2020 Yamaha YZ85 vs 2018 KTM 65 SX
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | Team Yamaha Blue | Orange/white/black |
| Warranty | 30 Day Limited Factory Warranty | - |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 330 mm | 280 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 13.0 inches | 11.0 inches |
| Seat Height | 841 mm / 33.1 in. | 750 mm / 29.5 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1255 mm / 49.4 in. | 1,137 mm / 44.8 in. |
| Height | 1146 mm / 45.1 in. | - |
| Length | 1821 mm / 71.7 in. | - |
| Width | 759 mm / 29.9 in. | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 53 kg / 116.8 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.92 litres / 1.30 US gallons | 3.50 litres / 0.92 gallons |
| Wet Weight | 73.0 kg / 161.0 lbs | - |
| Engine |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, two-stroke | Single cylinder, two-stroke |
| Displacement (ci) | 5.19 cubic inches | 3.96 cubic inches |
| Displacement (cc) | 85.0 cc | 64.85 cc |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.9 x 1.9 inches | 1.8 x 1.6 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 47.5 x 47.8 mm | 45.0 x 40.8 mm |
| Engine Detail | Reed-valve-inducted | Reed intake |
| Fuel System | Carburettor. Keihin PWK 28 | Carburettor. Mikuni TMX |
| Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | - |
| Engine Lubrication | - | Mixture oil lubrication |
| Ignition | CDI | AET digital EMS |
| Starter | Electric | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc | Wet, multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Primary Drive | - | 14:48. Primary drive: 23:75 straight cut spur gear. |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Semi-double-cradle frame | Central-tube frame with double-cradle |
| Suspension - Front | Inverted fork | WP upside-down ? 35 mm |
| Suspension - Rear | Single shock | WP shock absorber |
| Rake | 26.3° | 25.5° |
| Trail | 89 mm / 3.5 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 274 mm / 10.8 in. | 215 mm / 8.5 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 282 mm / 11.1 in. | 270 mm / 10.6 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) | - | 198 mm |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) | - | 7.8 inches |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) | - | 160 mm |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) | - | 6.3 inches |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc. Hydraulic. | Single disc. Four-piston calipers. Wave brake discs. |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc. Hydraulic. | Single disc. Two-piston calipers. Wave brake discs. |
| Rims | Dunlop tyres | Black anodized, aluminum rims |
| Tyres - Front | 70/100-17 | - |
Verdict
🏆
Winner on specs
2020 Yamaha YZ85
The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 edges out the 2018 KTM 65 SX thanks to its greater ground clearance and higher front wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.
Key Differences
2020 Yamaha YZ85 - Advantages
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 330 mm vs 280 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
- 🔄More front wheel travel: 274 mm vs 215 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.
2018 KTM 65 SX - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 750 mm vs 841 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
2020 Yamaha YZ85 vs 2018 KTM 65 SX - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2020 Yamaha YZ85 or the 2018 KTM 65 SX?
The 2018 KTM 65 SX has the lower seat at 750 mm, making it more accessible. The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 sits higher at 841 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2020 Yamaha YZ85 or the 2018 KTM 65 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 has the edge in greater ground clearance and higher front wheel travel, while the 2018 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.