An off-road motorcycle, also called a dirt bike, is built to explore the outdoors. Instead of being made for paved roads, these models are designed for rugged and untamed terrain. There are many different dirt bike models and features available, which can make the shopping process overwhelming. Below you will find questions to ask yourself in order to narrow your search and more easily find the perfect match. If you have questions or want to explore off-road motorcycles for sale, head over to CalMoto. Our dealership is based in Mountain View and Livermore, California. We also proudly serve those in San Francisco and San Jose, CA!

1. How Will You Use the Dirt Bike?

Start by thinking about your style of riding, which will influence the type of off-road motorcycle you seek out.

If you are first learning how to ride, focus on:

• a lower power potential model to ensure you easily stay in control
• a lighter frame that’s easier to handle

If you are an experienced rider who enjoys recreational riding, focus on:

• a higher-powered model that matches your skill level
• a heavier frame that’ll offer valuable stability
• rider comfort features so you can ride for extended periods of time

If you are looking to try your hand at racing, focus on:

• high-speed potential models so you can leave the competition far behind
• impressive agility to you can tackle tight turns

If you are looking to enjoy paved roads as well as dirt paths, focus on:

• models specifically designed to handle both types of terrain
• models that offer the safety features needed for highway riding

2. Where Will You Ride Your Off-Road Motorcycle?

Next, think about where you will take your dirt bike. Models are typically made with compact turf, such as dirt trails, in mind. It’s possible to take an off-road motorcycle on looser material, such as mud or sand. But you will either need to get a model specifically designed to handle the challenges of that terrain or invest in aftermarket parts to modify your dirt-bike.

3. What Engine Type Do You Want?

Off-road motorcycles tend to come with either a two-stroke or four-stroke engine. Two-stroke dirt bikes are lighter and easier to handle. Four-stroke models are heavier and offer improved stability.

It’s important that you get an engine power potential that matches your skill and experience level. You don’t want to get a model that’s difficult for you to control. But you also don’t want to get a model that isn’t at your level and holds you back.

4. What is Your Budget?

Finally, think about how much you want to spend on an off-road motorcycle. This will be influenced by how long you plan to ride your dirt bike. If you are looking for a beginner model that you’ll sell in a year or two anyway, you won’t want to invest as much money. If this off-road motorcycle is intended to last you many years, you will want to spend more to get the durability and performance features you need.

It helps to set a firm spending limit. This helps you eliminate models that are beyond your price point right at the start of your search. It also helps you invest in the highest quality off-road motorcycle that you can afford.

Ready to shop dirt bikes for sale? Check out the selection at CalMoto. Our experts can help you find the best off-road motorcycle for your budget and lifestyle—so stop by and visit our dealership today where we proudly serve all those in San Francisco and San Jose!