Giving kids a head-start for motocross by teaching them to ride at a young age, does not have to come with a £4,000+ price tag. The KTM SX‑E 3 is a premium electric mini with high-spec components and serious performance, but the RFN Warrior SX‑E500, available from Future Riders, makes a strong case as a smart, and affordable alternative. At just £649, it offers impressive value with its lightweight build, adjustable speed modes, and confidence-boosting simplicity that’s ideal for young, first-time riders.
Below, we compare both, not just the bikes, but also the brands behind them.
2025 KTM SX-E 3 - Priced At £4,399.99
About The KTM SX-E
Priced at £4,399, the KTM SX‑E 3 is over six times the cost of the RFN SX‑E500. But it’s designed as a high-performance entry-level motocross bike, with features like a 648 Wh lithium-ion battery, six selectable ride modes, and WP suspension. Its 2 kW motor (with 3.8 kW peak output) delivers serious power for young riders ready to step up, though the price and complexity may be more than needed for absolute beginners.
Key Features:
- Air-cooled 48 V motor with 2 kW rated power and up to 3.8 kW peak.
- 648 Wh lithium-ion battery with optional upgrade; ~70 min full charge time.
- Selectable power modes with parental lockout and lanyard safety cut-offs.
- Front and rear wave disc brakes with 10" Maxxis tyres for strong stopping power.
About KTM
KTM is a dominant force in off-road racing, known for producing championship-winning motocross bikes across all classes. The SX-E line brings that same race-focused engineering to young riders, with the SX-E 3 designed as a premium entry point. It’s built with high-spec components and cutting-edge electric tech. But that race pedigree also means a higher price tag - and a level of performance that may exceed the needs of true beginners.
RFN Warrior SXE500 - The Electric Alternative
About The RFN SX E-500
The RFN Warrior SXE500 is a lightweight, all-electric off-road bike designed specifically for young beginners. Priced at just £649, this RFN is an absolute bargain compared to the KTM. The first thing to note is it does not compete on performance. The top speed is over 10mph less, so if its pure speed your child is after, then the budget-friendly RFN Warrior Sx E-500 may not be the bike for your family.
However, having tested it out with many families and received their feedback, we are confident in our analysis that the RFN Warrior range do provide a strong alternative for parents. For a starter, they are packed with safety features, including a magnetic kill-switch if your young rider falls off the bike, very high-quality brakes and crucially three different speed modes. The latter means as a parent, you can set your child free whilst having ultimate control. We found this liberating, and really conducive to young riders picking up their skills quickly.
The good news about the RFN Warrior SX E500 does not stop there though. Electric bikes have been stealing a bit of a march on the once petrol dominated market and have made electric dirt bikes much more accessible to a wider range of families. Having used both, the benefits of electric are notable. For starters, It’s incredibly quiet. In addition, parents will appreciate the lack of engine maintenance and the ease of charging at home. The RFN Warriors feature replaceable, removable batteries so you can even bring spares if you want to go beyond the 75 minute run time.
Key Features
- 36v brushless motor, 500w peak power, with 3 speed modes.
- Lightweight at just 19 kg
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes for confident stopping.
- Up to 75 minutes of ride time; removable lithium battery.
- Power-lock, kill switch, and LCD display included.
About RFN
RFN is part of a new generation of off-road bike manufacturers focused on electric mobility. Designed with kids and families in mind, RFN models offer high-quality components, thoughtful safety features, and a smooth riding experience without the noise or emissions of petrol bikes. The Warrior SXE500 is available through Future Riders, a UK specialist in electric bikes for children, offering full customer support and fast UK delivery.
Shop The RFN SXE-500
Which One's Right For Your Child?
Both bikes have clear strengths. The KTM SX-E 3 has heritage and durability, but it’s heavier, louder, and more maintenance-heavy. It also comes with a much, much bigger price tag. The RFN Warrior SXE500 offers simplicity, modern tech, and better safety features for first-time riders. Its affordable for parents and offers a smoother and more gradual introduction to riding for children who aren't immediately ready for to fly about at 30+mph.
| Feature | KTM SX-E 3 | RFN Warrior SXE500 |
| Power Source | 48v BLDC Motor | 36v electric |
| Weight | 39kg | 19kg |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc | Hydraulic disc |
| Top Speed | 31mph | Up to 18.5 mph |
| Seat Height | 634-682 | 490mm |
| Noice/Emissions | Silent and Clean | Silent and Clean |
| Price | £4399 | £649 |
Final Thoughts On RFN Warrior SX E500 vs KTM SX-E3
If you want top-tier performance and don’t mind the higher price and upkeep, the KTM SX‑E 3 is a standout choice. But for most families, the RFN Warrior SX‑E500 delivers an affordable, easy-to-use, and safer way to get kids riding. The electric motor, safety features and massively lower price point are hard to ignore.
