2020 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2018 KTM 50 SX
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Comments | - | The engine power can be restricted to 5.5 hp with a kit. |
| Colours | Lime Green | Orange/white/black |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 305 mm | 252 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 12.0 inches | 9.9 inches |
| Seat Height | 759 mm / 29.9 in. | 684 mm / 26.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1120 mm / 44.1 in. | 1,032 mm / 40.6 in. |
| Length | 1590 mm / 62.6 in. | - |
| Width | 759 mm / 29.9 in. | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 41.5 kg / 91.5 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons | 2.30 litres / 0.61 gallons |
| Wet Weight | 60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs | - |
| Engine |
| Engine Type | Single cylinder, two-stroke | Single cylinder, two-stroke |
| Displacement (ci) | 3.95 cubic inches | 2.99 cubic inches |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.8 x 1.6 inches | 1.6 x 1.6 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 44.5 x 41.6 mm | 39.5 x 40.0 mm |
| Displacement (cc) | 64.7 cc | 49.00 cc |
| Engine Detail | Reed valve | Reed intake |
| Fuel System | Carburettor. Mikuni VM24SS | Carburettor. Mikuni TMX |
| Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | - |
| Engine Lubrication | - | Mixture oil lubrication |
| Ignition | CDI w/digital advance | Seletra 2p D36 |
| Starter | Kick | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | - | Centrifugal clutch |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 1-speed |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Tubular, semi-double cradle | Central-tube frame with double-cradle |
| Suspension - Front | 33 mm telescopic fork with 4-way rebound damping | WP upside-down ? 35 mm |
| Suspension - Rear | Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, adjustable preload and stepless rebound damping | WP shock absorber |
| Rake | 27.0° | 24.0° |
| Trail | 61 mm / 2.4 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 210 mm / 8.3 in. | 205 mm / 8.1 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 240 mm / 9.4 in. | 185 mm / 7.3 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) | - | 160 mm |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) | - | 6.3 inches |
| Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) | - | 160 mm |
| Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) | - | 6.3 inches |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc. Hydraulic. | Single disc. Four-piston calipers. |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc | Single disc. Two-piston calipers. |
| Rims | - | Wire spoked |
| Tyres - Front | 60/100-14 | - |
Verdict
🏆
Winner on specs
2020 Kawasaki KX65
The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 edges out the 2018 KTM 50 SX thanks to its greater ground clearance and higher rear wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.
Key Differences
2020 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 305 mm vs 252 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
- 🔄More rear wheel travel: 240 mm vs 185 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
2018 KTM 50 SX - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 684 mm vs 759 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
2020 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2018 KTM 50 SX - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 or the 2018 KTM 50 SX?
The 2018 KTM 50 SX has the lower seat at 684 mm, making it more accessible. The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 sits higher at 759 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 Kawasaki KX65 or the 2018 KTM 50 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 has the edge in greater ground clearance and higher rear wheel travel, while the 2018 KTM 50 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.