MotoSpecs

2015 Yamaha YZ250F vs 2016 KTM 250 SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2015 Yamaha YZ250F 2015 Yamaha YZ250F

Cross / motocross

Engine
Titanium-valves
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
231.0 pounds
2016 KTM 250 SX 2016 KTM 250 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
95.9 kg / 211.4 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursTeam Yamaha Blue/White, White/RedOrange/white/black
Warranty30 Day Limited Factory Warranty-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)12.8 inches15.2 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)325 mm385 mm
Seat Height965 mm / 38.0 in.992 mm / 39.1 in.
Wheelbase1,476 mm / 58.1 in.1,495 mm / 58.9 in.
Height1,280 mm / 50.4 in.-
Length2,164 mm / 85.2 in.-
Width826 mm / 32.5 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-95.9 kg / 211.4 lbs
Fuel Capacity6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons7.00 litres / 1.85 gallons
Wet Weight104.8 kg / 231.0 lbs-
Engine
Displacement (cc)-249.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)77.0 x 53.6 mm66.4 x 72.0 mm
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)-
Displacement (ci)-15.19 cubic inches
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.0 x 2.1 inches2.6 x 2.8 inches
Engine DetailTitanium-valvesReed intake.
Fuel SystemInjection. Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), Keihin 44mmCarburettor. Keihin PWK 38S AG
Compression Ratio13.5:1-
IgnitionTCI: Transistor Controlled IgnitionContactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment, type Kokusan
StarterElectricKick
Valve System4-
Drivetrain
Clutch-Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary Drive-13:48. Primary drive: 26:72. 520 X-ring chain.
Chassis
Frame TypeAluminum Bilateral Beam frameChrome-molybdenum steel central-tube
Suspension - FrontKYB Speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustableWP USD closed cartridge ? 48 mm
Suspension - RearKYB Fully adjustable single shockWP shock absorber with linkage
Rake28.0°26.5°
Wheel Travel - Front310 mm / 12.2 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)9.6 inches8.7 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)250 mm260 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)245 mm220 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)9.8 inches10.2 inches
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Four-piston calipers.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Two-piston calipers.
Tyres - Front80/100-21-
Tyres - Rear100/90-19-

Verdict

Winner on specs

2015 Yamaha YZ250F

The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F edges out the 2016 KTM 250 SX thanks to its lower seat height and fuel injection. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2015 Yamaha YZ250F - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 965 mm vs 992 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.

2016 KTM 250 SX - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 385 mm vs 325 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2015 Yamaha YZ250F vs 2016 KTM 250 SX - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2015 Yamaha YZ250F and 2016 KTM 250 SX?
The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2016 KTM 250 SX is powered by Single cylinder, two-stroke. This is a fundamental difference - the 2015 Yamaha YZ250F is a four-stroke engine while the 2016 KTM 250 SX runs a two-stroke, resulting in very different power delivery, maintenance requirements, and riding character.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2015 Yamaha YZ250F or the 2016 KTM 250 SX?
The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F has the lower seat at 965 mm, making it more accessible. The 2016 KTM 250 SX sits higher at 992 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2015 Yamaha YZ250F or the 2016 KTM 250 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F has the edge in lower seat height and fuel injection, while the 2016 KTM 250 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.

Related Comparisons

All Yamaha YZ250F years All KTM 250 SX years
Build your own comparison →