,099 will keep you ahead of the rest.

CR85RB (2-stroke): Made for the long run, the CR854RB offers fully adjustable suspension and a more than capable engine. Ideal for younger riders, this bike is priced at $6,190.

CRF100F: At an inexpensive $2,319, this bike has all the look of a racing champion without the price tag. Featuring a four-stroke power and comfortable seating, riding has never been this easy.

CRF50F: If the kids are interested in dirt biking, this model is ideal for them. Semiautomatic transmission and built for whatever situation, this is the perfect bike. It’s priced at $1,299.

CRF70F: Clutchless shifting and semiautomatic transmission make this the easiest bike available for those just starting out. Sleek and reliable, the CRF70F costs $1,599 and is guaranteed quality.

Honda dirt bikes stand for quality and performance? what else could you want for your hard earned cash?

About the Author: Mark Sturge is the webmaster at http://www.dirtbike-action.com A site where visitors can find information on Honda dirt bikes and other ranges such as yamaha dirt bikes as well as useful hints and tips for dirtbike enthusiasts.