2020 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2018 KTM 65 SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2020 Kawasaki KX65 2020 Kawasaki KX65

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs
2018 KTM 65 SX 2018 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
ColoursLime GreenOrange/white/black
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)12.0 inches11.0 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)305 mm280 mm
Seat Height759 mm / 29.9 in.750 mm / 29.5 in.
Wheelbase1120 mm / 44.1 in.1,137 mm / 44.8 in.
Length1590 mm / 62.6 in.-
Width759 mm / 29.9 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-53 kg / 116.8 lbs
Fuel Capacity3.79 litres / 1.00 US gallons3.50 litres / 0.92 gallons
Wet Weight60.0 kg / 132.2 lbs-
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)1.8 x 1.6 inches1.8 x 1.6 inches
Displacement (cc)64.7 cc64.85 cc
Displacement (ci)3.95 cubic inches3.96 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)44.5 x 41.6 mm45.0 x 40.8 mm
Engine DetailReed valveReed intake
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni VM24SSCarburettor. Mikuni TMX
Compression Ratio8.4:1-
Engine Lubrication-Mixture oil lubrication
IgnitionCDI w/digital advanceAET digital EMS
StarterKickKick
Drivetrain
Clutch-Wet, multi-disc clutch, Formula hydraulics
Final DriveChain   (final drive)Chain
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Primary Drive-14:48. Primary drive: 23:75 straight cut spur gear.
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular, semi-double cradleCentral-tube frame with double-cradle
Suspension - Front33 mm telescopic fork with 4-way rebound dampingWP upside-down ? 35 mm
Suspension - RearBottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock, adjustable preload and stepless rebound dampingWP shock absorber
Rake27.0°25.5°
Trail61 mm / 2.4 in.-
Wheel Travel - Front210 mm / 8.3 in.215 mm / 8.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear240 mm / 9.4 in.270 mm / 10.6 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-160 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-7.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-198 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-6.3 inches
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Hydraulic.Single disc. Four-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc. Two-piston calipers. Wave brake discs.
Rims-Black anodized, aluminum rims
Tyres - Front60/100-14-

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 and the 2018 KTM 65 SX are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.

Key Differences

2020 Kawasaki KX65 - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 305 mm vs 280 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2018 KTM 65 SX - Advantages

  • More rear wheel travel: 270 mm vs 240 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.

2020 Kawasaki KX65 vs 2018 KTM 65 SX - FAQs

Which should I buy, the 2020 Kawasaki KX65 or the 2018 KTM 65 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2020 Kawasaki KX65 has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2018 KTM 65 SX stands out for higher rear wheel travel. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.