Short answer: A 12 year old is at the top end of a 50cc. If the rider is still under 170 lb and new to riding, the 50cc gas mini at $300 can still work, or $350 total with a helmet. If the rider is tall, close to 170 lb, or already rides well, the better buy is usually electric. The Sykeruns X5 at $975 fits most 12 year olds. The Sykeruns X7 at $1350 is for taller or heavier riders. Free shipping to all 50 states and same day pickup in Tempe.
Start with fit, not age
Age alone does not pick the bike. Check height, weight, and how well the rider can put both feet down at a stop. Our size guide by age and height and our age guide walk through that step. If you already read our 10 year old guide, a 12 year old needs the same fit check with even less room to grow on a 50cc.
When the 50cc still works
The 50cc gas mini is 50cc two stroke, pull start, and automatic with no gears and no clutch. It is made for ages about 5 to 13 and up to 170 lb max rider. Top speed is 32 mph, and a speed limiter lets a parent set it slower while the rider learns. See how fast a 50cc goes before you decide. Colors are black, blue, green, red, and yellow, with black and blue the most asked for.
When electric is the better next step
If the rider has outgrown the 50cc fit, wants more power, or is ready for teen size ground, look at electric. Our gas vs electric guide lays out the trade in plain terms. The X5 gives you a 3000W motor, top speed 50 mph, and three gear steps at about 15, 27, and 50 mph. It fits about 4 ft to 5 ft 11 in and up to 265 lb, and a charge takes about 5 to 6 hours. The X7 gives you a 5500W motor, top speed 56 mph, and three gear steps at about 25, 39, and 56 mph. It fits about 4 ft 8 in to 6 ft 3 in and up to 330 lb, and a charge takes about 6 to 7 hours. Compare them side by side in our X5 vs X7 guide and our teen electric guide.
A true beginner on electric should still start slow. Read our beginner electric guide before the first ride, and follow our battery charging guide for the first charge.
Gear and total price
Budget for gear on day one. A helmet is a must, plus goggles, gloves, and boots. Our safety gear guide lists what a rider needs. On the gas bike the math is simple. It is $300 for the bike, or $350 total with a helmet, and shipping is free. See our cost guide for the full breakdown.
What shows up
Each bike is about 90 percent built. You fit the front wheel and handlebar with included tools and a video. Our setup guide covers the gas bike step by step. Every bike here is off road only and has no title. Each bike gets 1 year parts support through the manufacturer.
The simple choice
Still under 170 lb, new, and happy on a small bike? Start with the 50cc. Tall, heavy, or already skilled? Skip to the X5 for most riders, or the X7 for the biggest riders and for hills and sand. Browse the electric collection next to the gas minis, and read our buying guide for parents if you are still torn. We are a family owned mini moto and ebike club in Tempe, and we will help you pick the bike that fits the rider you have now.