Short answer: most beginners should start on the Sykeruns X5 at $975. First gear tops out at about 15 mph, so a new rider can learn slow and stay there as long as they need. Taller or heavier beginners who do not fit the X5 should look at the Sykeruns X7 at $1350. Both include free shipping to all 50 states and same day pickup in Tempe.
Why electric is easy for a first bike
There is no clutch to learn and no fuel to mix. You charge the battery, turn the key, pick a gear and twist the throttle. That leaves a new rider free to learn balance, braking and looking ahead. Our gas vs electric guide lays out the full trade off if you are still picking a side.
Start in gear one and stay there
The X5 has three gears at about 15 mph, 27 mph and 50 mph. Gear one is the whole point for a beginner. It caps the bike at about 15 mph while the rider learns. Gear two and gear three are there for later, once the rider is smooth and calm.
The X7 has three gears at about 25 mph, 39 mph and 56 mph. Its first gear is already quick, so a brand new rider who fits the X5 will have an easier start on the X5. Riders who need the X7 for size should learn on open flat ground and take the first rides slow. The X5 vs X7 guide compares both bikes side by side.
Pick by size first
The X5 fits a rider about 4 ft to 5 ft 11 in and up to 265 lb. It has a 3000W motor and weighs 126 lb.
The X7 fits a rider about 4 ft 8 in to 6 ft 3 in and up to 330 lb. It has a 5500W motor and weighs 143 lb. It is the right pick for taller or heavier riders and for hills and deep sand.
Our teen electric guide and our adult electric guide pick by rider in more detail.
Charge time and real range
The X5 charges in about 5 to 6 hours and the X7 charges in about 6 to 7 hours. Plan on real off road range of about 20 to 25 miles on the X5 and about 22 to 31 miles on the X7. Read our battery charging guide before the first charge, and see the full X5 review and the full X7 review for the full specs.
Gear and where to ride
A helmet comes first, then goggles, gloves, boots and long sleeves and long pants on every ride. Our safety gear guide has the full list. Both bikes are off road only with no title. Our Arizona riding guide and our electric dirt bikes in Phoenix guide show where local riders go.
What shows up
Each bike is about 90 percent built. You fit the front wheel and handlebar with included tools and video, then give it a first full charge. Each bike has 1 year parts support through the manufacturer.
For a younger kid, start smaller
An electric at 15 mph in gear one is still a lot for a small child on day one. For kids about 5 to 13, start with our 50cc gas mini at $300, or $350 total with a helmet. It is automatic with a pull start and a speed limiter a parent can set. Our beginner kid guide explains why most parents start there, and our cost guide shows the full price picture.
See both electrics in our electric dirt bikes collection. We are a family owned mini moto and ebike club in Tempe, and we are happy to help you pick the right first bike.