Apollo dirt bikes are a real, budget-oriented brand of off-road motorcycles, primarily manufactured in China and sold under the Apollo name in North America and Europe. They are not a legacy brand like Honda or Yamaha, but rather a value-focused option that has become popular for beginners, younger riders, and anyone who wants to get into trail riding without a large investment.
What Exactly Is an Apollo Dirt Bike?
Apollo is a brand name used on a range of Chinese-made dirt bikes, ATVs, and scooters. The bikes are designed to mimic the style and basic function of established Japanese and European off-road machines, but they are built to a much lower price point. You will typically find them sold through online marketplaces, big-box retailers, and smaller powersports dealers, rather than through dedicated motorcycle showrooms.
Most Apollo models use air-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engines ranging from about 50cc to 250cc. The smaller displacement bikes are often sold as youth models, while the larger ones target adult beginners and casual trail riders. The brand does not have a deep racing heritage, and its bikes are not intended for professional motocross or enduro competition.
How Do Apollo Bikes Compare to Big Brands?
The most direct comparison is against used Japanese bikes from Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, or Suzuki. A new Apollo 110cc bike might cost around $800 to $1,200, whereas a used Honda CRF110F from a few years ago might sell for $1,500 to $2,500. The Apollo is cheaper, but the differences are significant.
- Build quality: Fasteners, wiring, and plastic quality are generally lower on Apollo bikes. Bolts may rust faster, and body panels can crack more easily.
- Performance: Engines are tuned for low maintenance and mild power, not peak output. Suspension components are basic and often non-adjustable.
- Parts availability: While many parts are generic and can be found online, dealer support is minimal. You will likely be doing your own wrenching.
- Resale value: A used Apollo depreciates heavily. A used Honda holds value much better.
That said, for a parent buying a first bike for a child who may lose interest, or for an adult who wants a cheap pit bike for light trail use, the Apollo can make financial sense. The key is to understand what you are buying.
Common Models and What They Are For
Apollo offers several lines, and the model numbers often reflect the engine size. A few common ones you will see:
- Apollo 50cc: Tiny bikes for very young children, usually with training wheels and a throttle limiter.
- Apollo 110cc: A popular middle ground for kids aged 8 to 12, with a semi-automatic or automatic clutch.
- Apollo 125cc: Often sold as a pit bike or small trail bike for teens and smaller adults.
- Apollo 250cc: A full-size frame with a larger engine, suitable for adult beginners on trails or fire roads.
Many of these models share the same basic frame and engine design, with cosmetic differences. It is common for the same bike to be sold under different names depending on the year or the retailer.
Assembly and Setup: What to Expect
When you buy an Apollo, it arrives partially disassembled in a crate. Do not expect a dealer to have set it up. You will typically need to:
- Attach the front wheel and handlebars.
- Mount the front fender and number plate.
- Fill the engine with oil and add fuel.
- Check and adjust the chain tension.
- Set the idle speed and verify the throttle cable.
- Check all bolts for tightness.
This is not difficult for someone with basic mechanical skills, but it is a critical step. A poorly assembled bike can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable doing this, factor in the cost of having a local shop assemble and inspect it.
Common Problems and Reliability Issues
Owners report a few recurring issues with Apollo bikes. Knowing these ahead of time can save you frustration.
- Loose bolts: Chinese bikes often leave the factory with insufficient threadlocker. Go over every bolt after the first few rides.
- Carburetor tuning: The stock carburetor is often jetted lean from the factory to pass emissions. The bike may sputter or stall until it is re-jetted or adjusted.
- Electrical gremlins: Wiring connectors can be poorly crimped, leading to intermittent lights or a bike that won’t start. Check connections and apply dielectric grease.
- Chain and sprockets: The stock chain stretches quickly and the sprockets are soft metal. Plan on replacing them with better quality parts within the first season.
- Fork seals: The front forks are basic and can leak if the bike is jumped hard.
None of these are deal-breakers if you are handy, but they are the reason the bikes are cheap. You are trading your own labor for the lower upfront cost.
Safety Considerations and Gear
An Apollo dirt bike is a real motorcycle, and it demands the same safety respect as any other. Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, and long sleeves. Never let a child ride an adult-sized bike. Even a 125cc bike can reach speeds that are too fast for a young rider.
Also, check your local laws. In many areas, dirt bikes are not street legal, and riding on public land may be restricted. You may need a spark arrestor for national forests, and some states require off-highway vehicle registration. Do not assume that because the bike is small and cheap, it is exempt from these rules.
Alternatives to Apollo
If you are on the fence, consider these alternatives:
- Used Japanese bikes: A used Honda CRF or Yamaha TTR is the safest bet for reliability and resale. You pay more upfront, but you get a bike that holds value and needs less work.
- Other Chinese brands: Brands like TaoTao, Coolster, and SSR Motorsports offer similar bikes at similar prices. Quality varies, but some have better dealer networks than Apollo.
- Electric dirt bikes: For young kids, electric bikes like the Razor MX series or the Stacyc are quieter, cleaner, and have no clutch or gears to learn. They are not for serious trail riding, but they are great for learning balance.
- Used pit bikes: Look for used Honda CRF110F or Kawasaki KLX110 bikes. They are nearly indestructible and easy to sell later.
If you choose an Apollo, set your expectations low and be prepared to learn basic motorcycle maintenance. For many riders, that is part of the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Apollo dirt bikes good for beginners?
Yes, for casual trail riding and learning the basics, an Apollo can be a fine starter bike. The power is manageable, and the price is low enough that you won’t be heartbroken if you drop it. Just be prepared to do some maintenance and upgrades as you go.
How fast does an Apollo 125cc go?
Most Apollo 125cc bikes top out around 40 to 50 mph, depending on the rider’s weight, gearing, and terrain. That is fast enough for trails and pit bike use, but not for highway riding. Always check the specific model’s manual for the manufacturer’s claimed top speed.
Can I ride an Apollo dirt bike on the street?
Generally, no. Apollo dirt bikes are not equipped with turn signals, mirrors, or a horn, and they do not meet federal safety standards for on-road use. Riding one on public streets is illegal in most states and municipalities. If you want a street-legal dual-sport, you need a different type of bike.
What size Apollo dirt bike should I get for my child?
A good rule of thumb is to match the bike to the child’s height and experience, not just age. For a 6- to 8-year-old who is new to riding, a 50cc bike is appropriate. For a 10- to 12-year-old with some experience, a 110cc is a common choice. The child should be able to touch the ground with both feet while seated, and should be able to handle the bike’s weight.
Are parts for Apollo dirt bikes easy to find?
Yes, because many Apollo models use generic Chinese parts that are shared across brands. You can find pistons, gaskets, cables, and plastics on Amazon, eBay, and dedicated Chinese parts sites. However, you may have to wait for shipping, and quality can vary. It helps to know your engine model number when ordering.
Is it worth upgrading an Apollo dirt bike?
It depends. Basic upgrades like better tires, a higher-quality chain, and a re-jet kit are worth it because they improve reliability and rideability. But pouring money into engine performance or suspension is usually a waste, because the frame and components are not designed to handle it. If you want more performance, sell the Apollo and buy a bigger or better bike.
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