2018 KTM 125 XC-W vs 2021 Yamaha YZ125X

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2018 KTM 125 XC-W 2018 KTM 125 XC-W

Enduro / Off-Road

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
91 kg / 200.6 lbs
2021 Yamaha YZ125X 2021 Yamaha YZ125X

Enduro / Off-Road

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
94.8 kg / 209.0 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursOrange/white/blackTeam Yamaha Blue
Warranty-30 Day Limited Factory Warranty
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)14.6 inches13.8 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)370 mm351 mm
Seat Height960 mm / 37.8 in.975 mm / 38.4 in.
Wheelbase1,471 mm / 57.9 in.1455 mm / 57.3 in.
Height-1285 mm / 50.6 in.
Length-2141 mm / 84.3 in.
Width-825 mm / 32.5 in.
Weights & Capacities
Oil Capacity (l)-0.70 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)-0.74 US quarts
Dry Weight91 kg / 200.6 lbs-
Fuel Capacity9.50 litres / 2.51 gallons8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons
Wet Weight-94.8 kg / 209.0 lbs
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.1 x 2.1 inches2.1 x 2.1 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm)54.0 x 54.5 mm54.0 x 54.5 mm
Displacement (cc)124.80 cc125.0 cc
Displacement (ci)7.62 cubic inches7.63 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailReed intake.Reed-valve-inducted
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni TMXCarburettor. Mikuni TMX 38
Compression Ratio-8.8:1
Engine Lubrication-Premix
Ignition-CDI
StarterKickKick
Drivetrain
ClutchMulti-plate clutch, Brembo hydraulicsO-ring chain
Final DriveChainChain   (final drive)
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Primary Drive13:50. Primary drive: 23:73.-
Chassis
Frame Type25CrMo4 steel central-tube frameSemi-double cradle aluminium frame
Suspension - FrontWP Xplor PDS shock absorberKYB® Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork; fully adjustable
Suspension - RearWP shock absorber with linkageKYB® single shock; fully adjustable
Rake26.5°26.8°
Trail-117 mm / 4.6 in.
Wheel Travel - Front300 mm / 11.8 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear310 mm / 12.2 in.315 mm / 12.4 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)220 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)8.7 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)260 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)10.2 inches-
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Rims-Dunlop® AT81 tires
Tyres - Front-90/90-21

Verdict

Winner on specs

2018 KTM 125 XC-W

The 2018 KTM 125 XC-W edges out the 2021 Yamaha YZ125X thanks to its greater ground clearance. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2018 KTM 125 XC-W - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 370 mm vs 351 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2021 Yamaha YZ125X - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2021 Yamaha YZ125X matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2018 KTM 125 XC-W vs 2021 Yamaha YZ125X - FAQs

Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2018 KTM 125 XC-W or the 2021 Yamaha YZ125X?
The 2018 KTM 125 XC-W has the lower seat at 960 mm, making it more accessible. The 2021 Yamaha YZ125X sits higher at 975 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2018 KTM 125 XC-W or the 2021 Yamaha YZ125X?
Both are strong choices. The 2018 KTM 125 XC-W has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2021 Yamaha YZ125X offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.