2017 Honda CRF125F vs 2017 KTM 65 SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2017 Honda CRF125F 2017 Honda CRF125F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
88.0 kg / 194.0 lbs
2017 KTM 65 SX 2017 KTM 65 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
53 kg / 116.8 lbs
Full Specifications
General
CommentsModel ID: CRF125F-
ColoursRedOrange/white/black
WarrantySix Months transferable limited warranty; extended warranty available with a Honda Protection Plan.-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)8.6 inches11.0 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)219 mm280 mm
Seat Height735 mm / 28.9 in.750 mm / 29.5 in.
Wheelbase1,219 mm / 48.0 in.1,137 mm / 44.8 in.
Height1,010 mm / 39.8 in.-
Length1,770 mm / 69.7 in.-
Width740 mm / 29.1 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-53 kg / 116.8 lbs
Fuel Capacity4.30 litres / 1.14 gallons3.50 litres / 0.92 gallons
Wet Weight88.0 kg / 194.0 lbs-
Performance
Max Torque10.20 Nm (1.0 kgf-m or 7.5 ft.lbs) @ 4500 Revolutions-
Engine
Displacement (ci)-3.96 cubic inches
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)-
Bore x Stroke (mm)52.4 x 57.9 mm45.0 x 40.8 mm
Displacement (cc)-64.85 cc
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.1 x 2.3 inches1.8 x 1.6 inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine Detail-Reed intake.
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 20mm piston-valve carburetorCarburettor. Mikuni TMX
Compression Ratio9.5:1-
EmissionsMeets current California Air Resource Board (CARB) and EPA off-road emissions standards.-
Engine Lubrication-Mixture oil lubrication
IgnitionCapacitor DischargeAET digital EMS
StarterKickKick
Valve System2-
Drivetrain
Clutch-Wet, multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox4-speed6-speed
Primary Drive13T/49T14:48. Primary drive: 23:75 straight cut spur gear.
Chassis
Frame TypeDiamond, steelCentral-tube frame with double-cradle
Suspension - Front31mm telescopic forkWP upside-down ? 35 mm
Suspension - RearPro-Link single-shockWP shock absorber
Rake25.3°25.5°
Trail81 mm / 3.2 in.-
Wheel Travel - Front275 mm / 10.8 in.215 mm / 8.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear282 mm / 11.1 in.270 mm / 10.6 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)125 mm160 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)4.9 inches6.3 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)220 mm198 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)8.7 inches7.8 inches
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Four-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Brakes - RearExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc. Two-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Rims-Black anodized, aluminum rims
Tyres - Front70/100-17-
Tyres - Rear90/100-14-

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2017 Honda CRF125F and the 2017 KTM 65 SX are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.

Key Differences

2017 Honda CRF125F - Advantages

  • More front wheel travel: 275 mm vs 215 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.

2017 KTM 65 SX - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 280 mm vs 219 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2017 Honda CRF125F vs 2017 KTM 65 SX - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2017 Honda CRF125F and 2017 KTM 65 SX?
The 2017 Honda CRF125F uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2017 KTM 65 SX is powered by Single cylinder, two-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2017 Honda CRF125F is a four-stroke engine while the 2017 KTM 65 SX runs a two-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2017 Honda CRF125F or the 2017 KTM 65 SX?
The 2017 Honda CRF125F has the lower seat at 735 mm, making it more accessible. The 2017 KTM 65 SX sits higher at 750 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2017 Honda CRF125F or the 2017 KTM 65 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2017 Honda CRF125F has the edge in higher front wheel travel, while the 2017 KTM 65 SX stands out for greater ground clearance. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.