MotoSpecs

2015 Yamaha YZ250F vs 2016 KTM 65 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 65 SX 2016 KTM 65 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
53 kg / 116.8 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursTeam Yamaha Blue/White, White/RedOrange/white/black
Warranty30 Day Limited Factory Warranty-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)325 mm280 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)12.8 inches11.0 inches
Seat Height965 mm / 38.0 in.750 mm / 29.5 in.
Wheelbase1,476 mm / 58.1 in.1,137 mm / 44.8 in.
Height1,280 mm / 50.4 in.-
Length2,164 mm / 85.2 in.-
Width826 mm / 32.5 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-53 kg / 116.8 lbs
Fuel Capacity6.06 litres / 1.60 gallons3.50 litres / 0.92 gallons
Wet Weight104.8 kg / 231.0 lbs-
Engine
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)-
Displacement (cc)-64.85 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)77.0 x 53.6 mm45.0 x 40.8 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.0 x 2.1 inches1.8 x 1.6 inches
Displacement (ci)-3.96 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailTitanium-valvesReed intake.
Fuel SystemInjection. Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI), Keihin 44mmCarburettor
Compression Ratio13.5:1-
Engine Lubrication-Mixture oil lubrication
IgnitionTCI: Transistor Controlled IgnitionContactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment
StarterElectricKick
Valve System4-
Drivetrain
Clutch-Wet, multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed6-speed
Primary Drive-14:48. Primary drive: 23:75 straight cut spur gear.
Chassis
Frame TypeAluminum Bilateral Beam frameCentral-tube frame with double-cradle
Suspension - FrontKYB Speed-Sensitive System, inverted fork: fully adjustableWP upside-down ? 35 mm
Suspension - RearKYB Fully adjustable single shockWP shock absorber
Rake28.0°25.5°
Wheel Travel - Front310 mm / 12.2 in.215 mm / 8.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.270 mm / 10.6 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)9.8 inches7.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)250 mm198 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)9.6 inches6.3 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)245 mm160 mm
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Four-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Two-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Tyres - Front80/100-21-
Tyres - Rear100/90-19-

Verdict

Winner on specs

2015 Yamaha YZ250F

The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F edges out the 2016 KTM 65 SX thanks to its fuel injection, greater ground clearance, 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

2015 Yamaha YZ250F - Advantages

  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.
  • More ground clearance: 325 mm vs 280 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
  • More rear wheel travel: 315 mm vs 270 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
  • More front wheel travel: 310 mm vs 215 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.

2016 KTM 65 SX - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 750 mm vs 965 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2015 Yamaha YZ250F vs 2016 KTM 65 SX - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2015 Yamaha YZ250F and 2016 KTM 65 SX?
The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F uses Single cylinder, four-stroke, while the 2016 KTM 65 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 65 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 65 SX?
The 2016 KTM 65 SX has the lower seat at 750 mm, making it more accessible. The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F sits higher at 965 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 65 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2015 Yamaha YZ250F has the edge in fuel injection and greater ground clearance, while the 2016 KTM 65 SX 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.

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