2012 Yamaha YZ250 vs 2013 KTM 250 SX-F

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2012 Yamaha YZ250 2012 Yamaha YZ250

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
227.0 pounds
2013 KTM 250 SX-F 2013 KTM 250 SX-F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
226.6 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursBlue/White, White/RedOrange/black
Warranty30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)381 mm375 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)15.0 inches14.8 inches
Seat Height993 mm / 39.1 in.992 mm / 39.1 in.
Wheelbase1,481 mm / 58.3 in.1,495 mm / 58.9 in.
Height1,064 mm / 41.9 in.1,140 mm / 44.9 in.
Length2,177 mm / 85.7 in.2,090 mm / 82.3 in.
Width828 mm / 32.6 in.830 mm / 32.7 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-102.8 kg / 226.6 lbs
Fuel Capacity7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons7.50 litres / 1.98 gallons
Wet Weight103.0 kg / 227.0 lbs-
Performance
Max Torque-9.20 Nm (0.9 kgf-m or 6.8 ft.lbs) @ 7000 Revolutions
Power-to-Weight Ratio-0.0815 HP/kg
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.6 x 2.8 inches3.1 x 2.1 inches
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)Single Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Displacement (cc)249.00 cc249.91 cc
Displacement (ci)15.19 cubic inches15.25 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)66.4 x 72.0 mm78.0 x 52.3 mm
Engine DetailReed-valve inducted-
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin PWK38SCarburettor
Compression Ratio8.9:110.6:1
Engine LubricationWet sumpForced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps
IgnitionCDIContactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment
StarterElectricElectric
Valve System52
Drivetrain
ClutchMultiplate, wetWet multi-disc clutch / hydraulically operated
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary DriveConstant-mesh 5-speed13:48. Primary drive: 22:68.
Chassis
Frame TypeHybrid steel and aluminum frame with a Controlled- Fill aluminum subframe and cast aluminum swingarmCentral tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing
Suspension - FrontSpeed-Sensitive System inverted forkWP ?Suspension Up Side Down 4860 MXMA CC
Suspension - RearFully adjustable single shockWP ?Suspension 5018 BAVP DCC
Rake-26.5°
Wheel Travel - Front300 mm / 11.8 in.205 mm / 8.1 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.185 mm / 7.3 in.
Electrical Systems
Lighting systemDual 30W Krypton multireflector Headlights and 3.9/0.5W LED Brake light-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)250 mm220 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)9.8 inches8.7 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)245 mm210 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)9.6 inches8.3 inches
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. HydraulicSingle disc. Four-piston calipers.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. HydraulicSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Tyres - Front21/7-10100/80-17
Tyres - Rear110/90-19110/80-17

Verdict

Winner on specs

2012 Yamaha YZ250

The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 edges out the 2013 KTM 250 SX-F thanks to its higher rear wheel travel and higher front wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2012 Yamaha YZ250 - Advantages

  • More rear wheel travel: 315 mm vs 185 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
  • More front wheel travel: 300 mm vs 205 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.

2013 KTM 250 SX-F - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2013 KTM 250 SX-F matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2012 Yamaha YZ250 vs 2013 KTM 250 SX-F - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2012 Yamaha YZ250 and 2013 KTM 250 SX-F?
The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 uses Single cylinder, two-stroke, while the 2013 KTM 250 SX-F is powered by Single cylinder, four-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2012 Yamaha YZ250 is a two-stroke engine while the 2013 KTM 250 SX-F runs a four-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which should I buy, the 2012 Yamaha YZ250 or the 2013 KTM 250 SX-F?
Both are strong choices. The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 has the edge in higher rear wheel travel and higher front wheel travel, while the 2013 KTM 250 SX-F 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.