The KLX140G vs CRF150F is a close comparison in size, but there’s quite a few small differences that you need to know to decide which dirt bike is best for you.
In this article I’m going to show you the practical info you need so that you can pick the right dirt bike to start on so that you save time and money.
What’s the difference between the KLX140G & CRF150F?
The biggest difference between these two trail bikes is the wheel size and overall weight. The KLX140G has full-size wheels, but still weighs almost 20 pounds less.
Why would you choose a CRF150F then? Keep reading to learn more about this comparison.
Engine
The KLX140G has the same engine as the other two KLX140 models (small and large wheel options) and hasn’t changed since it came out. It’s a 144cc air-cooled 4 stroke that puts out smooth, predictable power that isn’t overwhelming.
From 2003-2005 the CRF150F had a kickstart engine that was 156cc, but it was updated with a resigned engine that is 149cc. It may be smaller in displacement, but it's lighter and has better power.
So, which engine is better? Any year CRF150F is going to have slightly more power, but the reliability is better on the 2006+ CRF 150F.
With that said, I wouldn't rule out the KLX140 if you can get a good deal on a clean one.
Suspension
The forks on the KLX and CRF have very similar performance. They're both soft and comfortable if you're a beginner and just learning to ride a dirt bike.
The KLX140G has a better shock because it has external compression and rebound damping adjustability. You can adjust the shock preload on the CRF150F for your weight, otherwise it's a simple shock that is limited in performance.
Handling
Having full size wheels, the KLX140G is going to handle differently than the CRF150F with 19/16" wheels. Is it better? If you're riding trails and over obstacles like logs and rocks, then yes, the KLX140G will handle better with the bigger wheels.
With that said, the smaller wheels on the CRF150 will turn a little easier and quicker, which helps at low speed riding.
The Kawasaki is also lighter than the Honda. The difference depends on which year CRF you have, but in any case, it's a 5-15 pound difference.
Which dirt bike is right for you?
So, this dirt bike comparison comes down to a few different factors… Wheel size, weight, your budget, and power.
Both the KLX140G and CRF150F are great dirt bikes if you’re new to dirt biking or transitioning from riding on the street. Whether you’re an older rider, a shorter rider, or you just prefer a lower seat height and a bike that’s easy to ride with good reliability, you can’t go wrong here.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, here are some quick facts about these beginner trail bikes to help you make a quick and easy decision.
You should get the KLX140G if you:
- Want full-size wheels for trail riding to ride over obstacles more easily
- Aren’t very strong and want a lighter dirt bike
- Don’t need the most power
- Want to buy a new dirt bike and don’t mind spending a little more money
You should get the CRF150F if you:
- Have shorter legs (32.8” seat height vs 33.9” KLX140G seat height)
- Want a cheaper dirt bike (the CRF150F is only for sale on the used market now)
- Want a little more power
- Enjoy modifying with performance upgrades
How to become a good & safe rider
Either one of these dirt bikes are good to start and learn how to ride on, but that’s just the first step to being smart and safe. I see so many dirt bike riders making a lot of the same mistakes that cause them to ride tense and out of control at times.
Instead, you could start out with the proper training by learning the basic techniques to ride with confidence, and they don’t take long to learn. Want to learn more? Click or tap here to get started today.