06-13-2018, 11:05 PM
I think you'll be okay buying a used bike. Those motors are pretty indestructible, unless you run them out of oil. Plus, the 150 is a pretty safe bet, because most youth riders who grew up riding smaller bikes move to a bigger motor along with full size wheels, and to the "R" series for competitive riding.
How tall is your grandson and what are his riding aspirations? If he's into racing, then I'd recommend the "R" series if sticking with Honda. If mostly exploring and trail riding, then the "F" series is perfect.
I have a 14-year-old son. We ride dirt bikes together. He has no interest in racing. It's mostly general riding and trails for us. The CRF230F works brilliantly for that. Good tractable power. Manageable seat height. The air cooled motor is bullet proof. Learning to adjust the carb for riding at different altitudes has surprisingly turned into a bonding activity for us. We bought one new and one used. After the first year, you can't really tell the difference. I wish we would have bought both used and saved money on depreciation, dealer fees, etc.
If you're serious about the 125F, look at the 230F. Close to the same size, and he won't outgrow the power as he becomes more competent/confident with a full sized dirt bike.
How tall is your grandson and what are his riding aspirations? If he's into racing, then I'd recommend the "R" series if sticking with Honda. If mostly exploring and trail riding, then the "F" series is perfect.
I have a 14-year-old son. We ride dirt bikes together. He has no interest in racing. It's mostly general riding and trails for us. The CRF230F works brilliantly for that. Good tractable power. Manageable seat height. The air cooled motor is bullet proof. Learning to adjust the carb for riding at different altitudes has surprisingly turned into a bonding activity for us. We bought one new and one used. After the first year, you can't really tell the difference. I wish we would have bought both used and saved money on depreciation, dealer fees, etc.
If you're serious about the 125F, look at the 230F. Close to the same size, and he won't outgrow the power as he becomes more competent/confident with a full sized dirt bike.