2017 KTM 65 SX vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
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
2020 Kawasaki KX65 2020 Kawasaki KX65

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursOrange/white/blackLime Green
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)11.0 inches12.0 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)280 mm305 mm
Seat Height750 mm / 29.5 in.759 mm / 29.9 in.
Wheelbase1,137 mm / 44.8 in.1120 mm / 44.1 in.
Length-1590 mm / 62.6 in.
Width-759 mm / 29.9 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight53 kg / 116.8 lbs-
Fuel Capacity3.50 litres / 0.92 gallons3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons
Wet Weight-60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs
Engine
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Displacement (cc)64.85 cc64.7 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)45.0 x 40.8 mm44.5 x 41.6 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)1.8 x 1.6 inches1.8 x 1.6 inches
Displacement (ci)3.96 cubic inches3.95 cubic inches
Engine DetailReed intake.Reed valve
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni TMXCarburettor. Mikuni VM24SS
Compression Ratio-8.4:1
Engine LubricationMixture oil lubrication-
IgnitionAET digital EMSCDI w/digital advance
StarterKickKick
Drivetrain
ClutchWet, multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics-
Final DriveChainChain   (final drive)
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Primary Drive14:48. Primary drive: 23:75 straight cut spur gear.-
Chassis
Frame TypeCentral-tube frame with double-cradleTubular, semi-double cradle
Suspension - FrontWP upside-down ? 35 mm33 mm telescopic fork with 4-way rebound damping
Suspension - RearWP shock absorberBottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, adjustable preload and stepless rebound damping
Rake25.5°27.0°
Trail-61 mm / 2.4 in.
Wheel Travel - Front215 mm / 8.5 in.210 mm / 8.3 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear270 mm / 10.6 in.240 mm / 9.4 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)7.8 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)198 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)6.3 inches-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)160 mm-
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Four-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.Single disc. Hydraulic.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Two-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.Single disc
RimsBlack anodized, aluminum rims-
Tyres - Front-60/100-14

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2017 KTM 65 SX 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

2017 KTM 65 SX - Advantages

  • More rear wheel travel: 270 mm vs 240 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.

2020 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 305 mm vs 280 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2017 KTM 65 SX vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65 - FAQs

Which should I buy, the 2017 KTM 65 SX or the 2020 Kawasaki KX65?
Both are strong choices. The 2017 KTM 65 SX has the edge in higher rear wheel travel, while the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 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.