How much does it cost to start a fun and/or competitive dirt biking hobby?
The answer is subjective to which direction you take it (Enduro, cross-country racing, etc.). Thankfully, however, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. That’s because you can develop your dirt biking hobby one step at a time, like other recreational activities.
That being said, dirt bikes aren’t cheap, per se. Therefore, you’ll want to compile your gear wisely to avoid overspending.
Is Dirt Biking Always Expensive?
Some new participants might find it to be a little high-priced because of the various upfront costs. The dirt bike itself will be a decent investment, often ranging from $7,000 to north of $10,000 (brand new). Used models (with wear and tear and high mileage) might go for around $1,000 to $4,000.
What about the other gear you need for riding?
Yes, you can’t even begin this hobby without a helmet, boots, goggles, gloves, and other essential peripheral gear. Then, if you’re serious about dirt biking, you'll want to get your hands on a decent riding jersey, chest protector, and all the tools you need to fix your bike. All of those items contribute to your dirt biking budget.
Did we mention dirt bikes need fuel?
Of course, gas prices haven’t gotten much cheaper lately. The good news is you don’t consume as much as larger vehicles, but we mention this to remind you that your dirt bike is a smaller version of a car or motorcycle. As such, it requires a lot of the same maintenance.
Are There Cheaper Alternatives?
Like we said, you can pursue used options with dirt biking, but caveat emptor. Bargain opportunities are still out there, as long as you have access to a dependable mechanic who can check it out for you. You don’t want to learn the hard way (while racing) that your bike doesn’t start consistently or has other mechanical trouble.
There’s also the option to rent a dirt bike, if your participation is more sporadic (say, a few times each year). This is something to consider if you don’t plan to make a competitive or professional motocross career out of it.
We hope this helps you make smart dirt biking purchases and selections.
If you need further help with this topic, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team at Colorado DirtBike Info. You can contact us to discover all about bike buying, bike renting, and finding the best trails around the Rockies.
