There was a time when the only small-sized motorcycles, also known as pit bikes, were made by Japanese companies like Honda and Kawasaki. In recent years, these pit bikes have become increasingly popular, which has created a high demand for them. Well now Chinese manufacturers and others are stepping in to fill the gap. So-called knockoff bikes, such as Thumpstar pit bikes and Sikk pit bikes, are made with Chinese engines and frames. The big question is: can these bikes stand up to the old faithful Honda and Kawasaki models?

Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Suzuki have been the staple when it comes to dirt bikes for years, and with good reason. These motorcycles are very competent and reliable. Recently, a large number of Chinese-made motorcycles have entered the scene in the form of mini bikes or pit bikes. Why would people buy a motorcycle from China when they can’t be sure of reliability? The reason is simple, they are much cheaper than their Japanese counterparts.

You can buy a fully equipped Thumpstar pit bike for around $1500 new. When it comes to the new BBR-designed CRF100, you’re looking at around $5500. This is a big difference in price. There are many other brands of so called pit off bikes like Pittster, Sikk, Thunder Pro, and the list goes on and on. They all have a similar price and the quality is about the same depending on who you ask. I currently own 2 Thumpstar pit bikes, and I know a few people who have other brands called knockoffs like Sikk, so I can personally speak to the quality of these bikes.

Are they as good as a Honda or a Kawasaki? The simple answer is no. These bikes still have a long way to go to match the quality and performance of Japanese brands when all tuned up. There is only one problem. When you buy a 50cc Honda, it’s all about bone stock. You have to upgrade everything from the suspension, the exhaust, tune up the engine and this will add up to thousands of dollars. Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m not spending $5,500 on a little pit bike. This is why bikes made from Chinese parts, like the Thumpstar pit bikes, have become so popular. They come with a good racing exhaust, the suspension is better than the stock Honda, some even now come standard with a Japanese Mikuni carb. Personally, I think most of the knockoff bikes also look a lot better than the Honda or Kawasaki. As time has passed, these motorcycles have become better and better.

Isn’t it impossible to find parts for pit bikes with Chinese parts? Surprisingly not. There are now many suppliers that stand behind these motorcycles, and with the internet it has become easier to find parts for just about anything. There are many places to find replacement parts and upgrades for Thumpstar pit bikes and many others.

So how have my 2 Thumpstar pit bikes withstood the punishment of a tough season? Well I have to say they have been just great. The engine was a pleasant surprise providing smooth power in all 4 gears. The suspension, while quite stiff, was better than stock so I was happy with that. The frames have been durable and the bikes have generally been very reliable. The only issues I can say I had were the chain pinning the swingarm to the rear of one of my Thumpstars, some bolts coming loose, I replaced the levers, and some plastic cosmetic damage. The engines get a bit hot so I am currently looking for oil coolers for my Thumpstar pit bikes, I have seen several for sale online.

If you are currently looking for a pit bike in the market, it is up to you. Do you want to pay $5,500 for the best or would you prefer to pay around $1,500 for a comparable motorcycle? It was a no-brainer for me. I’m sure the lifespan of my Thumpstar pit bike is less than a Honda, but who cares, I’ll get another one in a few years and still spend less money!