Quick answer: The RFN Warrior SX-E400 is usually the best beginner model for younger and smaller riders, while the SX-E500 is the best all-round beginner choice for a taller child who already balances confidently.
Important: the SX-E700 is designed for more confident riders and would not normally be our first recommendation for a complete beginner.
Best RFN Warrior for Beginners
Choosing the best RFN Warrior for a beginner depends on the rider’s height, strength, balance and previous experience.
The RFN Warrior Kids range includes three main models:
- RFN Warrior SX-E400: the smallest and most manageable beginner option
- RFN Warrior SX-E500: the best all-round choice for a taller or more confident beginner
- RFN Warrior SX-E700: the premium performance model for experienced or progressing riders
For the youngest riders, the SX-E400 normally makes the most sense because it has the lowest seat height, smallest wheels and slowest beginner mode.
For a child who is physically larger and already confident on a bicycle or balance bike, the SX-E500 may provide a better fit and more room to progress.
The SX-E700 shares similar physical sizing with the SX-E500, but its additional performance and hydraulic brakes make it better suited to riders who already understand throttle and braking control.
This guide compares all three models and explains which RFN Warrior is best for different types of beginner.
Which RFN Warrior Is Best for a Beginner?
Our Beginner Recommendation
Choose the SX-E400 for a younger, smaller or more cautious beginner who needs the easiest RFN Warrior to manage.
Choose the SX-E500 for a taller or more confident beginner who already balances well and can safely manage a faster lowest speed.
Do not automatically choose the SX-E700 for a first-time rider simply because it is the highest model. It is designed around stronger performance and greater rider experience.
Best Small Beginner Bike
RFN Warrior SX-E400
Best for younger riders who need the lowest seat, smallest wheels and slowest beginner mode.
Best All-Round Beginner Bike
RFN Warrior SX-E500
Best for a physically larger and confident beginner who wants more room to progress.
Best Progression Bike
RFN Warrior SX-E700
Best for riders who already understand throttle control, front and rear braking and controlled stopping.
RFN Warrior Beginner Comparison
| Model | Rider Guide | Seat Height | Lowest Speed | Brakes | Beginner Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SX-E400 | Around 3–6 years 90–110cm |
Approximately 460mm | Approximately 5mph | Rear disc brake | Best for younger beginners |
| SX-E500 | Around 4–7 years 100–120cm |
Approximately 490mm | Approximately 9.5mph | Front and rear disc brakes | Best for confident beginners |
| SX-E700 | Around 4–8 years 100–120cm |
Approximately 490mm | Approximately 9.5mph | Front and rear hydraulic brakes | Best for experienced riders |
The SX-E400 is the easiest bike to introduce because its lowest speed is considerably slower than the beginner settings on the SX-E500 and SX-E700.
The SX-E500 offers a larger chassis and separate front and rear brakes, but its lowest mode is already approximately 9.5mph. The rider therefore needs reliable balance and basic stopping ability before getting on it.
The SX-E700 may have a similar lowest speed to the SX-E500, but its stronger overall performance makes it better suited to progression rather than first-time learning.
Why the SX-E400 Is the Easiest RFN Warrior for Beginners
The SX-E400 is the smallest model in the RFN Warrior Kids range.
It has:
- A lower 460mm seat height
- Compact 12-inch wheels
- An approximate 18kg bike weight
- A beginner speed setting of around 5mph
- A simple rear disc brake
- Three selectable riding modes
These features make it the most approachable RFN Warrior for a younger rider who is learning throttle control for the first time.
The lower mode allows the child to practise accelerating, releasing the throttle and stopping without immediately travelling at the higher speeds available on the SX-E500.
Who should choose the SX-E400?
The SX-E400 is normally the better beginner choice when the rider:
- Is approximately 90–110cm tall
- Is around 3–6 years old
- Is moving up from a balance bike
- Needs the lowest possible beginner speed
- Is smaller or cautious
- Has limited throttle-controlled experience
When might the SX-E400 be too small?
A taller rider close to or above 110cm may feel cramped on the SX-E400.
A confident child who is physically large enough for the SX-E500 may get more room to grow from its 14-inch chassis.
Read our RFN Warrior SX-E400 vs SX-E500 comparison before deciding.
Why the SX-E500 Is the Best All-Round Beginner RFN
The SX-E500 is the middle model and, for many families, the best all-round RFN Warrior.
It offers:
- A 490mm seat height
- 14-inch front and rear wheels
- An approximate 19kg bike weight
- Three speed settings
- Front and rear disc brakes
- More room for a growing rider
The SX-E500 is larger and faster than the SX-E400, so it is not the easiest option for every first-time rider.
However, it can be the better beginner bike for a child who already balances confidently on a bicycle or balance bike and is physically large enough to manage the controls.
Who should choose the SX-E500?
The SX-E500 is normally the better beginner choice when the rider:
- Is approximately 100–120cm tall
- Is around 4–7 years old
- Already balances confidently
- Can follow instructions and stop on command
- Can manage separate front and rear brakes
- Would quickly outgrow the SX-E400
Why is confidence particularly important?
The lowest SX-E500 mode is approximately 9.5mph.
That is much faster than the SX-E400’s 5mph beginner mode, so the rider should already have good balance and understand how to release the throttle and brake.
Is the SX-E700 Suitable for Beginners?
The SX-E700 would not normally be our first recommendation for a complete beginner.
It shares similar physical sizing with the SX-E500, but it adds:
- Up to approximately 700W of peak power
- Stronger acceleration
- A higher maximum speed
- A larger 36V 7.5Ah battery
- Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes
- MX and SM riding versions
Its Eco setting can restrict the maximum speed to approximately 9.5mph, but restricting top speed does not remove the need for throttle control, braking coordination and confident supervision.
The SX-E700 makes more sense when the rider has already used an electric bike and is progressing beyond entry-level performance.
Who should choose the SX-E700?
The SX-E700 is better suited to a rider who:
- Already has throttle-controlled riding experience
- Uses front and rear brakes correctly
- Can stop calmly and consistently
- Has progressed beyond the SX-E500 or a similar bike
- Will benefit from additional range and performance
- Rides regularly on suitable private terrain
Read our RFN Warrior SX-E500 vs SX-E700 MX comparison for more detail.
Best RFN Warrior for a Complete Beginner
For a complete beginner, choose the smallest and most manageable RFN Warrior that fits the rider physically.
Complete Beginner Recommendation
Rider around 90–110cm: choose the SX-E400.
Rider around 100–120cm: consider the SX-E500 only when the child already balances confidently and can understand basic braking.
Do not choose the SX-E700 as the default first bike unless the rider already has relevant experience.
A beginner benefits more from feeling confident on a manageable bike than from having additional power available for the future.
Best RFN Warrior After a Balance Bike
The correct next step after a balance bike depends on the rider’s physical size and whether the balance bike was powered.
After a non-powered balance bike
The SX-E400 will normally be the better starting point for a smaller rider because its 5mph mode makes learning throttle control easier.
A taller child may be physically suited to the SX-E500, but they should practise throttle release and braking within a controlled riding area.
After an electric balance bike
A rider who already understands a throttle may be ready for either the SX-E400 or SX-E500 depending on height.
The SX-E500 is often the stronger choice for a confident child around 100–120cm tall who has already used an electric balance bike safely.
Best RFN Warrior After a Pedal Bicycle
A child who rides a pedal bicycle confidently already understands balance, steering and basic braking.
However, a twist throttle introduces a new control that still needs to be learned.
Choose the SX-E400 when the rider is smaller or would benefit from the slower 5mph mode.
Choose the SX-E500 when the rider is around 100–120cm tall, physically confident and able to use both brakes.
Good bicycle ability helps, but it does not automatically make a child ready for the SX-E700.
Best RFN Warrior by Rider Height
| Rider Height | Best Beginner Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Below 90cm | Likely below the RFN range | A lighter electric balance bike may be easier to manage |
| 90–100cm | SX-E400 | Lowest seat, smallest chassis and 5mph beginner mode |
| 100–110cm | SX-E400 or SX-E500 | Choose according to confidence and previous experience |
| 110–120cm | SX-E500 | Best physical fit and manageable all-round performance |
| Above 120cm | Consider a larger youth bike | The core RFN Warrior chassis may feel physically small |
Read our complete RFN Warrior size guide for more detailed rider-fit information.
Best RFN Warrior by Rider Age
| Rider Age | Likely Beginner Model | What to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| 3 years | SX-E400 for a suitably sized rider | Many small three-year-olds may still need a lighter bike |
| 4 years | Usually SX-E400 | A tall and confident rider may compare the SX-E500 |
| 5 years | SX-E400 or SX-E500 | Height and confidence normally decide between them |
| 6 years | Usually SX-E500 | Choose SX-E700 only for a rider with relevant experience |
| 7 years | SX-E500 or SX-E700 | A first-time rider will normally be better on the SX-E500 |
| 8 years | Depends on physical size | A taller rider may need a physically larger youth model |
Age should only be used as an initial guide. Height, control and confidence are more useful when choosing the final bike.
Why the Lowest Speed Mode Matters
A beginner’s first speed mode has a major effect on how manageable the bike feels.
| Model | Lowest Mode | Beginner Impact |
|---|---|---|
| SX-E400 | Approximately 5mph | Best for introducing throttle and braking gradually |
| SX-E500 | Approximately 9.5mph | Better for riders who already balance confidently |
| SX-E700 | Approximately 9.5mph | Restricted speed helps, but experience is still recommended |
The SX-E400’s slower beginner mode is one of the strongest reasons to choose it for a younger first-time rider.
Rear Brake or Front and Rear Brakes?
The SX-E400 uses a rear disc brake, keeping the controls simpler for a young rider.
The SX-E500 adds separate front and rear disc brakes, introducing more advanced braking control.
The SX-E700 uses front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, offering stronger and more consistent braking for experienced riders.
A complete beginner may find a simple rear-brake setup easier at first.
A rider moving onto the SX-E500 or SX-E700 should understand how to use both brakes without grabbing the front lever abruptly.
Signs the Rider Is Ready for an RFN Warrior
A child is more likely to be ready when they can:
- Balance reliably on two wheels
- Reach the handlebars and brake controls
- Follow clear instructions
- Understand that the throttle makes the bike move
- Release the throttle when asked
- Stop on command
- Support the bike when stationary
- Wear suitable protective equipment without restriction
A child who cannot yet balance or follow stopping instructions may need more time on a non-powered or lighter electric balance bike.
Signs the SX-E400 Is the Better Beginner Choice
Choose the SX-E400 over the SX-E500 when the rider:
- Is below approximately 105–110cm tall
- Is younger or physically smaller
- Needs the slower 5mph beginner mode
- Is learning throttle control for the first time
- Would be intimidated by a 9.5mph lowest setting
- Needs the most compact RFN Warrior chassis
Signs the SX-E500 Is the Better Beginner Choice
Choose the SX-E500 over the SX-E400 when the rider:
- Is around 110–120cm tall
- Already balances confidently
- Can manage separate front and rear brakes
- Is comfortable with a faster beginner setting
- Would look cramped on the SX-E400
- Needs more room for physical growth
Signs the Rider Is Ready for the SX-E700
The SX-E700 becomes appropriate when the rider:
- Already has electric-bike experience
- Accelerates smoothly
- Uses both brakes correctly
- Stops consistently without panic
- Understands riding boundaries
- Has outgrown entry-level performance rather than only physical size
Physical fit alone should not be used to justify moving a beginner onto the SX-E700.
How to Introduce a Beginner to an RFN Warrior
The first riding session should take place in a large, flat and controlled private area.
- Complete all assembly and safety checks.
- Make sure the rider wears a correctly fitting helmet and protective clothing.
- Leave the bike switched off while checking rider fit and controls.
- Explain the throttle and brake before moving.
- Select the lowest available speed mode.
- Ask the rider to practise releasing the throttle.
- Practise short starts and controlled stops.
- Do not increase the speed setting until control becomes consistent.
Adult supervision is essential throughout the session.
Which RFN Warrior Offers the Most Room to Grow?
The answer depends on whether you mean physical size or performance.
The SX-E500 and SX-E700 have similar physical dimensions, so the SX-E700 does not necessarily provide significantly more physical growing room.
It provides more performance, range and braking capability.
For a beginner, the best long-term purchase is usually the bike they can control confidently now, not the highest-powered bike available.
A rider who learns properly on the SX-E400 or SX-E500 is more likely to progress safely than a child placed on a bike that initially feels intimidating.
My Take as a British Motocross Rider
For a beginner, I would choose the bike that lets the child feel in control straight away rather than the most powerful model they might eventually grow into.
The SX-E400 is the best starting point for a smaller rider because the 5mph mode gives them time to understand the throttle and brake.
The SX-E500 is the better all-round choice for a taller child who already has strong balance, but its lowest mode is noticeably quicker.
I would reserve the SX-E700 for a rider who already has the basics sorted. It is a progression bike, not the automatic beginner choice.
Best RFN Warrior for Beginners FAQs
Which RFN Warrior is best for a complete beginner?
The SX-E400 is normally best for a smaller complete beginner because it has the lowest seat height and a 5mph beginner mode.
Is the SX-E500 suitable for beginners?
Yes, it can suit a confident beginner who already balances well and is physically large enough to manage the bike.
Is the SX-E700 suitable for beginners?
It is generally better for riders with previous electric-bike experience rather than complete beginners.
Which RFN Warrior has the slowest beginner mode?
The SX-E400 has the slowest setting at approximately 5mph.
Which RFN Warrior is best after a balance bike?
Choose the SX-E400 for a smaller rider. A taller child with strong balance may be ready for the SX-E500.
Which RFN Warrior is best after an electric balance bike?
The SX-E500 is often a good progression for a rider around 100–120cm tall who already understands throttle control.
Which RFN Warrior is best for a four-year-old beginner?
The SX-E400 will normally be the best option. A tall and confident four-year-old may also compare the SX-E500.
Which RFN Warrior is best for a five-year-old beginner?
Choose between the SX-E400 and SX-E500 based on height, confidence and previous experience.
Which RFN Warrior is best for a six-year-old beginner?
The SX-E500 will often be the best fit, although a smaller or cautious six-year-old may still suit the SX-E400.
Should I buy the bigger model so it lasts longer?
Not automatically. A bike that is too large or fast can reduce confidence. Choose the model the rider can control safely now.
Does the rider need previous experience?
Previous balance-bike or bicycle experience is useful. Previous throttle experience is especially helpful before choosing the SX-E500 or SX-E700.
Can parents restrict the speed?
Yes. All three models have selectable speed modes, although their lowest available speeds are different.
What protective equipment is needed?
A correctly fitting helmet, gloves, suitable boots and protective clothing should be worn. Adult supervision is essential.
Are RFN Warrior bikes road legal?
No. They are intended for use on private land and suitable riding areas with the landowner’s permission.
Explore the RFN Warrior Kids Range
For a complete overview, read our RFN Warrior Kids range explained guide.
Choose the Best RFN Warrior for a Beginner
Choose the RFN Warrior SX-E400 for a younger or smaller beginner who needs the lowest seat height and slowest learning mode.
Choose the SX-E500 for a taller and more confident beginner who already balances well and needs a larger 14-inch chassis.
Choose the SX-E700 only when the rider already has enough throttle and braking experience to benefit from its stronger performance.
The best beginner bike is the model the child can control confidently from the first session.