2023 Honda CRF125F vs 2019 KTM 125 SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2023 Honda CRF125F 2023 Honda CRF125F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
88.0 kg / 194.0 lbs
2019 KTM 125 SX 2019 KTM 125 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
87.5 kg / 192.9 lbs
Full Specifications
General
CommentsModel ID: CRF125F.-
ColoursRedOrange/white/black
WarrantySix Months transferable limited warranty-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)8.3 inches14.8 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)211 mm375 mm
Seat Height739 mm / 29.1 in.950 mm / 37.4 in.
Wheelbase1219 mm / 48.0 in.1485 mm / 58.5 in.
Height1000 mm / 39.4 in.-
Length1770 mm / 69.7 in.-
Width739 mm / 29.1 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-87.5 kg / 192.9 lbs
Fuel Capacity3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons7.50 litres / 1.98 US gallons
Wet Weight88.0 kg / 194.0 lbs-
Performance
Mods from previous modelGraphic upgrade.-
Max Torque10.2 Nm (1.0 kgf-m or 7.5 ft.lbs) @ 4500 rpm-
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.1 x 2.3 inches2.1 x 2.1 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm)52.4 x 57.9 mm54.0 x 54.5 mm
Displacement (cc)124.9 cc124.8 cc
Displacement (ci)7.62 cubic inches7.62 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)-
Engine Detail-Reed intake.
Fuel SystemInjection. 22mm throttle boreCarburettor. Mikuni TMX
Compression Ratio9.0:1-
EmissionsMeets current California Air Resource Board (CARB) and EPA off-road emissions standards.-
IgnitionFull TransistorizedKokusan EMS
StarterElectric & kickKick
Valve System2-
Drivetrain
ClutchWet multi-plateWet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically actuated
Final DriveChain   (final drive)Chain   (final drive)
Gearbox4-speed6-speed
Primary DriveChain 13T/46T13:50. Primary drive: 23:73.
Chassis
Frame TypeDiamond, steelChrome-molybdenum steel central-tube frame
Suspension - Front31mm leading-axle forkWP-USD, AER 48, Ø 48 mm
Suspension - RearPro-Link single-shockWP shock absorber with linkage
Rake27.5°26.1°
Trail81 mm / 3.2 in.-
Wheel Travel - Front150 mm / 5.9 in.310 mm / 12.2 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear140 mm / 5.5 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Brake calipers on floating bearings
Brakes - RearExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc. Brake calipers on floating bearings
RimsAluminium spokeCNC machined hubs. Excel rims. Wire spoked.
Tyres - Front70/100-17-

Verdict

Winner on specs

2019 KTM 125 SX

The 2019 KTM 125 SX edges out the 2023 Honda CRF125F thanks to its greater ground clearance, higher rear wheel travel and higher front wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2023 Honda CRF125F - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 739 mm vs 950 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.

2019 KTM 125 SX - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 375 mm vs 211 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
  • More rear wheel travel: 300 mm vs 140 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
  • More front wheel travel: 310 mm vs 150 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.

2023 Honda CRF125F vs 2019 KTM 125 SX - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2023 Honda CRF125F and 2019 KTM 125 SX?
The 2023 Honda CRF125F uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2019 KTM 125 SX is powered by Single cylinder, two-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2023 Honda CRF125F is a four-stroke engine while the 2019 KTM 125 SX runs a two-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2023 Honda CRF125F or the 2019 KTM 125 SX?
The 2023 Honda CRF125F has the lower seat at 739 mm, making it more accessible. The 2019 KTM 125 SX sits higher at 950 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2023 Honda CRF125F or the 2019 KTM 125 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2023 Honda CRF125F has the edge in lower seat height and fuel injection, while the 2019 KTM 125 SX stands out for greater ground clearance and higher rear wheel travel. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.