2020 Yamaha YZ85 vs 2019 KTM 85 SX
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Colours | Team Yamaha Blue | - |
| Warranty | 30 Day Limited Factory Warranty | - |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 330 mm | 362 mm |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | 13.0 inches | 14.3 inches |
| Seat Height | 841 mm / 33.1 in. | 890 mm / 35.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1255 mm / 49.4 in. | - |
| Height | 1146 mm / 45.1 in. | - |
| Length | 1821 mm / 71.7 in. | - |
| Width | 759 mm / 29.9 in. | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 68 kg / 149.9 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.92 litres / 1.30 US gallons | 5.20 litres / 1.37 US 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 | 5.18 cubic inches |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 1.9 x 1.9 inches | 1.9 x 1.9 inches |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 47.5 x 47.8 mm | 47.0 x 49.0 mm |
| Displacement (cc) | 85.0 cc | 84.9 cc |
| Engine Detail | Reed-valve-inducted | - |
| Fuel System | Carburettor. Keihin PWK 28 | - |
| Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | - |
| Ignition | CDI | - |
| Starter | Electric | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc | Wet |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | - |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Semi-double-cradle frame | Central-tube frame with double-cradle |
| Suspension - Front | Inverted fork | WP upside-down Ø 43 mm |
| Suspension - Rear | Single shock | WP monoshock |
| Rake | 26.3° | - |
| Trail | 89 mm / 3.5 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 274 mm / 10.8 in. | - |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 282 mm / 11.1 in. | - |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc. Hydraulic. | Single disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Single disc. Hydraulic. | Single disc |
| Rims | Dunlop tyres | - |
| Tyres - Front | 70/100-17 | - |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 and the 2019 KTM 85 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 Yamaha YZ85 - Advantages
- 📏Lower seat height: 841 mm vs 890 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.
2019 KTM 85 SX - Advantages
- 🏔️More ground clearance: 362 mm vs 330 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
2020 Yamaha YZ85 vs 2019 KTM 85 SX - FAQs
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2020 Yamaha YZ85 or the 2019 KTM 85 SX?
The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 has the lower seat at 841 mm, making it more accessible. The 2019 KTM 85 SX sits higher at 890 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 2019 KTM 85 SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2020 Yamaha YZ85 has the edge in lower seat height, while the 2019 KTM 85 SX stands out for greater ground clearance. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.