If you are in the market for a mini dirt bike, you’ve probably come across two of the top contenders – the CRF110 and the KLX110. Both are excellent choices for young riders who want to explore the thrill of off-road riding. However, choosing between the two can be quite a challenge. In this blog post, we will break down the CRF110 vs KLX110 debate and help you decide which one is the best for your child
Kawasaki KLX110 at a Glance
Easy to Handle
One of the things that make the KLX110 such a popular option is that it’s easy to handle. The bike features a manual clutch and provides ample power, perfect for those who are new to riding or looking for a casual experience. The bike is also lightweight and features a low center of gravity. These factors all contribute to the bike’s maneuverability, making it an excellent choice for riders of all skill levels.
Flexible Suspension
With its moderate suspension, the KLX110 provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing off-road capability. The bike easily handles obstacles on rough terrain like rocks, tree roots, and rough terrain. The suspension also soaks up shock, making off-road experiences comfortable.
Durable Design
The KLX110 was built to last. The bike features quality, durable materials that can withstand rough terrain and punishing falls. The steel frame is strong and can hold up to almost any adventure ride you take on. The exhaust system is also made of durable steel, ensuring that the bike is not only reliable to ride but also long-lasting.
Compact Size
What’s great about the KLX110 is how adaptable it is. The bike’s compact size doesn’t sacrifice the quality of the ride. The bike can fit into small spaces, ideal for beginners or those learning how to navigate more technical trails. Its small size also makes storage and transportation a breeze.
Versatile and Fun
Finally, the KLX110 is versatile and fun. You can take it for a spin on challenging terrains or safely use it for your daily commute. The bike is also easy to customize, allowing riders to personalize it with their own unique style. Its fun, off-road capability and compact size make this bike an excellent ride for both beginners and experts alike.
Honda CRF110 at a Glance
1. Design and Engine Power
One of the standout features of the CRF110 is its design. It boasts a sleek, aggressive bodywork that’s both aerodynamic and stylish. But looks aren’t everything – what really matters is the engine power. The CRF110 is powered by a 110cc engine that delivers plenty of torque and acceleration. It also has a four-speed transmission, allowing you to easily shift gears while riding. That means you can put it through its paces on the most challenging terrain.
2. Suspension
The suspension on the CRF110 is something to behold. It features an inverted fork design in the front, which provides a stable and smooth ride on rough terrain. The rear monoshock has a progressive linkage system, which means it can handle anything the trail throws at it. Whether you’re racing or simply exploring, the suspension is always ready to absorb bumps, jumps and anything in between.
3. Safety Features
Riding off-road can be dangerous, which is why Honda has included some important safety features on the CRF110. For starters, it has an adjustable throttle limiter. This means you can adjust the bike’s maximum speed to match the rider’s experience level. It also has an electric starter, making it easy to start the bike without having to kick-start it. Then, there are the disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power. These features ensure a safe but thrilling ride every time the bike is taken out.
4. Convenience
The CRF110 is designed with convenience in mind. It’s easy to adjust the handlebars and levers, so they always feel comfortable and accessible. And as previously mentioned, the electric starter makes it easy to start the bike, even in cold weather. It’s also easy to maintain and repair, with many of its parts being interchangeable with other Honda dirt bike models. And let’s never forget the CRF110’s lightweight which makes for easy handling and maneuverability!
5. Off-road Performance
The CRF110 has been built to perform. Whether you’re racing, jumping or simply exploring the trails, it has everything you need to dominate the dirt. It’s stable, responsive and agile, with excellent traction thanks to its knobby tires. And with a top speed of around 50 mph, it can keep up with the best of the best. Even when getting air or riding over rocks and bumps, the CRF110 remains stable throughout the ride.
CRF110 vs KLX110: The Real Battle
Power Output:
The KLX110 engine is equipped with a 112cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine that is capable of producing a maximum power output of 7.3 horsepower. On the other hand, the CRF110 engine comes with a slightly larger 109cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine that is capable of producing a maximum power output of 7 horsepower. So, if you’re looking for a little more power, the CRF110 engine may be the way to go.
Transmission:
1. Number of Gears:
The CRF110 has four gears, while the KLX110 boasts of five. Having more gears gives the KLX110 an edge because it can handle a wider range of terrain. The KLX110 provides ample power in the first three gears, making it an excellent choice for steep hills, while the fourth and fifth gears offer more top-end to go faster on straightaways.
2. Gear Ratio:
When it comes to gear ratios, the CRF110’s are spaced closer together, making it easy to match the bike’s speed and power output. On the other hand, the KLX110’s gear ratios are farther apart, which provides more versatility and makes for a smoother ride. The KLX110 requires less shifting, and as a result, it is easier to control on steep inclines.
3. Clutching System:
Both the CRF110 and KLX110 come with automatic clutching systems, making them beginner-friendly dirt bikes. However, the KLX110 has a centrifugal clutch that engages and disengages shifts automatically, making it more user-friendly than the CRF110.
4. Strength and Durability:
The KLX110 has an all-around sturdier clutch system, which can withstand more wear and tear compared to the CRF110. While both bikes use similar materials for their transmissions, the KLX110’s clutch system is known for its resilience and will generally last longer than the CRF110’s
Suspension:
Suspension is a crucial component of any dirt bike, and both the KLX110 engine and CRF110 engine come with front and rear suspension systems. However, the KLX110 engine’s suspension system comes with slightly longer travel, which translates to better shock absorption and overall ride comfort. The CRF110 engine’s suspension system is not far behind, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed ride, the KLX110 engine may be the better option.
Front Suspension:
The front suspension on both the KLX110 and CRF110 is a set of inverted telescoping forks. While they may look similar, the KLX110 front forks have a 30mm diameter, while the CRF110 forks have a slightly larger 31mm diameter. The KLX110 fork is also known for being softer than the CRF110 fork, which can be ideal for smaller riders or beginners. However, if you’re a more experienced rider, you might prefer the stiffer CRF110 fork, which can handle jumps and rough terrain better.
Rear Suspension:
The rear suspension on both bikes is a single shock absorber that is mounted between the frame and swingarm. The KLX110 has a slightly longer shock than the CRF110, which gives it a slightly higher ride height. This can be advantageous for jumps or uneven terrain. The CRF110, on the other hand, has a lower ride height, which can make it easier to handle at slower speeds or in tight turns.
Adjustability:
Both the front and rear suspension on these bikes are adjustable. The preload can be changed to adjust the ride height and stiffness of the suspension. The rebound and compression damping can also be adjusted to fine-tune the way the suspension reacts to bumps and jumps. If you’re serious about off-roading, it might be worth investing in aftermarket suspension components that offer more adjustability and customization.
Terrain:
The type of terrain you’ll be riding on should also play a role in choosing the right suspension setup. If you’ll mostly be riding on motocross tracks or rough terrain, the stiffer CRF110 setup might be best. If you plan on doing a lot of trail riding, the softer KLX110 setup might be more comfortable. Of course, personal preference also plays a role, so it’s important to try out different setups to see what works best for you.
Top Speed
The first on our chopping block is the CRF110. The CRF110F runs on a 109cc engine, weighing approximately 163 pounds and comes with a four-speed manual transmission. Powered by a single, two-valve air-cooled engine, the mini-bike produces around 8 hp maximum power output, reaching up to 56 km/h or 35 mph. Although the CRF’s speed capability may not be considered best in class, its handling and suspension are unmatched due to its chassis being made of steel and aluminum, giving users a smooth riding experience on any terrain. The CRF also boasts of robust brakes that can make sudden stops at any time, making it a safer option in terms of security and stability.
The KLX110, also known as the “Little Green Monster,” is a powerhouse that comes with upgraded features that are typical of larger dirt bikes. The KLX110 comes with a four-stroke engine that is air-cooled and runs at a reduced speed, producing 8.5 hp maximum power output with a top speed of up to 70 km/h or 43 mph. The mini-bike possesses a clutchless four-speed transmission, making it an excellent option for kids and beginners who like to experience a bit more speed while still maintaining safety. In terms of safety measures, the KLX110 comes with automatic decompression, making it easier to start.
One significant drawback of the KLX110, however, is that it’s slightly heavier than the CRF110, weighing around 183 pounds. The weight difference does not impact the bike’s overall speed; instead, it favors stability, ensuring that users ride smoothly and in a straight line on any terrain.
Another feature to consider when choosing between the CRF110 and KLX110 is the mini-bike’s wheelbase. The KLX110 has a longer wheelbase than the CRF110, making it more stable at higher speeds. The CRF110, on the other hand, has a shorter wheelbase, making it nimbler and more responsive while giving users a better turning radius. The wheelbase length plays a significant role in determining the user’s experience while riding and making it more comfortable for users to handle based on their riding preferences
Brakes
1. CRF110 Brakes
The Honda CRF110 comes with 4-speed transmission, a robust air-cooled engine, and dependable brakes. The bike features a single 220mm hydraulic disc brake on the front and a rear drum brake. The CRF110 uses an advanced braking system with a hydraulic master cylinder and a single piston caliper for the front brake. The combination of the drum brake and the hydraulic front disc brake provides adequate stopping power for the bike, making it suitable for beginners and young riders.
2. KLX110 Brakes
Kawasaki’s KLX110 is a high-performance dirt bike, featuring a liquid-cooled engine and sturdy chassis. The bike’s braking system involves a 90mm mechanical drum in the rear and a 140mm hydraulic disc in the front. The KLX110’s reliable brakes offer good stopping power and prevent the bike from slipping on uneven terrain, making it an excellent option for experienced riders.
3. Comparison: CRF110 vs KLX110 Braking System
Both the CRF110 and KLX110 have similar front brakes in terms of the size and type, but the KLX’s larger front brake rotor provides more stopping power. However, the CRF110 has an exceptional rear drum brake which is perfect for beginners and younger riders. While the KLX110’s superior braking system provides enough force for professional riders, the CRF110’s smaller braking system is more manageable for less experienced riders.
4. Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to deciding which one to choose between the CRF110 and the KLX100 brakes, it largely depends on the rider’s experience and comfort level. For beginners, the CRF110 is an excellent option because the smaller drum brake provides a more manageable amount of stopping power. However, experienced riders who want to take on more challenging terrain might prefer the KLX110, with the larger front disc brake providing better stopping power.
Size Difference
1. Frame and Seat Height
The CRF110 has a slightly taller frame than the KLX110, which gives it a little bit more ground clearance. The CRF110’s seat height is 26.3 inches, while the KLX110’s seat height is 26.8 inches. The difference might not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference for kids who are just starting out.
2. Wheel Size
One of the biggest differences between the CRF110 and KLX110 is the wheel size. The CRF110 has a 14-inch front wheel and a 12-inch rear wheel, while the KLX110 has a 14-inch front wheel and a 12-inch rear wheel. The larger front wheel of the KLX110 makes it a little bit taller, which might not be a deal-breaker for some kids.
3. Weight
The CRF110 is slightly heavier than the KLX110, weighing in at 163 pounds compared to the KLX110’s 149 pounds. However, both bikes are lightweight and easy to handle, so the weight difference shouldn’t be a significant factor.
4. Engine Size
The CRF110 has a 109cc engine, while the KLX110 has a 112cc engine. While the difference in engine size might seem small, it can make a noticeable difference in terms of acceleration and top speed. If your kid is a beginner, a smaller engine size like the CRF110’s might be ideal.
5. Price
Finally, price is another factor to consider when comparing the CRF110 vs KLX110 size difference. The CRF110 has a higher price tag than the KLX110, so budget-conscious parents might prefer the KLX110.
Handling
1. Turning ability
The turning ability of a dirt bike largely depends on the design of the frame, suspension, and tires. In terms of turning ability, the CRF110 is known for its ease of maneuverability. The bike has a compact and lightweight design that allows for quick and smooth turns. The KLX110, on the other hand, has a slightly longer frame, which can make it feel less stable when making quick turns.
2. Suspension performance
The suspension plays a significant role in the handling of a dirt bike. The CRF110 has a lower center of gravity and a more advanced suspension system that provides a smoother ride. The KLX110, while also having a decent suspension system, may feel a bit bouncy or unstable if you are riding over rough terrain.
3. Braking power
Braking power is critical when it comes to handling a dirt bike, and both the CRF110 and the KLX110 have decent braking systems. However, the CRF110 has a slightly more robust front brake that provides better stopping power, making it easier to control your speed in tight turns.
4. Weight distribution
The weight distribution of a dirt bike can make or break its handling. The CRF110 has a more centrally located engine and a balanced weight distribution that makes it easier to handle at high speeds. The KLX110 has a slightly more front-heavy weight distribution, which can make it feel less stable at higher speeds.
5. Tires
The type of tires you have on your dirt bike can also impact its handling. The CRF110 comes with high-quality tires that provide excellent traction, making it easier to handle the bike on various terrain types. The KLX110 tires are slightly thinner and may not provide as much traction, making it slightly more challenging to handle in certain conditions.
Fuel Efficiency:
Finally, let’s talk about fuel efficiency. The KLX110 engine has a fuel tank capacity of 1.0 gallon, which translates to an estimated fuel mileage of 67 mpg. Whereas, the CRF110 engine has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 1.1 gallons, which translates to an estimated fuel mileage of 64 mpg. So, if you’re planning a long trail ride, you may want to opt for the KLX110 engine, as it offers slightly better fuel efficiency.
Who is the winner? KLX110 vs Honda CRF110
In the end, choosing between the KLX110 and Honda CRF110 comes down to personal preference and the rider’s skill level. If you have a taller rider or want a more powerful bike, the KLX110 may be the best choice. However, if you’re a beginner or want a smoother ride, the Honda CRF110 may be the better option. Regardless of which bike you choose, both the KLX110 and Honda CRF110 are great choices for kids looking to get into dirt biking.
