It is a travesty to omit the Kawasaki KDX200 from this list. The frame geometry, the engine and the ergonomics are beginner-friendly. It starts easily and has excellent reliability, but the best thing about it is as the skill level improves, the bike's capabilities become a help instead of a hinderance. Normally shod with knobbies, a set of quality trials-pattern tires will suffice for pavement use, should you so desire.  These bikes have started many a racer's career and whether your goal is racing or just riding for enjoyment in dirt or on the pavement, you can't go wrong with a KDX as a beginner. ... View more