In this article, we compare the Razor MX400 vs MX650 electric dirt bikes. These are both fun off-road bikes from Razor but they target very different age ranges. Read on to see how they compare to each other and which is best for your child, or even for you.
First we have a quick comparison table of the main features of the Razor MX400 vs MX650. Then we look at the main differences between them and the advantages of each dirt bike, in turn.
Finally, we’ll summarize the pros and cons of both rides, to help you make the right choice.
Razor MX400 vs MX650 – Quick Comparison
These bikes were our top picks for Best Budget (MX400) and Ultimate Choice (MX650) when we reviewed the best best electric dirt bikes for kids and teens recently. Let’s check out how they match up against each other.
The table below summarizes the main features of each bike in a side by side comparison, to make it easy to see the differences between them.
| Razor MX400 | Razor MX650 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Description | Small electric dirt bike with single speed, no suspension and rear brake | Large electric off-road dirt bike with variable speed, dual suspension and dual disc brakes |
| Age Range | 5-10 * (see note below table) | 10-16 * (see note below table) |
| Weight Limit | 140 lbs | 220 lbs |
| Top Speed | 14 mph | 17 mph |
| Price | $$$ Check Price | $$$$$ Check Price |
| Battery System | 24V (2 x 12V) sealed lead acid - charger included | 36V (3 x 12V) sealed lead acid - charger included |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 minutes of continuous use | Up to 40 minutes of continuous use |
| Battery Recharge Time | 12 hours | 12 hours |
| Motor and Gearing | 350W, high torque, chain driven | 650W, high torque, chain driven |
| Throttle | Single speed, twist grip | Variable speed, twist grip |
| Brakes | Hand operated rear band (i.e. drum) brake | Hand operated front and rear discs |
| Suspension | None | Dual suspension (rear is adjustable) |
| Seat Height | 20" | 24" |
| Handlebars | Adjustable angle, riser style, with soft rubber grips | Adjustable angle, riser style, with soft rubber grips |
| Tires | 12" pneumatic knobby | 16″ (front) and 14" (rear) pneumatic knobby |
| Product Weight | 62 lbs | 98 lbs |
| Assembled Dimensions | 44" L x 24.5" W x 31" H | 56" L x 24.5" W x 36" H |
| Assembly Time | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
* Notes on Age: Razor’s recommended age for the MX400 is a highly conservative 13+ but an age range of 5-10 (real world guide from many buyers) with parental supervision may be more suitable. Because it is really small – the seat height of 20″ is about 14″ lower than on a regular, adult dirt bike.
Razor’s recommended age for the MX650 is 16+ which is also very conservative. An age range of 10-16 (real world guide from many buyers) with parental supervision may be more suitable. Although the seat height is 24″ that is still a lot lower than on an adult bike.
Check out the videos in the next section below for some real world views of the appropriate ages for these bikes.
Main Differences
The biggest difference between both dirt bikes is the size and age of rider that each was designed for.
The Razor MX650 is the big brother of the MX400 – it has a 4″ higher seat, 20% larger frame, bigger wheels and weighs 36 lbs more. The MX650 supports a heavier rider (220 lbs vs 140 lbs) so is more suitable for teens whereas the MX400 is ideal for kids aged 5-10 years old.
Thanks to a more powerful motor (650W vs 350W) and extra battery (36V vs 24V), the Razor MX650 has a higher top speed (17 mph vs 14 mph) and gives a longer ride per full charge (40 minutes vs 30 minutes). The MX650 also has variable speed and dual suspension whereas the MX400 is single speed with no suspension.
Check out the video below for a real world view of the Razor MX650 powerhouse in action:
For comparison, the video below shows the little Razor MX350 (which is exactly the same model as the Razor MX400) with 7 and 4 year old boys riding:
Advantages of Razor MX400
- Better height for very young children – the 20″ seat height is 4″ lower than the MX650
- 20% smaller frame is a good size for small children and easier to store or transport
- 37% lighter (62 lbs vs 98 lbs) makes it easier for small kids to ride and to lift back up off the ground if it falls over
- MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is $250 cheaper than the MX650 – but check the actual prices below
Advantages of Razor MX650
- Better size for older kids and teens – the seat is 4″ higher than the MX400 and the frame is 20% larger
- The Razor MX650 is the fastest Razor electric dirt bike. The more powerful 650W motor gives it a higher top speed (17 mph vs 14 mph) and faster acceleration
- Higher maximum load (220 lbs vs 140 lbs) means it can cope with the weight of teens and even small adults
- Variable speed provides smoother power delivery (MX400 is single speed i.e. on or off which makes the start quite jerky)
- Dual suspension gives better off-road capability (MX400 has no suspension so the ride is stiff and not forgiving over bumps)
- Dual disc brakes = better stopping (MX400 has only a single rear drum brake)
- Larger wheels = better traction and ride comfort (16″ front / 14″ rear vs 12″ front and rear on the MX400)
- Longer battery life (40 minutes continuous use vs 30 minutes) so you can have more fun before it runs out of juice
Pros of Both Bikes
Here is a summary of what we love about both models:
- Adjustable angle handlebars can adapt to fast growing kids
- Fast enough to be exciting but slow enough (compared to gas dirt bikes) to minimize risk of a high speed crash
- Knobby rubber pneumatic tires can tackle many ground conditions including light off-roading
- Steel frame with authentic motocross frame geometry
- No pollution (compared to a gas dirt bike)
- Quieter than a gas dirt bike and require much less servicing
- Razor is a long established US manufacturer – spare or replacement parts are readily available from their website
Cons of Both Bikes
Here is a summary of what we don’t like so much about both models. But most of these issues are common to all electric dirt bikes in this price range:
- Relatively short battery life. But still enough to cover 7 miles (MX400) or 11 miles (MX650)
- Battery full recharge time is up to 12 hours so charging needs to be planned (or you could buy a spare set of batteries to switch over instantly)
- No headlights or rear lights – can only be driven in daylight
- Helmet and protective clothing may be uncomfortable in hot weather (see our Electric Dirt Bike Buying Guide for recommended safety gear)
- Must be stored in a dry area, due to the electrical components
- Batteries must not be stored in temperatures below freezing and should be recharged at least once a month
Conclusion
The smaller frame and lower seat of the MX400 make it the best choice for very young kids, especially those who are new to dirt bikes. Single speed (simple stop/go) is easier for them to handle and the lack of any suspension won’t make much difference if they rarely go off-road. It’s quick enough to have fun while minimizing the risk of high speed drama.
However, a larger frame, variable speed and bigger tires make the MX650 an awesome, grown up choice for older kids and teens, especially on rough terrain. With a top speed of 17 mph the MX650 is the fastest model in Razor’s range of electric dirt bikes but has good safety features, thanks to dual suspension and dual disc brakes.
Owner’s Manuals
The owner’s manual for the Razor MX400 Dirt Rocket is available in PDF format from Razor here.
The owner’s manual for the Razor MX650 Dirt Rocket is available in PDF format from Razor here.
NOTE: A parent’s decision to allow their child to ride either the Razor MX400 or the Razor MX650 should depend on the child’s individual maturity, skill and ability to follow rules.