X Games Bans Electric From Freestyle MX Competition

The multi-discipline X Games event has formally banned electric bikes from taking part in its freestyle motocross (MX) competitions.

Setting out the rules for the 2025 events, X Games sent a letter to its competitors confirming ICE bikes only would be allowed to compete, although it didn’t rule out adding battery bikes back into the competition further down the line.

“At X Games, we are committed to preserving the core of action sports while continuously evaluating new technologies.” The statement reads. “Our current competition formats are designed around the performance and characteristics of traditional gas-powered bikes, which remain the global standard for elite competition. While we recognize the advancements in electric bike technology, our focus is on maintaining a level playing field and delivering the best experience for both our athletes and fans. We’ll continue to monitor the evolution of the sport and assess how new innovations fit within X Games competitions.”

E-bikes have only recently taken part in the X Games freestyle MX competition, with some, like the Stark Varg, going on to win medals in the event. With around 80bhp on tap, and an eyewatering 690lb ft of instantaneous wheel torque, the electric bikes are thought to have a significant advantage over traditional two and four-stroke machines.

Another train of thought is that manufacturers of ICE dirt bikes, such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki, might have piled the pressure on the series organisers to put petrol-powered bikes back in the spotlight, as they already face stiff competition from e-bike brands in the global market. That theory is unconfirmed, with X Games chiefs releasing no further information as to why they made the decision.

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