2017 KTM 125 SX vs 2020 Yamaha YZ125

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2017 KTM 125 SX 2017 KTM 125 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
87.2 kg / 192.2 lbs
2020 Yamaha YZ125 2020 Yamaha YZ125

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
93.9 kg / 207.0 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursOrange/white/blackTeam Yamaha Blue
Warranty-30 Day Limited Factory Warranty
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)14.8 inches14.4 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)375 mm366 mm
Seat Height960 mm / 37.8 in.975 mm / 38.4 in.
Wheelbase1,485 mm / 58.5 in.1443 mm / 56.8 in.
Height-1295 mm / 51.0 in.
Length-2136 mm / 84.1 in.
Width-828 mm / 32.6 in.
Weights & Capacities
Oil Capacity (l)-0.70 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)-0.74 US quarts
Dry Weight87.2 kg / 192.2 lbs-
Fuel Capacity7.00 litres / 1.85 gallons8.00 litres / 2.11 US gallons
Wet Weight-93.9 kg / 207.0 lbs
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.1 x 2.1 inches2.1 x 2.1 inches
Displacement (ci)7.62 cubic inches7.63 cubic inches
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Displacement (cc)124.80 cc125.0 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)54.0 x 54.5 mm54.0 x 54.5 mm
Engine DetailReed intake.Reed-valve-inducted
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Mikuni TMXCarburettor. Mikuni TMX 38
Compression Ratio-10.7:1
Engine Lubrication-Premix
IgnitionKokusan EMSCDI
StarterKickKick
Drivetrain
ClutchMulti-plate clutch, Brembo hydraulicsMultiplate wet clutch
Final DriveChainChain   (final drive)
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Primary Drive13:50. Primary drive: 23:73.-
Chassis
Frame TypeChrome-molybdenum steel central-tube frameSemi-double cradle aluminium frame
Suspension - FrontWP-USD, AER 48, ? 48 mmKYB® Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork; fully adjustable
Suspension - RearWP shock absorber with linkageKYB® single shock; fully adjustable
Rake26.5°26.0°
Trail-109 mm / 4.3 in.
Wheel Travel - Front300 mm / 11.8 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear300 mm / 11.8 in.315 mm / 12.4 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)220 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)8.7 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)260 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)10.2 inches-
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Brake calipers on floating bearingsSingle disc. Hydraulic.
RimsCNC machined hubs. Excel rims. Wire spoked.Dunlop® MX52
Tyres - Front-80/100-21

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2017 KTM 125 SX and the 2020 Yamaha YZ125 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

2017 KTM 125 SX - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2017 KTM 125 SX matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2020 Yamaha YZ125 - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2020 Yamaha YZ125 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2017 KTM 125 SX vs 2020 Yamaha YZ125 - FAQs

Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2017 KTM 125 SX or the 2020 Yamaha YZ125?
The 2017 KTM 125 SX has the lower seat at 960 mm, making it more accessible. The 2020 Yamaha YZ125 sits higher at 975 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2017 KTM 125 SX or the 2020 Yamaha YZ125?
Both are strong choices. The 2017 KTM 125 SX has its own strengths, while the 2020 Yamaha YZ125 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.