2008 Playbike Roundup


 

The new high-end motocross bikes always get tons of attention lavished on them as soon as they're introduced every year. Everyone always wants to see what the hot new bike will be, especially in years like this, where you've got some new technology coming into the market, like Suzuki's fuel injection on their RM-Z450.

But we all know that not everyone can jump into the sport aboard the latest fire-breather. They've got to get a start somewhere that's more comfortable for beginners, whether it's a smaller-sized bike for kids, a more user-friendly powerband, or just a price tag that's more palatable to them or their parents. That's where these off-road playbikes come in. But most of all, these bikes are designed for one thing...fun. Whether it's for use in local fields (the whisper-quiet exhaust note makes them palatable to all but the fussiest neighbors), camping, or pit use, they're definitely more user-friendly for beginners (and to the public) than full-on race bikes.

Several of the bikes found in this category don't change a whole lot from year-to-year, other than the usual BNG (Bold New Graphics). But this year the category features a couple new bikes, like the Suzuki DR-Z70, and the Yamaha TTR-110E, that are all-new.

The Suzuki is in the same size range as the Honda CRF50F, and Suzuki says that many of the aftermarket components already available for the 50cc-sized bikes will bolt right onto it. It's also extremely user-friendly, since it's equipped with both a kickstarter and the magic button (electric start) that beginners love.

The Yamaha TTR-110E is also all-new, and goes head-to-head with Kawasaki's venerable KLX110, though it features electric starting, and bigger forks, a four-speed transmission, new engine, and a beefed-up swingarm.

For features and specs on each of the models, click the links below.


 

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