The popularity of dirt bikes is off the chart and growing every year. And why not, what's not to love. It's a sport for the adventurer. But buying your first dirt bike may seem like a daunting task with so many models and brands available. How do you find the right brand or model for you and get a great deal in the process?

Just like buying other vehicles or other types of equipment and merchandise, getting a little information up front is a good idea. Here are some simple guidelines that would help any buyer choose the best dirt bike for their needs.

1. For your first bike you want a bike large enough to carry you, but not too large you'll get carried away. You'll want to be able to reach the ground flat footed while astride any bike you are considering. But you don't want to be too large for your bike either. Find the biggest bike you feel comfortable on. The KTM probably has the largest seat height, followed by the Yamaha. But you really need to sit on a few and get a feel for what is comfortable to you.
2. A four-stroke engine will be easier to learn on. (Two stroke engines are harder to learn on because they have a snappy instant thrust of power while a four stroke engine is more tame and gradually builds up.) And generally, four stroke engines are lower maintenance and are easier to maintain.
3. Dirt bikes are naturally leaner and lighter in weight than conventional motorcycles; think lightweight and maneuverable. Any bike over 230 lbs dry or 275 lbs wet is too heavy for any beginner. A heavy bike will zap your strength quickly.
4. But while dirt bikes have smaller engines, they must be at the same time powerful. Finding the right size engine can be tricky. If you are truly new to the sport and don't yet know the type riding you will be doing a trail bike is your best bet. Of the four stroke engines a good 'general rule of thumb' is to get an engine that's no higher than your weight. i.e. If you weigh 125 lbs, don't get an engine that's over 125cc.
5. The best dirt bikes are those designed and manufactured by well known and reliable brands. Yes, there are cheaper brands and types, but you know the old saying - you get what you pay for. Usually those lesser known brands are cheaper because they have skimped on quality and safety or have compromised by using substandard materials in order to get that attractive price tag. As with most things you either pay now or you pay later when you have to replace the bike sooner. The big five are Honda, KTM, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha; if you stick with those you'll do fine.
6. For beginners, second hand dirt bikes are best - not to mention cheaper. As with any vehicle you purchase, you lose about a quarter to a third of a new vehicles purchase price when you take it off the show room floor. And let's face it, you are going to scratch and damage your bike - it's the nature of the sport; especially when you're first learning. So determine the right bike for you and look for a good used one.
7. Then last but definitely not least, remember, you WILL crash - so safety gear is not just an option but a necessity to ride. Helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, knee and elbow pads are an absolute MUST. They don't have to be expensive, either. And don't forget to get a kidney belt! Then hit the dirt!