2023 Kawasaki KX85 vs 2019 KTM 85 SX
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | Lime Green | - |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 290 mm | 362 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 11.4 inches | 14.3 inches |
| Seat Height | 830 mm / 32.7 in. | 890 mm / 35.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1265 mm / 49.8 in. | - |
| Height | 1100 mm / 43.3 in. | - |
| Length | 1830 mm / 72.0 in. | - |
| Width | 765 mm / 30.1 in. | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 68 kg / 149.9 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.00 litres / 1.32 US gallons | 5.20 litres / 1.37 US gallons |
| Wet Weight | 75.0 kg / 165.3 lbs | - |
| Engine |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, two-stroke | Single cylinder, two-stroke |
| Displacement (ci) | 5.13 cubic inches | 5.18 cubic inches |
| Displacement (cc) | 84.0 cc | 84.9 cc |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.9 x 1.8 inches | 1.9 x 1.9 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 48.5 x 45.8 mm | 47.0 x 49.0 mm |
| Fuel System | Carburettor. Keihin 28mm | - |
| Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | - |
| Engine Lubrication | Petrol mix | - |
| Ignition | CDI with digital advance | - |
| Starter | Kick | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Wet multidisc | Wet |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | - |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | High-tensile steel perimeter design with subframe member | Central-tube frame with double-cradle |
| Suspension - Front | 36mm inverted telescopic cartridge fork with 20-way compression damping | WP upside-down Ø 43 mm |
| Suspension - Rear | Uni-Trak® single shock system with 24-way compression and 21-way rebound damping, plus adjustable spring preload | WP monoshock |
| Rake | 29.0° | - |
| Trail | 97 mm / 3.8 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 275 mm / 10.8 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 275 mm / 10.8 in. | - |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc. Petal disc with dual-piston caliper | Single disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc. Petal disc with single-piston caliper | Single disc |
| Rims | Wire spoked | - |
| Tyres - Front | 70/100-17 | - |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 and the 2019 KTM 85 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
2023 Kawasaki KX85 - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 830 mm vs 890 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
2019 KTM 85 SX - Advantages
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 362 mm vs 290 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
2023 Kawasaki KX85 vs 2019 KTM 85 SX - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2023 Kawasaki KX85 or the 2019 KTM 85 SX?
The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 has the lower seat at 830 mm, making it more accessible. The 2019 KTM 85 SX sits higher at 890 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 2019 KTM 85 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2023 Kawasaki KX85 has the edge in lower seat height, while the 2019 KTM 85 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.