Are Apollo Dirt Bikes Good?

I’ve spent more time than I’d like to admit researching budget dirt bikes, and one brand keeps coming up over and over: Apollo.

If you’ve landed here, you’re probably wondering whether these affordable Chinese-made bikes are worth your money or just a pile of cheap parts waiting to fall apart. Fair question.

Apollo is made by Zhejiang Apollo Sports Technology Co., Ltd., a company founded in 2003 in Wuyi, China. They’ve grown from a small warehouse operation into a manufacturer producing around 100,000 motorcycles a year, sold across 75+ countries.

In this guide, I’ll break down Apollo’s current dirt bike lineup, their newer electric models, the real pros and cons based on what owners actually experience, and how they stack up against the major Japanese and European brands.

Apollo Dirt Bike Models and Features

First, let me walk you through what Apollo actually offers. The company has a wide range of off-road bikes organized by size and engine configuration, and they now operate several sub-brands: the standard Apollo line, the higher-end RFZ and RXF performance brands, and the newer RFN electric range.

Here’s how the gas-powered lineup breaks down.

Entry-Level Bikes

The DB-21 and DB-25 are Apollo’s smallest dirt bikes, both running 70cc engines. The DB-21 has a semi-automatic 4-speed transmission (no clutch lever, just a foot shifter), while the DB-25 is fully automatic.

Seat height on both is 25 inches, and they come with removable training wheels, which I think is a smart touch for the youngest riders.

These are designed for kids roughly ages 5 to 9. You’re not going to get blazing speed here, but that’s the whole point.

Midsize Bikes

Step up to the 110cc range (models like the DB-34 and DB-X4) for a bit more power and a taller frame suited to larger kids and smaller adults.

Seat heights are around 27 to 28 inches. The 125cc DB-007 is another option in this category, with a 32-inch seat and manual transmission. Both sizes work well as intermediate bikes for riders who’ve outgrown the 70cc machines but aren’t ready for full-size.

Larger Bikes

Once you’re ready for more speed and handling, Apollo has plenty of 125cc options like the RFZ DB X-14, X-15, X-16, X-18, X-19, and the Z20 Max.

Seat heights run around 33 inches on these, and you’ll find both semi-automatic and manual transmissions depending on the model.

Prices range from roughly $1,250 on sale to around $2,000+. For the most power in the Apollo lineup, the Thunder 250cc models sit at the top, priced around $2,150 to $2,250.

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Apollo’s Electric Dirt Bikes (RFN Brand)

Apollo launched the RFN brand specifically focused on electric off-road bikes, and they’ve been expanding aggressively.

At EICMA 2025 in Milan, they showcased what they called the world’s first full matrix of mass-production electric dirt bikes, covering every rider stage from young kids to adults.

The RFN Warrior lineup includes a Kids Series designed for the youngest riders with limited power output and built-in safety features, a Youth Series for more experienced young riders stepping up in skill, and adult-oriented models for serious off-road use.

If you’re a parent concerned about noise, fumes, or the complexity of a gas engine for a young child, the electric Apollo models are worth a serious look.

Key Features Across the Lineup

Some standout features on Apollo dirt bikes include hydraulic disc brakes for solid stopping power (on the larger models; the 70cc bikes use drum brakes), knobby tires for traction, and adjustable suspension to smooth out bumps.

The frames use steel construction, which is durable but does add weight compared to the aluminum frames on premium bikes. Styling and graphics are actually pretty sharp on the newer models too.

One thing worth noting: most Apollo bikes you buy online arrive requiring some assembly. The level varies. Some come 90% built and just need handlebars and wheels attached, while others need more work.

If you’re not mechanically inclined, factor in the cost of having a dealer or mechanic do the assembly for you, usually around $100 to $150. I’ll touch on this more in the buying section.

So in summary, Apollo offers a dirt bike for every size rider and skill level, in both gas and electric configurations. But how do they actually perform once you’re on the trail? Let me get into that.

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The Pros of Apollo Dirt Bikes

There are a lot of good reasons Apollo dirt bikes have become popular, especially for beginners and kids. Here’s what I think they get right.

Affordable Pricing

One of the main appeals of Apollo is the price, and I won’t pretend otherwise. Their bikes cost significantly less than the major Japanese brands.

While you shouldn’t expect the same performance as a premium racing machine, Apollos provide solid value for what you pay.

Reliable and Durable (For the Price)

Considering the lower prices, Apollo bikes are surprisingly solid. Owners report getting years of use without many major issues when proper maintenance is performed. The components like tires, brakes, and suspension hold up well to typical trail and track use.

The steel frames have proven they can take abuse pretty well too. Apollos aren’t as bulletproof as the aluminum and composite frames on pricier bikes, but they can handle drops and rough riding. I’d say durability is better than most people expect when they hear “budget dirt bike from China.”

Good Power for the Class

Apollo dirt bikes provide ample power for the average trail or track rider. The 70cc bikes have enough pep for kids and beginners. And the 125cc to 250cc engines deliver solid acceleration and reasonable top speeds for intermediate riders.

For recreational use, I’ve found that Apollos deliver more than enough speed for fun trail and casual track days.

Smooth Suspension

Another Apollo win is the suspension quality. Forks and shocks absorb bumps and jumps impressively well for the price. You can hit whoops at speed or launch off smaller jumps without jarring impacts. The components are built better than you’d expect at this price point.

Easy Maintenance

Working on Apollo bikes is pretty straightforward for the average mechanically-inclined owner. The layout is uncomplicated, so tasks like checking the air filter, changing oil, and adjusting the chain are simple. Parts are standard sizes and relatively easy to source.

Compare that to some performance-focused models that require specialized tools and expertise. While Apollos aren’t quite as refined in their engineering as Japanese brands, you can easily handle your own maintenance and save money doing it.

Great for New Riders

With their mellow powerbands, manageable weight, and budget price tags, Apollo dirt bikes are great for beginners. New riders can build skills without getting overwhelmed. Apollos are very forgiving, with smooth throttle response that helps build confidence.

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The Cons of Apollo Dirt Bikes

While Apollos provide surprising quality for the money, they aren’t without real drawbacks. I want to be upfront about these because going in with clear expectations is the best way to avoid disappointment.

Potential quality Control Issues

This is probably the most common complaint you’ll see in owner forums. Fit and finish on some Apollos leaves room for improvement.

Owners report things like fasteners loosening prematurely, plastic pieces cracking, and occasional small oil leaks. Two identical bikes from the same batch can sometimes feel noticeably different in build quality.

These issues don’t appear to be universal, but they do happen more often than with Japanese brands.

My advice: inspect every bolt and connection thoroughly when your bike arrives (especially if you assembled it yourself), and do a proper shake-down ride before hitting the trails hard. A good initial inspection and tightening session goes a long way.

Less Refined Overall

In general, Apollos have a less refined and precise feel than premium bikes. Throttle response, shifting, braking, and handling don’t feel as dialed-in. Vibration is more pronounced too. This comes down to cheaper materials and wider manufacturing tolerances.

Shorter Service Life

The cheaper components and materials tend to shorten the lifespan compared to premium models. While you can absolutely get years of use from an Apollo with proper maintenance, heavy abuse takes a toll faster.

Expect to replace wear items like tires, brake pads, and bearings sooner than you would on a performance-oriented bike.

Less Capable on Track

While great for trails and casual track days, Apollo dirt bikes do have performance limitations that become apparent at higher speeds on an MX track.

The suspension gets overwhelmed hitting big jumps at speed. The chassis and powerplants also limit how aggressively you can rail corners and clear tabletops.

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How Do Apollo Bikes Compare to the Competition?

To give you real perspective, let me compare Apollo models to the most relevant competing bikes from major manufacturers at current 2026 pricing.

I’ve tried to keep these comparisons fair by matching bikes that actually compete for the same buyers, rather than pitting a budget trail bike against a purpose-built race machine.

Apollo vs. Honda CRF125F

The Honda CRF125F is probably the most direct competitor to Apollo’s 125cc offerings. The 2026 CRF125F starts at $3,599 MSRP, and the Big Wheel variant runs $3,999. That’s roughly 2 to 3 times what you’d pay for a comparable Apollo 125cc.

For that premium, you get Honda’s legendary reliability, fuel injection, electric start, and the kind of fit and finish that budget brands can’t match.

But if budget is your main constraint, an Apollo gets you surprisingly close to the Honda’s recreational trail performance for a fraction of the price.

I think the Honda is the better bike in every measurable way. The question is whether “better” is worth $2,000+ more to you.

For a kid’s first bike they’ll outgrow in two seasons? I’d lean Apollo. For an adult who plans to ride regularly for years? I’d lean Honda.

Apollo vs. Yamaha TT-R125LE

Yamaha’s TT-R125LE is another natural comparison point at $3,599 MSRP for 2026. Like the Honda, it’s a beginner-friendly trail bike with electric start and a smooth power delivery. Build quality and reliability are excellent.

The price gap versus Apollo is similar to the Honda comparison, and my take is roughly the same: if you’re buying for the long haul, the Yamaha is worth the investment. If you need something affordable now and can accept the tradeoffs, Apollo fills that role.

Now, if you’re wondering about Yamaha’s YZ125X, that’s a $7,299 two-stroke cross-country race bike. It’s an incredible machine, but comparing it to an Apollo 125cc four-stroke trail bike isn’t really useful. They’re built for completely different purposes and riders.

I mention it only because the price gap ($7,299 vs. roughly $1,200-$1,800 for an Apollo 125) illustrates just how wide the pricing spectrum is in the dirt bike world.

Apollo vs. Kawasaki KLX140R

Kawasaki’s KLX140R lineup is their entry-level off-road range and competes directly with Apollo in the beginner/youth segment. Pricing starts around $3,199 for the base model. The Kawasaki offers better build quality, a proven engine, and access to Kawasaki’s dealer network.

Again, the Apollo costs far less and gets you a functional, enjoyable bike for recreational riding. The Kawasaki will last longer and feel more refined. Your budget and intended use should guide the decision.

Apollo vs. KTM 150 SX

I’m including this one to show the extreme end of the price spectrum. The 2025 KTM 150 SX carries an MSRP of $8,449. It’s a full-blown two-stroke motocross race bike with electronic fuel injection, WP suspension, Brembo hydraulics, and electric start. It’s an incredible machine built for competition.

An Apollo 125cc bike cannot touch the KTM’s performance. Not even close. But that’s like comparing a reliable commuter car to a track-day Porsche. They exist in different universes for different purposes. The KTM comparison is useful mainly to show that Apollo serves riders who want affordable fun, not podium finishes.

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Street Legality and Registration

This catches a lot of first-time buyers off guard, so I want to address it directly: Apollo dirt bikes are not street legal. You cannot register them for road use, ride them on public roads, or use them as commuter vehicles. They are off-road only machines.

This applies to virtually all Apollo models. If you need something street legal, you’ll need to look at dual-sport motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (CRF300L), Kawasaki (KLX300), or Yamaha (WR250R). Don’t buy an Apollo thinking you’ll ride it to work. You won’t.

Safety Gear: Don’t Skip This

Since this article is aimed heavily at beginners, kids, and new riders, I’d feel irresponsible not mentioning safety equipment. No matter how affordable your bike is, a proper helmet is not optional.

At a minimum, you should have a DOT-certified motocross helmet, goggles, gloves, boots that cover the ankle, and long pants. Ideally, add a chest protector, knee guards, and elbow pads.

Final Verdict: Are Apollo Dirt Bikes Worth It?

Here’s how I see it after researching and riding these bikes.

For kids, beginners, and folks on a tight budget looking to get into dirt biking, Apollos are a genuinely good option. The pricing lets almost anyone start riding.

The bikes provide enough performance for casual trail and track use. And with the new RFN electric lineup, Apollo is expanding into a space that makes a lot of sense for young riders and noise-conscious neighborhoods.

More experienced riders will likely feel limited by Apollo’s capabilities fairly quickly. The cheaper components don’t hold up to heavy, sustained use the way a Honda or Yamaha would. And if you’re thinking about resale value, remember that Apollos depreciate fast.

But for someone who wants a dirt bike to learn on, ride recreationally, or give their kid a shot at a sport they might love, the price discount over the major brands is real and meaningful. Apollo offers good entry-level products.

Just go in with proper expectations, inspect your bike thoroughly when it arrives, invest in proper safety gear, and keep up with basic maintenance.

If that sounds like your situation, I think you’ll be happy with an Apollo. And if you eventually fall in love with dirt biking and want to upgrade to a Honda, Yamaha, or KTM down the road, the Apollo will have served its purpose perfectly as a first step into the sport.