2019 KTM 85 SX vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | - | Lime Green |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 14.3 inches | 12.0 inches |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 362 mm | 305 mm |
| Seat Height | 890 mm / 35.0 in. | 759 mm / 29.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | - | 1120 mm / 44.1 in. |
| Length | - | 1590 mm / 62.6 in. |
| Width | - | 759 mm / 29.9 in. |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | 68 kg / 149.9 lbs | - |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.20 litres / 1.37 US gallons | 3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons |
| Wet Weight | - | 60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs |
| Engine |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.9 x 1.9 inches | 1.8 x 1.6 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 47.0 x 49.0 mm | 44.5 x 41.6 mm |
| Displacement (cc) | 84.9 cc | 64.7 cc |
| Displacement (ci) | 5.18 cubic inches | 3.95 cubic inches |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, two-stroke | Single cylinder, two-stroke |
| Engine Detail | - | Reed valve |
| Fuel System | - | Carburettor. Mikuni VM24SS |
| Compression Ratio | - | 8.4:1 |
| Ignition | - | CDI w/digital advance |
| Starter | Kick | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Wet | - |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | - | 6-speed |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Central-tube frame with double-cradle | Tubular, semi-double cradle |
| Suspension - Front | WP upside-down Ø 43 mm | 33 mm telescopic fork with 4-way rebound damping |
| Suspension - Rear | WP monoshock | Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, adjustable preload and stepless rebound damping |
| Rake | - | 27.0° |
| Trail | - | 61 mm / 2.4 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Front | - | 210 mm / 8.3 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | - | 240 mm / 9.4 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc | Single disc. Hydraulic. |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc | Single disc |
| Tyres - Front | - | 60/100-14 |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2019 KTM 85 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
2019 KTM 85 SX - Advantages
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 362 mm vs 305 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
2020 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 759 mm vs 890 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
2019 KTM 85 SX vs 2020 Kawasaki KX65 - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2019 KTM 85 SX or the 2020 Kawasaki KX65?
The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 has the lower seat at 759 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 2019 KTM 85 SX or the 2020 Kawasaki KX65?
Both are strong choices. The 2019 KTM 85 SX has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 stands out for lower seat height. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.