X Games Announces Ban on Electric Dirt Bikes for Future Competitions

X Games Announces Ban on Electric Dirt Bikes for Future Competitions

The X Games has officially banned the use of electric dirt bikes in all motocross-related events, citing concerns over competitive fairness, event logistics, and the sport’s overall direction. The decision, announced ahead of the 2025 summer event lineup, impacts disciplines such as Moto X Best Trick, Freestyle, and Step-Up, where riders have previously experimented with electric models alongside traditional gas-powered motorcycles.

According to X Games officials, the primary reason for the ban is ensuring an equal playing field for all competitors. Electric dirt bikes, such as the Stark Varg and Alta Redshift, have demonstrated advantages in instant torque delivery and lower weight, which some argue could give riders an unfair performance edge over their gasoline-powered counterparts. Additionally, logistical factors, including charging infrastructure and noise regulations, played a role in the decision, as X Games events are often hosted in venues where rapid refueling has traditionally been the standard.

While some riders and manufacturers have embraced the shift toward electric technology, others see the ban as a move to preserve the heritage and mechanical consistency of the sport. As a result, riders who had begun testing or adapting to electric platforms will now need to revert to traditional combustion-engine bikes for X Games competition. However, the ruling does not impact other motocross events outside of X Games, leaving the door open for electric dirt bikes to continue progressing in other series.

With the industry’s growing interest in alternative power sources, the ban has sparked discussion about the future of motocross and whether electric models will eventually be integrated into mainstream competitions. For now, though, X Games remains committed to gas-powered motorcycles, ensuring that all competitors meet the same mechanical standards. The next X Games event will proceed under the new rule, with riders preparing to adjust their setups accordingly.