2023 Kawasaki KX85 vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | Lime Green | Lime Green |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 11.4 inches | 12.0 inches |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 290 mm | 305 mm |
| Seat Height | 830 mm / 32.7 in. | 759 mm / 29.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1265 mm / 49.8 in. | 1120 mm / 44.1 in. |
| Height | 1100 mm / 43.3 in. | - |
| Length | 1830 mm / 72.0 in. | 1590 mm / 62.6 in. |
| Width | 765 mm / 30.1 in. | 759 mm / 29.9 in. |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.00 litres / 1.32 US gallons | 3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons |
| Wet Weight | 75.0 kg / 165.3 lbs | 60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs |
| Engine |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.9 x 1.8 inches | 1.8 x 1.6 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 48.5 x 45.8 mm | 44.5 x 41.6 mm |
| Displacement (cc) | 84.0 cc | 64.7 cc |
| Displacement (ci) | 5.13 cubic inches | 3.95 cubic inches |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, two-stroke | Single cylinder, two-stroke |
| Engine Detail | - | Reed valve |
| Fuel System | Carburettor. Keihin 28mm | Carburettor. Mikuni VM24SS |
| Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Engine Lubrication | Petrol mix | - |
| Ignition | CDI with digital advance | CDI w/digital advance |
| Starter | Kick | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Wet multidisc | - |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member | Tubular, semi-double cradle |
| Suspension - Front | 36mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork with 20-way compression damping | 33 mm telescopic fork with 4-way rebound damping |
| Suspension - Rear | Uni-Trak® single shock system with 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping, plus adjustable spring preload | Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, adjustable preload and stepless rebound damping |
| Rake | 29.0° | 27.0° |
| Trail | 97 mm / 3.8 in. | 61 mm / 2.4 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 275 mm / 10.8 in. | 210 mm / 8.3 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 275 mm / 10.8 in. | 240 mm / 9.4 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc. Petal disc with dual-piston caliper | Single disc. Hydraulic. |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc. Petal disc with single-piston caliper | Single disc |
| Rims | Wire spoked | - |
| Tyres - Front | 70/100-17 | 60/100-14 |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 and the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 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
2023 Kawasaki KX85 - Advantages
- 🔄More rear wheel travel: 275 mm vs 240 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
- 🔄More front wheel travel: 275 mm vs 210 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.
2020 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 759 mm vs 830 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 305 mm vs 290 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
2023 Kawasaki KX85 vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65 - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2023 Kawasaki KX85 or the 2020 Kawasaki KX65?
The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 has the lower seat at 759 mm, making it more accessible. The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 sits higher at 830 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 Kawasaki KX85 or the 2020 Kawasaki KX65?
Both are strong choices. The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 has the edge in higher rear wheel travel and higher front wheel travel, while the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 stands out for lower seat height and 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.