2012 Yamaha YZ250 vs 2016 KTM 250 SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2012 Yamaha YZ250 2012 Yamaha YZ250

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
227.0 pounds
2016 KTM 250 SX 2016 KTM 250 SX

Cross / motocross

Engine
Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
95.9 kg / 211.4 lbs
Full Specifications
General
ColoursBlue/White, White/RedOrange/white/black
Warranty30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)381 mm385 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)15.0 inches15.2 inches
Seat Height993 mm / 39.1 in.992 mm / 39.1 in.
Wheelbase1,481 mm / 58.3 in.1,495 mm / 58.9 in.
Height1,064 mm / 41.9 in.-
Length2,177 mm / 85.7 in.-
Width828 mm / 32.6 in.-
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-95.9 kg / 211.4 lbs
Fuel Capacity7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons7.00 litres / 1.85 gallons
Wet Weight103.0 kg / 227.0 lbs-
Engine
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)-
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-strokeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Displacement (ci)15.19 cubic inches15.19 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)249.00 cc249.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)66.4 x 72.0 mm66.4 x 72.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)2.6 x 2.8 inches2.6 x 2.8 inches
Engine DetailReed-valve inductedReed intake.
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin PWK38SCarburettor. Keihin PWK 38S AG
Compression Ratio8.9:1-
Engine LubricationWet sump-
IgnitionCDIContactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment, type Kokusan
StarterElectricKick
Valve System5-
Drivetrain
ClutchMultiplate, wetWet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox5-speed5-speed
Primary DriveConstant-mesh 5-speed13:48. Primary drive: 26:72. 520 X-ring chain.
Chassis
Frame TypeHybrid steel and aluminum frame with a Controlled- Fill aluminum subframe and cast aluminum swingarmChrome-molybdenum steel central-tube
Suspension - FrontSpeed-Sensitive System inverted forkWP USD closed cartridge ? 48 mm
Suspension - RearFully adjustable single shockWP shock absorber with linkage
Rake-26.5°
Wheel Travel - Front300 mm / 11.8 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear315 mm / 12.4 in.300 mm / 11.8 in.
Electrical Systems
Lighting systemDual 30W Krypton multireflector Headlights and 3.9/0.5W LED Brake light-
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)9.8 inches10.2 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)250 mm260 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)9.6 inches8.7 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)245 mm220 mm
Brakes - FrontSingle disc. HydraulicSingle disc. Four-piston calipers.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. HydraulicSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Tyres - Front21/7-10-
Tyres - Rear110/90-19-

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 and the 2016 KTM 250 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

2012 Yamaha YZ250 - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2016 KTM 250 SX - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2016 KTM 250 SX matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2012 Yamaha YZ250 vs 2016 KTM 250 SX - FAQs

Which should I buy, the 2012 Yamaha YZ250 or the 2016 KTM 250 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2012 Yamaha YZ250 has its own strengths, while the 2016 KTM 250 SX 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.