A Kayo dirt bike is often the first bike Australian families look at. Kayo is known for affordable pit bikes, kids’ bikes and trail bikes, and its low prices make it a popular way into riding. But is a Kayo the right choice for you, and how does it compare with the new generation of electric dirt bikes? This guide explains the range, what to check before you buy and our six best picks, including electric alternatives worth considering.
Specs and prices change often, so always confirm the latest details with a dealer before you commit. Information is current as of September 2026, and we’ll keep adding to this guide as new models arrive.
Who makes Kayo?
Kayo is a Chinese manufacturer best known for value-focused off-road motorcycles, including pit bikes, kids’ dirt bikes, trail bikes and ATVs. The brand has built a strong following in Australia because its bikes are cheap to buy, simple to work on and easy to find through dealers.
In recent years, Kayo has also added small electric bikes for kids. That puts the brand in direct competition with dedicated electric makers like RFN, Surron and E-Ride Pro.
The Kayo dirt bike range
The range typically falls into four groups:
| Category | Typical engine or motor | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Small kids’ petrol bikes | Around 50–90 cc | Young beginners |
| Pit bikes | Around 110–150 cc | Kids, teens and adults having fun |
| Trail and motocross bikes | Around 125–250 cc | Teens and adults |
| Electric kids’ bikes | eKMB, about 350 W rated | Kids aged about 6 to 9 |
Exact models, sizes and prices vary by dealer and year, so check the current line-up before you buy. Our kids dirt bike guide explains how to size bikes for young riders.
The Kayo eKMB electric bike
Kayo’s eKMB is a small electric bike with a 350 W rated (800 W peak) motor, a 48V battery, a 25 km/h top speed and a weight just under 30 kg. Kayo recommends it for ages 6 to 9. It’s a simple, light option for younger kids and one of the cheapest ways into electric riding.
Kayo dirt bike sizing guide
Getting the size right matters more than engine size or brand. Use this as a rough guide, then check the fit in person:
| Rider | Typical Kayo size | Electric alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Young kids (about 4–7) | Small 50–90 cc bike | RFN Warrior SX-E500 or Kayo eKMB |
| Older kids (about 7–11) | 90–110 cc bike | RFN EVO Racing 20″ |
| Experienced kids (about 8–14) | 110–125 cc pit bike | Surron Hyper Bee |
| Bigger kids and small teens | 125–150 cc pit bike | E-Ride Pro Mini R |
| Teens and adults | 250 cc trail or MX bike | Surron Light Bee X or Ultra Bee |
A Kayo dirt bike that’s too big is harder to control and more likely to cause a crash. Buy for the rider’s size now, not the size they’ll be next year.
Why families choose a Kayo dirt bike
- Price. A Kayo dirt bike usually costs much less than big-brand equivalents.
- Simplicity. Air-cooled petrol engines and basic components are easy to work on at home.
- Availability. Parts and dealers are easy to find in many areas.
- Choice. There’s a size for almost every rider, from young kids to adults.
For families who want to try riding without spending a fortune, those are big advantages.
What to watch out for
Low prices come with trade-offs, and a Kayo dirt bike is no exception. Before buying any budget dirt bike, consider:
- Build quality. Components such as suspension, brakes and wheels are usually basic compared with premium brands.
- Setup. Budget bikes often need careful assembly and checking before the first ride. Buy from a dealer who sets the bike up properly.
- Maintenance. Petrol bikes need regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, spark plugs and chain care.
- Noise. Petrol pit bikes are loud, which can upset neighbours and limit where you can ride at home.
- Resale value. Budget bikes usually lose value faster than premium brands.
None of these are deal-breakers, but they matter when comparing a Kayo dirt bike with an electric alternative.
Kayo dirt bike vs electric dirt bikes
Electric bikes have changed the choice for many families who once would have bought a Kayo dirt bike without a second thought. Here’s how a typical petrol Kayo dirt bike compares with an electric bike of a similar size:
| Factor | Petrol Kayo | Electric dirt bike |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | Low | Low to high, depending on model |
| Noise | Loud | Near silent |
| Maintenance | Oil, filters, plugs, chain | Mainly chain, tyres and brakes |
| Running cost | Fuel and oil | A few dollars per charge |
| Learning curve | Clutch or semi-auto gears on many models | Twist and go |
| Speed limiting for kids | Throttle limiter screws | Speed modes and app controls |
| Range | Refuel in minutes | Limited by battery |
For young beginners, electric bikes’ speed modes and parental controls are a big safety advantage. For all-day riding far from power, petrol still has the edge. Our electric dirt bike guide explains how electric bikes work.
6 best picks: Kayo dirt bike and electric alternatives
1. Kayo eKMB – best budget electric for young kids
With a 350 W rated motor, a 25 km/h top speed and a weight under 30 kg, the eKMB is a light, simple first bike for kids aged about 6 to 9. It’s a good choice for families on a tight budget.
Best for: young kids trying riding for the first time.
2. A small Kayo pit bike – best cheap petrol fun
For families who prefer petrol, a small Kayo pit bike is one of the most affordable ways to get kids and teens riding. Choose a size that lets the rider touch the ground comfortably, and use the throttle limiter while they learn.
Best for: families who want petrol and don’t mind the noise and maintenance.
3. RFN Warrior SX-E500 – best electric first bike
The RFN Warrior SX-E500 has a 36V 500 W brushless motor, three speed modes (15, 25 and 35 km/h), 14-inch wheels, dual suspension, hydraulic disc brakes and a swappable battery with up to about 1 hour 15 minutes of run time on the lowest setting.
Best for: kids aged about 5 to 8 who want a proper-looking dirt bike with better brakes and suspension than most budget bikes.
4. RFN EVO Racing 20″ – best step-up bike
The RFN EVO Racing 20″ has a 750 W motor, 20-inch wheels, an aluminium frame, dual suspension and hydraulic brakes, with the same three speed modes. It’s recommended for kids from about 7–8 years old.
Best for: kids ready to move up from a first bike.
5. Surron Hyper Bee – best mini e-moto
The 2026 Surron Hyper Bee has an 8 kW peak, a 65 km/h top speed, a 39 kg kerb weight and a 55 kg maximum rider load. Parental controls include GPS tracking, a remote cut-out, a magnetic kill switch and anti-wheelie control. It’s about $4,490.
Best for: experienced kids who have outgrown small bikes. Read our Hyper Bee guide.
6. E-Ride Pro Mini R – best for bigger kids and small teens
The E-Ride Pro Mini R suits riders up to 64.8 kg, with 8 kW peak, 230 Nm, a 70 km/h top speed, a 678 mm seat height and a 48.5 kg kerb weight. It’s a strong alternative to a 125–150 cc petrol pit bike.
Best for: bigger kids and small teens who want serious performance without the noise.
Kayo dirt bike costs
The purchase price is the main attraction, but running costs matter too. A petrol Kayo dirt bike needs fuel, engine oil, air filter cleaning and oil, spark plugs and regular chain care. Over a year of regular riding, these costs add up.
An electric bike replaces fuel and engine servicing with a few dollars of electricity per charge. Both types need tyres, brake pads, chains and sprockets. When comparing, look at the total cost over two or three years, not just the price tag. Our e dirt bike Australia costs guide breaks down electric running costs in detail.
Kayo dirt bike maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps a budget bike reliable and safe. For a petrol Kayo dirt bike, the basics are:
- Change the engine oil regularly, as the manual recommends.
- Clean and oil the air filter after dusty rides.
- Check the spark plug and replace it when worn.
- Clean, lube and adjust the chain.
- Check tyre pressures, spokes and brakes before every ride.
- Check bolts often, especially on a new bike.
New budget bikes often have loose bolts or poorly adjusted parts, so give yours a thorough check before the first ride and again after the first few rides. A well-maintained Kayo dirt bike will last much longer and hold more of its value.
Popular upgrades
Many owners upgrade their bikes over time. Common changes include better tyres, handlebars and grips, foot pegs, brake pads and suspension springs matched to the rider’s weight. For kids, a throttle limiter or restrictor is essential while they learn.
Keep upgrades sensible. More power on a small bike isn’t usually the best improvement. Better tyres, brakes and suspension setup make a Kayo dirt bike safer and more fun.
Noise and neighbours
Noise is one of the biggest issues with petrol pit bikes. Even a small four-stroke can be loud enough to upset neighbours, and complaints can end riding at home. If you ride on a suburban block or small acreage, think carefully about noise before buying. Talk to your neighbours, keep riding to reasonable hours and consider an electric bike if noise is a concern.
Making the switch to electric
Many families start with a Kayo dirt bike and move to electric later. Common reasons include noise complaints, the time spent on maintenance, and the appeal of speed modes and parental controls for younger riders. Others keep their petrol bike for big days on a property and add an electric bike for riding at home.
If you’re thinking of switching, sell the petrol bike while it’s in good condition, and try an electric bike before you buy. Most riders are surprised by how quick and fun electric bikes feel.
How to choose the right bike
Start with the rider, not the bike. That’s true for a Kayo dirt bike or any other brand. Consider their age, height, weight, confidence and experience. A rider should be able to touch the ground with the balls of both feet and reach the bars comfortably.
Then think about where they’ll ride. If you ride close to neighbours, an electric bike’s silence is a huge advantage. If you ride on a big property far from power, petrol may suit better. Finally, set a budget that includes gear, which typically costs $600 to $1,500 for a complete entry-level set. Our dirt bike gear checklist explains what to buy.
Kayo vs big-brand petrol bikes
Compared with bikes from the major Japanese and European brands, a Kayo dirt bike costs far less but uses simpler components. Big-brand bikes usually have better suspension, stronger brakes, more refined engines and a larger resale market. They also cost much more, both new and second-hand.
For young kids who will outgrow a bike in a year or two, the budget option often makes sense. For teens and adults who ride often, jump or race, the better components of a premium bike, or a quality electric bike, can be worth the extra money.
Your buying checklist
Before you buy, make sure you’ve covered these points:
- The rider fits the bike and can touch the ground comfortably.
- You have a legal place to ride and a way to transport the bike.
- The dealer will assemble, check and explain the bike at handover.
- You’ve budgeted for a full set of protective gear.
- You understand the maintenance a petrol bike needs.
- You’ve compared the Kayo dirt bike with at least one electric alternative.
Tick every box and you’ll be ready to ride with confidence.
Buying a used Kayo dirt bike
Budget bikes are common on the second-hand market. Before buying a used Kayo dirt bike, check:
- the frame, forks and swingarm for cracks, bends or welds,
- the engine for smoke, strange noises and hard starting,
- the chain, sprockets, tyres and brakes for wear,
- the suspension for leaks and sagging,
- that the seller has a receipt and the bike isn’t stolen.
Our electric dirt bike for sale guide lists more checks that apply to any bike.
Teaching a child to ride
Whatever bike you choose, the first rides set the tone. Start on flat, open ground away from obstacles, with the throttle limited or the bike in its lowest mode. Teach your child to stop first, then to start smoothly, then to turn. Walk or ride alongside them, and keep sessions short and fun.
On petrol bikes with gears or a clutch, practise these separately before combining them. On electric bikes, the lack of gears means kids can focus on balance and braking from day one. Praise effort, not speed, and move up only when they’re ready. Junior coaching and club days are an excellent next step.
Where you can ride
Like almost every off-road motorcycle, a Kayo dirt bike is unregistered and can only be ridden on private property with permission, at tracks and at approved off-road parks. Kids can’t ride on streets, footpaths, parks or beaches. Our electric dirt bike laws guide explains the rules in each state, and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network has useful safety advice for kids on recreational vehicles.
Safety tips for new riders
- Wear full gear every time: helmet, goggles, gloves, boots and body protection.
- Start in an open, flat area with the throttle limiter or lowest speed mode.
- Supervise young riders at all times.
- Check the bike before every ride.
- Consider coaching through a local club or Motorcycling Australia’s Junior Coaching Program.
Electric bikes from Electric Dirt Bikes
We specialise in electric dirt bikes for kids, teens and adults, from RFN, Surron and E-Ride Pro, from our locations in Albert Park, Victoria, and Rosny Park, Tasmania. If you’re comparing a Kayo dirt bike with an electric alternative, contact us with the rider’s age, height and experience and we’ll help you choose. Browse our electric bikes and e-motos.
Kayo dirt bike FAQs
Are Kayo dirt bikes good?
For the price, they offer good value and are a popular way into riding. Premium brands and electric bikes offer better components, lower running costs and more features.
What age is a Kayo dirt bike for?
Kayo makes bikes for young kids, teens and adults. The electric eKMB is recommended for ages 6 to 9.
Is a Kayo dirt bike road legal?
Kayo’s off-road bikes are unregistered and can only be ridden on private property, tracks and approved off-road parks.
Kayo or electric: which is better for kids?
For most young beginners, an electric bike is easier and safer to learn on, thanks to speed modes, parental controls and no gears. Petrol suits all-day riding far from power.
How much does a Kayo dirt bike cost to run?
A petrol Kayo dirt bike needs fuel, oil, filters and regular maintenance. An electric bike costs only a few dollars per charge, plus tyres, brakes and chain.
Where can I buy a Kayo dirt bike?
Kayo bikes are sold through dealers across Australia. Buy from a dealer who assembles and checks the bike properly before handover.
